Hello all [: SWIM has been looking into alternate sources of spice for he has a feeling that one day source plant importation will be cracked down on and become impossible to get cross-country. It feels like it is getting this way now in regards to MHRB with a bust a couple months ago of what I think was 16kgs of MHRB and perhaps a couple of years ago customs coming to SWIM's door asking questions when ordering Caapi. It has come to his attention however that species of Phalaris grass and Acacia both can contain significant quantities of spice. In terms of Phalaris it seems gramine is a problem, though it is not soluble in water from SWIM's research so perhaps an A/B would be the way to go (possibly minus the acid incase that converts the gramine to salt form much like spice, making it water soluble - which wouldnt come as a supprise considering the similarity in molecular structure - however I would imagine would reduce the yield). SWIM was just wondering if anybody knew what species in New Zealand to look out for in terms of acacia? Or species of acacia reasonable in spice content to be able to readily identify? Also are there any other plants to look out for? Any and all information would be greatly appreciated as SWIM has limited internet (has to visit the local university and steal their wireless heheh) so any immediate direction for research would be good. Are there any spice containing plants other than MHRB that only require a STB? SWIM feels he has cracked the STB technique. Otherwise he is sure he can convert cacti brewing technique and patience to the acid cook stage.
Ultimately, SWIM is looking for ways to be able to share his spice discoveries with many more who seek it, and all those who could greatly benefit from it. A source plant that grows in New Zealand would provide this and help to preserve access in the future. There are many more learnings to be had and SWIM wishes to be able to provide the information or the resources for this.
Also if there were any plants that would be worth looking into the cultivation of SWIM would also be greatly interested in directions for research.
May we one day be able to seek plant knowledge without fear of prosecution.
Thanks, a fellow Tripper [: