I am trying to find out the edibility of Alder catkins. The American Red Alder can be foraged but I am not finding much on the UK version. Has anyone tried them? processed them or are they not of use?
Thanks and I also came across that site for the first time earlier today. It looks very good but I have yet to peruse properly. xNot edible, more info here.
Alnus glutinosa Alder, European alder , Common Alder, Black Alder PFAF Plant Database
Alnus glutinosa is a deciduous Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in leaf from March to November, in flower from March to April, and the seeds ripen from September to November. The species is monoecious...pfaf.org
Licorice root works ok for teeth, tastes a bit nicer. Needs must I suppose.I've used thin branches as a "toothbrush". As suggested on a course some years ago.
Chewed up and then using the fibres as the brush.
It didn't really taste of anything other than green stick, and I'm still here.
I didn't use toothpaste you'll not be surprised to learn.
But, it was an interesting experiment. In a pinch I can see it would be better than nothing.
I think toothbrushes were invented for a reason.