Another 4th of July, and I can’t help thinking of the Colonials, The Declaration of Independence, and “The Red, White, and Blue.” Having previously lived over ten years in Virginia, and very near to Colonial Williamsburg, where history lives 24/7, I particularly think about “the red.” In this case, I’m referring to the Strawberry. Yes, the heart-shaped, perennial herb (Fragaria vesca) belonging to the rose (Rosaceae) family.
In 1789, Thomas Jefferson, included in his baggage, specimens of this delicate herb which he had obtained in Europe. He later went on to grow the Alpine Strawberry at both his homes in Monticello and Poplar Forest. (Fragaria vesca) goes by many common names. . . Alpine Strawberry, Woodland Strawberry, or Wild Strawberry are a few. This variety is compact, mounding, has white flowers that yield small, crimson red fruit that when ripe, is so very fragrant and flavorful. However the yielded fruit could be classed as tiny. And although Jefferson believed this was one special plant that would enrich our country, he was often frustrated at the amount it took for a decent serving.
The medicinal use of Strawberry was first mentioned in ancient, Roman literature. The roots, leaves, and berries have a number of health benefits. Aside from the large amount of vitamins and minerals they possess, you can find malic acid, a natural teeth whitener, in Strawberries. Strawberries reduce blood sugar spikes, and may help prevent cataracts. The flavonol, Quercitin, found in Strawberries can help prevent Cancer of the lung, skin, esophagus, breast and bladder. Quercitin is known to self-destruct Cancer cells in the body. Strawberry has been used for diarrhea, kidney stones, as an anti-inflammatory, Anemia, and for purifying the blood as well. Used as a compress, Strawberry in a cloth, held against the skin is used for rashes. Its heart shape tells you immediately of its Cardiovascular value. And dipped in chocolate; well, there’s real value. Also, don’t forget your Strawberry fork, made especially for dipping Strawberries into various, delicious confections.
We know that in the 14th century, the French began taking the strawberry plants from the forest and transplanting them to their gardens. King Charles V of France had over 1200 strawberry plants in his royal garden. By the 16th century, experimentation with hybrids was taking place. But it wasn’t until the French variety was crossed with (Fragaria virginiana) from Eastern North America and the Chilean variety (Fragaria chiloensis), that the top, commercially-grown strawberry today, was produced. And that is the (Fragaria x annanasa.) It’s most likely in your garden now. But why not grow some of the old wild varieties. They are all edible, but some varieties have more medicinal value than others. Virginia has their own variety, and so does California. (Fragaria Californica).
Strawberries are plentiful in California right now. Toast our Colonial forefathers with a tall glass of Strawberry iced tea while enjoying the fireworks. Oh, and don’t forget the Strawberry pie. Why don’t you pick Strawberries for your celebration. It just wouldn’t be the 4th without the “Red,” white and Blue!
HERBAL SEASONINGS 