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OH NO, OH MAN.....

I have a cold sore on my lip, what do I do? 

First.....Slow Down 

All of us are not getting enough sleep, we are running 24/7 lives  and what we really need is more of this (see picture below).

Second...Breath and when was the last time you stopped and smelled the roses, sat still with no screens and observed nature? 

And.... how is your diet?  Are you eating foods that stress your body out or nourish you? 

Then take a look at your life and see what is stressing you out.  What stressful events are happening in your life that snuck up on you and stressed your body and mind out?  

Holistic Treatment:

Take care of your nervous system.  Avoid sugar, food additives, and add some relaxing teas that have lemon balm in them. 

Take some bitters.  Not only does it help you with digestion but it will help with the bitterness of life.  

Drink several cups a day of bitter teas that are cooling to the liver.  

Sue's Tea:

3 parts dandelion root

3 parts burdock root

2 parts yellow dock root

2 parts raw cacao

1 part roasted chickory root 

Make as a decoction. I make enough to drink 3 cups a day.  

How to make a decoction: 

https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/traditional-remedies-herbal-infusions

Try adding reishi, maitake and shiitake mushrooms in your daily diet.  They are immune supporting and all are indicated for viral infections.  

Avoid foods that are high in arginine, examples are peanuts, peanut butter and chocolate. 

WHEN THERE IS A BREAK OUT: 

You could try adding a lysine supplement and/or add foods that are lysine rich foods, examples are nutritional yeast, eggs, milk (raw) and beans.  

AVOID:  SUGAR AND A PROCESSED FOOD DIET 

Try antiviral herbs.  Example would be apply tincture of licorice root.  Other antiviral herbs are lemon balm, tea tree essential, bergamot (can cause photo-sensitivity),  and St. Johns wort.  

Try a lip balm for cold sores. 

On that note Wild and Weedy Apothecary now has a lip balm for cold sores.  

Wild and Weedy Apothecary's lip balm ingredients: 

Olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter, tamanu oil,  lemon balm, st. johns wort, echinacea purpurea, peppermint EO, bergamot EO, tea tree EO, clove EO, bees wax and LOVE.    Available at the Farmers Market at the Grange on Saturday's.

When you have an outbreak remember NEVER double dip in your lip balm.  

Remember, I am not giving you medical advice, the above are only suggestions and it is up to you to do the research.  

"The Way You Do Food Is The Way You Live Life"

Digestion 

Welcome to Wild and Weedy Wellness.  You are about to take a journey down the  holistic health hike.    This journey will tease your senses, satisfy your taste buds, bring you new ideas and knowledge.  

We  are starting our Wild and Weedy Wellness with items that aide your digestion.   It has been a long winter, a lot of heavy foods have been eaten and it is time to get things moving.   

The digestive system is one of the most important systems in your body and I personally feel it is very abused.  This is why  Colon cancer is one of the highest cancers out there.  

The digestive system  consist of many important organs for digestion, absorption, assimilation, distribution, and elimination.    It begins at your mouth and ends at your rectum.   So next time you think about eating something think about this.  Does the food your about to eat give your body what it needs?  Will your digestive system be able to digest it, absorb nutrients out of it, will it be able to assimilate nutrients out of it,  can it be distributed healthfully and can you eliminate it all the way comfortably? 

It is time to start eating those spring greens, cut sugar out, start moving and start breathing.   

Here are a few pointers to help you with your digestion.  After all this is your gas tank and what happens when you put bad gas in your car? 

Take  a bitters extract.  Bitters stimulate bile production.  You can take them before or after meals.  I will also take them if I feel like I have heartburn.  I just put a few drops on my tongue or a few drops (10 plus) in a 1/8 cup of water swish in my mouth and swallow.  

Bitters Information: 

http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/abcs-of-nutrition/bitters-the-revival-of-a-forgotten-flavor/

Eat bitter food, like fresh dandelion greens

Eat spring greens, cooked greens, lots of veggies and eat a vegetable rainbow 

Limit your fruit intake and up your green veggie intake

Cut out sugar, cane sugar, brown sugar, high fructose corn syrup 

Make sure your honey is real honey.  

Shop at your local farmers market and purchase organic produce 

Most people are not drinking enough water.  Drink filtered water or spring water.

Eat Slowly 

Turn off all screens.  No cells, no computer, no movies etc...

Breath slowly while eating.  Take deep breaths.  When the blood lacks oxygen absorption decreases.  

No late night eating.  Eat dinner by 7:00 pm or earlier.  If you are full with food when you go to bed then your body is working on digesting and not repairing and rejuvenating.  

Drink relaxing teas to calm your nervous system down. 

Don't overeat,  instead undereat slightly 

Don't eat when unhappy

Think positive thoughts when you are eating

If you are constipated and you are having trouble going poo, don't try to force it out.  Relax drink some chamomile tea,  drink some water, take a walk, do some exercise, eat green veggies, cooked  veggies and big salads.   Let the poo come out when it is ready.  

Check out the Squatty Potty: 

https://www.squattypotty.com/unicorn-a/

All -Purpose Herbal Salt 

All purpose herbal salt tenderizes food, making it more digestible.  Rub it on fish, vegetables and meats.

1/4 Cup salt (mixture of sea salt and pink himalayan  salt)  

2 tablespoons pd. coriander

1 tablespoon pd. turmeric

1 teaspoon pd. cumin

1 teaspoon pd. fennel seed

1 teaspoon pd.  mustard seed

1/2 teaspoon pd. star anise

Honey Spice Packet - Digestive Aid

Ingredients:  orange peal, dandelion root, ginger, burdoct root, star anise and cloves

Let this herbal honey help you digest you meals.  

For a wonderful cup of tea add 1 tsp of this honey to a cup of warm water, stir and enjoy.  

You will need:  local honey (make sure it is real honey), one 16 oz jar

I cup of honey

I packet of Digestive Aid Spice

Directions:  

Put herb packet in jar, top with honey, stir, and cap with a tight-fitting lid. Place in a sunny windowsill, and turn the jar over at least once per day.

Label the jar

Add more honey if the herbs rise above the honey.

Allow to infuse for two weeks.

Just leave the herbs in the honey, there is no need to strain.  

Cranky Belly  Seed Chew

Keep this seed chew on your kitchen table or bring it along with you if you are traveling.     When you travel there are times you might get constipation, icky belly or digestion issues.   Chew on this seed mix to help you these issues.  

2 tablespoons whole sesame seeds

2 tablespoons whole fennel seeds 

1 teaspoon whole cumin seeds 

Mix together, put in a jar and label

Rejuvenating Foot Soak -External Use Only- Shake Well 

Fill tub or basin with warm water

Add Rejuvenating Foot Soak 

Mix well 

Soak feet for 20 minutes

Ingredients:  apple cider organic, vegetable glycerin, epsom salts, tea tree EO and peppermint EO 

Better Belly Bitters: - Made with alcohol 

Ingredients:  Artichoke leaf, hawthorn berries, fennel seed, star anise, orange peel, hibiscus, local honey, brandy (alcohol) and LOVE  

Use 10 to 40 drops in a small amount of water  before meals.  Sip slowly to let it mingle with your taste-buds.    

About Bitters: 

https://www.herb-pharm.com/blog/digestive-bitters-compound/

VAPOR RUB

INFUSE OIL

1/3 CUP LOBELIA (at risk plant UPS)—Excellent for spastic “dry” coughing and wheezing.  Superb expectorant (expectorants help expel or expect excess mucus from the system)  Best remedy for asthma bronchitis.  Antispasmodic, meaning relaxes the chest and opens constricted bronchial passages, Stimulates the respiratory center in the brain, producing deeper and stronger breathing. 

1/3 CUP MULLEIN  Helps with respiratory infections 

1/3 CUP HOPS  Relaxes the nervous system

1 Tbl.  ROSEMARY Antiseptic (help prevent the growth of bacteria), helps open nasal passageways

1 TBL. PEPPERMINT Helps to open nasal passages

Oil of choice

Solar-Infused oil

Place the herbs and the oil in a glass jar.  Cover tightly.  Place the jar in a warm, sunny spot and let steep for 2 to 4 weeks.   Strain the oil through cheesecloth or muslin.   Squeeze every last drop.  

Double Boiler Method

Place the herbs and the oil in a double boiler and bring to a low simmer.  Slowly heat for 30 to 60 minutes, checking frequently to be sure the oil IS NOT OVERHEATING.  The lower the heat the longer the infusion the better.   I do cycles, low heat on, then off and repeat several times.

Make Vapor Rub

1 cup of infused oil

1/4 cup bees wax

15 drops Rosemary EO

15 drops Eucalyptus EO

25 drops Camphor EO

10 drops Orange EO  

15 drops Clove EO

8 drops Peppermint EO

Other Combinations:

20 drops eucalyptus, 10 drops rosemary, 10drops lavender, 10 drops tea tree, 10 drops lemon

20 drops each rosemary, lemon and eucalyptus

20 drops each rosemary, peppermint and eucalyptus

20 drops eucalyptus, 20 drops peppermint, 10 drops basil and 10 drop pine needle

5 drops each lavender, rosemary, tea tree and eucalyptus

Essential Oils For Congestion: 

Eucalyptus – Potent antiseptic, antiviral, and decongestant.

Tea Tree – An effective antimicrobial, expectorant and antiseptic. Peppermint – Helps to open nasal passages.

Basil – Helps open nasal passages. Antiseptic.

Rosemary – Antiseptic, helps open nasal passageways. 

Pine- Great for colds and sinusitis. Has decongestant and antimicrobial qualities.

Lavender – Antihistamine, antiseptic and antimicrobial.

Clove – cooling expectorant

Marjoram – Antimicrobial. Helps with breathing.

Chamomile – Relieves congestion and helps calm cranky patients.

Lemon – Stimulates immune function, but take care if using in sunlight because it increases sensitivity

Sweet Orange – Helps with detoxification , helps with nerviness, anxiety, sedative, antispasmodic

Camphor—antispasmodic

What is the centering of self, the centering of life through chaos, sadness ,madness, fear, disappointment, and loss.  How do we as humans deal with the stresses of life, in a world that is moving faster?  How do we center ourselves to protect our own health?   

What is centering the self?  Does this mean anything to you?  Do you feel most of the time like life is out of control?   Does your heart take too many leaps, to many extra pumps, do rapid heart beats become normal in life due to the anxiety that hits daily?  

Many of us , these days, are dealing with a lot on our plates. It is important for our health that we deal with it effectively or else it will take a toll, cause stagnation in our bodies and create problems down the road.

  I had a productive day and at one point I had come inside to do some computer research.  After I was done I stepped away and did some light movement and some deep breathing after my shower. It was time to head outside with my cup of tea, a backpack that had books, a writing journal and my camera.  I walked over to my sun gazing spot, (this is one of the things that gives me rejuvenation), worked on clearing my head and wrote things down that bothered me throughout the day.  When I write I always find something positive to jot down at the end of my thoughts.    

My thoughts for this day...journaling  to purge, write down ideas, concerns, and ramblings.   

My thoughts today seem to be to many.   Recovering from my accident has left our world spinning, a lot of work to catch up on and a chronic neck issue. Thoughts of how to understand running a business in a world of technology, how to understand people, how to understand death, loss, letting go, ego, and fear.    

Also, we had a family pet pass away and it has been incredibly hard.  I find that when I am sitting still I am haunted with all the memories of him..   I play the game of pushing all thoughts away as I get teary eyed, and move on to something else.  It is like a high tide coming in and leaving.     

A day to push away thoughts of a quiet house, I don't hear the Rocky thunder, that used to vibrate through, the big white fuzzy is gone, sadness, ... I get an overwhelming urge to cry, letting go is so fucking hard...It's not how he died or when he died, it is the happiness he gave us that needs to be remembered.. Keeping busy pushing thoughts away, time heals.  So many things in this last year and a half, so much loss, in a short period of time.  At the same time we have had incredible things happen to.  It always amazes me that somehow we can get overwhelmed by stress, loss, sadness and feel it in our bodies and heart, but if we have incredible things happen we don't seem to hold on to it that same way as negativity.  What would it be like to ignore negativity and be overwhelmed by happiness? I enjoy researching, but after many hours on the computer it is always  a reminder how unhealthy screen time is. I end up craving a book. a real book and I turn off everything.  Technology is a gift, but also a curse.  Over used , yes.  Screen time addicts have been created.  Screen time vibrates our bodies in such a negative way that it is vitally important that we take vacations from it.  Stress caused by screen time is taking it's toll on our bodies.  We seem to be becoming a society that is in search of people on their social media only to find that they are becoming more lonely.   More people in search of people, but still becoming more lonely.  I, to, am guilty of this, I miss my kids. My day of gardening,  tea time, mountain time, cutting scotch broom up in the mountains, to keep the chemical sprays off of the ground. My duty to do my best to protect the earth from the chemical addicts that enjoy spraying their herbicides and god know what else. Sunsets bring me joy, I take a moment and watch the clouds move,  I feel the breeze, I hear the wind whisper in my ears, I feel the ground under my bare feet. As I watch the sunset, and purge out everything on paper, I remind my self to breath, deep breaths,.  I hear the Robins sing their heart out, the sun is setting,   Breathing gives the breath of life..   

Rocky May 2007 - April 1, 2015

I am remind as I watch the sun go down, that it is time to put the journal down, sit still and breath.  No thoughts, just quiet the mind.  These words came to me.  

The sunset is a reminder to find the light in life at your most saddest, darkest times.  The light brings peace, beauty, love, forgiveness, urges you to open your heart, let go of ego, and bring down those walls.  A heart with walls, eventually stops beating..   For the light reminds us that being in the dark is OK, as long as we remember to rise. 

My message for today is that I don't want all of that emotional clutter staying in me.  Just think how my body would feel if I did not purge any of that out.  It is like putting bad gas in a car or  not putting oil in it.   You get dry, start smoking, blow a gasket, and then need to rebuild your motor.  That can take some time.   

If you are stressed, sad, mad etc. what are some of the things that you do?   Here are a few that I do.  

BREATH (this is what gives you life)

EXERCISE (at least 5 days a week)

DANCE/SING 

MOUNTAIN TIME/NATURE TIME

GOOD HEALTHY ORGANIC FOOD MADE WITH A PLETHORA OF HERBS 

TEA TIME WITH FAMILY MEMBER

RELAXING HERBS

FAMILY TIME WITHOUT SCREENS

TEA TIME WITH SELF

SELF TIME

JOURNAL

I am going to end this blog by leaving some great information with you, by Rosalee on Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome.  She does such a great job that I wanted to share this with you.  

Peace to you and here's to finding our happy center! 

A great article on Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome, written by Rosalee de la Foret

http://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/adrenal-fatigue-syndrome.html

Centering Self..

  It teaches you to focus on the here and now, taking power away from outside concerns and negative thoughts, and helping you remain stable and grounded.

How to Center Yourself: 

http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newTCS_83.htm

Relaxing Teas, Sleepy Time Teas and more at the Wild and Weedy Apothecary 

Assorted Tea Recipes: 

http://adelightfulhome.com/diy-tea-recipes/

Tranquil Tea Blend: 

http://www.bulkherbstore.com/blog/2013/03/how-to-make-your-own-tranquil-tea-blend/

Today I had a bad migraine. I made a cup of tea and decided it was best to go outside and get some fresh air. The greenhouse has a relaxing atmosphere. I sat on our cob bench and zoned out. My migraine was not letting up. I wanted to curl up and lay on the bench. I closed my eyes and took deep breaths and then opened them. The little voice said Rosemary. I was sitting there looking at my three big Rosemary plants. It was a light bulb moment. I took a few snips of the plant and started taking deep breaths of Rosemary's heavenly scent. I think it took less than five mintues to get rid of my migraine. Yeah!! I tucked the Rosemary in my pocket and finished doing my greenhouse chores. Next time you get a headache or a migraine and you have a Rosemary bush, you might want to try this.

Congratulations to all that joined Seven Steps To Wellness Workshop.  Joining this class takes some serious commitment and it truly shows how strong you are for joining this class.  

You are working hard toward great accomplishment with your health and it gives me great joy to help guide you on your path to becoming a heather new you..   

First Class:  Tea time conversations,  book,  homework, food diaries and recipe handed out.   

"TAKE BACK YOUR HEALTH"

Disease goes away as a side effect of getting healthy

Hand in food diaries

Hand out food diaries

Recipe of the week

Discussion 

Meditation

Positive Words

Picture 

Get a journal 

Slow Medicine:

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsaymZARwOg

Web-Site

http://slowmedicinedoctor.com/

Parasympathetic nervous system:  

http://www.mercola.com/article/mind_body/applied_psycho_neurobiology/dca.htm

http://www.mercola.com/article/mind_body/thought_field_therapy/overview.htm

Tea Recipes:

Flower Nerve Tonic Tea

1 part chamomile

3 parts lemon balm

1 part oats

1/2 part chrysanthemum flowers

1/2 part lavender flowers 

1/2 part rose petals

Root Nerve Tonic Decoction: 

1 part licorice root 

1 part astragalus

1 part cinnamon

1/2 part ginger

2 parts dandelion root

2 parts burdock root

Make a mix, put in a jar, label

1 tablespoon per cup of water 

Make a decoction, strain

Then add 15 drops of american ginseng root tincture and 15 drops of eleutherococcus (siberian ginseng) tincture, sweeten and enjoy.  

Instructions on how to make a tea and decoction, click on link below: 

http://mountainroseblog.com/medicine-making-basics-herbal-infusions/

Breakfast Nut Shake: 

http://bloodsugarsolution.com/2012/07/31/nut-shake/

Califlower Tortillas: 

http://www.recipegirl.com/2014/05/05/cauliflower-tortillas/

Lite Russian Style Macaroni and Cheese 

Preparation Time: One Hour

Yield:  At Least 6 Servings (cut in square and freeze) 

You can improvise further by increasing or varying the vegetables.  Try cauliflower, broccoli, and /or carrots, leeks and other root vegetables:   Go for color 

Bake at 350, lightly grease a 9x13 baking pan 

3 cups cooked pasta of choice 

3 tablespoons organic butter

2 cups chopped onion 

6 cloves garlic, minced 

1/2 lb shitake mushrooms, sliced

4 cups organic cabbage, shredded (about 1/2 an average head)

1 tsp sea salt or celtic salt

1 tsp caraway seeds

2 tsp dried dill

1 tsp black pepper

1 lb of meat of choice chopped and cooked

1/2 cup organic sunflower seeds

1 bunch organic spinach, stemmed and coarsely chopped 

2 cups organic cottage cheese, omit if you need this to be dairy free

1/2 cup organic yogurt, omit if you need this to be dairy free 

Dairy free option 6 eggs liquid scramble

Diary free option 1 cup Nutritional Yeast

Preheat oven to 350, lightly grease pan

Cook the pasta until just barely tender.  Drain thoroughly, and transfer to a large bowl

Melt the butter in a large, dep skillet, and add the onions and meat.  After saute'ing for about 5 minutes, add garlic, mushrooms, cabbage, salt and caraway.  

Stir, cover, and cook until the cabbage is just tender and meat is cooked. 

Stir in spinach, and remove from heat.  

Add to the pasta

Stir in cottage cheese, yogurt, dill, and black pepper.  Taste to adjust seasonings, then spread into the prepared pan.  

Dairy free option:  Once you have poured  mixture into the pan, mix egg liquid  with nutritional yeast and pour liquid over pasta and veggies in prepared pan.   

Sprinkle with sunflower seeds 

Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until heated through.  

Healthy Halloween Treat:

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons honey or organic maple syrup

1/4 Cup organic almond, sunflower or peanut butter

1/2 Teaspoon  organic pure vanilla extract

2 Tablespoons honey or organic maple syrup

2 Tablespoons  organic extra virgin coconut oil

1/4 Cup organic almond, sunflower or peanut butter

1/4 Cup organic unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 Teaspoon organic pure vanilla extract

2 Tablespoons  honey or organic maple syrup

Instructions

1. MAKE THE BOTTOM LAYER: Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl and mix until very smooth.
2. Set 10 mini baking cups in a mini muffin pan. Pour about one tablespoon of the bottom-layer mixture into each baking cup without dribbling it down the inside of the paper (or you’ll get streaks in the final product). Place on a flat surface in the freezer. 

1. MAKE THE TOP LAYER: Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl and mix until evenly incorporated. Remove the pan from the freezer and fill each baking cup to the top with the top-layer chocolate mixture.
2. Put the tray back in the freezer and let chill until the chocolate layer has hardened, about 15 minutes. Store the peanut butter cups in the freezer for up to 4 months. 

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” 

 Nut flour crust, wild weed pesto, my own canned sauce, mozzarella cheese and all organic.

The wild weed pesto is made out of dandelion leaves, plantain leaves, nettle leaves, yellow dock leaves, olive oil, raw cheddar, dehydrated ground up nuts and raw garlic.   

Plantain

Yellow Dock

Dandelion 

Nettle 

Collected and Ready to Make Wild Weed Pesto 

1 cup or more of edible weeds (make sure no one has sprayed any chemicals on or around them!!)

1/2 to 1 cup organic olive oil 

1/2 cup organic raw cheese of choice

1/8 cup ground nuts or seeds

3 cloves raw garlic ( or more if you are a garlic fan) 

Blend in a  mixer 

Use on crackers, rice, meat, pizza dough or as a veggie dip. 

High Vitamin C Tea

Ingredients:  rose hips, hibiscus flowers, lemon grass, cinnamon chips

Note:  Vitamin C is a noted antioxidant with disease-fighting abilities.  

Rose Hips:  They contain more vitamin C than almost any other herb, many times the amount found in citrus fruit when measured gram by gram.  

Hibiscus:  high in vitamin C and bioflavonoids.  It has slightly astringent properties.  It is useful for treating mild colds, flus, bruising, and swelling. 

Lemon Grass:  http://planetwell.com/lemongrass-health-benefits-and-healing-proper...

Cinnamon:  Although cinnamon is considered to be simply a spice by most Westerners, herbalists have been using it for centuries as a warming digestive aid.  It is a wonderful mild stimulant and can be combined with ginger to treat circulatory and digestive problems.  It has antiviral and antiseptic activities, making it useful for fighting infections.  

High Vitamin C Tea Recipe: 

4 parts rose hips

3 parts hibiscus

2 parts lemongrass

1 part cinnamon chips 

Wild and Weedy Apothecary is sponsoring a scholarship for the Seven Steps To Wellness Workshop.

Scholarship covers class but not book.  Book cost is $17.00.  Book pick up is  Saturday October 24th 2015. 

See details below

How to apply for the scholarship: 

Send me an e-mail with your name, age and e-mail addresses with the following: 

What are your hobbies?

How active is your present life style?

Do you cook?

Do you have type one or type two diabetes? 

Do you have other health issues or concerns? 

What would you like to gain out of this workshop? 

I must receive your e-mail by Friday October 23rd by 8:00 PM  

Send To: wildweedyherbs@gmail.com

This workshop requires a commitment to yourself, the group and me. Only serious inquires please.  

Seven Steps To Wellness Workshop Details

It is time to take action and take back your health.

 Why wait for a New Years Resolution, when you can start now. Yes, this class starts right before the holidays and what better time to start a wellness program!   We will be getting healthy together and working on life style changes right through the holidays.   

The Seven Steps To Wellness class will be using the book "The Blood Sugar Solution" by Mark Hyman, MD  as our guide.  

You will learn how to boost your nutrition, regulate your hormones, reduce inflammation, improve your digestion, maximize detoxification, enhance  energy metabolism, gain cooking skills,  and soothe your mind. 

This is an ultra healthy program for preventing disease and feeling great.

Class meets weekly for 7 weeks and there will be reading homework each week. 

Don't wait , act now, Isn't it time to take your health back? 

PRE-PAY by Oct 17th 2015 

Cost:  $160.00 (includes book) 

You can pay through Eventbrite, visit Wild and Weedy Apothecary or come by the Farmers Market On Third St. 

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seven-steps-to-wellness-weekly-workshop-tickets-18638067963

When:  Saturdays

Time 10:00 am - 11:30 am 

Class Schedule: 

Oct 24th  10:00 am - 10:45 am Intro class, pick up book

Oct. 31st 10:00 am - 11:30 am 

Nov. 7th 10:00 am - 11:30 am 

THURSDAY Nov. 12th 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Nov. 21st 10:00 am - 11:30 am 

NO CLASS NOVEMBER 28TH 

Dec. 5th 10:00 am - 11:30 am 

LAST CLASS WILL BE TWO HOURS

Dec 12th 10:00 am - Noon 

 Wild and Weedy Herbal Wellness Box 

This is a great way to build your herbal medicine chest, stock your kitchen pantry with nourishment and become active in your health.  

A journey into the beauty, the benefit of herbs and a hike on an incredible trail to your health.  

Let us be your personal guide on your journey to wellness . 

Monthly wellness boxes will be either seasonal or have a theme.   Herbalism creates a deeper connection to healing for most people than other methods.  It provides nourishment to your body to prevent disease in the first place.

It is ideal for anyone who would like to use natural healing on a more regular basis, through nourishing their bodies, boosting their immune system and wants to become active in their journey to get healthy.  

The wellness boxes will help to build your herbal medicine chest. As we all know being prepared when illness and injury hit is half the battle.   You will  receive items that will help with your kitchen cookery. Becoming a better cook puts  you on the path of taking responsibility with your health and builds  your immune system.  All items are petroleum free products.  

You will receive 3- 5 items , handmade new products each month. Often times these ingredients will be wild crafted or grown on our farm.  

Items range from: pesto, elderberry syrups, tinctures, elixirs, powders, creams, salves, soaps,  fun teas, cold and flu products, infused oils, infused vinegar, body care products, medicinal teas, infused salts and more. 

You will learn more about new plants and herbal products

All products made with intention and love

from your local herbalist.  

 This is a commitment to learn about natural ways to boost your immune system and care for yourself. With the cost of health care on the rise, this truly is one of the best decisions you can make for you or your family's health.    

This is investment in your health 

March to May is a 3 month commitment to your health

Cost:  $180.00 

USPS Mail Shipments Add  $27. 00 for the full 3 months

June to November Is a 6 month commitment to your health

Cost $360.00 

USPS mail shipments add $54.00 for the full 6 months

Pick up is the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9:00 am - Noon

This Weeks Goodies  

Pictured, self heal (purple flower), pineapple weed (daisy look a-like) and st. johns wort

It is time to start harvesting these items.  Take a nature walk and start picking.  You can infuse these in oil, make a tincture or dry them for later use.

Never pick anything that has been sprayed

St. Johns Wort is in the far right paper bag

This Weeks Wellness Box: Collard greens, lettuce, spinach,kale, mustard greens, garlic scallions, celery, onions, radish, wild greens mix, tea mixes,  sage, nettle, lemon balm, self heal, pineapple weed, st. johns wort

Self Heal: http://onlineathens.com/stories/071011/liv_854927721.shtml

The common name "self-heal" derives from the use of some species to treat a range of minor disorders. It is reported to have an antiseptic and antibacterial effect, and to be particularly good in cases of food poisoning. Highly revered herbalist Keewaydinoquay used self-heal to pull heavy metals out of the body.  On the physical body it acts as an astringent, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, mild antiseptic, detoxifier, diuretic, haemostatic and vulnerary (a substance used to help heal external wounds). Its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties help as a gargle for sore throats and as a mouthwash for mouth ulcers and bleeding gums.A tea, diluted tincture or fresh plant poultice is effective topically to stop bleeding from cuts or wounds, reduce swelling from insect bites, and to reduce the swelling from varicose veins, hemorrhoids and eye inflammations (sties, conjunctivitis). Self-heal can be used internally and externally to help dissolve nodules in the neck (such as goiter), lymphomas (fatty tumors).

You can make a tea, tincture or an infused oil.  

Mayweed:  Make a warm cup of tea with this one.   Known as wild chamomile, it is not a true chamomile, but it does have similar properties.

St. Johns Wort:   The unique therapeutic benefits of St. John's wort may not appear for several weeks, and the remedy must be used for at least a few months to produce lasting effects. This medicinal herb is prescribed for mild to moderate depression and anxiety and is also applied externally to heal wounds and reduce inflammation.

In natural medicine, the herb St. John's wort is considered to be the psychological counterpart of arnica, which alleviates physical pain. The benefits can temper emotional discomfort, lift depression and calm the nerves.

St. John's wort is also very similar to some types of antidepressant medications. It's believed to raise the concentration of serotonin in the brain and enhance its activity. This neurotransmitter (or chemical nerve messenger) helps to regulate mood. You can also make a tea from this medicinal herb and is known to relax and soothe the psyche without causing sleepiness or addiction.

St. Johns Wort Infused Oil.  Use for injuries. 

8 oz jar

St. Johns Wort

Olive Oil

Place herbs jar, fill the jar to the top with olive oil.  Place in the sun for 6 weeks.  Shake daily

Strain and enjoy! 

Lemon Balm:  Is the elixir of life, it sweetens the spirit, powerfully chases away melancholy and it strengthen's the brain.  It calms the nervous and digestive systems.  

Culinary:  http://3squaresproduce.com/recipes/item/8-lemonbalmrecipes

Lemon Balm Herbal Butter: 

1/4 cup finely minced lemon balm

2 tablespoons, finely chopped thyme

1 cup of organic butter 

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/2 tsp garlic granules

Cream butter and stir in herbs. Chill for at least 3 hours to allow flavors to blend. Use on roasted meats, rice, vegetables and bread.  

Lemon Balm Sun Tea 

2 tablespoons of fresh leaves for each cup water

Place lemon balm and cool water in covered jar in the sun for a few hours

Strain add honey and, or lemon

Add mint for a refreshing lemony mint tea

Lemon Balm Roasted Chicken: 

Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken

Handful of fresh lemon balm leaves, stems removed 
1/4 cup or so of fresh sage leaves 
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) organic butter softened 
Salt and pepper, to taste 
1 large roasting chicken 
4 minced garlic cloves or 6 garlic scallions
2 tablespoons olive oil

Preheat oven to 350

Trim herb leaves from stems; wash and pat dry. Set sprigs aside. Chop two-thirds of the leaves, and combine with the butter, minced garlic and/or garlic scallions, salt, and pepper.

Rinse chicken and pat dry. Loosen the skin in several places and insert the herbal butter underneath. Rub chicken with salt and pepper.  

Insert the remaining herb sprigs into the cavity of the chicken.

Place breast-side-down in a roasting pan. Bake 30 minutes, then turn chicken over. Bake about 20 minutes longer.

Makes 4 to 6 servings

Lemon Balm Cordial 

From Adele Dawson’s Herbs, Partners in Life:  “A fine home-made liqueur can be made by taking two handfuls of crushed Melissa leaves, putting them in a glass jar or crock, pouring over them a fifth of vodka, three-quarters of a cup of honey, and a grated lemon peel.  Shake well and let stand for a week.  Strain, bottle, and wait an additional three weeks before using.

Lemon Balm Infused Vinegar

 Make sure you use a plastic lid with your vinegar/not metal

I like to use organic raw apple cider vinegar, but you can start with any vinegar you like.

Thoroughly clean about two cups of fresh lemon balm.

Allow them to dry, or gently dry them with a hair dryer set on cool.

Lightly crush the herbs with your hands, and place them in a clean jar.

Cover with vinegar that has been warmed almost to a boil, screw on the lid, and shake. Place the jar in a cool, dark place.

Shake every day, and then turn the jar upside down.

After one to two weeks, strain the vinegar through a coffee filter, and pour into sterilized glass bottles. Place a sprig or two of fresh herbs in the bottle, and screw on the top or insert a tight cork.

As long as herbal vinegar's are protected from light, they will keep for up to a year. 

Lemon Balm Tincture:

To make a tincture, you will need a 1 quart canning jar, lemon balm herb, 2 cups of either vodka, gin or brandy and 1 cup water. The liquid acts as the menstrum and will preserve the tincture for up to 5 years.

Sterilize the jar.

Fill the jar half way with the lemon balm herb.

Pour the 2 cups of alcohol over the herb until it comes up over the top of the herb.

Next, pour the 1 cup of water into the jar.

Shake well.

Leave in a warm place for 4 weeks. Shake it every day or so.

If after a few days, the herb is not still fully immersed, add a touch more water. Herb needs to stay totally submerged under the liquid for the 4 weeks.

After 4 weeks strain out the herb.

Place tincture in a dark bottle, and label with herb and date.

Take 20 drops of tincture in juice, warm water, or tea  3-4  times a day. Do not take it for more than 2 weeks at a time. Give your body a rest, and take it again for 2 weeks if necessary. If the condition persists, contact your health care provider or herbalist.

If you don’t want the alcohol of a tincture, you can use vegetable glycerin or honey to make a glycerite.

The formula for making the glycerite is the same as a tincture. Follow the above steps, and replace the vodka with either the vegetable glycerin or honey. Allow the 6 weeks and then strain. Dosage is 1/4 tsp. 3 – 4 times a day.

Lemon balm should be avoided by those on hypothyroid medication as it is believed that the herb inhibits the absorption of this medicine.

Pictured Lemon Balm

Wild Food Mix: Use as a stir-fry, omelet or a frittata:   Sweet cicely leaves, dandelion leaves, yellow dock leaves and plantain.  

Sweet cicely appears to have been used medicinally since Roman times. Today, it is used exclusively in cooking.  An infusion of the herb was once recommended for flatulence and coughs, and it was an ingredient of wound healing ointments.   The sugary tasting leaves have an anise-like taste, and they are traditionally cooked with tart fruits, such as rhubarb and gooseberries and used to flavor fruit salads and fruit pies.  The fresh leaves impart their own sweetness and are, therefor e helpful for diabetics and those on low-sugar diets.   Sweet cicely has been long appreciated in Europe for the sweet anise flavor of its young shoots, leaves, and fruits, sweet cicely has yet to make many inroads into American cooking. 

Leaves may be harvested from early spring to early fall; they are best used raw, as they lose most of their scent and flavor when dried.   The leaves sweeten salad dressings, omelets, soups, stews, and vegetable dishes.

Wild Food Frittata:  Serves 2/ Double if you need four servings

This recipe is so easy and satisfying. It can be adapted for just about any edible plants growing in your garden. Of course, any veggie, cheese, herb combination can be substituted as well. 

Ingredients

4 local, organic, free-range eggs
1/2 cup grated organic parmesan, feta, or raw cheddar cheese
2 Tbsp plain organic yogurt
1 bunch of wild greens
1/2 organic onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves organic garlic, crushed or 3 garlic scallions 
Sea salt and fresh cracked organic pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Sauté onions in olive oil using a small cast iron or another oven-safe skillet over medium heat until they become nice and caramelized. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Toss in the nettle leaves and dandelion flowers and sauté with onions and garlic for another minute or two.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, yogurt, and cheese. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and season with salt and pepper.

Spread veggie mixture evenly on bottom of the skillet. Pour egg mixture into the skillet and gently stir together until the veggies are covered, then allow to cook for a few minutes.

When the egg mixture is about half set, put the whole pan in the oven. Bake for 7-10 minutes, until your frittata is puffy and golden around the edges. Remove the pan from the oven using oven mitts and let stand for several minutes.

Nettle Frittata http://mountainroseblog.com/dandelion-frittata/

More options: http://kimwiney.blogspot.com/2013/04/dandelion-frittata-truly-radical-food.html

Wild Tea Of The Week: Mayweed,chamomile,lemon verbena,lemon balm, lemon verbena and valerian flower tea: 

Wild tea mix

2 to 4 cups of water

Bring water to boil and pour wild tea mix in, turn off burner and steep for 2 to 5 minutes.

 If you would like to have the mix stronger for more health benefits make an infusion. 

Lemon Verbena:  http://www.healthyliving-herbs.co.za/index.php/herb-articles/568-lemon-verbena-aloysia-triphylla-lippia-citriodora

More recipes for lemon verbena: http://oldfashionedliving.com/lemonverbena.html  

Sage:  is a superb aid in the digestion of rich, fatty meat.  It also helps lower cholesterol levels and is a bitter tonic for the liver.  It is an excellent herb for rebuilding vitality and strength during long-term illness.  Sage is a well-known cold and flu fighter.  Because of its astringent, antiseptic, and relaxing action on the mucous membranes, sage is the classic remedy for inflammation of the mouth, throat, and tonsils.  It is one of the best remedies for laryngitis, tonsillitis, and sore throat.  Sage has many more healing qualities, for more information on this herb I suggest getting Rosemary Gladstar's book, Medicinal Herbs, a beginners guide.  

Sage Pesto: 

This is a great recipe for a healthy, healing herb paste.  Sage dominates the flavor of this pungent, strong pesto.  You can use less sage fi you find it overpowering.  If you would like to add more healing nutrients try adding fresh wild herbs such as dandelion greens, chickweed, and plantain.  

Recipe from Rosemary Gladstar's book:  Medicinal Herbs, a beginners guide 

1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems

1/2 cup parsely

1/4 to 1/2 cup fresh sage leaves, first time making it try the 1/4 cup version and if you would like it stronger than next time add more

3 cloves garlic

3/4 to 1 cup olive oil

1/4 to 1/2 cup sunflower seeds or walnuts or a mix

1/4 cup raw cheese (optional) 

Freshly ground black pepper and sea salt 

To make: 

Combine the herbs, garlic and olive oil in a blender or food processor and pulse until creamy.  Mix in the nuts or seeds and cheese (if using) and salt and pepper ot taste.  

To use: 

Serve on toast or crackers, pasta, steamed grains, omelets, vegetables or organic meat.

Sage Stress Reliever Tea

Handful of fresh sage leaves

Handful of fresh mint or small amount of fresh rosemary

Handful of fresh lemon balm 

These measurements are the playful way to connect with yourself and make tea.  

Gather your ingredinets and listen to what your body is telling you.  If you body says little more or a little less listen to it.  

I would start with about 4 cups of water, bring to boil add herbs turn the stove off and steep for 2 to 5 minutes. 

Enjoy it outdoors or with a loved one. Make sure all electric gadgets are turned off. 

Pictured, Sage and Lemon Balm

Nettle Garlic Buttermilk Biscuits:  Makes 12 - 15 Biscuits

2 cups organic unbleached flour 

1 1/2 tsp. baking powder, aluminium free! 

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. fine sea salt

5 Tbls. organic butter

1 cup of organic buttermilk, (when I can not find organic butter milk I use yogurt.  I mix 1/2 cup yogurt and 1/2 cup  water and mix)  

4 cloves fresh garlic, crushed or 4 finely minced garlic scallions

1 cup finely chopped fresh Nettle leaves, thick gloves for  chopping the Nettles

Preheat oven 400 degrees

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl and stir thoroughly.  Using two better knives or a pastry cutter, add butter until mixture resembles a crumbly meal.

Ina separate bowl, combine buttermilk with garlic and nettle leaves.  Add this liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and gently fold together to forma soft dough. 

Turn dough onto a floured cutting board, kneed gently until it just comes together, adding a little more flour if needed, and roll the dough out until it's about 1/2 think.  Using the rim of a small glass, cut the dough into 2 1/2 - 3 inch rounds and place on an un-greased baking sheet.

Bake for 18 minutes or until light golden brown.

Remove immediately from baking sheet to avoid over-crisping the biscuit bottoms and serve warm with butter. 

It Is Time To Drop The Potato Chips!!!! Make Kale Chips

Spicy Kale Chips

1/3 tsp ground cumin 
1/3 tsp paprika
1/8 tsp cayenne (add 1/8 tsp for spicier chips)
1/8 tsp salt
2 Tbsp olive oil
½ lb kale (about ¾ a bunch), large stems removed, cut into 2 to 3-inch pieces 

How to make it:
1. Preheat the oven to 275ºF. In a medium bowl, combine the spices, salt, and oil. Stir to dissolve. Add the kale and toss to coat. 
2. Spread leaves in a single layer on two baking sheets. Try to flatten any folded-over pieces for optimum crispness. Bake until the tips of leaves are slightly crispy, about 10 minutes. Use a spatula to turn the leaves over, and continue to roast until the leaves are crisp and slightly golden, 8 to 10 minutes more. Makes 4 servings.

Pizza Kale Chips: http://www.youngandraw.com/pizza-kale-chips-by-chef-amber-shea/

More Recipes For Kale Chips: 

http://blog.womenshealthmag.com/dish/kale-chips/

Herbal First Aid Basics 

It is always a great idea to take a First Aid/CPR class.  Contact your local fire department for a class or go to www.redcross.org and look for a class in your area. 

Red Cross first-aid training teaches that before you do anything, assess the situation as a whole. Then assess your level of ability to handle it.  If it is beyond the scope of your strength, ability, or training, do what you can to stop any imminent dangers that may cause more harm, then go for help. The same holds true at home.  Step back and calmly view the situation before embarking on any treatment.  

A great first aid kit, would handle more than just cuts and scrapes. Ideally, I would not include any chemical preparations. For me the medicines would be all-natural, potent and effective.  Please keep in mind if there are some things you need to add to this please do.

OBSERVE THE FIRST RULE OF FIRST AID

You are assembling your home medicine chest with the hope that you'll never use it....It is your homemade insurance policy.  However the chances are good that you may have to use it, and before you do, be sure to heed the first rule of herbal medicine.  Written down by Hippocrates thirty-five hundred years ago, its truth is universally recognized.  

"FIRST DO NO HARM"  

Factors Affecting What's In Your Family's Medicine Chest 

Ages of members

Personal health needs

Personal goals and temperaments

Lifestyle demands 

Access to herbs 

Travel requirements and interests 

While there are specialty preparations you'll want to have handy tailored for you/roomates/neighbors and your family's particular health needs, there are a few standard items that are useful to have in almost any herbal medicine chest.  

My Personal Favorites: 

1.  Bach Flower Essence/Rescue Remedy: The Rescue Remedy Flower essence  deals with emergencies and crises.   It can be used for  any stressful situation, from last-minute exam or interview nerves, to the aftermath of an accident or bad news. Rescue Remedy  helps you relax, get focused and calm.  

2. Activated Charcoal:  is a potent natural treatment used to trap toxins and chemicals in the body, allowing them to be flushed out so the body doesn't reabsorb them.

Activated charcoal is estimated to reduce absorption of poisonous substances up to 60%.

It works by absorbing chemicals, thus reducing their toxicity (poisonous nature), through the entire length of the stomach and small and large intestines (GI tract).

Activated charcoal itself is a fine, black powder that is odorless, tasteless, and nontoxic.

Activated charcoal is often given after the stomach is pumped (gastric lavage). Gastric lavage is only effective immediately after swallowing a toxic substance (within about one-half hour) and does not have effects that reach beyond the stomach as activated charcoal does.

I have used activated charcoal for nausea from Giardia and it works great.   Also Activated charcoal can be  used as a poultice for infections.   Activated Charcoal Poultice: http://www.charcoalremedies.com/how_to_make_a_charcoal_poultice

3.  Oregon Grape Root UPS (untied plant savers):  Exceptional anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antiviral properties.  Works great for treating skin conditions, like eczema and psoriasis.  A decoction made from the root helps with poor digestion and as a tonic for the liver.   I've had great results using it for fighting systemic infections, cleaning wounds and as topical wash for external infections.

4.  Echinacea UPS:  Immune system booster, first sign infection fighter, boils, venomous bites, abscesses, clean wounds, colds and flu. 

5.  Pine: antiseptic, astringent, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.  Treat wounds – apply it to cuts like you would super glue.  Follow first-aid protocol for cleaning/flushing first.  Stop bleeding – apply a soft glob (heat if necessary) to help stop bleeding.  Treat skin rashes and eczema with ointments,tinctures, and salves. For tinctures, use 190 proof Everclear since resin won’t dissolve with watered down alcohols.  Use the tincture for  colds, coughs, and bronchitis. Chew softer sap straight off the tree like a gum for sore throats and colds.   More information on Pine:  http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Pine-Keeps-You-Fine.htm

6.  Garlic:  Kills parasites, lung ailments, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal 

7.  Calendula:  Promotes cell repair, antiseptic (prevents infection from occurring in injuries) anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. Use for bruises, burns, sores, skin ulcers and as a tea wash. 

8.  Lavender Essential Oil:  To clean wounds 

9.  Plantain:  Soothing, drawing herb.  Use as poultice/spit poultice for bee stings, bug bites, blood poisoning and skin irritations.  Spit Poultice:

 http://crabappleherbs.com/blog/2007/06/30/herbs-for-irritated-skin-spit-poultices/

10.  Yarrow:  Fights bacteria, helping to cure simple infections. Poultice or a tea wash for deep cuts and slow healing wounds.    I have used this herb for very serious infections and it worked great!  Aid in healing skin conditions and is anti-inflammatory

11.  Comfrey:  For treating torn ligaments, strains, bruises and any injury to the bones or joints.  

12.  Elderberry:  Immune enhancing properties and  is a good preventive.  This herb rocks! 

13.  Honey:  Powerful antibacterial properties.   Pure honey literally sucks the moisture out of bacteria, effectively killing them while leaving you unharmed.   Applied straight it heals external ulcers, wound and cold sores.  Apply to burns.  Other techniques using honey, blend equal amounts honey and tincture, or mix equal amounts of freshly chopped herb and honey let rest for twenty minutes then apply as needed.   

Herbal First Aid Kit: 

1.  Comfrey Calendula/Injured Healing Salve:  Clean wound first.  Use on minor cuts and scraps.  Moisturizes dry skin. With calendula’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and comfrey’s ability to help heal wounds, this salve is perfect for minor cuts and scrapes.

2.  Lip Balm:  Dehydration  

3.  Valerian Tincture:  Helps with stressful situations, frazzled nerves and sleep. The sedative properties of valerian make it useful for relieving anxiety, insomnia and tension; it may also provide mild pain relief.

4.  Dried Yarrow:   anti-bacterial, styptic( a substance capable of stopping bleeding when applied to a wound), circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, astringent, anti-microbial, bitter, anti-inflammatory, for wounds, fevers, colds, flu, insect repellent stopping bleeding, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, cystitis. It is especially good for deep, clean cuts. Bruises, too. It’s one of the best herbs to stop bleeding.  Use with caution if you are allergic to ragweed. Its use is not recommended while pregnant.  

5.  Lavender Essential Oil:   disinfects cuts and scrapes. Can use for an eye compress. Multi-purpose lavender has sedative, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It’s helpful for anxiety, insomnia, headaches, wounds and burns. Most people can tolerate lavender essential oil applied directly to the skin, or apply to a cotton ball and apply to the area dabbing with the cotton ball.  Headaches (place cold compress on forehead)  and inflamation make a cold compress:  Ice water, soak cloth add 4 to 5 drops lavender essential.  Toothache, muscle aches make a warm compress. 

6.  Peppermint Tea Bags:  Heart burn and gas. Peppermint soothes an upset stomach, eases congestion from the common cold and curbs itching from insect bites.  For some people peppermint tea may aggravate heartburn.

7.  Chamomile Tea Bags:  Ease nausea, helps with anxiety and pink eye.Gentle enough for children, chamomile tea promotes relaxation, relieves indigestion and, applied topically, soothes skin irritations.

8.  Slippery Elm Lozenges:  Sore throat 

9.  Echinacea Tincture:  Take when you feel something coming on, helps boosts immune system. 

10.  Wormwood Tincture:  Food poisoning, parasites. The tincture is recommended for gastritis, , fever, flu, pneumonia, intoxications and infections with Giardia.      Do not ingest in large amounts and for extended periods of time. Not to be used while pregnant. More information on wormwood: http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_wormwood.htm

11.  Yarrow Tincture:  Disinfects, helps to relieve cold and flu symptoms, brings down fevers, can use to make a bug spray. Use with caution if you are allergic to ragweed. Its use is not recommended while pregnant.  More information on Yarrow:  http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_yarrow.htm

12.  Tea Tree Oil:  Use on herpes, cold sores, disinfectant for abrasions.  

13.  Arnica Homeopathic 30C:  Use Immediately, helps with bumps and bruises   Helps reduce inflammation from injuries  

14.  Bach Rescue Remedy:  Helps settle nerves after an accident 

15.  Small Bag Bentonite Clay:  Poison oak, bug bites, can take a little for diarrhea  With drying and drawing properties, clay is useful for healing skin rashes and insect bites. Store in a small plastic container.

16.   Ginger capsules, tea bags and crystallized ginger: The antispasmodic and gas-relieving properties of ginger (Zingiber officinale) soothe digestive upsets. Ginger also has been proven to relieve motion sickness better than Dramamine, the conventional drug treatment. 

17.  Witch hazel extract: Distilled witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) has mild astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for insect bites and skin irritations. It’s also an excellent base for diluting essential oils for a variety of simple, topical herbal first-aid remedies. Do not take it internally.

18.  Aloe vera gel: Cooling and healing, aloe vera (Aloe vera) soothes the inflammation of sunburn and common kitchen scalds and burns.

19.  Eucalyptus essential oil: A potent antibiotic and antiviral, eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) is excellent for treating colds, flus and sinus infections when used as a steam inhalation. Dilute with oil or witch hazel extract before applying to the skin, and do not take internally.

20.  Goldenseal capsules or powder or Oregon Grape(Oregon grape may be used as an effective substitute for the goldenseal) : A powerful antimicrobial, goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is effective against a variety of microorganisms that cause traveler’s diarrhea. The powder has antiseptic properties and can be sprinkled onto cuts or wounds to stop bleeding. Do not take goldenseal internally during pregnancy. Oregon grape is a great substitute for Goldenseal and considering goldenseal in on the endangered plant list you might want to look into using oregon grape . Information on Oregon Grape:  http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_oregon_grape.htm

21.  Arnica oil: Arnica (Arnica montana) flowers have anti-inflammatory and circulation-stimulating properties; the gel or cream is excellent for sore muscles, sprains, strains and bruises. Do not apply arnica to broken skin.

22.  Cayenne:  Stops bleeding 

23.   Chaparro:   Gastroenteritis, giardia, parasites, fungal infections and where to purchase it:  http://www.desertortoisebotanicals.com/products/chaparro-amargosa-tincture/

Additional First-Aid Essentials

• Adhesive bandage strips: Various sizes, including butterfly closure bandages.

• Bandage materials: Sterile gauze pads, a roll of gauze, adhesive bandage tape.

• Elastic bandage: For sprains or strains.

• Electrolyte replacement: Powdered drink packets such as Emergen-C.

• Moleskin: Blister treatment.

• Scissors: Small pair for cutting bandages, adhesive tape, moleskin.

• Thermometer: Instant-read type.

• Tweezers: For removing ticks and splinters.

* Cotton Balls 

*Small Flash light

* Ice Pack

*Small tissue packs 

*Latex gloves

*syringe

Quick Natural Remedies for Common Conditions

Anxiety: 
• Drink chamomile tea, 3 cups a day.
• Take valerian tincture, 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon up to 3 times daily.
• Take a bath with 10 drops of lavender essential oil or place a drop of lavender oil on a tissue and inhale as desired. 

Blisters: 
• To dry a blister, soak a gauze pad in witch hazel, lay it over the blister and cover with an adhesive bandage. After blister has broken, wash with a mixture of echinacea tincture diluted with an equal part of water. Finally, apply calendula-comfrey salve and cover with an adhesive bandage.

Bruises: 

*Chamomile, Lavender and St. Johns Wort
• Immediately apply ice to relieve pain and swelling.
• Take Arnica Homeopathic, follow instructions on the bottle

* Apply salve or Arnica Oil  

Burns: 
• Immediately immerse the affected area in cold water until the burning sensation subsides. Then apply aloe vera gel mixed with lavender essential oil (5 drops of lavender oil mixed with 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel).
• For sunburn, soak in a cool bath with 10 drops of lavender essential oil.

Colds and Flus: 
• Take 1 dropperful of echinacea tincture four times a day until symptoms subside.
• Take 1 dropperful of elderberry extract four times a day until symptoms subside.
• To relieve soothe a sore throat, slippery elm lozenge.
• To ease congestion, add 2 drops each of eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils to hot water; inhale the steam vapors.

Wounds:

• Add 1 dropperful of echinacea extract to 1⁄2 cup of water as an antiseptic wash.
• To stop bleeding, sprinkle cayenne directly into the wound and apply pressure with a clean cloth.
• Apply a salve made from calendula-comfrey — only after a scab has formed, to prevent trapping bacteria.

Diarrhea: 
• Replenish lost fluids and soothe the digestive tract with chamomile or ginger tea.
• For diarrhea caused by infectious microorganisms, take 1 capsule of goldenseal three times daily for up to two weeks.
• To boost immunity and fight infection, take 1 dropperful of echinacea four times daily.

Headache: 
• Drink chamomile tea as often as desired.
• For more severe headaches, take 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon of valerian root extract; repeat every two hours until pain abates.
• Take a warm bath with 10 drops of lavender essential oil.
• Massage 2 drops of diluted peppermint essential oil onto temples, forehead and neck. Keep away from eyes.

Indigestion: 
• Sip warm chamomile, peppermint or ginger tea.
• Chew on a piece of crystallized (candied) ginger.

Insect bites and stings:
• Cleanse the bite with echinacea extract.
• Apply a drop of undiluted peppermint or lavender oil to relieve itching and as an antiseptic.
• Mix clay with enough water to make a paste, and apply to the bites to relieve itching and draw out toxins.

Insomnia: 
• Drink a cup of warm chamomile tea.
• For stronger sedative action, take up to 1 teaspoon of valerian tincture before bed.
• Take a warm bath with 10 drops of lavender essential oil.

Nausea: 

• Take 1 to 2 capsules of dried ginger every 15 minutes until symptoms abate.
• To prevent motion sickness, take 6 to 8 capsules of powdered ginger about 45 minutes before departing.
• To calm a queasy stomach, chew on a piece of crystallized ginger.

Poison oak/ivy: 
• Immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and cool water, or sponge with alcohol to remove the oily resin.
• If a rash occurs, make a paste out of the  Bentonite clay

* Apply Dr. Kloss liniment with a cotton ball

Strains and sprains:
• Immediately elevate and apply an ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling and inflammation. After 24 hours, apply hot compresses to increase circulation and speed healing.
• Apply arnica oil or salve to the affected area three times daily. 

Toothache

*Echinacea tincture, spilanthes tincture, plantain leaves mixed with salt and clove essential oil and more information on toothaches:  http://learningherbs.com/remedies-recipes/toothache-remedy/

Liniment:

A liniment is an herbal preparation made by infusing herbs in rubbing or grain alcohol. The liniment will be applied to the skin and the alcohol will evaporate rapidly allowing the herbs to penetrate quickly to accomplish such actions as relieving sore muscles and increasing circulation.

Dr. Kloss Liniment:

http://frugallysustainable.com/2011/10/building-your-medicine-chest-herbal/

It is one of the most effective recipes for disinfecting wounds you could ever have on hand. However, this liniment is not only useful for disinfecting, it is highly beneficial in treating the following: all pains,insect bites,painful swellings,bruises,boils,skin eruptions of any kind (i.e. pimples, eczema, etc.)

How to Make the Herbal Kloss Liniment

-1 ounce Echinacea powder
-1 ounce goldenseal root powder
-2 ounces myrrh gum powder
-1/2 ounce cayenne pepper powder
Everclear or witch hazel to cover (approximately 1 quart)

Directions: In 1 quart glass jar combine all of the powders. Pour Everclear or witch hazel over herbal powders to fill jar, leaving 1-2 inch head space. Mix thoroughly. Place lid tightly on jar and let mixture stand in a warm location. Let jar stand for at least 4 weeks, shake well every day. After 4 weeks strain liniment well using a piece of cheesecloth and rebottle. Note: Be sure to clearly label For EXTERNAL USE ONLY.

Dosage: Apply the liniment every few minutes for an hour or two in acute instances. Otherwise, use freely until desired results are achieved.

Tips:

-I like to rebottle my liniment in 2-4 ounce spray bottle for ease of use.

-This liniment is so powerful it will stop a stye from developing on the eye. Simply apply to the exterior lid with a saturated q-tip until resolved. Take care not to get it in the eye.

- By applying the liniment to the temples, back of the neck, and to the forehead it can be used as an excellent remedy for a headache.

-Spray on to painful and swollen joints to relieve the symptoms of arthritis.

-Useful as a treatment for athlete’s foot. Apply frequently and saturate the affected area thoroughly.

Sore Muscle, Injury and Bruise Liniment

The smell of this liniment will remind you of blueberry pie

1 ounce (weight) of comfrey root (NOT powder) 

3/4 ounce valerian root (NOT powder) 

1/2 ounce calendula flowers (NOT powder) 

3/4 ounce cinnamon (powder) 

1/4 teaspoon cayenne (powder) 

Grain alcohol such as Everclear (available in liquor store in some states) OR Witch Hazel

Supplies: 

Quart Jar, strainer, cheese cloth, #4 coffee filter and filter holder

How to make herbal liniments:

• Weigh out the appropriate amount of each herb and put them into a quart jar.
• Pour  grain alcohol Everclear or Witch Hazel (preferred) over the herbs to fill the jar.
• Stir to release any bubbles, and put a lid on the jar.
• LABEL the jar.
• Stir or shake once each day for two weeks.
• Strain through cheese cloth, squeezing the herbs to extract as much liquid as possible.
• Pour into new jar through coffee filter to get out any extra particles.
• LABEL the jar you are storing the liniment in.

How to store your liniments:

Store the liniment in a spray bottle or small jar in your medicine cabinet. Be sure to label the jar with the words:“For External Use Only"

The  cayenne and cinnamon are warming herbs that will help increase circulation in the area affected.The valerian root will work to relax the muscles. The comfrey and calendula are soothing herbs that will help with healing bruises and injuries. This combination can also be helpful in easing the pain of arthritis.How to use the liniment is simply spray or rub this liniment on the affected area, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the herbs to penetrate and do their work.

Poultices, Warm Compress or Cold Compress:

A compress is a way of applying herbal extracts directly to the skin to reduce the inflammation or promote healing.  Usually an infusion or decoction of the herb is prepared for use in the compress or simply hot or cold water can be used.  

Compress:  Soak a clean cloth or flannel in hot or cold water.  Place on affected area and hold firmly in place.  Use a towel or bandage to tie in place if kept on for long.   

Poultice:  A poultice acts in a similar way to a compress, but the herb itself is used, rather than just a liquid extact. Do not do if wounds are deep.  

Use fresh or dried herbs, quickly scalded with hot water and drained, or dry herbs that are brewed to make a very strong tea. Use twice the amount of herbs you would use for normal brewing, and infuse for 10 minutes.   Squeeze the herbs lightly while still almost hot to get the excess liquid out, spread on to a clean cloth and apply to the sore area. it can be a little messy, but the direct contact between herbs and skin is extremely soothing and effective, especially for painful joints or muscles and swellings of various origins.  You can use powdered herbs mixed with hot water into a thick paste.

Charcoal Poultice:

Mix 3 Tbs. with a little water to form a wet paste.  It needs to be moist but not crumbly or drippy.  Spread the paste on one half of a cloth or piece of guaze cut to fit the area.  When ready the cloth should be moist  and thoroughly saturated with the paste.  Then cover the paste by folding over the other half of the paper towel or cloth. Place the charcoal poultice on the affected body part making sure it completely covers the area.  If you can, cover the poultice with plastic or another cloth.  Plastic will keep the cloth from drying out.   If the charcoal dries out, it will not be able to drawing toxins or infection out.    Finish off by bandaging or taping the poultice securely in place.  Leave it on for several hours, or better yet, overnight.  After a few hours repeat if necessary.. 

Spit-Poultice:   http://crabappleherbs.com/blog/2007/06/30/herbs-for-irritated-skin-spit-poultices/

Herbal Wash:  Make a strong herbal brew and apply to the wound.  You can use tinctures diluted with warm water.  

Use common sense and seek additional assistance when necessary and if you or other persons are sensitive to any of the suggested remedies, don't use them... 

Rosemary, basil, onions, beet greens mixed with swiss chard, stir fry mix of brassica,peas,cauliflower and broccoli, cabbage,kale, celery, mustard,lettuce mixed with argula,spinach, nettle, comfrey, wild mix of lambs quarter, sheep sorrel, tea mix of mint,catnip mint, calendula and st. johns wort, garlic and scapes (curly garlic tops)

Rosemary is used  for culinary, for beauty and for herbal healing: 

What is Rosemary?

16 health benefits of rosemary that'll make you want to use it on a regular basis.

Cancer Prevention
Rosemary contains carnosol which has been found in studies to be a potent anti-cancer compound. Researchers have had promising results in studies of its efficacy against breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, leukemia, and skin cancer. In one study, researchers gave powdered rosemary to rats for two weeks and found that it reduced the binding of the carcinogen given to the rats by 76% and significantly inhibited the formation of breast tumors.

Improved Memory
Rosemary has long been believed to have memory-enhancing properties. In 1529, an herbal book recommended taking rosemary for "weakness of the brain." Today, research has found that rosemary contains a diterpine called carnosic acid that has neuroprotective properties that researchers believe may protect against Alzheimer's disease as well as the normal memory loss that happens with aging.

Remarkably, even the smell of rosemary has been found to improve memory. Test subjects in cubicles were given essential oil of rosemary to smell and they had better quality of memory and better overall memory than the control group, though their speed of memory was slower compared to the control group.

Mood Elevator
The same study that found that smelling rosemary improved test subjects' quality of memory also found that their mood was significantly improved compared to the control group.

Migraine Help
Rosemary has been a popular natural migraine remedy for centuries. Boil some rosemary in a large pot of water and pour it into a bowl. Place a towel over your head and lean over the pot to inhale the steam for about 10 minutes. Because smelling rosemary has been found to improve memory and mood, this method may also help with memory function and put you in a better state of mind.

Pain Relief
It not only helps relieve the pain of migraines, but essential oil of rosemary can also be applied topically as a natural treatment for arthritis, sore muscles, and other joint and muscle pains.

Anti-Inflammatory
Rosemary contains two potent anti-inflammatories, carnosic acid and carnosol. One study found that these two compounds inhibited COX-2, an enzyme that causes pain and inflammation in the body. They also inhibited the production of excess nitric oxide, which also plays a role in the inflammatory process.

Immune Booster
Rosemary boosts the immune system thanks to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Because it is healing in so many ways, it boosts the overall health of the body.

Antibacterial
Studies have found that rosemary has powerful antibacterial properties against H. pylori (the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers) and Staph infections.

Digestive Health
Rosemary is often used to help treat digestive problems such as upset stomach, constipation, indigestion, and almost any other digestive related problem. It also helps to prevent foodborne illnesses when ingested with foods such as meat or eggs.

Hair Growth
There is a possibility that rosemary may stimulate hair growth. One study found that people with alopecia, a disorder that causes the hair to fall out, had significant hair regrowth after rubbing rosemary, lavender, thyme, and cedarwood into their scalps for seven months. However, it is not clear whether it was the rosemary or the other herbs that caused the regrowth.

Better Circulation
Essential oil of rosemary is often applied topically as a natural remedy for poor circulation, though there have been no studies to prove this effect.

Fresh Breath
Rosemary can be used as a natural mouthwash and is said to work very well. To make the mouthwash, steep fresh rosemary in a pint of heated water. Strain it and use it as a mouth rinse as often as you like. It will keep in the fridge if covered.

Diuretic Properties
Rosemary is a mild diuretic, which means that it can help get rid of bloating and water retention in the body. When rosemary is used regularly, it may help in the increase of urine flow and help the kidneys function at optimal levels to help get rid of excess water in the body.

Respiratory Health
Rosemary is a great natural remedy for respiratory problems. Breathing in the scent of the essential oil may help with congestion due to colds, allergies, respiratory infections, and the flu. You may also boil fresh rosemary in a pot of water, place it in a bowl, and breathe in the steam to help clear the lungs and throat. This will also help with any sinus or head pain associated with respiratory conditions.

Liver Detoxification
Rosemary has been used to treat liver problems for hundreds of years. Hippocrates prescribed it for this purpose. One study found that rosemary extract reduces cirrhosis in rats given thioacetamide, a toxic compound that is toxic to the liver. It also prevented liver damage from tetrachloride in rats and mice.

Anti-Aging
Rosemary is a popular ingredient in anti-aging skin creams because it helps reduce puffiness, stimulates cell regeneration, increases firmness, and improves overall skin tone. It is a natural anti-inflammatory and increases blood flow to the skin. 

Precautions

Women who have heavy periods should avoid excessive use of rosemary, since it may stimulate menstrual flow. The herb should not be used medicinally during pregnancy. Small amounts of rosemary used in cooking, however, are safe for pregnant women and for women who have heavy periods.

More on Rosemary:http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/rosemary.php

Rosemary Hair Care: 

Before name brand shampoos, women turned to their gardens, woods and fields for plants that met all of their beauty needs. Whether it be a cure to dandruff, premature balding, dull strands or a desire for a new color there was a plant that they knew could meet their specific demands. I think that as the world is beginning to become more synthetic the less we truly understand the implications of allowing such chemicals, toxins and mad men creations into our bodies. It is important to be knowledgeable and at the very least know that there are natural alternatives to every single demand that humans require whether in sickness or health. 

When it comes to it's contributions to hair Rosemary seems to be all purpose. Here is a brief list of its uses and benefits to hair

Rosemary Hair Care: 

Scapes-Curly Garlic Tops

Scape Pesto Recipe
1 cup (or less) freshly grated Parmesan cheese or other sharp Italian cheese
1–2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice, adjusted to taste
1/4 pound roughly chopped scapes 
1/2 cup olive oil
salt to taste

Puree scapes, olive oil, and juice in a blender or food processor until nearly smooth. (You can make a smooth paste if you prefer, but most people like a little texture in the pesto.) Gently stir in the cheese or gingerly pulse the cheese into the mixture; take it easy as you mix in the cheese to avoid making the pesto gummy by over blending. Taste and then adjust juice and salt to taste.

Store in the refrigerator to use within two or three days; freeze for longer storage. Scape pesto freezes well, and it holds its appealing green color when frozen even better than the traditional basil pesto.

Garlic Scape Hummus

2 cans of chick peas (garbanzos), drained
1 cup sesame seeds or tahini
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup fresh chopped garlic scapes

Place the ingredients in a blender and mix on high until a thick paste forms. Salt to taste.

Variation: Add your favorite curry, to taste.

Sheep Sorrel:http://www.motherearthherbs.com/sorrel.html

Tea mix of pineapple sage, stevia, nettle, apple-mint, rose petals, calendula, young blackberry leaves and lemon verbena, salad, collard greens, potatoes, cabbage purple, cabbage green, zucchini, cucumbers, celeriac tops, brassica mix, kale, basil and wild food of the week yellow dock seeds: 

Wild Food Of The Week -Yellow Dock Seeds, Wild Buckwheat 

Yellow Dock Seed Crackers: 

http://www.methowvalleyherbs.com/2012/03/yellow-dock-pesky-weed-as-food-medicine.html

Yellow Dock Seed Vinegar: 

http://www.hardyecogarden.com/2011/07/eat-your-weeds-rumex-crispus-curly-dock.html

Zucchini Bread and Butter Pickles:  Water Bath Canning Recipe

Yield:  6 qts.

2 qts. organic apple cider vinegar

2 cups local honey

6 tablespoons salt

4 teaspoons celery seed

4 teaspoons dill seed

2 teaspoons ground mustard 

8 qts. fresh zucchini, sliced 

2 qts. onion, sliced 

Bring vinegar, honey, and spices to a boil.  Pour over the zucchini and onions.  Let stand for 2 hours.  Heat mixture to a boil and cook for 3 minutes.  They will get mushy if cooked longer. 

Pack into hot sterilized jars.  

Insert a knife down the edge of he jars to remove any air bubbles   Complete seals, process for 15 minutes in a boiling-water bath. 

Zucchini Carrot Muffins - Grain Free 

http://veggienook.com/2013/05/22/grain-free-paleo-and-vegan-carrot-zucchini-muffins/

Zucchini Apple Spice Muffins - Grain Free:

http://paleomg.com/zucchini-apple-spice-muffins/

Basil- Shallot ( Or Walla Walla Onion) Mustard

Yield:  5 1/2 pints 

2/3 cup organic apple juice

2/3 cups organic red wine or organic red wine vinegar

1/2 cup dry mustard

1/3 cup spring water or filtered water

1/4 cup light mustard seeds

1/8 cup chopped organic basil

1/8 cup minced shallots or walla walla onion

2 tablespoons honey 

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 

Combine the apple juice, wine or vinegar, dry mustard, water, and mustard seeds in a glass or ceramic bowl and stir, mixing well. 

Cover the bowl with natural wax paper and a cloth and let stand for 4 - 6 hours, stirring occasionally. 

Process the mixture in a bowl of a food processor ( or blender) until the mustard seeds are coarsely ground. 

cook the mixture in a double boiler over simmering water, adding the basil, shallots or onions, honey, sea salt and allspice.  Cook for 20 - 25 minutes   The mustard will thicken as it cooks. 

pour into sterile jars. Cap and seal. 

Allow the flavors to marry for 2 - 3 days before using.  Will keep in the refrigerator for 2 - 3 months unopened.  

Tea Mix: Nettle, apple-mint, pineapple sage, lemon verbena, calendula, wild young blackberry leaves and rose petals. 

Empty bag into a gallon jug of spring or filtered water.  Let sit overnight, strain and enjoy.  

Pineapple Sage

Nettle/Apple-MintLemon Verbena

This Weeks Goodies

Collard greens, wild greens mix, arugula, mustard greens (two types), kale, nettle,mixed lettuce, cabbage, brassica  mix, comfrey, celery, garlic scallions, dill, apple-mint, lemon verbena, stevia, salad burnet,   and basil 

Wild Mix:  Plantain, dandelion, lambs quarters (wild spinach)  and yellow dock.  Use in stir fry, lasagna, casseroles, frittata, omelettes etc.. 

Information for Lambs Quarters: http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/edible-wild-foods-zmrz13fmzhun.aspx#axzz2Wz83KBnq

Wild Food Of The Week To Look For:  Lambs Quarters, picture below

Tea Mix:  Lemon Verbena and Rose Petals

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/lemon-verbena-and-rose-petal-tea?xg_source=activity

What is Salad Burnet?: 

Salad burnet is a member of the rose (Rosaceae) family. The plant is an attractive perennial grown for both its edible leaves and its medicinal properties. Medicinally, it was once used against the Plague and to control hemorrhaging, but today it is mostly know, medicinally, for its astringent properties. Use whenever you want to add a cool, cucumber flavor. Leaves can be tossed into salads or used on sandwiches. They make a nice addition to cold drinks, like lemonade and wine spritzers. Use salad burnet to flavor dips and vinegars. Toss leaves into soups, eggs and other hot dishes at the last minute.

Brassica Mix: 

You can use it as a stir fry or try this yummy recipe:  Simple and Quick

Roasted Brassica's

Use any leaves:  Cauliflower, Broccoli, Kale or any green:

Organic Tamari, 

Onion Scallions or one red onion chopped

Four cloves of garlic.  More or less 

Sesame Oil or Olive Oil 

Pepper to taste

9 x 11 glass baking dish

What To Do:

1. Pre-heat the oven at 350
2. Wash  and cut into bite-size pieces, a
3. Smash a few cloves of garlic and chop them coarsely. Chop some scallions or red onion.   The whole scallion, not just the white part.  
4. Toss the garlic, onions, and brassica mix with a generous splash of soy sauce and oil in a roasting pan. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.   Just filled it up with the leaves, cauliflower and broccoli.  If you have to much make another batch.)
5. Place the uncovered roasting pan in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the green leaves are crisp and both the florets and the thicker stalks are tender and can be pierced easily with a fork.  

This recipe is amazing.  Don’t worry if you overcook the leaves they can get crispy.

Celery Tops, Flowers and Leaves: 

Dahl

2 cups yellow split peas

2 onions chopped or 2 leeks 

1/2 cup cilantro or  more  chopped

2 gloves garlic minced or 3 garlic scallions chopped. Garlic can always be adjusted to more or less

2 to 3 tsps. Curry powder

Sea salt

 2 cups celery tops, flowers and leaves chopped or  minced 

Cook 2 cups of yellow split peas in 6 cups of water with 1 tsp. sea salt and celery tops,flowers and leaves.  

Cook until tender and creamy

Saute onions and garlic until tender then add cilantro

Add sauteed mixture to yellow split peas 

Add Curry  powder and mix well 

Serve over rice, potatoes or enjoy it with some home bake bread or tortillas 

Taking the bitter out of the green

Mustard Greens and Organic Turkey Bacon (Organic turkey /  chicken sausage)

Bag of Mustard Greens or more

2 cups organic chicken stock or veggie stock

1/2 cup organic white or red wine

1 cup water

1 large onion sliced

4-6 chopped cloves garlic

3 small chopped shallots

1/2 pound organic turkey bacon chopped or sausage

1/4 cup olive oil

sea salt

pepper

Heat large pan and add olive oil.

2. Sauté turkey bacon, onions, garlic and shallots in pan. Stir Occasionally.

3. Separate and rinse mustard greens under water

4. Roll 2-3 leaves together. Slice into thin strips.

5. Add mustard greens to sauteed ingredients in pan.

6. Pour in white/red wine, chicken/veggie stock and water.

7. Cover pan and let cook for 30 minutes on medium heat.

8. Stir every few minutes.

9. Taste to confirm the tenderness you prefer.

10. Add salt and pepper to taste

Hummers: a hummingbird flew past today,...

circled my garden and decided to stay.

Its tiny wings made a funny sound,....

like zippers going up and down.

It dipped and dived among the plants,...

and snacked on spiders gnats, and ants.

An all day long for flying power, it sipped the nectar tucked in flowers.

This is a reminder please do not feed hummingbirds bad red liquid or corporate made hummingbird food. It is toxic for them and it is taking it's toll on the population. It is already hard for them because of the chemicals in our environment. If you must feed them do this. Plant a wide variety of flowers. OR make your own organic hummingbird food. That way there is no toxic preservatives or food die.