Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) Milkweed will always be known as the plant for the monarch butterfly. But it also has many other uses: - Nearly every part is edible, but each must be harvested at just the right time. Young, tender shoots in early spring; unopened flower buds in midsummer; firm, green seedpods in late summer — all can be eaten if they are boiled in multiple changes of water. - It is sometimes referred to as the “Silk of America”. - The white sap of common milkweed was used to remove warts. It's medicinal properties include: skin ulcers, eczema, tumors, sores and wounds, leprosy, ringworm, burns, warts (due to its caustic properties), throat and ear inflammation, rheumatism, headache, toothache, heart conditions, fever, digestive conditions including gas, indigestion, diarrhea, and vomiting; and as a contraceptive and abortifacient. It also helps to support the kidney and bladder. Milkweed is good for edema, water retention, asthma, stomach problems, gallstones, arthritis and bronchitis. I foraged this plant in central Minnesota. Comes in a 1 oz bottle come with a dropper. I use the folk method for making all my tinctures, which uses no measurements except sizing things up with your eyes. So I put the plant material in a jar and then fill with alcohol. For more information on herbs and to read my blog, go to http://www.theherbalcache.com/