Astragalus is an adaptogenic, a term used to describe something that helps the body adjust and adapt to stressors. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Astragalus is used for fatigue, immune support, respiratory and circulatory health, as a kidney tonic, and general restorative. The root is the medicinal part. You can […]
Chamomile is an often-overlooked little herb that has been used for centuries for a variety of maladies. There are two common varieties; German Chamomile (Chamomilla Recutita) and Roman Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). The dried flowers are the part used. Usually, we think of chamomile as a tea for digestion and it works quite well for this but there […]
Okay, really a grain but herbalists love it! In crazy, stressful times I turn to oats for solace. Oats are nourishing, calming, and fortifying. They contain iron, vitamin B complex, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A and C. High in fiber and protein, a steaming bowl of steel-cut oats makes the perfect warming breakfast. Oats […]
Juniper has been used since ancient times for its cleansing properties. Used to purify temples and protect from witches, today the smoke from juniper branches is used in sweat lodges. It is said to cleanse the air of bad energy and make it easier to commune with the spirits. The berries are highly aromatic and […]
Sage is a savory seasoning for poultry, pork, winter squash, pear and apple dishes, cheeses, stews, and chowders. Antiviral and astringent, sage has long been used as a healing herb. Sage leaf rubbed on unhealthy gums will help tighten and disinfect. Sage tea is a delicious remedy for sore throats, will help with menopausal hot […]
Mint is one of those plants that enable a love/hate relationship. As a cook I love it, as a gardener, mint is usually pushing the boundaries. It is a great groundcover for cool, wet places. There are several different mints available these days. Lemon, lime, chocolate, peppermint, and spearmint to name a few. They all […]
Violets are some of the first flowers of spring and are both edible and medicinal along with being quite lovely with a delightful fragrance. There are many varieties, from pansies to perennial violets to the wild violets that like to infiltrate lawns and moist cool spaces. They will grow in sun to medium shade and […]
April is the month for dandelions. They are plentiful and at their peak flavor right now. Dandelions are one of the top five most nutritious vegetables, ahead of broccoli and spinach. It contains Vitamin A, calcium, iron, thiamine, riboflavin and trace minerals. Europeans have been eating dandelions for centuries and you can find them here […]
Herb of the Month – Parsley Parsley is a wonderful little plant. It is one of the most adaptable of the culinary herbs. Used with fish, meats, pasta, veggies, eggs or to garnish a plate, this little herb brightens up any dish. Parsley was held in high esteem by the Greeks, who crowned their top […]
Herb of the Month – Cayenne My first intimate encounter with cayenne came when, as a budding herbalist, I found an article that recommended sniffing a pinch of cayenne up the nose for congestion. I was having a dinner party and was quite congested so I gave it a snort. It did indeed clear up […]
Herb of the Month – Sage Sage is a savory seasoning for poultry, pork, winter squash, pear and apple dishes, cheeses, stews, and chowders. Antiviral and astringent, sage has long been used as a healing herb. Sage leaf rubbed on unhealthy gums will help tighten and disinfect. Sage tea is a delicious remedy for sore […]
Nasturtium Nasturtiums are one of my favorite edible flowers. This easy to grow, fragrant and tasty little plant is a must for every sunny garden. The flowers come in hot colors from red to orange to pinks and yellows. It likes a sunny, well-drained spot and moderate water. Nasturtiums are easy to start from seed […]