Welcome and join us as we explore indigenous edible and medicinal bush plants.

Understanding indigenous nutritional and medicinal bush plants.

Nutritious Edible Plants (Indigenous Bush Food)

• Kakadu Plum (Terminalia ferdinandiana): Renowned as a superfood, this fruit boasts one of the highest concentrations of Vitamin C known globally.

• Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora): Often hailed as the "queen of lemon herbs," it is rich in citral, loaded with antioxidants, and possesses antiseptic qualities.

• Warrigal Greens (Tetragonia tetragonioides): A native alternative to spinach, these greens are abundant in antioxidants and Vitamin C.

• Midyim Berry (Austromyrtus dulcis): These small, delightful berries are not only sweet but also rich in antioxidants.

• Finger Lime (Citrus australasica): A unique fruit high in folate, potassium, and Vitamin C, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.

• Macadamia Nuts (Macadamia spp.): A popular nut known for its healthy fats, contributing to heart health.

• Davidson’s Plum (Davidsonia pruriens): This fruit contains an astonishing amount of Vitamin C—up to 100 times more than oranges.

• Native River Mint (Mentha australis): Valued for culinary uses and digestive aid, it's a fragrant addition to various dishes.

• Quandong (Santalum acuminatum): Packed with Vitamin C and iron, this vibrant fruit offers numerous health benefits.

Healthy Medicinal Plants

• Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia): Famous for its antiseptic and antifungal properties, derived from its leaves and flowers.

• Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.): Commonly used for its antiseptic and antibacterial qualities, as well as for relieving congestion.

• Old Man Weed (Centipeda cunninghamii): A restorative herb utilized to combat colds, boost immunity, and treat infections.

• Kangaroo Apple (Solanum aviculare): Known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, but ensure it is fully ripe before consumption for safety.

• Emu Bush (Eremophila sp.): Rich in powerful anti-inflammatory compounds, this plant serves numerous health purposes.

- Snake Vine (Tinospora smilacina): Recognized for its medicinal applications, especially in reducing inflammation.

Key Health Benefits

• High Vitamin Levels: Many plants, such as Kakadu and Davidson's plum, are exceptionally rich in Vitamin C.

• Antioxidant Properties: These plants are loaded with compounds that help combat inflammation and promote overall wellness.

- Antibacterial and Antiseptic Qualities: Leaves from plants like Tea Tree and Lemon Myrtle are commonly used to manage infections.

Note: While many bush plants offer significant health benefits, it is crucial to accurately identify them, as some, like unripe Kangaroo Apple, can be toxic.

Classic Tropical Native Smoothie

- Base: 1 cup frozen mango, 1 cup frozen pineapple, and half a frozen banana.

- Liquid: 1 cup of coconut water or your preferred milk.

- Native Boost: 1 teaspoon of Kakadu Plum powder or a pinch of Lemon Myrtle/Aniseed Myrtle for added flavor.

- Optional Additions: A handful of spinach, 1 tablespoon of rolled oats, or chia seeds for extra nutrition.

- Method: Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy, adding more liquid as needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Kakadu Plum & Berry Smoothie

- Base: 1 cup of mixed berries (fresh or frozen), 1 frozen banana, and 2 pitted dates for sweetness.

- Liquid: Your choice of milk or coconut water.

- Native Boost: 1/2 teaspoon of Kakadu Plum powder.

- Optional Additions: Consider adding hemp seeds, an LSA mix, or a few macadamia nuts for added richness.

- Method: Blend ingredients together until smooth and enjoy.

Mango & Boab Smoothie

- Fruit: The pulp of 1 ripe mango.

- Liquid: 1 cup of coconut water.

- Native Boost: 1 teaspoon of Boab powder.

- Method: Combine ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy!

Tips for Using Native Ingredients

- Fruit Powders: Native fruit powders like Kakadu Plum and Boab offer a reliable way to add flavor and nutrients, especially when fresh fruit is not available.

- Fresh Fruit: Opt for ripe and soft fruits such as mangoes, pawpaws, or native plums, and consider adding a splash of lime juice for a refreshing tartness.

- Herbs: Dried native herbs, like Lemon Myrtle and Aniseed Myrtle, enhance your smoothies with unique citrus or licorice notes.

- Serving Suggestions: Serve your smoothies chilled, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of native river mint or a dash of shredded coconut for an extra touch.

A creamier and more healthy addition to smoothies is using soy milk and yoghurt.