How to Identify Milkweed (Common Milkweed – Asclepias syriaca) Plant TypePerennial herbHeight2–6 feet tallStemThick, upright, often reddish or green with fine hairsLeavesLarge, oval, opposite, 4–9 inches long, with prominent central veins; emit a white milky sap when brokenFlowersGlobular clusters of pink to purplish-pink blooms, fragrant, blooming in early to mid-summerFruitLong, horned seed pods that split open to release silky tufts attached to seedsHabitatRoadsides, fields, open meadows, disturbed ground—native to most of eastern and central North America Important Note: There are over 70 species of milkweed, and some are toxic or bitter. Common milkweed is the most commonly used species and the safest when correctly prepared. I have planted milkweed seeds for years without any ever germinating, but planting a live plant one time has given me a large patch of milkweed in our yard. Personally I recommend finding a plant locally, but due to laws and ordinances against taking wildflowers in some regions, you may also buy live plants at Amazon through my affiliate link here. Historical Uses of Milkweed Indigenous Medicine & Utility Native American tribes used milkweed for lung issues, warts, digestive distress, and rheumatism. The sap (latex) was applied topically for ringworm and warts. Roots used as a diuretic, expectorant, and vermifuge (worm expeller). Fibers from stems were made into cordage, nets, and textiles. Wartime Use (WWII) Milkweed silk fibers were used as a kapok substitute to fill life jackets and flight suits due to their buoyancy. The U.S. government encouraged children to collect milkweed pods for this effort. Medicinal Benefits (Modern Herbal Uses) Milkweed is considered a potent medicinal plant but must be used with caution due to cardiac glycosides in some parts of the plant (especially in large doses). 1. Respiratory Support Used as an expectorant and lung tonic to treat: Bronchitis Asthma Dry cough Pneumonia 2. Diaphoretic (sweat-inducing) Encourages sweating to break fevers—used in febrile conditions. 3. Digestive Stimulation Historically used to stimulate appetite and digestion. Small amounts of root tincture were used for constipation or sluggish bowels. 4. Skin Issues Latex sap applied directly to warts, moles, or ringworm. The sap can be irritating to sensitive skin, so use cautiously. How to Use Milkweed (Safely) Milkweed should be used with care. Some parts contain toxic compounds in high doses, especially in species other than Asclepias syriaca. Parts Used: Young shoots and flower budsEdible (after boiling in several changes of water)RootsUsed medicinally in tinctures or teasSapTopical use for warts or ringwormSeed fluffNot used medicinally, but useful for insulation or fire-starting Basic Root Decoction (Traditional) Ingredients: 1 tsp dried, chopped root 1.5 cups water Instructions: Simmer gently for 15–20 minutes. Strain and sip slowly (no more than 1 cup per day, short-term use only). Tincture Use Tincture (1:5, 60% alcohol) taken in very small doses (5–10 drops) under guidance of an experienced herbalist. Edible Uses (Properly Prepared) Young shoots, buds, flowers, and immature pods of common milkweed are edible after boiling in 2–3 changes of water to remove bitterness and mild toxins. Often compared to asparagus or okra in texture and taste. Never eat raw. Safety and Precautions Use only Asclepias syriaca for food or medicine—other species may be dangerously toxic. Do not use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Avoid in cases of heart conditions, due to cardiac glycosides. Latex sap may irritate skin and eyes—wear gloves when harvesting. Large doses are emetic (cause vomiting) and potentially toxic.