The primary use of this vine is to make a tea from the leaves. The leaves are also relatively easy to identify because they are a dark green, sometimes purple, with purplish undersides, a very unique asymmetrical bunny-ear-like quality, and they grow opposite each other on the stem. Notably, do not try and use trumpet vine in the same way, as trumpet vines contain compounds that irritate the skin and can cause ‘cow itch’ an itchy rash, though they are easy to distinguish because trumpet vine is not evergreen and loses its leaves and has a light golden stem whereas crossvine has a light gray stem. Furthermore, do not confuse this plant for Carolina jasmine, which is evergreen and highly toxic, though its leaves are very narrow, have no purple, and are very symmetrical.
Tea made from crossvine is said to provide an energy boost, and seeing as it retains its leaves all year, this is a great plant with which to be familiar. Early settlers learned that the plant could be used to get overworked or exhausted horses and mules back on their feet and produces a similar effect in both men and women. The Cherokee Indians would divide the stems longitudinally into four parts from its cross-like shape. This inner membrane was reported to have a pleasant, sweet taste. Moreover, Carolinians would crop the vines into pieces with china brier and sassafras roots and boil them into a beer in the spring which was thought to purify the blood. In 2012 researchers established that crossvine contains reserpine, an indole alkaloid. Reserpine is considered an antipsychotic and antihypertensive drug which has been used in controlling high blood pressure and relieving psychotic symptoms because of its calming, nearly sedative effect. One randomized placebo-controlled study even revealed reserpine as an effective antidepressant. It should be noted that reserpine passes into breast milk and so should be avoided in women who are nursing. Furthermore, use should be avoided if you already have low blood pressure or if you are currently using blood pressure or anti-psychotic drugs as they may interact.
To make crossvine tea just bring some water to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Add about two to three leaves to this water; do not boil the leaves. Let this infuse for several minutes for a mild tasting tea. For a fuller flavor simply add your favorite bag of tea to the pot, such as green tea, or add some more wild herbs you may have foraged while gathering the crossvine leaves. If you prefer to make a larger batch this can be stored for several days in the fridge and can be drunk either hot or cold.
So remember, try and eat one wild food every day, just add it to something you are already eating! If you have ideas for wild food articles or have any questions or comments, please email [email protected].