Apical Bud
The main growing tip of a plant stem, often responsible for vertical growth. Identifying the apical bud helps distinguish young edible shoots from mature or woody stalks.
Axil
The angle between a leaf stem and the main plant stem. Buds or flowers often emerge from axils, and their presence can help in plant identification.
Basal Rosette
A circular arrangement of leaves at the base of a plant, often flat against the ground. Many common edible or medicinal plants grow in this form during their first year.
Biennial
A plant that lives for two years—producing leaves in the first year and flowering or seeding in the second. Examples include burdock and mullein.
Compound Leaf
A leaf that is divided into multiple smaller leaflets on a single stalk. This can help differentiate safe edibles from toxic lookalikes.
Node
A point on a plant stem where leaves, buds, or branches grow. Nodes are used in plant ID and can also be key locations for making clean cuts when harvesting.
Rhizome
An underground horizontal stem that stores nutrients and sends out new shoots and roots. Edible rhizomes include wild ginger and cattail.
Taproot
A thick, central root that grows straight down. Taproots store energy and water. Examples include dandelion, burdock, and wild carrot.
Tuber
A swollen, underground part of a stem that stores starch and nutrients. Common wild tubers include groundnut and Indian potato.
Umbel
A flower cluster where multiple stems radiate from a single point, like the ribs of an umbrella. Used to identify plants in the carrot family, which includes both edibles and deadly lookalikes.
Blanching
A technique where plant parts are briefly boiled and then cooled to remove bitterness or deactivate mild toxins. Used on milkweed, pokeweed, and other wild edibles.
Decoction
A strong herbal preparation made by boiling tough plant parts—like bark, seeds, or roots—for an extended time. Often used for extracting medicinal compounds.
Infusion
The process of steeping leaves, flowers, or soft plant parts in hot water to extract flavor or medicinal benefits. Commonly used like a tea.
Leaching
A method of soaking plant material—like acorns—to remove bitter or toxic substances such as tannins. Essential for making some wild foods safe.
Tincture
A concentrated liquid herbal extract made by soaking plant material in alcohol. Used to preserve and deliver medicinal compounds over long periods.
Render
To slowly melt and extract fat from animal or plant sources. Useful for cooking, waterproofing, or making field balms and candles.
Roasting Pit
A primitive cooking method that uses hot rocks buried underground to cook food over time. Ideal for starchy roots and meats.
Astringent
A plant or preparation that causes tissue contraction, helping stop bleeding and tighten skin. Often used in wound care.
Antispasmodic
A plant or substance that relaxes muscle spasms or cramps. Used in treating digestive upset or menstrual discomfort.
Diuretic
A substance that increases urination to help the body eliminate excess fluids or toxins. Common in detox teas and edema treatments.
Emetic
A plant or preparation that induces vomiting. Sometimes used intentionally in emergencies, but often a symptom of poisoning.
Expectorant
A remedy that loosens and expels mucus from the respiratory tract. Useful for coughs, colds, and lung infections.
Poultice
A moist mash of herbs, roots, or clays applied directly to the skin to draw out infection, reduce swelling, or relieve pain.
Salve
A soft ointment made from oils and herbs, applied to skin to protect, soothe, or heal. Can be made with rendered fat or beeswax.
Styptic
A substance that stops bleeding quickly by contracting blood vessels. Common in emergency kits for small cuts and wounds.
Bug-Out Bag (BOB)
A pre-packed emergency bag with essentials for 72+ hours. Includes tools, food, water, shelter gear, and first aid. Designed for fast evacuation.
EDC (Everyday Carry)
The survival tools or gear you carry with you daily—often includes knife, firestarter, multitool, flashlight, and water container.
Fire Lay
The arrangement of kindling, tinder, and fuel to create a fire. Types include teepee, log cabin, and Dakota hole, each with different survival applications.
Gorilla Pack
A stripped-down bug-out kit focused on speed, stealth, and minimalism. Often used in scenarios where evasion or distance is more important than comfort.
Improvised Tool
A tool made from available materials in the field—such as rock knives, cordage from bark, or traps from sticks and wire.
PACE Plan
A layered planning strategy: Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency. Helps you build backup options into every survival system.
Processing Zone
An area where gathered plants are sorted, cleaned, and prepared for use or storage. Keeping it organized prevents cross-contamination.
Signal Mirror
A reflective tool used to flash sunlight over long distances to attract rescuers. Lightweight and effective in open terrain or air rescue situations.
Disclaimer: This site is for informational purposes only. The author is not a licensed expert. Use at your own risk. Always verify foraged plants and consult professionals when needed.
AI Images Used: Some images are AI-generated placeholders, clearly marked. Submit real plant photos to help improve site accuracy.