Whether on roadsides, in fields or simply in a large area, everyone has already seen this plant called “milkweed”. However, few really know about it, even though it has long been considered an invasive species by many. Nicknamed “Quebec silk” or “American silk” because of its fruits, it appears in many wild areas of North America.
Although discreet, it has an important ecological responsibility, particularly through its role as an exclusive food source for several insects. If you have ever marveled at the beauty of a monarch, tell yourself that this little creature was only able to spread its wings thanks to milkweed! Adult butterflies lay their eggs directly on the leaves, so the caterpillars can feed on them right after the eggs hatch. There are four kinds of milkweed in Quebec. The common milkweed, the most common, the crimson milkweed, the very large milkweed, and the tuberous milkweed. The latter two are uncommon, being even considered an endangered species regarding tuberous milkweed.
Medicinal and food properties
Despite the toxicity of latex, this white and milky substance found in this plant, milkweed has long been used, particularly for its medicinal properties. Therefore, the name “milkweed” comes from the Greek Asklêpios, which is the name of the god of medicine in Greek mythology. Indeed, long before the arrival of settlers in America, the First Nations used it for its health benefits, for making clothing, ropes, as well as in food. Indeed, the different parts of this plant can help treat digestive disorders, asthma, fever, warts and even respiratory problems.
A research project on the seeds and follicles (the pod containing the silk fibers) of milkweed also revealed that they contained omega 3, 6 and 9, lipids favorable to good health, as well as terpenes (odorous plant molecules) with anti-inflammatory properties. But these health benefits are not the only virtues of milkweed. Indeed, prepared in the right way and picked at the right time, its various components, such as pods, young shoots and flower buds that are still closed, can be served to eat, if you know how to do it!
Making clothes
During World War II, the American army used milkweed silk to make life jackets for aviators. But this example is only one among the many innovations that the industry of this resource has experienced since the 20th century. Shyly, at first, then more and more over the last few years.
In fact, more and more companies have tried to use this plant for the manufacture of certain products. Whether for coats, boots or gloves, several companies wanted to replace the down and synthetic materials frequently used with milkweed silk, such as Monark Éco Fiber, Quartz Co, Coopérative Monark… For what reasons? Plantations of this resource require less water and care than many clothing fiber farms and the cultivation plans for this “American silk” are much more resistant. Unfortunately, many of these companies have either had to close their doors or put their projects on hold. The cause of this is a lack of focus on the machinery and processes used in harvesting and processing this resource.
On top of that, it takes a long time to produce a little good quality silk, so most companies have not been able to meet the demand... This resource takes time to produce and process! However, some companies continue to emerge and start slowly. This is the case, for example, of Lasclay with its manufacture of mittens insulated with milkweed silk or Atypic Equipment with its production of jackets and coats. Milkweed silk also has many advantages such as the fact that it is hydrophobic (which does not absorb water), that it is an excellent thermal insulator, that it is hypoallergenic, ultra-light, in plus being 100% biodegradable. The public's enthusiasm for the use of this plant is therefore understandable since these are eco-responsible and locally produced products! It is therefore a very promising market for all those who wish to improve their consumption habits, and which is emerging slowly, but surely!