Wildcrafting Persimmon Leaves!

  So, it is that time of year again when I start scouring the woods for herbs.  Some will be used as is but most will be dried for later use.  I am a firm believer that a lot of remedies can be created from what is given us to take.  One point here...never take all.  It is a wildcrafting "rule" that you always leave some behind to replenish the stock.  Treat the earth with respect and it will do the same.

  Today's major collection was persimmon leaves from the wild persimmon grove on the east side of the Little Bayou House.  Down near the marsh edge there are ever so many young persimmon trees that my foraging does no harm.  After gathering bundles of twigs with soft leaves, I headed back to the house to wash then dry the leaves.  After they are fully dried, the leaves will be crushed and stored in airtight Mason jars for this winter.  Nary a leaf will be found on the trees after the cold sets in for the season.  My grandmother's old clothes drying rack will be busy for the next week!

  While picking the branches, I noticed that the trees were setting blooms!  It appears that there will be a good crop of wild persimmons if I can beat the possums, coons and squirrels to the ripe ones.  The critters like them as much as I do!