White Sage and Purslane in Morocco
Some wonderfully useful plants which are often used in Morocco are sage (officinalis) and white sage (apiana). In Morocco they say “He who has sage in his garden (or pot) does not need a doctor”. In the Moroccan Darija dialect the sage plants are known as Khiatya Salmiya (the dressmaker: one that heals).
In Morocco people use the leaves of the sage plants. They are small, more or less narrow, serrated on the edges, very rough and hairy on both sides. They have an aromatic odour and bitter taste.
Fresh or dried sage infusions are invigorating, stimulating (revitalizing) for both men and women. Sage is antispasmodic, antiseptic and is also used in cases of hot flushed caused by menopause. It can also help reduce the pain of menstruation in women.
In Morocco some people make tea out of wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) or chiba as it is known in the Moroccan Darija dialect. The tea is excellent but it is important not to boil the tea because it is toxic. To prepare the tea add a little wormwood to hot water and let steep 5 minutes. The resulting concoction aids digestion, stimulates appetite and works as an antacid.
Do not consume wormwood tea if pregnant or breastfeeding.
In ancient Egypt they used purslane as a vegetable, spice and medicinal plant. In Morocco purslane is an edible plant that grows in the wild. The young stems and succulent leaves are the useful parts of the plant. The plant is best picked during the flowering period, because after that time they lose their smoothness. Harvesting therefore takes place in late spring and summer.
Young parts of the purslane plant have a pleasant slightly acidic flavour. They are rich in carotenes, vitamins B1, B2 and C and in minerals. Purslane is effective in treating heartburn and bloating. Upon cooking it loses its aroma, therefore it is good to eat raw only very lightly cooked (steamed is best).
