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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

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

Basil is not the only herb that you can use to make pesto.  

There are so many varieties of pesto that you can make.  Lately we have been making a nettle pesto,a wild greens pesto (the wild greens were dandelion, plantain and yellow dock),    and today I made sage pesto.  The sage pesto was incredibly awesome.  I added the sage pesto to our pasta and eggs.    

For the garlic I used 3 garlic scallions and for the cheese I used raw organic cheddar.   

Anyone up for a challenge?  I would like to challenge you and your taste buds in making this wonderful recipe.  

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 parsley

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.

Lemon Verbena:  http://www.healthyliving-herbs.co.za/index.php/herb-articles/568-le...

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

Lemon Rose Tea

Ingredients:

1/2 cup torn lemon verbena leaves

1/4 cup rose petals

4 cups filtered water or spring water

Honey 

Place 4 cups of water in a teakettle or medium saucepan and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the lemon verbena and rose petals. Remove from the heat and steep for about 15 minutes. Return to the heat and simmer for 1 minute. Pour into individual tea cups or mugs, sweeten with honey and serve.

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/

Most of you know that I have MCS, I have good days and bad.  Because of my MCS, I was having nerve issues in my right leg last night  and this morning I was frustrated with how tired my legs were. 

I decided that I needed to go on our longer route up the mountain.  I have a tendency to make myself do more exercise when I am having MCS issues.  It pushes the circulation in my body  and I sweat, therefore I am pushing out the toxins.  

I was not happy with my stances today.  My legs were just not going to give.  I thought it was best to let them have their moments and concentrate on my upper body movements.  Trying to remember the order when you are mentally exhausted is a bit frustrating,  Because of who I am, I make sure I just laugh at it and I know that it is only temporary.  

After I made it through my forms I was complaining about the tiredness in my legs, thanks to Joseph he reminded my that I had doubled my forms workout.  I went from doing 9 forms a day to doing 18 forms a day.  

Wow!  This was exciting and no wonder my legs were so fatigued.  

After my workout, I sat and listened to the mountain sounds and breathed in the fresh air while I was drinking tea.    

Workout today: 

Each form 2 times equals 18 forms 

10 straight leg kicks, right and left

10 front kicks, right and left

10 side kicks, right and left 

10 inside crescent kicks, right and left

10 outside crescent kicks, right and left

10 spinning inside crescent kicks, right and left

10 narrow push-ups

10 wide push-ups

10 spinning heel kicks

back exercises

ab exercises

stretch

We have a no spray sign and because of that we are the ones who have to do the up keep along the road in front of our property.  So, after my workout, I did roadside maintenance.  This gave me two hours of squatting up and down, and I used a pair of scissors.  

After that I needed to warm up, drinking a cup of tea was good for that.   The rest of my day I pulled weeds (more squatting) and carried 2 five gallon buckets of compost more times than I can count. 

Looking forward to adjusting to my new workout.  I feel I will be adjusted to it in about one more week then I will increase my forms up to 3 or 4 each.  

I am sticking to my goals.    There is no way I am going to slow down.  Looking forward to catching the tail end of Matt.  If I keep working hard enough I can do this.  

Roadside maintenance, took it in about 2 feet.  As much as I keep using my scissors, I am going to have one strong grip. 

Training hard like this (of course even when you are not training hard) it is important to make sure you eat organic green food  with a balance of clean protein.    If you do not you WILL wear your body down 

Some organic red food, like organic strawberries, is also very healthy for you.  Make sure that you never eat NON-organic strawberries.  Always eat only organic strawberries.  Non-organic strawberries have a ton of toxic chemicals in them.  

Healthy fuel, to keep the body lubed up and ready to go.

This morning was a tough one.   The goal was to get up the mountain before the sun rise.   One very big reason is I am having a tough time getting to bed early.  The spring/summer days leaves me working outside till sun down.  For those of you who are paying attention, you know that the sun does not come down early.  We are heading towards the longest day of the year.  My life work on the farm is moving at a fast pace. 

Starting up that steep hill I noticed right away that my legs were tired and it was cold.  It was 39 degrees!  I had to put on two pairs of pants and 4 shirts.    Coldness like that makes you want to stay cuddled up in a warm blanket. 

During my forms and natural body workout the gravel seemed more slippery than usual and I felt like my eyes would not open all the way.  My eyes eventually opened up and my body moved a little better. I am incredibly thankful I have the mountain as my gym.  I am a nature woman and my mountain gym is a perfect match for me! 

I have set new goals for this week and I am on my path..  I will be stepping it up each week.  

Side note:  It is vitally important that we all exercise.   I would love to here what are your kung fu goals, fitness goals and eating health goals are ? 

Workout

All 9 forms 2 times through

10 front kicks

10 side kicks

15 standing obliques

10 straight leg kicks

10 outside crescent kicks

10 inside creasecent kicks

10 spinning inside crescent kicks

Different yoga moves

ab exercises

back exercises

20 push-ups, narrow and wide

Inner thigh workout

Stretch 

The sunrise this  morning, so beautiful.  Love my mountain gym! 

This weeks wellness goodies are:  honeysuckle, therapeutic tea, heart warming tea, the wild food is yellow dock/ nettle, collard greens, basil, kale, spinach, radish, carrots, onions, mustard greens, comfrey, fennel, garlic scallions, celery salad and a bouquet of flowers.  

Honeysuckle Fun

Honeysuckle Information: 
 Japanese honeysuckle is edible and medicinal. High in Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium, the leaves can be parboiled and eaten as a vegetable. The edible buds and flowers, made into a syrup or puddings. The entire plant has been used as an alternative medicine for thousands of years in Asia. The active constituents include calcium, elaidic-acid, hcn, inositol, linoleic-acid, lonicerin, luteolin, magnesium, myristic-acid, potassium, tannin, and zink. It is alterative, antibacterial, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, depurative, diuretic, febrifuge, and is also used to reduce blood pressure. The stems are used internally in the treatment of acute rheumatoid arthritis, mumps and hepatitis. The stems are harvested in the autumn and winter, and are dried for later herb use. The stems and flowers are used together a medicinal infusion in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (including pneumonia) and dysentery. An infusion of the flower buds is used in the treatment of a wide range of ailments including syphillitic skin diseases and tumors, bacterial dysentery, colds, and enteritis. Experimentally, the flower extracts have been shown to lower blood cholesterol levels and are antibacterial, antiviral and tuberculostatic. Externally, the flowers are applied as a medicinal wash to skin inflammations, infectious rashes and sores.

Nettle: It is a vitamin factory, rich in iron, calcium, potassium, silicon,magnesium, manganese, zinc, and chromium as well s a host of other vitamins and minerals.  

Yellow Dock and Nettle Strudel 

3 cups onion, diced fine

4 cloves of garlic chopped

2 tsp caraway seeds

3 tsp dill weed

1 tsp sea salt and pepper

4 to 8 cups finely chopped yellow dock/nettle mixture

1 1/2 cups cooked rice 

1 cup cream cheese

1 1/2 cup raw cheese

2 eggs

1/2 lb filo- You could also make this like an lasagna and use lasagna pasta instead. 

Butter or olive oil

Always use organic ingredients as much as possible 

Saute the onion, garlic, caraway, dill, salt, pepper, yellow dock and nettle in olive oil unit soft.  Remove from heat.  

In large bowl, mix yellow dock/nettle saute mixture, rice cheeses, and eggs. 

Skip this next step if you are going to layer your mixture with lasagna pasta

Assembly begins by thawing the filo dough.  

• Remove filo from package and lay on a flat dry surface. Cover with wax paper or foil and follow recipe instructions.
• Re-roll any unused filo sheets and seal in a plastic bag.
• Dough can be refrozen up to 3 months or stored in the refrigerator 2 weeks.
• Be sure to keep dough moist when putting recipes together; to ensure crispness, do not use overly moist fillings.
• While traditional dishes call for brushing each filo leaf with melted butter, try a light coating of safflower, olive, or other cooking oil on every second layer. You can also use most cooking sprays with excellent results.

You could make individual strudels or layer the filo dough in a 9 x 13 pyrex baking dish 

Use two to three sheets of filo down between layers in a 9 x 13 pyrex baking dish.  Layer it like you would a lasagna.  Brush each layer with melted butter or olive oil and spoon the yellow dock/nettle mixture in-between  your layers.

Here are some more recipe ideas that you can do with your yellow dock/ nettle mixture.  Just use the yellow dock/nettle mixture as a substitute for the cooked greens that are in the recipe.

http://rosesprodigalgarden.org/recipes/nettlesrecipes.html

http://foragedfoodie.blogspot.com/2013/05/superfood-mac-cheese-recipe-with.html

http://rosesprodigalgarden.org/recipes/yellowdockrecipes.html

http://laughinglemonpie.com/recipe-dock-au-gratin/

Most health food stores carry this brand of organic filo: 

http://www.fillofactory.com/fillo-recipes

Fennel Frond Pesto

Makes 4 servings, plus leftover pesto

Preparation time: 30 minutes

1/3 cup pistachios, toasted

2 to 4 garlic scallions finely chopped or 2 cloves garlic chopped

1/2 cup raw cheese

1 teaspoon sea salt 

Ground black pepper, to taste

2 cups lightly packed fennel fronds 

optional: 4-5 mint leaves, torn

about ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

juice of ½ lemon, or to taste

1 pound penne pasta

1 cup frozen peas

Put the pistachios, garlic, cheese, salt, and pepper in a food processor/blender. Pulse a few times to grind slightly.

Add fennel and mint, if using, to the food processor/blender. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is reduced to a paste and has a spreadable, but not greasy consistency. Taste and add salt if necessary. Squeeze in a little bit of lemon juice to taste.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.  Salt the water generously and cook the pasta until al dente.

While the pasta is cooking, set up a colander in the sink and put the frozen peas in it. (If you have fresh peas, by all means use them. You can add them to the boiling water in the last few minutes of cooking the pasta.

When the pasta is done, drain the pasta in the colander. Return the pasta, along with the peas, into the pot. Stir in the pesto until pasta is lightly coated and flavorful. Squeeze in a little lemon juice, to taste.

You can use this pesto on crackers, bread, meat or a starch.  

Need a new  recipe for your radishes?

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Roasted-Radishes-with-Brown-Butter-Lemon-and-Radish-Tops-364609

This one looks yummy.  The only thing I would change is omit the green chilies and use 1 big organic red pepper.  Never eat green peppers..... 

http://giniann.wordpress.com/2006/12/23/radish-curry-saute-with-onions-garlic-and-chili/

One More Greens Recipe:  Use organic broth with this recipe

http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipe/sauteed-greens-white-beans-and-garlic

Fun Facts About Your Greens:  Share the knowledge :)

Collards, Mustard, and Kale all belong to the Brassica family and are considered SUPER FOODS because of their antioxidant qualities.

Collards are a good source of protein, potassium, are high in fiber, and provide vitamins A,C,E,K and B6.

Mustard is especially known to protect against hay fever, sinusitus, and asthma.

Kale is loaded with organosulfur compounds (that may lessen the occurrance of some cancers), and has phytonutrients that help the liver to neutralize potentially cancerous substances. 

Now you know why it's so important to "EAT YOUR GREENS"!

Fennel Fronds Pictured: 

Last night the little devils that speak in your ear were trying to talk me into taking a break.  They were yelling loud and clear.  They worked hard all the way through to this morning to get me to not hit my goal this morning.  

As I walked up the hill that headed toward the steep mountain I heard in broad day light the howling of a coyote.  For those of you who do not know the coyote is a symbol for being a trickster.  As I stopped and stood by the big evergreen tree I enjoyed the howl of this lonely coyote, understanding the message.  

It was a morning of tiredness, not wanting to work out and wanting to give in to those evil brats that were trying to take my dedication away.  Plus, my legs were burning way to early in my walk up.  

I was still going to get up that mountain and work on my forms.  The two little devils did talk me into just doing the 3 forms just 3 times and I would stop.  So they thought... 

As I was walking up I started to feel more awake, I moved slow enough to get the burning in my legs to stop.  At that point I pulled my dog Rocky and sped up. 

I found a shady spot to workout in, it had a bit of a hill, some gravel and some slippery wet grass.  I started with some rotations a few kicks and I was ready to do my forms.  

After I made it through my forms, the little devils were in for a disappointment because I found my energy and my positive angels.  I not only did I do my forms, I worked on my kicks, added a new kick to work on ( whirlwind)  and I worked on one of the forms 3 more times.  

The morning sun was beautiful and hot.  The smell of honey-suckle was filling the air with a combinations of evergreen, the mountain was showing her beauty, she gave me strength, through her beauty, fresh air and wonderful stereo sound of song birds.  

After my workout I drank my tea and  had a great conversation.  

When the little devils tell you to quit, tell them about the little train that could.  This is one person with MCS that is not stopping her life.  I am feeling very proud of myself.    

Now. I just need to catch up on my farm chores, it seems time is moving faster and I can not work hard and fast enough.  

Workout: 

10 front kicks right and left

10 straight leg kicks right and left

15 standing oblique crunches both sides

Pow Chow 3 x

Yet Sum 6 x 

Wah Lum Little First Form 3 x 

10 outside crescent kicks right and left

10 inside crescent kicks right and left

12 spinning inside crescent kicks right and left

7 whirl winds right and left.  

10 narrow push ups

10 wide push ups

Stretch

Hi Friends

The Monsanto GMO tainting of the Oregon wheat crop due to field testing a decade ago requires the following actions by the State of Oregon:
1. Call an immediate moratorium on field testing of any GMO crop in Oregon;

2. Reaffirm the 110-year-old mission of the Oregon State Land Grant University to conduct  practical agricultural research and offer it free to farmers; and

3. Seek legal remedy from Monsanto for economic damages to the Oregon economy due to its proprietary GMO seed.   


That's why I signed a petition to The Oregon State House, The Oregon State Senate, and Governor John Kitzhaber.

Will you sign this petition? Click here:

http://petitions.moveon.org/sign/stop-gmo-in-oregon?source=s.icn.em.mt&r_by=1309145

Thank you! 

Today was a good day. I remembered to breath, I focused on being strong, legs felt a little better and the sun was just glorious.  

Nothing better in the world (for me) is to be up a mountain looking at a view, as the morning sun is shining  especially while you are working out. 

The herbs I used in my tea this morning were a bit stronger and were for keeping my immune system strong.

It looks like if I keep my forms schedule up I will be testing in about 3 to 4 weeks.  Whoop Whoop 

Today's Workout: 

Up the small hill twice with a 10 pound pack on

Wu Shu Basic Stance Drill 3 x 

8 Chain Punch 3 x 

Dropping Horse 3 x 

10 Front kicks right and left

10 Straight leg kicks right and left

10 Side kicks right and left

10 Inside crescent kicks right and left

10 Outside crescent kicks right and left

12 Spinning inside crescent right and left

Different yoga poses

Standing stretches

Back exercises

20 push ups, combination of wide and narrow

Stretch, breath and tea with the birds, sun, trees and my wonderful husband

Side Note: 

I suggest doing your Inside Crescent kicks with the sun, stand so you can see your shadow  By doing this you can see the mistakes you could be making with our arms or body. .It was also a lot of fun

Hit the mountain at 6:30 am.  The sun had not come over the rise yet.  The birds were singing oh so beautiful.  The air was magnificent and the temperature was perfect for working out. 

My workout:

Short hill walk, then forms. 

Pow Choi 3 times

Yet Sum 3 times

Wah Lum Little First Form 3 times 

10 front kicks right and left

10 straight leg kicks right and left

15 standing obliques

10 outside crescent kicks right and left

10 inside crescent kicks right and left

Standing stretches

20 push-ups

Back exercise

Stretch

I sat in a straddle stretch while drinking tea and watching the sun come up over the mountain.

I laughed at myself this morning.  I was weak, my legs were burning, my right side of my body is off due to MCS,  my stances were yuk, I was not remembering to breath through my forms, because I was thinking to much, my every things were off, so I laugh.......

I will have good days and bad days but,I will have more strong days.  Look out world this MCS woman is on track and nothing is going to stop her

Today. was my first day of my Mountain Mama Wellness Box Delivery.  I am sending all of you my information I gave out, because you can shop for organic/no spray food at your local farmers markets or you could look for a local organic/no spray farm that offers a CSA and join and  then use this information.     Eating lots of organic/no spray veggies on a daily basis will keep you healthy strong and mindful.   The herb information will keep your immune system strong.  It is your investment in a wellness program for yourself and your family.  It is a form of health insurance, true HEALTH INSURANCE, not sick insurance. 

I strongly believe that if we really want to change our world  one of the things  we have to do is look at our food system and what we eat on a daily basis.   

I will be sending out health information and recipes on a weekly basis on seasonal foods and herbs

I am here to help you, so please if you have any questions or need some help e-mail me.

Seek in your life, the "slow food",  a meal that is remembered by the taste-buds of your tongue, food that gives conversation, food that makes you feel alive, awake and energetic.

Peace to all and may the green of veggies come your way everyday.  

Click on link below for recipes and health information: 

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/mountain-ma...

Our First Week: We have been working10 to 12 hour days since March.  All that hard work paid off for a wonderful first start.  I am grateful for the abundance. 

Week One Product:  Nettle, comfrey, calendula, garlic scallions, mustard greens,  salad, arugula, basil, radishes, carrots, spinach, herbs, evergreens,  kale and collard greens. 

Nettle:

Nettle Pesto

Makes: 1 generous cup

1/2 pound nettles
4 large garlic cloves, smashed or garlic scallions
1/2  teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 1/4 cups extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup grated raw organic cheese

Bring a large pot of salted water to a simmer for the nettles. Add the nettles directly from their bag and cook, stirring continuously, for 2 minutes. (This denatures their sting.) Dump into a colander to drain. When the nettles are cool enough to handle, wrap them in a clean dishtowel and wring out as much moisture as possible, like you would for spinach. You’ll have about a cup of cooked, squished nettles.

In the food processor fitted with the paddle attachment, whirl the garlic, salt, and pepper to taste until finely chopped. Add the nettles, breaking them up as you drop them in, and the lemon juice and whirl until finely chopped. With the machine running, add the oil in a slow, steady stream, and process until smooth. Add the cheese, pulse briefly, and season to taste with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice.

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/spring-time-super-tonic-food-nettle

More Nettle Recipes: 

http://www.thekitchn.com/stinging-nettles-8-recipes-for-145582

Comfrey: Comfrey Infused Grapeseed Oil/Olive oil is  used in  salves, creams and lotion recipes.  I like to apply the salve to acne scars and inflamed skin rashes.  You can also just use it as an infused oil.  The magic of Comfrey is from the active component contained in the leaf and root called allantoin which helps to boost the production of new skin cells.  In fact it works so fast that you should NEVER use it on open wounds, dirty wounds or broken skin.  You should only apply it to areas that have already scabbed over.

A Recipe for Infused Comfrey Oil:

You will need:

• A clean, dry jar
• Cut and dried Comfrey leaves
• An oil of your choice, enough to fill the jar.
• A spoon
• A square of thin cotton material, or a sieve.
• A clean, dry, glass bottle.

Carrier oil: The oil can be chosen to suit your needs:
Pure sunflower oil is cheap, cheerful and perfectly good; olive oil is a little more luxurious and my favourite for medicinal purposes; other possibilities include sesame, jojoba, avocado, hemp seed, almond and many others.

Method:

• Fill a third of the jar with Comfrey leaves.
• Fill the jar to the top with a carrier oil.
• Using a clean spoon press the Comfrey leaves down to ensure that there are no air bubbles.
• Put the lid onto the jar and leave in a warm, sunny window for at least one week and no more than two weeks.
• Strain the mixture and pour into the glass bottle.
• Store in a cool, dry place.

This oil can be used to hasten the healing of abrasions, bruises and sore muscles.
It must NOT be used on deep cuts as it is capable of healing the skin’s surface so quickly that the deeper part of the wound could fester.

http://www.freshpickedbeauty.com/2012/01/comfrey-infused-oil.html

http://www.thekitchn.com/stinging-nettles-8-recipes-for-145582

Calendula Tea: 

The simplest use of calendula flowers - it's just weld Calendula as tea.
Pour one cup of boiling water over 2 tablespoons of fresh calendula flowers OR one to two teaspoons of dried calendula petals. Steep for ten minutes, then strain. By drinking two to three cups daily there will be a great improvement in blood circulation.

To help in the healing of skin wounds:
Soak a compress in Calendula Tea, and apply to the wound for 30 minutes twice daily.

Calendula can also be used to treat sore throat. Gargle with warm tea several times a day. This will help relieve the inflammation caused from the common cold.

Other Calendula ideas:

http://blog.esgreen.com/2010/04/marigold-flower-tea.html

http://mountainroseblog.com/healing-calendula/

Evergreen Tea: 

½ cup of pine needles (or other needles from fir or spruce trees)

Crush the needles slighly & add to a pot of boiling water (3-4 cups). Simmer for 15-20 mins, or simply steep the needles in not yet boiling water.

You can add a spoon of honey or other liquid sweetener (maple syrup, agave, etc), as well as herbs such as rosemary or green tea, to this wonderfully aromatic brew.

Left over tea can be added to a bath, poured over the stones in a sauna, or used as a rinse for the hair to combat dandruff!

Evergreen Tea: 

Other ideas for evergreens: 

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/evergreen-healing

Evergreen Infused Olive Oil.   Infuse for 6 weeks, strain and drizzle on meat, rice, bread etc. 

Arugula  And Spinach Stir Fry: 

Spinach  arugula, coarsely chopped.

Garlic scallions chopped

Basil chopped

Balsamic vinegar

A few dashes of coconut aminos or organic Brags liquid aminos 

Link to coconut aminos:http://www.coconutsecret.com/aminos2.html

Heat pan with oil of choice: 

Add chopped garlic scallions, cook until tender

Add arugula and spinach, sauteing for about one minute

Add chopped basil, sauteing for about a minute

Add 4 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar and then steam it down for another minute or two

Add coconut aminos or Brags

Optional:   add some organic cooked and chopped turkey bacon, or organic beef sausage

Serve with couscous, quinoa, or any one of your favorite starches!

Mustard Green Stir Fry or use your wild greens: 

http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/mustard_greens/

Make sure you use organic broth

http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2009/07/balsamic-glazed-chickpeas-and-mustard.html

I would take out the soy sauce and use organic Brags or use coconut liquid aminos

Thank you Mountain Mama Members for your awesome support.  If you have any questions please e-mail me.

Edible Evergreens

Most Evergreen trees are edible, but for safety and simplicity, stick to the Pine, Fir and Spruce family.

It was discovered back in the days of scurvy that these trees are extremely high in Vitamin C, as well as vitamin A, quercetin, flavonoids, anthocyanins and volitile oils that are beneficial for respiratory conditions,coughs, colds and flus as well as being anti inflamatory.

Pine Power

The pine has been revered and used all over the world. It was used as a traditional remedy by the Native American Indians, and there is a Taoist practice of surviving only on pine needles to gain supernatural powers that has its roots in the pine tree’s symbolism of integrity and honour. The Scandinavians used pine branches in saunas, and many cultures stuffed mattresses with pine needles to repel lice, fleas, and other insects. In fact, pine-needle mattresses are still used today in the Swiss Alps, as a remedy for rheumatism.

A cup of pine needle tea may supply five times as much vitamin C as in a lemon.

Studies in both China and Russia have also found it to be Anti-Fungal, Anti-Bacterial & Anti-Viral, AntiOxidant & Anti-Aging, Helpful for Weight, Cholesterol & High blood pressure, Relieves Sore, Aching Muscles, Stimulating to the Liver, Astringent for the Bladder, Relaxing to the Mind and Stress Relieving, AND Helpful in Restoring Overall Balance to The Body! 

Identification

Pine trees usually have quite long needles, sometimes up to 8 inches.

Spruce and fir have much shorter needles, with the fir being more sparse.

Pine Needle Tea

• ½ cup of pine needles
  (or other needles from fir or spruce trees)

Crush the needles slightly & add to a pot of boiling water (3-4 cups). Simmer for 15-20 mins.  I love making a lunar infusion when I go backpacking: 

You can add a spoon of honey or other liquid sweetener (maple syrup, agave, etc), as well as herbs such as rosemary or green tea, to this wonderfully aromatic brew.

Left over tea can be added to a bath, poured over the stones in a sauna, or used as a rinse for the hair to combat dandruff!

 Douglas Fir Green Smoothie Recipe

• 10 Tips of Douglas Fir
  (gather the fresh young tips in spring)
• 2 cups of spinach or your favourite green
• 2 bananas
• 2 cups of water

Simply blend and Enjoy!

Swap recipes around with different young green tips of either Spruce or Pine. Use some foraged Wild Edibles instead of Spinach, and add in some berries to boost the Vitamin C content for Winter Wellness. For example, add in freshly foraged rosehips!

The fresh green spring tips are also great to add to salads. You can also run a few needles through your juicer to add extra oompf to your juices.

Alternatively, take 10-15 fresh pine needles and chew them thoroughly. Swallow the juice, but spit what is left of the needles!

Pine Needle Vinegar or Oil

• 500ml Glass Jar
• 500ml of either Cyder Vinegar or Organic Cold Pressed Oil
• Several handfuls of Pine Needles

Make sure the jar is very clean and dry. Slightly crush the pine needles with a rolling pin and pack them into the jar. Pour on as much vinegar or oil to fill and cover the jar. Allow to infuse for up to 6 weeks. Strain and use or if you wanted a stronger infusion, or pack in more fresh crushed needles. For a more balsamic tasting vinegar, add a tablespoon of coconut sugar.

Both are wonderful aditions to salad dressings. The vinegar is also great to take in a cup of warm lemon and honey to ward of colds and flus, while the oil is great to massage tired aching limbs.

Pine is also reputed to relieve skin conditions, such as psoriasis. You can use the oil or make an ointment to rub on irritated skin or fungal infections.

Spruce Butter

Melt a pound of coconut oil gently over a bain marie, then add ¼ cup of young fresh spruce tips.

Allow to infuse for a couple of hours or overnight. Melt the oil again and strain out the needles.

Use as a flavoursome butter or to add an interesting twist to your recipes. Good as a tonic for the hair and skin as well!

Pine Needle Sugar or Honey

Place crushed pine needles into a jar of honey or coconut sugar and leave for several weeks or months.

Use in teas, desserts or other creative concoctions. 

Pine Bouquet Garnish

Make a little bunch out of sprigs of pine, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves and tie together with a little hemp or organic cotton string.

Drop it into the pot if you’re making a stew, soup or grain based cooked dish and allow the flavours to permeate the dish before removing.

Preserving your Needles

To freeze, just snip the needles into smaller pieces and place in a zip lock bag in the freezer until ready to use.

You can also dehydrate them, or dry out over a stove or in an airing cupboard.

When dry, you can store in a jar, or more interestingly you can process them to a powder in your blender and use to add an aromatic flavor to various recipes.