Dangerous Misidentification: Why it’s Important to Identify Wild Plants Before Consuming Them for Food or Medicine

The wild garlic plant is a rare find in Israel, but there are other species of garlic that can be found. Avivit Berkovich, an expert in collecting wild plants for food and medicine, and the author of the book “The Guide for Nature Lovers,” explains that the lack of wild garlic has led to confusion between poisonous plants and edible plants, resulting in real danger.

People often misidentify plants or do not know how to use them properly, leading to potential risks. Berkovich has encountered cases where people have mistaken toxic plants for cherry tomatoes, which could have resulted in disaster. To avoid accidents, she stresses the importance of correctly identifying plants through thorough research and knowledge before foraging for wild plants.

Berkovich provides an example of the danger of mistaking hemlock for parsley, which can have serious consequences on the nervous system if ingested. She also warns about the risks associated with toxin absorption from plants, such as a woman who experienced paralysis after being in close contact with a toxic plant while cleaning her garden. Berkovich emphasizes that understanding the potential dangers of wild plants and taking precautions is crucial to avoiding accidental poisoning.

In conclusion, although it may be difficult to find wild garlic in Israel, it is important to be cautious when collecting any wild plant for food or medicine. Proper identification and knowledge are essential to avoiding accidents and ensuring safety.