Breadroot, Large Indian breadroot

Psoralea esculenta

Physical Characteristics

Psoralea esculenta is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

N. America - Manitoba to North Dakota and Wisconsin, south to Missouri and Texas.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Oil Root Edible Uses: Oil Root - raw or cooked[2, 4, 46, 57, 161]. It can also be dried for later use[183]. The dried root can be ground into a powder and used with cereals in making cakes, porridges etc[183]. Starchy and glutinous, the raw root is said to have a sweetish turnip-like taste[183]. The plant is best harvested as the tops die down at the end of the growing season[85]. This food is a staple and also considered to be a luxury item by many native North American Indian tribes[2, 61]. The root contains about 70% starch, 9% protein and 5% sugars[95].

Medicinal Uses

Pectoral Poultice Stomachic An infusion of the dried roots has been used in the treatment of gastro-enteritis, sore throats and chest problems[257]. The roots have been chewed by children as a treatment for bowel complaints[257]. A poultice of the chewed roots has been applied to sprains and fractures[257].

Known Hazards

This species contains furanocoumarins, these substances can cause photosensitivity in some people[65].