Sorrel (Rumex acetosella) - 01/07/08

Sorrel (Rumex acetosella)

Sorrel contains high levels of oxalic acid, this is fine in small quantities, but in large doses oxalic acid can lock-up other nutrients, especially calcium, which may lead to mineral deficiencies.  Anyone who suffers from rheumatism, arthritis, kidney stones, gout, hyperacidity or anyone who is pregnant should avoid this plant as it can cause aggravation. Oxalic acid is also present in many foods you would buy from a supermarket, so please bear this in mind. Just because it's wild, doesn't mean it should be ignored totally.

Common Sorrel Rumex acetosella

Common Sorrel Rumex acetosella

Sorrel is the first wild food that I learnt at the age of four years old, shown to me by my Grandad Harry. For that reason I feel it’s only right to start the Wild Food section of the site off with this charming and sharp tasting little plant. Sorrel is quite common, often found growing among tall grass in hedgerows and gardens, although it does tend to have a preference for slightly damp areas of ground. Sorrel has a collection of uses, but most commonly the leaves are eaten with fish or made into a sharp tasting sauce.

Sorrel contains a large amount of oxalic acid, which is not good for anyone in large doses so only eat Sorrel in small amounts. But don’t be put off by this, the same can be said for spinach and rhubarb. It is however advisable to avoid eating it if you happen to suffer from arthritis as oxalic acid can have a detrimental effect on this condition as it binds up the bodies calcium.


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