London Rocket or Sisymbrium irio is a plant belonging to the mustard family, commonly found in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It’s a fast-growing weed that can grow up to 3 feet tall and has yellow flowers.
It’s often considered a nuisance, especially in arable crops. However, there is a lot of confusion surrounding whether the London Rocket is poisonous or not.
Is London Rocket Poisonous?
There are many claims that London rocket is poisonous to both humans and animals. Some people believe that it can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and even death if ingested. However, there is very little scientific evidence to support these claims.
According to research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, the London rocket has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries. It has been used to treat various ailments such as coughs, respiratory problems, and even jaundice. The study also found that the plant contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
So far, there have been no reported cases of toxicity from consuming London rocket. In fact, it’s often consumed as a salad green in some Mediterranean countries such as Greece and Turkey.
Benefits of London Rocket
Apart from its medicinal properties mentioned above, London rocket has several other benefits:
- It’s a rich source of vitamin C
- It contains iron
- It’s high in fiber
- It has diuretic properties
- It can help reduce fever
Cautions
While there are no reported cases of toxicity from consuming London rocket, it’s important to exercise caution when consuming any wild plant. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Avoid consuming plants growing close to roadsides as they may contain harmful pollutants from vehicle exhaust fumes
- Avoid consuming plants growing near fields that have been sprayed with pesticides or herbicides
- Always wash the plant thoroughly before consuming it
- If you have any known allergies or are pregnant, consult a doctor before consuming any wild plant
In Conclusion
London rocket is not poisonous and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It’s a rich source of vitamin C, iron, and fiber and has several health benefits.
However, it’s important to exercise caution when consuming wild plants and avoid consuming plants grown in polluted areas or sprayed with chemicals. As with any new food, consult a doctor before consuming London rocket if you have any concerns.