Famine foods (was Cycad)

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• Subject: Famine foods (was Cycad)
• From: &* a* M* <t*@xtra.co.nz>
• Date: Thu, 6 Sep 2007 10:34:58 +1200

At 06:50 PM 9/4/2007, Tony and Moira wrote:

They did not as far as I could see  in the extracts quoted by Google
explain the common name Soap Lily, but I assume it is one of those plants
like the European soapwort which will give a lather with water. Soapness
could doubtless expalain why it would be only a "famine food".

Soapy plants often have a saponin in them.  Some are toxic by ingestion,
and others are medicinal.  > These compounds have many uses and cautions
attached to these uses.

Thanks to both Rich and to Barry for interesting information. I am already

well acquainted with saponins and presume these are what  would have to be
removed from the  Chloroganum bulbs if they are to be used for food.

Moira

Tony & Moira Ryan, Wainuiomata, New Zealand
Climate ( US Zone 9). Annual averages:-

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