Green Glean Computer Vision Project

1. Model Purpose & Description

The model aims to recognize and categorize common weeds found in Maryland lawns It is made up of eight classes consisting of four species of Native Maryland Lawn Weeds: Red Deadnettle (Lamium purpureum), Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), Hairy Bittercress (Cardamine hirsuta), and Shepherd's Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris). These weeds were chosen due to their prevalence and their known medicinal and edible properties. The samples, which were collected from iNaturalist (a social media platform that uses machine learning to identify wildlife through use of community scientists and verification by professionals and other users), consist primarily of images of the adult stages of the weeds and their leaves (Loarie, 2023).

While the primary objective of the model is to identify common weeds found in Maryland lawns, the model’s capabilities will be extended to provide information about the medical and edible properties of the weeds based on credible sources utilizing this overview page. The model is intended to serve as a resource for individuals experiencing food scarcity or those seeking to adopt more sustainable practices such as foragers or people interested in herbal medicine. Also, it could be particularly beneficial for low-income individuals who may struggle to afford medicines or natural foods. Given that many weeds are rich in vitamins, possess medicinal properties, and can be used in a variety of dishes, this model could help mitigate the scarcity of healthy food and medical resources (Gardiner, 2021; Salehi et al., 2019). Also, by collecting weeds, individuals are participating in gleaning, a process involving collecting surplus fresh foods from various sources to help those in need, reducing food waste and enhancing food security, which benefits both the community by providing nutritious food options and the environment by minimizing waste (USDA, 2009).

While the model can be used to find information about the properties of these weeds this information is suggested and should NOT be taken into account over the opinion of professionals. Also, individuals should make sure NOT to pick weeds from locations that use herbicides, pesticides, or other harmful chemicals (USDA, 2009). Therefore, this model is a tool for plant identification and a platform for promoting sustainability and self-sufficiency. It aims to educate users about the untapped potential of local plants and encourage a more holistic view of the environment. Additionally, This model was created for a class assignment in AI and Natural History at St. Mary’s College of Maryland.

2. Description of Plant Properties

• Red Deadnettle (Lamium purpureum)

Deadnettle is a versatile plant with a plethora of medicinal properties, including being astringent, purgative, diuretic, diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial (LovelyPinesFarm, n.d.). It’s rich in vitamins C, A, and K, iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, and fiber, making it beneficial for treating colds and allergies, and as a detox aid (Gardiner, 2021). The leaves can be used topically as a poultice to dress wounds or to stop bleeding due to their antifungal and anti-bacterial nature (Gardiner, 2021). In terms of edibility, dead nettle leaves are not only nutritious but can also be consumed in various forms—raw, cooked, or as tea, which can have a laxative effect if taken in large quantities (Gardiner, 2021; LovelyPinesFarm, n.d.). They can also be transformed into pesto or dried for tea blends, offering a healthy addition similar to spinach or kale (Gardiner, 2021).

• Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion, a plant known for its medicinal and edible properties, serves as a natural diuretic and is used to treat various conditions, including infections and digestive issues (NCCIH, n.d). The leaves and flowers are highly nutritious, offering a rich source of vitamins A, B complex, C, and D, as well as minerals like iron, potassium, and zinc (Bellarmine, n.d.; Jarvoe, 2015). While the stem is inedible due to its bitter substance, the leaves can be enjoyed fresh in salads, cooked like spinach, or used as a flavorful herb (NCCIH, n.d; SLC, n.d). The flowers, sweeter than the leaves, can be added to pancakes, fritters, or even used to make dandelion wine (Bellermain, n.d.). The roasted roots are a popular coffee substitute, and the entire plant is known to stimulate digestion and act as a mild laxative, potentially aiding those with poor liver function (Bellermain, n.d.). Dandelion’s versatility extends to a variety of culinary uses, from beer and butter to salad and jelly, making it a valuable addition to both the medicine cabinet and the kitchen (Bellermain, n.d.).

• Hairy Bittercress (Cardamine hirsuta)

Hairy bittercress, a wild mustard relative, is a versatile and nutritious edible weed. It’s a natural source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and beta-carotene, making it a healthy substitute for parsley in cooking (WVU, n.d). Its mild, peppery flavor enhances dishes without the bitterness often associated with mustards (Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, n.d; Orr, 2021). The tender leaves are perfect for adding a spicy-hot kick to salads, acting as a main green or a microgreen garnish (Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, n.d; N.C. State, n.d.; Ray-Admin, 2018). They’re also ideal for creating a rustic farmer’s sandwich, paired with cheese and apples (Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, n.d; Orr, 2021). While the flowers are edible, they can be tough, so the leaves are most commonly harvested (Ray-Admin, 2018). These leaves, although small, grow in clusters, providing ample pickings for a meal (Ray-Admin, 2018). Additionally, the roots can be used to make a zesty sauce or dip that is similar to horseradish when mixed with vinegar (Orr, 2021). Whether in salads, salsas, pestos, or sandwiches, hairy bittercress offers a unique flavor and a variety of nutritional benefits (Ray-Admin, 2018).

• Shepherd's Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)

Traditionally, Shepherd’s purse has been utilized for its diuretic properties and to treat various ailments such as skin disorders, cardiovascular issues, and gynecological problems (Author, 2023; iNaturalist, n.d). It has a rich history in both Native American and colonial medicine for treating digestive issues and as a food source (Author, 2023). It has been noted to be effective in controlling hemorrhages due to its vitamin K content, which plays a crucial role in blood clotting (Author, 2023; PCNM, 2022). This makes it a go-to remedy for heavy menstrual bleeding and other types of internal bleeding (PCNM, 2022). Externally, it’s used as a poultice for its anti-inflammatory benefits and to aid in healing wounds, bruises, and rheumatic joints (Author, 2023). The plant is also known for its anticoagulant, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, making it a powerful treatment for a variety of hemorrhagic conditions (PCNM, 2022). Additionally, plants in the Brassicaceae family, to which shepherd’s purse belongs, are high in sulforaphane, a compound known for its health benefits (PCNM, 2022). Lastly, this ingredient is a staple in Shanghai and Jiangnan cuisine, often stir-fried with rice cakes or used in wonton fillings, and is even a part of Japan’s Nanakusa-no-sekku festival dish and as Naengi in the Korean dish Namul, showcasing its cultural significance across various Asian cuisines (iNaturalist, n.d).

References:

• Gardiner, M. (2021). The benefits of weeds. Nature’s Pharmacy.
• Salehi, B., et al. (2019). Therapeutic potential of common weed plants. Journal of Herbal Medicine.
• Loarie. (2023). About. https://www.inaturalist.org/pages/about
• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). (2009). Let’s glean! Food for People’s guide, How to Start a Gleaning Program at Your Food Bank. https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/usda_gleaning_toolkit.pdf.
• Lovely Pines Farm. (n.d.). Foraging and uses for Purple Dead Nettle. https://www.lonelypinesfarm.com/foraging-uses-for-purple-dead/#:~:text=As a medicinal herb%2C purple,dry leaves as a tea
• Gardiner, B. (2021). Wildcrafting Purple Dead Nettle for food and medicine. https://www.outdoorapothecary.com/purple-dead-nettle/
• NCCIH. (n.d.). Dandelion. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/dandelion
• Jarvie, M. (2015). Dandelions for food. Michigan State University Extension. https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/dandelions_for_food
• SLC. (n.d). Alternative uses of weeds. https://www.slc.gov/sustainability/pesticidefree-2/alternative-uses-of-weeds/
• Bellarmine University. (n.d). Dandelion. https://www.bellarmine.edu/faculty/drobinson/Dandelion.asp
• Choi, W.J., Kim, S.K., Park, H.K., Sohn, U.D., Kim, W. (2014). Anti-inflammatory and anti-superbacterial properties of Sulforaphane from Shepherd's Purse. Korean Journal Physiology Pharmacology,18(1), p. 33-39. doi: 10.4196/kjpp.2014.18.1.33.
• iNaturalist. (n.d.). Shepherd's purse (Plants of the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Grounds, Chicago, Illinois). https://www.inaturalist.org/guide_taxa/330084
• Author, G. (2023, October 12). Shepherd’s Purse Monograph - Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine. Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine. https://eclecticschoolofherbalmedicine.com/shepherds-purse-monograph/
• Pacific Center for Naturopathic Medicine. (2022). Heavy Periods Shepherd’s purse | Pacific Center for Naturopathic Medicine. https://doctorherdmanclinic.com/resources/articles/womens-health/heavy-periods-shepherds-purse/
• Hairy Bittercress
• West Virginia University. (n.d.). Hairy Bittercress. https://extension.wvu.edu/lawn-gardening-pests/weeds/hairy-bittercress#:~:text=Benefits of Hairy Bittercress,substitute for parsley when cooking.
• Brooklyn Botanic Garden. (n.d.). Weed of the Month: Hairy Bittercress - Brooklyn Botanic Garden. https://www.bbg.org/article/weed_of_the_month_hairy_bittercress
• N.C. State. (n.d.). Cardamine hirsuta (Bittercress, Flick Weed, Hairy Bittercress, Hoary Bittercress, Lamb’s Cress, Land Cress, Shot Weed, Springcress) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cardamine-hirsuta/
• Orr, E. (2021). Hairy Bittercress - Edible weed. Hairy Bittercress - Edible WeedForaging for Wild Edibles. https://www.wildedible.com/bittercress
• Ray-Admin. (2018). Hairy Bittercress, Cardamine hirsuta. Wild Food UK. https://www.wildfooduk.com/edible-wild-plants/hairy-bittercress/