Hello Beautiful Women
I hope you are enjoying this wonderful winter season. It has truly been a beautiful one.

Today was my day to write to you and invite you to the ceremony for honoring Moon Pause. Unfortunately, I forgot my journal of things I wanted to say to you.
But, on the beautiful bright side, today I came across DeAnna Lam'. Here are her thoughts, which truly resonate with me.
http://www.deannalam.com/moon-time-moon-pause/

On her journey, DeAnna collected charms, I collected feathers, from many places around Oregon's back country.  All Feathers has been with me through this journey and honestly through my healing journey from the horse accident.   I could say recovering from the horse accident was horrible, but I can't.  There were so many magical moments that I will preciously hold in my heart forever.   From the moment it happened, and the spirit asked, "Sue What Are You Thankful For" as I was holding my mouth together trying not to pass out.  That voice brought me back.    It is that voice that has spoke to me through my menopause journey and to my moon pause.    I would love to encourage you to find that voice, and you can find it as long as you spend many hours outside in nature. 

I would imagine all of you were never taught to honor your moon cycle. Most likely taught to plug it up and push through. Which in-turn causes medical problems in the long run, hence why so many women my age, have had hysterectomies.   I never had a moon party but, I did give one to my daughters(One of the best things I did for them).  I had friends that were going to do it for their daughters, but they pulled out last minute for fear of embarrassing them. What they actually did was teach them to hide it and be embarrassed, by not following through.  

Even on my Moon Pause journey, when I talk about any of the symptoms out loud, I can feel people feeling uncomfortable about me bringing it up.   Even something as simple as  "Whew, that was a big hot flash", people become clams.   Well, I am not going to keep my mouth shut and we as a human race need to start honoring who we are, every part of it, celebrate and have ceremony.  Even young boys,  teenage boys and our Male warriors need ceremony.   At one time All Races had ceremony, we are living in a time where all of this is being taken away.   Which is hard to believe, because most of it was taken already.   

We are born either Male or Female and there should be ceremony for the coming of ages for both.  On that note, think about what should be done for your sons, brothers and husbands.  The Males of our society.  I would love to hear your thoughts. 

Moon Pause is a beautiful time to collect your power for yourself and I can feel it.  It is an amazing feeling to feel this power.  This powerful feeling is not the same as feeling confident, it is very different and when you approach this time you will understand and feel it.  

Sues Moon Pause Ceremony -  

Come at a time that works for you 

Thursday December 20th 

Tea Time -Sitting In The Woods

Please Dress For Weather- It could be cold

10:00 am - Noonish

Lunch

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm ish 

Tea -Art - Drawing-Henna -Clay 

Please bring an art pad, paints, water colors, 

3:00 pm - 5:00 pm ish

Dinner 

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm ish

Chocolate -Fire-Candles-Music-Dance_Song 

Please bring art pad and art stuff

7:00 PM 8:30 PM

RSVP

503-472-6656

radicalcanarysue@gmail.com

Bring your songs, your drums, your musical instruments!  

Pictured Above:

Born Wide-Eyed Wild Child

Always awake, always challenging what one would say, always running, always pushing the limits, no means yes, always had to learn the hard way, most of the time I was alone with my frogs, bees, plants, the wood pile, roamed the creek, my animals, falling sleep in the sun,  cloud watching, star watching, starred at the mountains wondering how I could get up there and what was up there......

As time went on, riding horses bareback in the California hills at the age of nine for hours and never had a lesson, as time went on I would spend my last money just to be on a horse. 

14 years and discovering the power and voice of water.  The drive to Utah, feeling free from my moms abuse, hanging with cousins, walking barefoot in the summer river, I can feel the support of nature, the comfort it gives, setting seeds in me...

And here I am, still the wild child inside but now on the purple road in my winter cycle of life, spending a lot of  time alone in nature and I feeling so blessed 

My thoughts on the health of our digestive systems.

ARE YOU DIGESTING LIFE: by Sue Sanders
The digestive system is interesting and complicated. It is full of winding paths, good bacteria (your friends) and bad bacteria (bad people). It has the good, the bad and the ugly.
Just like life…
And after you have a good dump, the world feels wonderful and you are at ease and ready for your day.
Our Digestive System is who we are in our lives.
The mouth is like a birth canal. It gives life from the nutrients we chew, it speaks, it has a voice, if the voice does not speak, the fire burns the path within us (acid reflux)
The esophagus, gives us our breath, it is the wind tunnel of life.
For some the nutrients of life get stuck, along life’s winding path, holding on, not letting go, anger, constipation, holding in negative emotions. For some the nutrients of life are let go too quickly, (not dealing with life).
For some the nutrients of life are breaking away and getting lost from their path, only absorbing life in little fragments and loosing life in little fragments with a feeling of not being complete, partial elimination, not living life fully.
Absorbing life part way is toxic to ourselves.
It is important to let loose, let go of what does not serve us, but not squirted away before it is healed, because then life will leave you dehydrated and thirsty.
Same is true with holding back, holding back, constipates one’s life, then life becomes a toxic cesspool, reliving toxic emotions over and over again will leave you stuck.
Too much fire burns your path, creating dark charred areas of fear, worry and hate, only to leave a burning hole in your insides.
Somewhere in your path, maintain that fire, keep it warm, otherwise, that hole grows bigger, darker and rage starts to consume your path eating up life inside you.
If the fire is being put out, then the nutrients of life are not being used. It is time to stoke up the fire and take steps into your life path.
The end of the winding path is a reminder that life is recycled.
Where there is an end there is always a beginning.
When you hold back at the end and leave things unfinished, you’ll be feeling the bumps of that life decision.
Sit back and relax.
Fear makes you hold on to tight.
No sweating over the small stuff or big for that matter.
Don’t worry, so life can be smooth.
Grow healthy bacteria, take care of your community and live life more fully.
Just let go and breathe
So you can poop out life with ease.

 HORSERADISH -

Cochlearia armoracia, Amoracia rusiticana,

Amoracia lapathifolia:  Cruciferae 

Spicy and Hot

Affects the lungs, colon and kidney

Properties:  Stimulant, diuretic, rubefacient (rebefacients increase blood flow to the surface of the skin.  Their function is to draw inflammation and congestion from deeper areas.  Useful for arthritis, rheumatism, joint problems and sprains.  Rebefacients include mustard seed oil, cayenne, black pepper, pine oil, thyme oil, eucalyptus and cinnamon), expectorant, mild laxative, carminative, hepatic and antiseptic. 

The root is rich in minerals, vitamins including Vitamin C.  It's warming antiseptic properties make it a great herb for asthma, catarrh (excessive discharge or build up of mucus in nose or throat) and lung infections.  

Can be used as a digestive aid especially after heavy meaty meals or oily fatty foods.  This has been used as a Old Household Remedy, wherever a stimulating herb(aids digestion, moves mucus) is called for and for influenza and fevers.    It is a powerful circulatory stimulant with antibiotic properties due to the mustard oil contains.   

Got allergies?  You can try a daily does of garlic and horseradish, Folk Medicine used it  to help build resistance to allergies, (along with a balanced organic nutritive diet).

My MATERIA MEDICA with REPERTORY,

BY, BOERICKE, WILLIAM, 1927 

States:  Raises vital forces.  Used as a gargle in scorbutic (scurvy) gums (gingivitis) and sore throat.  Internally in gonorrhea, useful as a condiment , in enfeebled( make weak) states of the stomach.  An infusion of the root in cider, for dropsy causes, copious diuresis(increased urination) and locally cures dandruff.  

Horseradish has been used in cases of urinary infections, gout, rheumatic diseases, bladder infections, colitis, phlegm, damp lung problems, sinus congestion, asthma and added to baths for chilblains.  

Horseradish has most of the advantages of garlic, including being high in sulphur (the antibiotic principle)

To Dry The Fresh Roots:

Wash and hand dry

Cut into thin strips

Dry on a low temperature in the oven or use a dehydrator

Externally it can be used as a poultice for rheumatic joints and to stimulate blood flow.  It  relieves congestion (bronchitis etc),  in those conditions where mustard plasters are used so if you do not have mustard to make a mustard plaster try horseradish instead.  Please keep in mind you do not put it directly on skin for a plaster or poultice.   Put a cloth on the area being treated first, then you can follow through with your plaster or poultice.   

Grate horseradish root, apply topically, acts as a counter irritant for injuries and bruises.  

Infused vinegar can be used externally as a liniment and yes you can use Fire Cider for this.  

RECIPES:

FIRE CIDER

Fire Cider:  Is a warming, energizing concoction   Rosemary Gladstar says this will light your fire! It can be added to your salad dressings, used to flavor your steamed veggies or grains (like rice) 

Rosemary Gladstar's Book:  Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health

http://www.amazon.com/Rosemary-Gladstars-Herbal-Recipes-Vibrant/dp/...

This is a perfect remedy for someone who needs a fiery kick to his or her immune system. A blend of spicy and sweet flavors were combined to enhance your circulatory and digestive system. Will come in handy for those cold months when you’re prone to sinus infections, or when you feel cold coming on.

Take cider when you feel a sinus or congestion coming on. Take fire cider in small amounts to boost your immune system. Take in small amounts to defeat constipation.

Mild Fire Cider

1/8 cup grated organic garlic

1/4 cup grated organic horseradish 

1/4 cup chopped organic onion

1/4 cup grated fresh ginger

2 Ginseng roots, dried

1/4 tsp.  cayenne pepper

organic apple cider vinegar

Honey

4 cup jar with plastic lid (you do not want to use metal lids with vinegar)

Spicier Fire Cider 

1/2 cup organic grated garlic

1/2 cup organic grated horseradish

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup grated fresh ginger

1/2 tsp. cayenne 

organic apple cider vinegar

honey 

4 cup jar with plastic lid (you do not want to use metal lids with vinegar)

Chop horseradish, garlic, onion, and ginger. Place them and cayenne in a quart jar, fill with apple cider vinegar. Cover with lid and shake well. Let it sit at room temperature for 4-6 weeks. Strain and add honey to taste. Store in a cool place. Your fire cider will keep for several months

REVOKE FIRE CIDER TRADEMARK

https://www.change.org/petitions/united-states-patent-and-trademark...

Horseradish Honey Syrup for Cough:

Horseradish syrup quells coughs and soothes a sore throat; grate a small piece of horseradish into a small saucepan. Squeeze the pulp over the pan to extract additional juice. Add a little honey and enough water just to cover the pulp; boil for 5 min. let the pulp cool, and then squeeze the pulp again to catch any additional juice; discard the pulp. Mix the horseradish juice with enough honey to make a palatable syrup. Take up to 5 tbsp. of the syrup a day.

Folk Remedy - Horseradish Plaster

Horseradish can be used in place of mustard.  Externally horseradish stimulates circulation and relieves congestion,  Use in  conditions where mustard plasters are used.  Mustard Plasters were used for home remedies for the flu, coughs, colds, pneumonia and many other ailments. 

To Make A Horseradish Plaster:

Equal parts grated horseradish, flour and water. 

Mix the horseradish and flour.  Then add the water to make a paste. The paste should be smooth and easily spreadable but not too thin so that it runs or is watery.

Take a clean towel  and put it on their chest.   Spread the paste evenly on the towel. Then put plastic on top of the plaster, and then another towel.  Put a heating pad on the lowest setting  and place on top of the towel.  Cover them with a blanket.  Leave on for 20 minutes.  Shower after. 

Towel, plaster, plastic, towel, heating pad on lowest setting, blanket

Do not apply paste directly to skin or it may cause blistering.  

More on Plasters: 

http://thewellspring.org/mustard-plaster-for-stubborn-chest-congestion/

Folk Remedy - Poultice 

3/4 cup linseed meal (flax)

1 cup boiling water

1/3 cup grated horseradish

Folk Remedy Horseradish Foot Bath

2 to 3 tablespoons grated horseradish to 2 to 3 gallons of water 

Folk Remedy - Toothbrush and /or Mouthwash

1 or more horseradish roots, cut into 6 inch strips, about 6-8 inches

2 to 3 cinnamon sticks

1 tablespoon cloves

1 pint brandy 

1 tsp tincture of myrrh

Filtered water to simmer roots

Put cloves and 1 tsp myrrh tincture in the jar

Fill half way with Brandy

Un-strip or unravel one end of each horseradish strip

Now simmer the strips in the water with cinnamon sticks

Just add enough water to cover them

Cook until roots are tender 20 to 30 minutes 

Take the strips and cinnamon sticks out of the pot and place in the jar with the brandy and myrrh tincture and cloves.  Pour the rest of the brandy in the jar.

Soak strips over night  and then take strips out.  Dry them in a dehydrator or the lowest setting on your oven.  

To use as a toothbrush chew on the frayed end to soften and it is ready to use.   

Leave cinnamon sticks and cloves in the brandy for a few more days.  Strain and put infused brandy in a jar (label) and use it for mouthwash.  

The mouth wash is strong, you will need to dilute it

Please keep in mind the Folk Remedies that I found, the directions are not always clear.   Experiment and have fun 

If you don't have cayenne pepper try substituting Horseradish.  

FOLK REMEDIES - Allergies

For a daily does to help build resistance to allergies: 

Add a quarter teaspoon of horseradish root to organic vegetable juice or mix it in a salad

Folk Remedy for Headaches: 

Make a poultice of fresh grated horseradish in cheesecloth.

Put the poultice on the back of your neck

Then put 2 smaller poultices in each bend of your elbows 

Keep poultices on for at least 30 minutes or until headache disappears

Folk Remedy for NEURALGIA:  

Grate about 3 ounces of horseradish

Mix it with one tablespoon of organic white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Marinate one hour

Spread it on the painful side of your face, particularly on your temple

Relax for 20 minutes

Meditate with the words

"Love Fills Me With Happiness, Harmony and Healing Energy"

Folk Remedies for Toothache

Grate some horseradish

Place a small amount directly on the problem tooth 

More Folk Remedies:

Syrup of Horseradish

Steep one tablespoon horseradish root in one cup of water

Cover for 2 or more hours

Strain

Add honey

Heat low until thick, 

Bottle, label and store in frig

Decongest the Sinuses

 1 teaspoon grated  horseradish

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Mix

Chew until the flavor is all gone

Yes, chew, chew, chew

For Influenza or Fevers

Steep 1 tsp horseradish root with 1 cup water for 5 minutes

Drink 3x a day or more often when treating influenza or fevers

GENERATION OLD RECIPES:

Sinus Remedy: Juice one fresh peeled pulped horseradish root, juice of 2 to 3 lemons, combine. Take 1/2 tsp between meals, use over several months until the mucus in the sinus clears up.  WARNING it is sharp and will undoubtedly bring tears to your eyes, but, this is considered evidence of its effectiveness.  Keep in refrigerator and watch for mold.  

EDEMA, 2 cups apple cider vinegar, 4 tablespoons grated horseradish.  Let sit in a warm place for 12 hours, strain, keep in a cool place.  Internally drink 1 tablespoon several times a day.  Externally, heat up liquid apply it on cotton wash cloth to the swollen tissue areas.  

Books Used For References:

Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health, by Rosemary Gladstar

Holistic Herbal, by David Hoffman

Planetary Herbology, by Michael Tierra

New Age Herbalist, by Gaia original, Richard Mabey

Herbal Medicine, The Natural Way to Get Well and Stay Well, by Dian Dincin Buchman's 

Folk Remedies That Work, by Joan Wilen and Lydia Wilen

Herbs for All Seasons, by Sally Freeman

Materia Medica with Repertory, Boericki, William 1927

Please use Organic ingredients as much as possible. Conventional produce, is chemical produce. Invest in your health by investing in no spray, organic food.

Energy Balls:

Recipe

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/energy-balls

Video:

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/video/mcminnville-mountain...

Raw Seed and Nut Spread

1/2 cup raw sunflower seeds

1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds

1/2 cup raw cashews

1/4 tsp celtic or hymalian pink salt

1/2 TBLS. chickpea miso

About 1.2 cup water to blend

Soak the seeds and nuts overnight or for 8 hours.

Rinse and puree with remaining ingredients in a blender.

Should be a spread consistency.

Served with rice cakes, gluten free crackers or chopped raw veggies

Video: Nut and Seed Spread and it is blast from the past.

http://mountainwarrior.ning.com/video/mcminnville-mountain-warrior-...

Bean and Quinoa Salad

1 cup cooked kidney beans

1 cup cooked white beans

3 cups cookedquinoa

1/4 head cabbage

2 carrots, grated

1/2 cups green onions or red onion

1/2 cup chopped cilantro

1/4 cup minced parsley

1/2 cup chopped tomato

1 red bell pepper chopped

Dressing

5 TBLS. Coconut amino acid

7 TBLS. olive oil

6 TBLS. apple cider vinegar

8 cloves garlic, minced

Celtic or himalayan salt (to taste)

pepper (to taste)

1 tsp oregano

1 tsp thyme

Make the dressing

Put all the ingredients in a bowl and toss with the dressing.

Marinate and chill for an hour or so.

Chicken and Carrot Salad

1 cup cooked navy beans

1 cup cooked shredded chicken

2 cups shredded carrots

1 bunch green onions, chopped

1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

1/2 cup parsley, chopped

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

A splash of balsamic vinegar

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp. dill weed

1 tsp Celtic salt or Himalayan salt

1/2 tsp cumin

1 cup whole milk (full fat) organic yogurt (not Nancy's yogurt)

3/4 cup toasted sesame seeds, ground

1/2 lime juice from a fresh lime

2 garlic loves, minced

filtered water

Mix all seasonings, oil, vinegar, honey, lime juice, parsley, cilantro, green onions, garlic, ground sesame seeds and yogurt. If this is to thick add a bit of filtered water.

Mix with beans, carrots and chicken

Let mixture sit for a few hours in the frig.

Hummus

First you need to roast a bulb of garlic

4 or more roasted cloves of garlic

A large handful of Italian Parsley

4 green onions chopped

3 cups cooked chickpeas

3 Tablespoons roasted almond butter

6 Tablespoons tahini

3 TBLS avocado oil or olive oil

1 tsp celtic salt or himalayan salt

1 tsp curry powder

1 bunch of chopped cilantro

1/2 cup canned stewed tomatoes (no juice, just tomatoes)

1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped

Place garlic, parsley, cilantro, red pepper, tomatoes, green onions and curry in a blender or food processor

Blend well

Add chick peas, oil, almond butter, tahini and salt

Enjoy with organic sour dough bread, gluten free crackers or chopped up raw veggies

Walnut Dip: This snack takes a bit of prep time, but it is well worth it.

First you need to make Crispy Walnuts.

You can also do this with all nuts and seeds.

You will need a dehydrator or you can use your oven.

I prefer to do this in the morning and I put them in the oven over night.

You need to look at your schedule and see when is the best time to do this for you.

If you are going to be home, then you can soak overnight and then put them in the oven while you are home for the day.

Oven 170 degrees, for 8 hours

Dehydrator works great and for 8 hours or more

1 gallon jug

Filtered water

3 cups RAW organic walnuts

1 TBLS celtic or himalayan salt

1 TBLS cayenne powder

Place nuts, salt and cayenne in the gallon jar. Fill to the top with filtered water

Let sit for 8 hours

Strain

Place on a cookie stainless steel cookie sheet or a glass Pyrex casserole pan.

put in oven at 170 degrees for 8 hours

or

Dehydrator for 8 plus hours

Now you have Crispy Walnuts. They make a wonderful snack and a great addition to recipes. You can do this same method for other nuts and sees. Crispy pumpkins seeds rock!

Walnut Feta Dip

1 cup chopped Crispy Walnuts

1 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 cup organic crumbled feta cheese. Can be goat, lamb or cow

2 cloves of garlic chopped

1 tsp. paprika

pinch of cayenne (optional)

pinch of dried oregano or a few sprigs of fresh

1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Place walnuts and parsley in a blender or food processor, blend

When the nuts are ground, add remaining ingredients, puree until smooth

Transfer to a small bowl, cover tightly and chill

Serve with gluten free crackers, chopped raw veggies or organic sour dough bread.

In Search of the Great Cottonwoods.

This journey starts in January and goes to the middle of February. The Black Cottonwood's bring joy to my heart. A big part of that joy is the journey that we take every year in search of the Cottonwoods. It is magical and beautiful. The places that we go, looking for this beautiful tree medicine, feed my spirit, my body, my heart and my soul. When I find clues that there are Cottonwoods around and it is time to go harvest I get a bit obsessed

I also get obsessed with cuttings, so I can have my own trees. By starting my own, I have been able to watch their growth, which in turn helps me understand its herbal medicine. For those of you who have young ones (or older playful adults), this is really a fun project to do inside. Just find a few Cottonwood branches, a pretty vase and water. Place them in the vase with water in a sunny spot and watch them grow. In the later part of spring when the weather warms up a bit, find a special spot and go plant your little saplings and remember they like water.

The Cottonwoods mark the beginning of my harvest season and it shows spring is on its way.

Cottonwoods love moisture, they love water and these places make great tea spots. Great tea spots pull life's stress right out of your body. A great cuppa tea, some deep breathing and beautiful scenery will have you ready for your week.

The things that I have done, when I see cottonwood branches that have fallen... Yep I will find a way to put them in a car or truck.

Cottonwood honey tastes delightful, Cottonwood liniment helps with muscle strains or sprains, Cottonwood Tincture can be used internally for pain and as an expectorant. I also use the tincture for first aid. For more information on Cottonwoods healing click on link below:

http://mountainwarrior.ning.com/profiles/blogs/cottonwood-populus-n...

Pictured Below, left hand finger swollen. It felt like it was going to pop. Then I applied Cottonwood Tincture and the pain and swelling stopped immediately.

I even found the oldest Cottonwood around. A place where eagles fly, Beavers live and maybe some day I will see a cougar.

As you can see, not only does the Cottonwood give us wonderful medicine, it also gives the gift of beautiful places, that pull out stress and nurture us inside and out.

Picture Below, February 11th, 2018

Last Sunday we took a journey in search of new Cottonwood areas and we found beauty, buds, tea times and great food.

Pictured below: Homemade yogurt cream cheese, gluten free maple muffins and pumpkin milk chaga root chai. All organic

February 2018

We had a great harvest day, the honey is being infused and other medicinal preps.

The Gifts Of The Wind

Never pick the lichens off the tree they take a long time to grow and you will be contributing to the destruction of a healthy eco system.  Believe me the wind provides plenty.  They will be on the ground after a wind storm.

The gifts of the wind are more than just finding wind blown medicine on the ground. 

It is the gift of fresh air filling up your lungs with the aromatics of the forest.  Natures gifts are abundant and depending on the season she provides the vital nutrients, for your every need.   

Winter, a time that most are inside way too much, living in stagnant warm air and it is these confines that people will suffer more sickness.  Therefore the winds of winter bring medicine to those that are willing to take a step and  walk outside, into the forest.   It is not just the medicinal herbs that you find that are going to help you through winter time ailments, but it is the gifts of winter seasonal weather that you are experiencing outside that are truly keeping you healthy on many levels.  

You are being given the gift of movement, as you move, walk, bend, squat, pick up and breath. 

A heavy wind, is a reminder as you stand still watching the tops of the trees, that even as you stand in stillness, everything is alive and moving in your body. It reminds you to take breaths of oxygen deep into your lungs.  It is what keeps you alive, healthy and moving. 

Breath, breathing relaxes you, teaches you to slow your mind down and  take in the beauty that surrounds you.  Beauty is what the spirit and soul need,  Manna is Breath Of Life...

Feel the winter, its wind, it's  coolness, it's stillness, it's beauty, 

It is these gifts that move stuck and or stagnant energy (Chi) in your body.  It is these gifts, the gifts of nature, that if we listen to the Laws of Nature, will lead us to the  path of great health.  

Lungwort ( lobaria pulmonaria) Not to be confused with lungwort pulmonaria officinalis
Bitter, sweet and cool. Most often grows in shady environments and is an indicator for rich, healthy ecosystems such as old growth forests.
Organs Affected: Respiratory system
Actions: Antioxidant, antiasthmatic, expectorant, tonic, astringent, demulcent
Because it resembles lung tissue, humans have used lungwort (lobaria pulmonaria) for lung ailments. It is used for a variety of respiratory ailments, including coughs, colds, bronchial detoxification, asthma, tuberculosis and catarrhal problems. Lungwort is high in antioxidants.
Gather what has fallen to the ground during the wet season, from early spring to early summer
Decoction or infusion –
1 tablespoon per cup
Lightly simmer 5 minutes, steep 10 minutes
1 to 3 cups a day
Tincture 1 to 2 dropperfuls, 1 to 3 times per day
Generally regarded as safe

Usnea (usnea barbata)

Bitter, sweet, cool and dry
Organs Affected: Kidney, lungs and spleen
Actions: Antimicrobial, antibiotic, antifungal, immune-modulating, demulcent, vulnerary laxative and nutritive
Usnea can be used as an immune system tonic in acute situation as well as in long term immune enhancement. Its antibiotic properties are specific for the respiratory and urinary system’s. Known to be used for staph and strep infections, heal wounds, respiratory issues and infections, pheumonia, colds, flus, allergy symptoms, sore throat, fungal infections, urinary infections, kidney and bladder infections, sinus infections, vaginal infections, yeast infections, HPV and more.
Tincture is best- 1 dropperful 3 times a day
Decoction and infusion
1 tablespoon per cup
Lightly simmer 5 minutes covered, steep 10 minutes
1 to 3 cups a day
Should not be taken during pregnancy

Cottonwood Buds February 4th, Check out the Events page for more Information

Pictured Below: 

Cottonwood Tree Down, Gift from the Beaver.... 

Early Spring Medicine:

Forsythia
Forsythia x intermedia and Forsythia suspensa, a commonly grown landscape plants.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine it is called Lian Qiao, Forsythia suspense
Flowers bloom before the leaves in early spring.
The seeds are bitter ( a bitter flavor with an antiseptic effect) and cooling.
Actions: Antibacterial, antiemetic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antipyretic (reduce fever) antitussive (helps with coughs), antiviral, astringent, choleretic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, hepatoprotective, immunostimulant and laxative.
Parts Used: leaves, fruit and seeds

Forsythia, is used to treat multiple health conditions, including sore throat, respiratory tract infections, colds, flus, encephalitis B, meningitis, fever, vomiting, bronchiolitis, tonsillitis, gonorrhea, HIV/AIDS as well as acute skin rashes and mumps. The fruit has a bitter flavor and its astringent properties are used to help invigorate the heart, gall bladder and the nervous system.

In The Green Pharmacy, by James Duke, he often combines it with Honeysuckle(antiviral) and Lemon Balm (antiviral). The Way Of The Herbs, by Michael Tierra he also combines it with honeysuckle. Mostly teas were used. Tincture and powders were used to. James Duke used Forsythia, honeysuckle, gentain as a powder, mixed in apple sauce for earaches, colds and flu.

Forsythia is often combined with Honeysuckle for treating colds and flu.
Forsythia Seeds can be ordered from Mountain Rose
Flowers:

Forshythia Blossom Syrup – For Sore Throats and Coughs
3 cups fresh flower blossoms
3 cups spring or filtered water
Sweetener of choice
You could add some dried honeysuckle flowers and some Lemon Balm. If you do add these herbs you need to increase the water.
Example
1.5 cups dried honeysuckle
1.5 cups dried lemon Balm
3 more cups water
Bring the mixture to a boil
Reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes (covered)
Turn off heat when reduced by half.
Cover
Let sit overnight
Strain
Add Honey
1 cup liquid to 8 ounces of honey
If you would like a stronger medicinal syrup you can add 1 part tincture to 3 part syrup
Example:
1 ounce tincture to 3 ounces syrup
Harvest the flowers for making a flower essence. The flower essence is used by filling you up with sunshine, gives a boost of energy, inspiration and motivation. Provides motivation, to bring one out of bad habits, to rid oneself of useless patterns, like bad habits, addictions bad thoughts. If you are sad and feeling like an Eeyore, try the flower essence to help lift your spirits.
The fruits (seeds)are harvested only after they have ripened completely and subsequently dried up for preparing.

Always properly identify your plants.

Do Not harvest in toxic areas that have been sprayed with chemicals 

I am not giving you medical advice, it is up to you as the reader to do your research if you are interested in using plants for your health. 

 It's December, the Winter Solstice is approaching and midwinter is almost here. 

The Tree Of The Winter Solstice is Holly and what a beautiful tree it is.    

Holly-llex aquifolium 

There are many species of Holly.  The best known one is llex paraguayensis from Brazil, also known as Yerba Mate" .   For this article we are using llex aquifolium.   

Holly is found in the hedgerows and gardens all over Europe.  It is slow growing, tolerates shade well, is often found in the under story of woods and loves growing by Oak tress. 

The Leaves harden with spikes at the tips in the winter to keep the deer and other animals from eating them.    It flowers in June. 

In Irish/Gaelic it is called Tinne

Strongest protection herb, gives clear wisdom and courage, dream magic and it's element is fire.  The flower of goodwill, tree of restored direction

Evergreen, native to central and southern Europe

The Holly and the Ivy

When they are both full grown

Of all the trees that are in the wood

The Holly bears the crown

The Holly has an association with Winter Solstice that goes back many hundreds of years.  During the Roman festival Saturnalia, which was December 17th -23rd, branches of Holly were exchanged as a symbol of health, happiness, a symbol of joy and goodwill.  

The Holly  was/is a tree of good omen, its evergreen leaves symbolizing life a midst the apparent death of winter.  The potent life force in the depths of darkness, symbolizes everlasting life.   In the days of Pliny (born 23 AD or 24 AD, died in 79 AD) Holly was considered a tree of protection.  If planted near a house or hung over the door, it defended the place and its habitants from poison, evil spirits, lighting and witchcraft.  Men carried it for good luck (women carried Ivy).  Holly water was sprinkled on newborn babies for protection.  Also it was used by the Druids to decorate their huts in winter.  This made it a suitable dwelling for the spirit of the woods.  Holly is the 8th tree on the Ogham and at one time the Irish Chieftains considered it sacred and was Illegal to cut down. 

In the Celtic Tree Ogham, it represents restored balance and direction, represents unconditional Love and increased detachment from emotional turmoil.  Ruled by Mars it provides the raw energy to get things done.  The wisdom of the Holly brings balanced power that will guide us towards positive action. Holding on to any type of negative emotions greatly weaken your life force.   Holly encourages you to communicate and express your feelings to bring things out in the open and helps you find a possible resolution with a loving outlook.  This in-turn will bring transformation and restored direction. 

Holly Homeopathic: Ilex

Used for catarrhal problems, inflammatory, eye symptoms, pain in the spleen, diarrhoea with mucus and intermittent fevers. 

Herbal Remedy

WARNING - The berries are mildly poisonous to children.  They may cause vomiting and diarrhea.  For Adults a few ripe berries have be eaten as a strong purgative to clear the body of unwanted waste or toxins.  

Leaves:  No stained or bug eaten ones

Collect in May and June, put ina brown paper bag to dry. 

Used for:  colds, catarrh(excess mucus in the nose or throat), as an expectorant, for persistent coughs, useful for urinary tract infection, to prevent kidney stones, can be used to eliminate toxins from the body and taken hot it will encourage sweating and bring down fevers.  As a diuretic it helps relieve fluid retention and has been long used for arthritis, gout and rheumatism.  

Make an infusion (tea), and drink.

Flower Essence:

Holly is for people who have emotions that are out of control.  Like, feelings of hate, jealousy, envy, thoughts of revenge and resentment.    Maybe one feels they have lack of love in their life or within themselves.  People who have become oversensitive or  are always finding fault with others, could use the help of Holly Flower Essence.    Holly will help open the heart and unites one with divine love.  It helps with negative out of control emotions by helping them come to the surface, and aids them with the ability to communicate and to restore balance. The Holly Flower Essence brings positive vibes to their life force, helping them move beyond the negative emotions, reaching the place where love and respect reside, so they can feel love again and respect others.  

More on Holly: 

https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/h/holly-28.html

More information on plants of Winter Solstice:

https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/winter_solstice...

Mushroom Hot Cocoa 

Organic Cocoa Powder 

14 Mushroom Blend

Pumpkin Spice ( I did this because I wanted to have the flavor of a Mexican Mocha) 

Roasted Chickory ( I did this because I wanted to have the flavor of a Mexican Mocha) 

I did not sweeten the cocoa because I made whip cream sweetened with maple syrup

*All Organic*  

14 Mushroom Blend Powder: 

http://www.mushroomharvest.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id...

In the event of an emergency and people are hurt or sick do you have the knowledge to help them? 

I would like to encourage you to grow your knowledge on herbal first aid, wilderness first aid, first aid, wilderness survival, in the event that you can not get medical help. Meaning no hospital, no doctor, no EMT's  and/or you are many hours away from help.  

Ask yourself these questions.  

Do I know what to do if someone is bleeding really bad?  

Do I know what to do if someone has a broken limb?

Do I know what to do if someone is shot?  Shot in the chest?

Do I know what to do if someone is impaled by an object, such as a knife in the leg?  

Do I know what to do if some one is bit by a Snake?  Brown Recluse?  

Do you know what to do if someone reacts to a bee sting?  Anaphylactic Shock and there is no epi-pen? 

There are many more questions I can ask you, but are you ready to deal with any of those?  If not then it is time to educate yourself.   

Self Defense comes in many forms and protecting yourself, loved ones, friends and neighbors by knowing how to help them in the event of needing first aid in my opinion is vitally important.     Protection comes in many forms and First Aid is definitely one of them.  

I am compiling a small list of herbs for this particular blog.  I am trying to keep this list as local as possible.   I feel if we are using herbs for first aid, sickness or other health issues that are not local, and then something happens, what will you do if you do not have the knowledge to use the plants in your area or the ones you have grown.  

I feel these days people are always looking for the popular herb, the in herb or the cure all herb.  Most of the time these herbs are coming from far away.   People get excited about TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) , Ayurveda Medicine (is a system of medicine with historical roots in the Indian subcontinent) but forget the Native American Indians used many plants on this continent.  We should also remember that the Europeans brought over the healing plants and seeds that they used.   We have beautiful healing herbs right in our own backyards, in our cities,in our mountains and out in the desert.  Plus, the herbs coming from TCM and Ayurveda Medicine are testing high for toxins.   It is time to bring ourselves back to the plants that are here, that know us better and what are needs are.   

Take a first aid class.  Learn what to do if the above questions happen in your life.  There are going to be situations that require first aid applications before herbs so, in the event of an emergency, example, someone bleeding severely, herbs are going to be used as a secondary action your first action is compression badge.  

As with all healing modalities apply the first rule, "First Do No Harm.

Herbal First Aid Basics: 

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/herbal-firs...

First Aid Kits and other products: 

Emergency Medical Roll (Bag) 

https://www.lapolicegear.com/emmerobl.html?utm_source=emmerobl&...

Medical Bag Ideas: 

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/medical-bag/

First Aid Kits Plus

http://www.bookbind.net/First-Aid-Kit-Plus-p/e-first-aid-plus.htm

Interesting Perspective On Invasive Plants:  I Do Agree With It

https://gathervictoria.com/2015/09/21/ending-the-toxic-costly-and-u...

Medical disclaimer: always check with a physician before consuming wild plants, and make positive identification in the field using a good source on Medicinal Plants.   There are many great herb books on identifying plants, such as Michael Moore  and in his books there is a glossary of medical terms in his books, and maps in later editions. 

Local  Herbal First Aid

But first I need to say this.  This list is not all the way tested and there are no guarantees of how they may work.  What I am saying is part of this list is my thoughts and ideas of what to use when we do not have anything else.     I am at the experimental stage of some of these local herbs.  We have many many medicinal local plants around us and I want to tap into their healing power.  More then ever, this year  I am focusing on using what we have available in the wild and what I can grow.  I Love researching what to use for first aid and taking classes on it.  But, every time I take a class, the instructor uses herbs I can not get to, which, makes since because they are using what resonates with them and what they have harvested.     A couple awesome first aid plants are chaparral and prickly pear  but we can not find those plants in our area.   My daily weekly curiosity is what I can  use around me.    I guess you or I could try growing them but in the mean time what do you use in the event of a first aid emergency?   

Again there are no guarantees because some of them I have not used and when a first aid situation happens in my family I will try them out.  So before the shit hits the fan, try some of these plants, when a very minor first aid situation happens and only if you feel good about it.  Plus YOU SHOULD research the plants you would like to stock up and use.  Don't just take my world for it or anyone else.   Knowledge gives you confidence  and if your are confident, you can handle the situation.  

This compiled list is a local list of herbs to use for first aid for our area, which means within three to four hours of where we live (McMinnville, Yamhill County) 

Japanese Knotweed:   This is not a forest growing weed.  It has many many medicinal uses.  It is super invasive and there are places where you might find this.  

Devils Club: 

http://cms.herbalgram.org/herbalgram/issue62/article2697.html?ts=15...

Rose:   Anti-depressant, antiseptic, antiviral, antispasmodic,  aphrodisiac,  antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, cholagogue (promoting the flow of bile) , antibacterial, hemostatic (stop bleeding),  uterine, nervine and emmenagogue(promotes menstrual discharge).

Flowers: Make a strong tea out of the flowers for a skin wash to stop bleeding from cuts and wounds.  Also a gargle to relieve sore throats, use it to heal mouth sores and tighten bleeding gums.  Flower tea  to relieve diarrhea ,calm the nerves and/or lift the spirits.   

Rose Hips: The fruits slightly aperient (used to relieve constipation) and good in treatment of female ailments.  They are very rich in vitamin C.  Great tonic helps with exhaustion  Culpepper's book, dried powdered and taken in white wine, they will remove strangury (painful urination in which the urine is emitted drop by drop to muscle spasms of the urethra or urinary bladder) and to strengthen the kidneys.  Can help in cases of mild gall-bladder problems.  Boiled in a strong decoction of the roots they are good for venomous bites.   The hips made into a conserveand eaten occasionally, help digestion and dry up the moisture from a cold. They will help the body's defences against infections and the development of colds.  

Leaves (wood rose):  The Okanagan-Colville Indians used the leaves as a poultice for bee stings and added to smoking mixtures.   Thompson Indians made a tonic for general illness from the stems.  

Juliette de Bairacli Levy book says,  use the flowers leaves and fruits.  Treatment of catarrh, diarrhoea, haemorrhages.  Tuberculosis.  Eye ailments. The fruits all female ailments including leucorrhoea (vaginal discharge, could be normal discharge or possible infection), and metritis (Inflammation of the uterus).  The essential oil of roses is an active stimulant of the nervous system and the uterus, it is an important nerve heart and brain tonic, and is also a tonic for he ovaries and uterus.  Petals of white rose for sore inflamed eyes.  

Side Note: In an emergency situation, you are not going to find rose essential oil.  Essential oils take a ton of plant matter.  Example, it takes 60 roses to make ONE DROP OF ESSENTIAL OIL or 10,000 roses to make a 5ml bottle.   

I personally feel if you have oil and fresh or dried roses you can make a simple infused medicinal oil to use.   

Pine Trees:

If you don't have pine, you can use Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, Spruce, Other firs.  Most of the Pinaceae Family.   

Do not use the yew which is the Taxaceae family  

The cypress family there are some trees in the cypress family that you can use for certain health problems, but caution should be taken with this family.  Examples juniper, cedar and redwoods 

Northfold Island Pine (do not use) is not a pine it is in the Araucariaceae family

Pine

Parts Used: bark, needles, pitch, pollen, young green cones

Pungent, bitter, dry and neutral

Has the ability to warm or cool, depending on the situation

Medicinally:  analgesic, antibacterial, anticatarrhal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, rubefacient, stimulant and tonic 

Pine, along with the spruces and firs, has traditionally been used for food, medicine and shelter.  

Nutritionally pine needles contain super high vitamin C.   They also have calcium, beta carotene, iron, potassium thiamine (B1) riboflavin (B2) niacin (B3), sodium, phosphorus, protein, carbohydrates and fat.

Jethro Kloss, Back To Eden: 

White pine is a very old reliable remedy for chest ailments such as bronchitis, coughs, colds, croup and influenza.  It is excellent for use in tonsillitis, laryngitis and sore throats.  Found useful in rheumatism, kidney troubles and scurvy. 

Pine Needle Tincture: 

For treating coughs, colds and other respiratory conditions.  It is antibacterial, antiseptic antiviral and expectorant. Opens the sinuses, breaks up stuck phlegm, increases secretions to clear the lungs of mucus.  Will dry up excessive flowing mucus, resolve respiratory infections,coughing and soothe sore throats. 

Adults:  15 - 60 drops 4 x a day

Children ages 2 to 6 - 2 - 10 drops 

Pine Needle Vinegar:

Use as a liniment or as a tonic and can be used in place of balsamic vinegar.  Add to water with some pine needle syrup or infused honey and you have a yummy tasting tonic. 

As a liniment it as analgesic (pain relieving), antispasmodic (relieves spasms) properties and acts as a rubefacient (increases blood flow to the area).  It can energize the body (stimulate) and can be used as a tonic.  Pine has antioxidant benefits, so it may help protect cells against the effects of free radicals. 

Pine Needle Vinegar Recipe: 

http://www.thegreenkitchen.co.nz/recipes/sides/kahikatea-pine-needl...

Pine Syrup Made With Honey:

http://www.herbgeek.com/winter-medicine-evergreen-syrup/

Pine Pitch: is antibacterial and antiseptic.  Chew pitch to release warm aromatics into the lungs.  Use like you would pine needle tincture.  Pitch is warm.  Soft pitch is pliable and  you can put directly on the skin pulls out splinters, other foreign objects and insect bites.  Works for small cuts and wounds. Because of its antiseptic qualities it acts as a natures band aid by keeping out germs, facilitates healing and eases pain.  

Infuse the pitch in oil and you can use as a chest rub, relieve or soothe sciatica, boils, spinsters, sore muscles, sprains, strains, bruises and some skin conditions.   The pitch oil can be made into a salve and use the same was as the oil.  

How To Make Pine Pitch Salve

https://theherbalacademy.com/make-pine-resin-salve/

Pine Needle Tea: 

Super high C tea.   I personally would use it the same as the tincture, making it a gentler medicine that really is  a strong medicine that heals.   Plus, if you don't have alcohol, you can't make tinctures.  

Pine Needle Tea: 

https://www.wildedible.com/pine-needle-tea-natural-vitamin-c

Fir Spruce and Western Hemlock Tea: 

http://wildfoodsandmedicines.com/fir-hemlock-and-spruce-tips/

Pine Bark

Can be used as a  powder for urinary track infections.  Because of its diuretic and demulcent properties it is used for kidney and bladder problems.  

More on Pine Bark 

https://draxe.com/pine-bark-extract/

Harvesting Wild Pine Pollen:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9pimnqbU54

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQ2YewIdUnQ

Pine Pollen For Sale:

https://harmonicarts.ca/product/pine-pollen-powder-wild-harvested/

Pine Needle Steam for Congestion: 

Make a strong tea and use as a steam and inhale for sinus and congestion 

Make A Compression Bandage Out Of Pine: 

Pine Pitch Glue Recipe:

If you do not have charcoal powder you can use wood ash.  

http://willowhavenoutdoor.com/general-survival/how-to-make-pine-res...

http://www.pugetsoundknappers.com/how_to/pine_pitch_glue.html

Pitch Varnish

Dissolve about one part crushed pitch to four parts rubbing alcohol 

Make A Compression Bandage

When you can't get to a hospital and you need a compression bandage. 

1 Pound of pine (conifers), branches with their needles

1 Gallon of water 

Put pine and water in a big pot

Boil until it is reduced by half

Then: 

Strain and boil until a thin syrup forms

DO NOT PUT THE STRIPS DIRECTLY AGAINST THE SKIN

Wrap the joint in a soft clean cloth. Follow with a layer of cotton, cat tail down or other soft filling 

Dip strips of flannel or muslin into the syrup

Now you are ready to make a compression bandage

Make sure the sprained joint is in a good position

Put the wet cloth strips, so that they form a firm but not overly tight bandage.

Part Two Will Be Coming Soon 

LOCAL HERBS TO HEAL YOUR COMMUNITY

Things to think about:

1.  If you were on an island, and you could only use one herb, what would it be? What about 4 herbs?  10 herbs?
2. Think about your community that you are involved with.  Put all your people from the different groups you are in into one community.  Now think about their health, their needs, and their health issues.  Examples:  Chronic respiratory issues, constipation, allergies, acute first aid, digestion issues, diabetes, high blood pressure etc. 
3. Are there any common ones among your community?   Put those in groups
4. What are the shared physical and emotional issues?  Examples:  seniors, female problems, depression, chronic pain…
5. Have you identified the wild wonderful weeds that are growing around your home?  What trees, shrubs, vines, wild herbaceous plants, wild roots, cultivated roots, cultivated herbaceous plants, mushrooms (like artist conk red belted conk and turkey tails), sea weed, and lichens.
6. Books on plant identification, tree and shrub identification, herbal medicine books and mushroom identification books. 

Medical disclaimer: always check with a physician before consuming wild plants, and make positive identification in the field using a good source on Medicinal Plants.   There are many great herb books on identifying plants, such as Michael Moore  and in his books there is a glossary of medical terms in his books, and maps in later editions.  

Tree Medicine:

Douglas fir/Pine/Sitka Spruce/Western Hemlock Parts

Used: bark, needles, pitch, pollen, young green cones

Has the ability to warm or cool, depending on the situation

Medicinally:  analgesic, antibacterial, anticatarrhal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, rubefacient, stimulant and tonic

Pine, along with the spruces and firs, has traditionally been used for food, medicine and shelter. 

Nutritionally pine needles contain super high vitamin C.   They also have calcium, beta carotene, iron, potassium thiamine (B1) riboflavin (B2) niacin (B3), sodium, phosphorus, protein, carbohydrates and fat.

Oak:  Part used is the leaves, stems and bark.   Collect the young bark carefully from the branches or trunk.  PLEASE keep in mind that if you ring the tree you will kill it.   The bark is collected in mid-spring or late spring and make sure it is free of blemishes.   Oaks actions are astringent, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic.   Use a decoction of the bark for a gargle for tonsillitis, pharyngitis and laryngitis.   Use as a mouth rinse for inflamed or receding gums.  For diarrhea, drink bark tea.   A powder or decoction of the bark will help heal cuts and abrasions.   Can be used as a treatment for hemorrhoids and a douche for leucorrhea (yeast) and as a wound healer and a hemostatic ( herbs that stop minor bleeding). Can be used as an external wash for first to third degree burns. 

Cottonwood:  The buds, twigs and bark are used .  Sometimes the leaves.   Cottonwood resin is cooling and drying.  The major constituent of the resin is a group of aspirin-like compounds, or salicylates, that relieve pain and inflammation (inflammation of all kinds).  Antiseptic, expectorant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, antibacterial, stimulant, pectoral, analgesic and anodyne, anti-galactagogue, antipyretic, cholagogue, antioxidant and tonic

More On Cottonwood: 

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/black-cottonwood

Western Red Cedar:   DO NOT EVER INGEST THE ESSENTIAL OIL.  Parts used leaves and make a tea or tincture for treatments.  Cedar’s action is antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral and stimulates the immune cells.   Helps with athlete’s foot, ring worm, jock itch, nail fungus, chronic vaginitis, respiratory issues and the urinary tract.  Use the tea or tincture to speed the healing of acute respiratory or urinary tract infections.   Use the tea as a steam to aid the lungs and upper respiratory tract.    A tea wash or an infused oil can be applied to skin conditions like poison oak rashes or weeping eczema.   A salve can be applied to fungal infections of the skin.  For warts apply the tincture several times a day. 

Red Alder:  Parts used are bark, twigs, leaf buds, leaves and catkins.  Fresh alder bark will cause vomiting.   It’s actions are alterative, vulnerary, astringent, anodyne, hemostatic, lymphatic, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant, anti-infective, lymphatic, bitter tonic and mucilaginous.  A decoction of the bark makes a good gargle for sore throat and pharyngitis. The powdered bark and the leaves have been used as a tonic. Boiling the inner bark in vinegar produces an external wash for lice, psoriasis, rheumatism, inflammations, shingles, impetigo, poultice for swellings including enlarged glands. You can use the liquid (strong tea) to clean your teeth and tighten gums  and  for toothache.

Black Walnut:  Parts used are nuts, green hulls, bark and leaf.  Its actions are antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-tumor, anti-parasitic.  Taken internally as a tincture (green hulls) it can help with gastrointestinal problems, like diarrhea, constipation, caused by intestinal parasites, including giardia and candida.  Externally it is used for athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.   Bark and leaves can be used of skin troubles, like herpes, eczema etc. 

Elderberry:  Parts used are flowers, berries, bark and leaves.  The actions of the flowers are diaphoretic, anticatarrhal and pectoral.  The actions of the berries are diaphoretic, diuretic and laxative.  The actions of the bark are purgative, emetic, diuretic.  The Actions of the leaves are externally emollient and vulnerary, internally as purgative, expectorant, diuretic and diaphoretic.   Use the leaves for external issues such as bruises, sprains, wounds, chilblains (an inflammatory swelling or sore caused by exposure as of the feet or hands to cold) and possible antitumor.   Elder flowers are great for colds, flu and fevers.   Elder berries are high in flavonoids, high vitamin C, strongly antiviral and can be used like the flowers.

Hawthorn:  Parts used are leaves, flowers and berries.  Hawthorns actions are cardiac tonic, hypotensive antioxidant, tonic and diuretic.   It is one of the best tonic remedies for the heart and circulatory system.   As a tonic for the heart it dilates arteries and veins, allowing blood to flow more freely and releasing cardiovascular constrictions and blockages.  It lowers blood pressure and can help maintain a healthy cholesterol levels.   It can be used for preventing heart problems and for treating heart disease, edema, angina, and heart arrhythmia.  It is used to fight free radicals in the system.  Hawthorn works beautifully for broken hearts, for depression and anxiety. 

Willow:  Parts used are bark.  Its actions are anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, analgesic, antiseptic, astringent and vulnerary.  Collect the bark in the spring when the new growth starts.   Willow is a safe natural source of aspirin like chemicals.   It may be used for connective tissue inflammation anywhere in the body.  It is especially useful in rheumatoid arthritis. It is useful for reducing fevers, such as with the flu.    Willows provide bitter bark that is used for relieving pain and inflammation and can clear urinary tract infections.  Gargle the tea or tincture in water for mouth sores.   The tea used externally soothes eczema or other red itchy skin conditions. 

Herbal Actions:

Alterative- traditionally been considered blood purifiers, they improve the function of the liver, kidneys, skin, bowels, and/or lymphatic system to help the body better excrete metabolic waste products and improve the body’s ability to absorb nutrients.

Analgesic – pain reducer

Anodyne - pain killing

Anticatarrhal- reduces inflamed mucous membranes of head and throat

Antifungal- destroying or inhibiting the growth of fungus

Anti-infective- counteracting infection

Anti-inflammatory- controlling inflammation, a reaction to injury or infection

Antimicrobial – Kills pathogenic microbes, usually refers to virus and bacteria

Anti-parasitic- anti parasites

Anti-pyretic – preventing fevers

Antiseptic- agent used to produce asepsis and to remove pus, blood, etc.

Anti-tumor- inhibiting the growth of tumors

Astringent – tightens tissues and assists with bleeding and diarrhea

Bitter Tonic-  acts chiefly by stimulating the appetite and improving digestion.

Diaphoretic – promotes sweating

Diuretic – opens urinary elimination and promotes urination.

Emetic- produces vomiting

Emollient - Similar to demulcents, these herbs are also mucilaginous, but used as topical applications to help soothe, condition, and protect the skin.

Expectorant – promotes phlegm expulsion, breaks up mucus in the lungs and expelling it more effectively.

Immunostimulant- increases the activity of the immune system

Hemostatic – reduces or stops bleeding

Mucilaginous- soothes and coats

Pectoral- relating to the breast or chest

Purgative- laxative, causes the evacuation of intestinal contents

Vulnerary – protecting tissue and promotes tissue healing

It is fall (technically it is the beginning of winter) and before you go and start a bad habit of drinking Pumpkin Spice Lattes, read the information below... 

https://draxe.com/pumpkin-spiced-latte-ingredient/

Before you start this recipe you will need to order roasted herbal root powders.  Information below.  

Also, I do not support Teeccino, because they add artificial coffee flavor 

Please Use Organic Ingredients, Thank You! 

Pre-made Mix: 

Perfect Harmony Caffeine Alternative 

https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Harmony-Caffeine-Alternative-Substitute/dp/B00J3ZTTYG/ref=pd_sim_325_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00J3ZTTYG&pd_rd_r=HZVQZBW84H3FFRFP0B3J&pd_rd_w=IY3CU&pd_rd_wg=bDWVA&psc=1&refRID=HZVQZBW84H3FFRFP0B3J

World Wide Botanicals

https://www.amazon.com/Organic-French-Chicory-All-Purpose-Caffeine/dp/B076BZZC6M/ref=sr_1_cc_5_a_it?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1509816038&sr=1-5-catcorr&keywords=organic+roasted+chicory+root

Make your own mixture

1 part roasted dandelion root powder

1 part roasted chicory root powder

Mix, put in a jar and label

1 to 2 teaspoons per cup for a lite taste

1 to 2 tablespoons per cup  for a bitter taste

Roasted Dandelion Root Powder

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/dandelion-root-roasted-powder/profile

Roasted Chicory Root Powder  

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/chicory-root-powder-roasted/profile

Or make a 1 cup decoction of Herbal Roasted Roots: 

Roasted Herbal Root Coffee:  This is not a powder it needs to be decocted

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/herbal-coffee/profile

Make Your Own Pumpkin Spice

3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons ground ginger

2 teaspoons ground nutmeg 

1½ teaspoons ground allspice

1½ teaspoons ground cloves

½ teaspoon ground cardamom 

Order Pumpkin Spice: 

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/pumpkin-pie-spice/profile

Pumpkin Spice Roasted Herbal Root Latte

. 

1 cup of canned Lite Coconut Milk 

1/2 cup filtered water or 1/2 cup of  strained roasted decocted roots

If you do the decocted roots you don't need to use the herbal powders

2 Tablespoons cooked pumpkin

1 Tablespoon of real maple syrup or honey (little more or less)

1/2 tsp Pumpkin pie spice 

¼ tsp real vanilla extract

Add the above ingredients to sauce pan,  stirring occasionally and gently heat until hot

Now add your herbal roasted root mixture

1 Teaspoon of roasted chicory root powder

1 Teaspoon of roasted dandelion root powder (see above information)

OR

2 Teaspoons of herbal roasted root powder (see above information)

If you would like it to taste more bitter like coffee,  add more of the roasted root powders.  

Enjoy 

For those of you who would like to explore more uses of chicory, try the recipe below.

Chicory Cacao Mocha

https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/make-roasted-chicory-coffee-recipe

When you think about it, our skin is the largest organ on our bodies.   When you put synthetic fragrances and petroleum products on it, it is absorbed into your body and it will eventually take a toll on your health. 

 The FDA and the EPA, do not protect you and they are more than willing to allow toxic ingredients in body products.

Isn't it time we wake up and start thinking about the levels of toxicity that we allow in our daily lives? The other thing to think about is that none of the synthetic ingredients will ever leave this earth.   Synthetic fragrances are adding up in our water ways with a zillion other toxic body care, skin care, beauty care products creating a super toxic environment for life on this earth.   

Is vanity so important that we are willing to sacrifice our earth?  Is blue hair (hair dye in general) that important?  

On the subject of deodorants, it really is easy to make and the great part about it is, you are taking charge of your own health!

Liquid Deodorants:

For the strongest cleansing effect, apply deodorant onto a cotton swab or cloth under the whole armpit area.  If you choose to put it into a spray bottle, keep in mind, it might have a less cleansing effect.

These recipes have a shelf life of about a year and are referenced from the book Earthly Bodies and Heavenly Hair, by Dina Falconi  

Remember to shake before each use.  

Do Not Use Fragrance Oils (there is no such thing as a natural fragrance oil)

Only Use Essential Oils 

Sage Fir Deodorant

1/4 cup 80 proof vodka

1/4 cup distilled water

10 drops fir essential oil

10 drops sage essential oil 

5 drops tea tree essential oil

6 drops bay essential oil

6 drops black pepper essential oil 

Pour the first two ingredients into a jar

Add essential oils

Cap and shake the jar

Label

Antimicrobial Deodorant For Strong Body Odor 

1/4 cup distilled witch hazel

1/4 cup vodka

1/2 tsp. glycerin

24 drops tea tree oil

10 drops rosemary essential oil

6 drops cedarwood essential

4 drops lime essential oil

4 drops lavender essential oil 

Pour first three ingredients in a jar.  

Then add the essential oils

Cap and shake the jar.

Label

Your Personal Choice: Create your own 

1/4 cup vodka or witch hazel

1/4 cup distilled water

30 to 40 drops of  an essential oil  or essential oil blend of choice

Pour first two ingredients into a jar

Add essential oils

Cap and Shake

Label 

More Recipes: 

http://myhealthygreenfamily.com/blog/wordpress/home-made-all-natura...

https://frugallysustainable.com/how-to-make-a-homemade-all-natural-...

https://wellnessmama.com/1523/natural-deodorant/

https://www.mommypotamus.com/homemade-deodorant-recipe-for-sensitiv...

If you are interested in making more of your own personal body care products Dina's book is full of awesome recipes.  I personally feel hers is the best book out there .  

This is a great video to understand the chemicals being used in the cosmetic industry.   Although, I personally do not believe this industry is going to clean up the toxins they are using in their products.  Keep in mind this video was created in 2010, and the toxins in body care products have gotten worse.   I am only sharing this in hopes that you will take the steps to find safe, truly natural body care products and watch out for the buzz words, like green, natural fragrance, herbal, because they mean nothing in this world.  It is up to you to read the labels and do the research. 

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=4&v=pfq000AF1i8

My mind does scenario training and I am often in serious thought about self defense  

So, today's thoughts are this.

I am in the Roths, parking lot and it finally hit me (Bye the way, my husband has told me this for years) that we are at a place in our lives that we should seriously be practicing backing up our cars into our parking spaces.  I mean everywhere, unless you are in a situation that you are parked on the street.  

IF, something was to happen, think about this for a moment.  How many masses of people are going to need to back up?   It would literally be a cluster Cluck... 

But, if you take just a few more seconds or a minute to back up you will be in a position to get away quicker.  Of course there is the other scenario of, forget the car and just get out of there.     Just look at our fire departments, imagine if they had to back up every time they had to leave.   

Not all scenarios are the same SO DO NOT BOX your thoughts.   

Think outside the box for all Scenarios. 

THERE IS NO SAME TECHNIQUE OR DRILL THAT WORKS FOR EVERYTHING

THINK FLUIDITY, FLOW AND AWARENESS

EVERY SECOND of EVERY MINUTE counts in all emergencies

Put your scenario training mind on and think about your daily routine because the world is and will become more crazy.  This is a fact.  There are more things happening at a faster rate and wouldn't hurt to be more prepared mentally.   

All the colors of fall are upon us and the golden rays of color with  red and orange are feeding my spirit daily.   Walking, sitting in nature and driving, I feel a since of awe by the beauty that is around us in October.  

With my thoughts on the color of orange I can't help but fill my life up with foods that are of this color.   

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.  

Rejuvenating Rose Hips, beauty for your eyes, their colors reminding us that  fall is here and it's time to reconnect to our roots, by slowing down and  taking care of our gut.   How's your digestion?  How are you digesting  life?  Are you living to much in your head and forgot about your feet?     

The colors of red, orange or a mixture of both let us know it is time to harvest these beauties but to live with bliss, and to seek the  pleasures of life on a daily basis.        

On a physical level orange relates to the colon, bladder, and gallbladder. It is part of  digestion and assimilation.  When you look at the orange color of the rose hips it makes sense that it is a carminative 

On a physical level red relates to the adrenal glands.   The high vitamin C content of rose hips gives your adrenal gland a super antioxidant boost.   

It is as if nature is telling us by providing the colors of fall and fall nourishment to slow down, root yourself back into the ground, reflect, to connect with the deep voice of self, to listen to your gut feelings (not screens), to follow wisdom and how much free radical damage are you generating or using in your life (fried foods, tobacco, non organic food, using perfume, hair dyes, petroleum based body care etc..) 

Rose Hips are sour, astringent, carminataive, nutritive, tonic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antispasmodic and aperient (gentle laxative).   They are recognized as one of the highest sources of vitamin C.   Rose hips have bioflavonoids, they are great for colds, infections, to detox your body from free radical damage, carminative properties aid in absorption of nutrients and  are loaded with other vitamins and minerals.   

Harvest rose hips when they are bright red or orange.  If you can harvest after the first frost of autumn because they will be sweeter.  You don't want any brown spots and pick when it is dry to prevent them from molding. 

Do not eat them raw unless you cut them in half and scrape out the seeds and tiny hairs.   If you want to dehydrate them you need to do this to. 

 To use them fresh for a syrup or  jam you do not need to cut them in half and scrape out the tiny hairs and seeds.  

To buy rose hips or other herbs: 

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/?gclid=CjwKCAjwmqHPBRBQEiwAOvbR8-nR_eLKnFZHDlzuqWRXosG5FAMl-Sl1qUGmnPi1WBLoSvBGwJ2TxxoCoe4QAvD_BwE

High Vitamin C Tea Recipe: 

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.  

4 parts rose hips

3 parts hibiscus

2 parts lemongrass

1 part cinnamon chips 

Rose Hip Spice Jam

Using fresh rose hips 

1 lb Fresh rose hips (ends pulled off)

1 cup filtered water

1 cup raw real honey

2 tablespoon orange spice (recipe below)

Love

Gently simmer rose hips in the water until fruit is tender.   

Rub through a sieve

Return to heat and add honey and spices 

Gently simmer until thick, stirring frequently

Spoon hot into hot sterilized jars

Seal

Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes 

Label 

Orange Spice Sprinkle 

2 TBL.  orange peel pd.

3 TBL. cinnamon pd.

1/2 tsp. ginger pd,

1/2 tsp. cloves pd.

1/2 tsp. cardamom pd.

Mix and put in a spice jar and label.  

Herbal Vinegars

 Herbal vinegars are a wonderful versatile herbal preparation that can be taken by itself, used for salad dressings, marinades, made into herbal drinks, or for your skin! 

What you will need-

 Raw apple cider vinegar.  I have read that you can use other types of vinegar for infusing, but apple cider is really the best way to go, it is very alkalizing to the body as well as full of healthy enzymes. 

Herbs of choice, (depending on what you are aiming for) You can use fresh or dried herbs, fruits and berries when making vinegars. 

What you can infuse

Thyme 

Sage 

Rosemary 

Lavender 

Roses 

Garlic 

Cayenne

Strawberries 

Blueberries 

And more…! 

Glass jar and lid, the lid must either be plastic, cork. If you use a mason jar with a metal lid you need to wrap the lid in waxed paper, if the vinegar touches the metal it will rust, and eat though it. 

Proportions

 The amount of herbs or fruit that you use depends on whether or not it is fresh. if you are using fresh herbs you will need to use more, since they are not so concentrated.

When using fresh- Fill 3/4 of the jar with herbs or fruit and fill the jar at least two inches above with apple cider vinegar 

When using dried- Fill 1/4 of the jar with herbs or fruit and fill the jar at least two inches above with apple cider vinegar. 

This is just a general idea of what you would do for proportions, play around with it, as long as the herbs are completely covered you are free to do what you want!

You can also mix fresh with dried if you would like. Just make sure to strain it out after 4 weeks.

After making your vinegar, store in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks. (remember the longer it sits the stronger it gets! 

After steeping it

 if you used fresh herbs, you will need to strain it out after 4 weeks. If your vinegar is made only with dried 

herbs, it can be left in the jar for the duration of the vinegar use. 

Storage 

When vinegars are done being infused and strained store in refrigerator. Vinegar should be good for up to a  year. If it starts to turn black, gets floating chunks,  or develops mold or a funny smell throw it away. 

Fire Cider 

One of my favorite things to do is pour Fire cider over roasted chicken! YUM! 

So-Called Mild Fire Cider

1/8 cup grated organic garlic

1/4 cup grated organic horseradish 

1/4 cup chopped organic onion

1/4 cup grated fresh ginger

2 Ginseng roots, dried

1/4 tsp.  cayenne pepper

organic apple cider vinegar

Honey

4 cup jar with plastic lid (you do not want to use metal lids with vinegar)

Spicier Fire Cider 

1/2 cup organic grated garlic

1/2 cup organic grated horseradish

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup grated fresh ginger

1/2 tsp. cayenne 

organic apple cider vinegar

honey 

4 cup jar with plastic lid (you do not want to use metal lids with vinegar)

Chop horseradish, garlic, onion, and ginger. Place them and cayenne in a quart jar, fill with apple cider vinegar. Cover with lid and shake well. Let it sit at room temperature for 4-6 weeks. Strain and add honey to taste. Store in a cool place. Your fire cider will keep for several months

Tinctures 

 Growing up my mom used tinctures for my siblings and I when we where sick, a few drops in some herbal tea and we where never able to detect the flavor. Over the year tinctures have become a staple in our family cabinet, we have all kinds of tinctures form ones for colds, relaxing, digesting, heart healing, energy, dreaming, menstrual cramps, overall healing and more! Tinctures are very fun to make and easy to take! 

Tinctures: Tinctures are a concentrated liquid extracts made from fresh or dried herbs.   They are very potent.   Because they are so concentrated, they should be administered carefully and sparingly.  

Most tinctures are made with alcohol as the primary solvent.   Effective tinctures can also be made with apple cider vinegar and vegetable glycerin but will not be as strong as the alcohol-based tinctures.   If you are using vegetable glycerin please keep in mind that most vegetable glycerin is made from soy.   I am against using soy for a variety of reasons so I do not recommend vegetable glycerin.  If you are interested in using it please make sure your source is 100% certified organic, otherwise you will be using GMO vegetable glycerin and that is not healing for your body.   

Alcohol Tincture: You will need 80 to 100 proof, such as vodka (I like Finlinda Vodka), gin, or brandy.  Half of the proof number is the percentage of alcohol in the spirits, 80 proof brand is 40 percent alcohol, 100 proof vodka is 50 percent alcohol.  

Tinctures when alcohol based are a fast moving medicine, alcohol and alcohol based tinctures diffuse directly through the tissues and into the the bloodstream, making tinctures  great when you need a fast past remedy. 

Vinegar, tho not as strong at pulling out the medicinal properties of the herbs, is  still a great way to make tinctures for young children or for someone who is alcohol sensitive. Not only is it non alcoholic, vinegar has great health benefits! 

Traditional or Simpler's Method.  

I prefer using the traditional way.  I am old fashion and I believe that this method works beautifully.  It has for years..  

Fresh Flowers and Leaf:  Chop herbs finely and place 2/3 o 3/4 in a clean jar dry jar.  

Pour alcohol over the herbs, fill to the top.  Cover herbs completely. 

Label and date

Shake daily, give it some Love

Dried Leaves and Flowers

Finely cut herbs, you can also grind them up a bit in a coffee grinder

Fill jar 1/2 with herb material

Pour alcohol over the herbs, fill to the top.  Cover completely. 

Label and date

Shake daily, give it some Love

Fresh Bark, Roots and Berries:

Finely chop or grind fresh herbs.  This helps release the juice and expose the surface area.   

Fill jar 1/3 to 1/2

Pour alcohol over the herbs, fill to the top.  Cover herbs completely.  

Shake daily, give it some Love

Dried Bark, Roots and Berries

Finely cut herbal material, you can also grind them up a bit in a coffee grinder

Fill jar with 1/4 to 1/3 

Pour alcohol over the herbs, fill to the top.  Cover completely 

Keep in mind roots and berries will expand 1/2 their size.  

Label and date

Shake daily, give it some love

Remember to pour enough menstruum (alcohol, vinegar, wine or vegetable glycerin) to cover the herbs.  Liquid should rise 2 to 3 inches above the herbs.   Herbs should move freely when you shake the jar.  cover with a tight-fitting lid. 

If you are using vinegar, warm it first, then pour over the herbs.

Vegetable glycerin mix 3 parts vegetable glycerin to 1 part distilled water. Mix well then pour over the herbs

Place the jar in a warm location, like a kitchen counter.  Avoid sunlight exposure.  After a few days if you notice the herbs are not covered all the way be sure to top off with more alcohol.

Let sit for 6 to 8 weeks. Side Note:  In the event of an emergency you can use it sooner.   

To Strain You Will Need;

Strainer, unbleached cheese cloth, 2 cup or 4 cup measuring cup, labels and bottles.

Place strainer over measuring cup, put cheese cloth over strainer.  Pour contents of tincture into strainer.   Squeeze, squeeze and squeeze.  Twist and squish.   Get all of the wonderful healing properties out.  

Pour into tincture bottles and label.   

Dosages Adult

Tinctures dosages do vary, you might want to start with less and adjust as needed. 

Acute:  1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon every 30 to 60 minutes until symptoms subside  OR 2 dropperfuls every 2 to 3 hours for 1 to 2 days and then taper down 

Chronic:  1/2 to 1 teaspoon  three times daily OR 2 dropperfulls 3 times per day for 8 to 12 weeks.  

You can put them in tea, water, juice, ice cubes, smoothies Popsicle ect. 

 Spiced Wine

Wines are one traditional way of preserving and taking herbal remedies.   Spring and Summer try white wines infused with flower petals, and leaves (fresh or dried).  You can also add seasonal organic fruit.  

For fall and winter try hearty red wines with roots, spices, bark and dried fruit.

1/2 cup herbs 

A liter of wine

Honey or maple syrup (optional)

Steep in refrigerator for two weeks, strain and label.  

Damiana Spiced Wine

1 cup dried damiana leaves

1/2 cup spearmint leaves

1/2 cup dried fragrant roses

1 Tbl. licorice root

1 Tbl. cinnamon chips

1 Tbl. whole cloves

1 Tbl.   ginger root 

1/8 tsp cardamom seeds

Mix herbs, store in a jar and label.  You can also use this mix as a tea.  1 tsp per cup.  

For the spiced wine, take 1/2 cup of the damiana spice herbal blend and add it to a liter of organic  white or red wine.  Let steep in refrigerator for two weeks.  

Strain and enjoy!

Potions:

Love Potion: 

1 quart organic red wine

1 tsp vanilla rose extract

1Tbl. Damiana tincture

1/2 tsp nutmeg powder

2 Tbl. Rose water

1 tsp. ginseng tincture

pinch of cardamom powder

2 Tbl. local honey 

Combine all the ingredients.  Let sit for a week. 

Enjoy! 

Kloss’s Liniment.

Over the years this has become a very popular liniment in the herbal world. Great to keep in the medicine cabinet of your herbal first aid kit.

Recipe 

2 ounces myrrh gum powder 

1 once goldenseal powder 

1/2 once cayenne 

Pour herbs into a quart jar and cover with hard alcohol (like everclear) (You will see that most Kloss’s liniment recipes call for rubbing alcohol, but since it is petroleum based I would suggest not using it) after adding the alcohol label and store in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks (the longer it sits the stronger it gets!) shaking the jar everyday. Once finished use as needed for wounds, bruises sprains, scalds, burns and sunburns beestings and poison oak.

Infusing honey, is a sweet and fun way to use herbs, you can infuse roots, flowers, leaves, berries, dried fruit and all kinds of fun spices! 

I personally love to infuse fresh flowers in to honey, lilacs are one of my favorite flowers and since they have such a short blooming time, it is wonderful to be able to infuse some in some honey to preserve that deliciousness! 

What you will need to get infusing! 

Honey

Honey is such a wonderful medicine just by itself, it is a powerful antibacterial, having the ability to dry out bacteria. Taken internally it can help you with seasonal allergies,  give energy, and can be used as a cough remedy. Used topically for wounds burns cold sores, ulcers, makes a great face mask that is good for your skin and also a great for rubbing around your sinuses when the are clogged, and overall its just a sweet tasty treat! When you make infused honey with medicinal herbs the honey helps with deliver the medicinal properties deeper in the body.

Make sure to get pure raw honey when possible. 

Herbs

You can use many different herbs when making herbal honey, all that it depends on is what you are wanting to make your honey for, do you want to make an easy cold remedy for chest congestion? Or how about infusing some of those precious springtime hawthorn flowers to sooth your heart?

 You can use both fresh and dried herbs and powdered and whole.

When using fresh make sure they are completely dry! Powdering the herbs first means you will not have to strain you honey (this is a good idea when giving infused honey as gifts) Also when you use powder herbs it will be a little stronger of a taste. 

 I think its also great to make a honey with whole herbs to see the difference between using powdered and whole, and to see what it is like to strain the honey. 

When using fresh herbs, after it has infused for 1-2 weeks, strain and store in fridge. Use up within 3 weeks.

A few herbs to try infusing

Lavender

Roses 

Hawthorne flower

Lilacs

Ginger 

Elecampane 

Cottonwood Buds 

Thyme

Cinnamon 

Turmeric 

Garlic

This is just a short list of what you can use, you can make all kinds of blends and mixes to infuse! 

A book I suggest for finding some delicious recipes is called The Herbal Kitchen by Kami McBRIDE

You may also used dried fruit to infuse into your honey 

The fruit has to be dried and chopped first. 

You can use the flowing fruits to add to you honey.

Cherries 

Pears

Apricots 

Peaches

Figs

…and more!

Proportions 

1/4-1/2 cup dreid herbs to 1 cup honey

1/2-3/4 cup dried fruit to 1 cup honey 

Put herb into jar and cover with honey, let set for two weeks then enjoy! 

Elecampane Honey 

You can use fresh or dried roots for this recipe

1/4 cup dried or 1/2 cup fresh elecampane root

cover with 1 cup raw honey ( you may need a little more if using fresh herbs)