Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Montiaceae
Genus: Claytonia
Species: C. perfoliata
Common names: Miner's lettuce, rooreh, Indian lettuce, winter purslane.
Note: Genus name was changed from Montia to Claytonia.
Parts used: Aerial parts, roots (less commonly)
Geographic range: Native to the western coast and mountains of North America. It has since been spread worldwide.
Key constituents: Vitamin C, Vitamin A, protein, iron, manganese, potassium, copper, plant sterols, beta carotene, allantoin, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids (particularly in the seeds).
Medicinal actions: Diuretic, antirheumatic, demulcent, nutritive, gently laxative, alterative, hepatic detoxifier, antioxidant
Historic uses:
The common name “miner’s lettuce” originates from the plant’s use by miners and prospectors during the California Gold Rush. They prized it for its Vitamin C content, using it to prevent scurvy and other conditions relating to malnourishment. They were taught how to use this plant by the local Indigenous people, who knew it as both food and medicine.
Photos by Danielle Brost
Current uses:
Many people grow miner’s lettuce in their garden as a spring salad green, excellent for getting extra vitamins and minerals at the start of the year (it can be eaten raw or cooked). Try adding it to pesto or soups for a different twist.
Given that it contains the constituent allantoin, miner’s lettuce may also be used in oral hygiene products, acne creams and other tissue-healing applications. It has mucilaginous actions and can be soothing to the gut, regulating to the bowel and therefore potentially helpful for digestive conditions in general.
Disclaimer:
All material contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation.
The information on my blog may not be reposted, copied or published without my permission and appropriate credit given. Please contact me at info@lilyoftheforest.com if you wish to republish any of the information on my blog.
Comments