It\u2019s pretty much a given you\u2019ve seen this plant on a springtime hike in Oregon. Think of wood sorrel as an oversize, delicate three-leaf clover with heart shaped leaflets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many foragers simply refer to this plant as Oxalis<\/em>, the genus of plants with upwards of 900 different species around the world, but look for the purple underside and pinkish white flowers of Oregon oxalis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Common Medicinal Uses – <\/p>\n\n\n\n Fever & Inflammation: Used to reduce fevers and calm inflammation.Vitamin C Deficiency: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Historically used to treat scurvy due to high Vitamin C levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Oral & Sore Throat: Chewing leaves is used to treat mouth sores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Topical Application: Poultices for wounds and ulcers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Diuretic: Acts as a mild diuretic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Wood sorrel tends to be sour-tasting, almost like green apple skins, thanks to the presence of oxalic acid, which may cause stomach upset if you eat these in large quantities. Sample a few leaves along the trail for a tart pick-me-up, or boil them with other wild greens to cut down on some of the sourness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n