Category: Fresh Herbs

4/6/2021 Comments

Alfalfa- A Nutritive Herb for the Body (Not just for animals)

Alfalfa

Alfalfa- A Nutritive Herb

                Known as Medicago sativa by the herbal enthusiast. This plant is a deep-rooting perennial with numerous small clover-like spikes of blue or violet flowers. The herbage is green and succulent and has often been used as an agricultural crop for livestock. It yields 2 abundant crops in a growing year, and is relished by horses and cattle alike, containing enough nourishing properties to fatten the animals and enrich their milk. Just as alfalfa can add weight to animals, it is also useful for people who are undernourished. To increase body weight, make an infusion of 1 oz. of herb, to a pint of water and drink in full cup amounts. 1

                Also known as lucerne, alfalfa is native to Iran. Alfalfa is thought to have been introduced to Europe during the Persian invasion of Greece in 491 CE, and introduced to China in the 2nd century BCE. In Europe it was used in times of hardship and food shortage such as during the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). This plant has a disposition that allows it to grow in many countries worldwide, and in a variety of climates. It does grow best, however in warm temperate and cool subtropical regions. Alfalfa is a member of the clover family and has leaves with 3 oval leaflets. In the summer it is identified by its blue/ purple flowers.2

In ancient China the people thought “what is good for your cattle is good for you, too.” The Chinese people fed their animals alfalfa, which was enjoyed so enthusiastically, that the vegetable was soon incorporated into their diet and physicians were using it to stimulate appetite and treat digestive problems. In ancient India, traditional Ayurvedic physicians also used alfalfa for ulcers, as well as arthritis pain, and fluid retention. The ancient Arabs fed it to their horses- which made them ‘swift and strong.’ They called alfalfa al-fac-facah, meaning “father of all foods.”3

                Spain brought alfalfa to the Americas, where it became a very popular forage crop on the Great Plains. The pioneers believed that if it was good for the cattle, it would be good for the people too. Alfalfa was utilized to treat arthritis, boils, cancer, scurvy, and urinary as well as bowel problems. After the Civil War, alfalfa fell out of favor as a healing herb, and it took nearly 200 years for it to reemerge as a salad item during the health movement of the 1970’s.4
                I remember as a child my mother use to sprout alfalfa seeds in a jar. I loved to watch the little seeds spring to life and found them quite enjoyable mixed into my salads. As a young woman, I would often buy sprouts in the super market, but they never tasted quite as good as when sprouted at home. When my own children came along, I began sprouting seeds with them. I think there is something fascinating for children, especially, to see a plant spring forth, from a tiny seed. My oldest son in particular loves sprouts, and I have often found that if a person is especially fond of a certain herb, good chance that they really need it in their diet. He will eat an entire jar of sprouts by himself, without any dressing.

“Make Your Own Sprouts”
- A mason jar
- A small screen top or some cheesecloth
- Alfalfa seeds (you can also sprout many other seeds)
- Distilled water
- A cool cabinet space

In the mason jar, fill a baseline amount of seeds at the bottom of the jar. I would pour maybe ½ inch or less of seeds into the jar. They will really “sprout!” Fill the jar about halfway with water and let the seeds sit in the water over night. Take the screen or cheese cloth and drain the water. Rinse the seeds one time with more water, and then drain. At this point you can place a piece of cheese cloth on the top of the jar and let the seeds sit overnight. The next day, you want to rinse with water again, so the seeds to do not dry out too much. Drain the water, and let the jar sit again. Continue and repeat for 3-5 days. You may need to check on the seeds. If they are getting to dry during the day, and if so, rinse twice a day. The sprouts will continue to grow and grow. When the jar is filled with sprouts, you can then transfer the little plants to another container to store in the refrigerator. Use immediately and try to eat all of them within a week. They can get soggy or spoil if you keep them too long.

                The leaves of Alfalfa, called Lucerne in Europe are rich in protein, calcium and other minerals, vitamins A, the B-group, C, D, E and K as well as 8 digestive enzymes. This plant has been well researched, compared to other herbs, and modern research has found that it is really beneficial for controlling cholesterol levels. According to Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine, “reductions in blood levels of total cholesterol and low density lipoproteins have been reported in animal studies and in a small number of human cases.” There have also been several studies with animals reporting reductions in arterial cholesterol plaques also. A small number of animal studies report that alfalfa may also reduce blood sugar levels. Although research has been promising, more data is needed to elicit more conclusive evidence of its efficacy.5

                In Rosemary Gladstar’s book Herbal Healing for Women, she exhorts expectant mothers to pay attention to “fixing” poor dietary habits, which are more than likely the cause of fatigue during pregnancy. She continues to explain that a growing baby needs a tremendous amount of nourishment. If the mother’s diet is not rich enough, than the nourishment will come from her own reserves. She shares an incredible tea that can be safely drunk every day and supplies the mother with the iron, calcium, protein and other trace minerals needed for a healthy pregnancy. She calls it “Uplifting Tea” and it contains raspberry leaf, nettle, peppermint, alfalfa, squawvine, and ginger root.6

Tea inspired by Rosemary Gladstar’s “Uplifting Tea”
2 parts raspberry leaf
2 parts nettle leaf
4 parts peppermint
1 part alfalfa
1 part yarrow
¼ part ginger root dried

Instructions: Mix all the herbs together in a sealable container, like Tupperware. For every quart of water, use ¼ cup of the herb mixture. Boil your water on the stove. Add ¼ cup of the herb mixture when the water has reached a boil. Immediately remove from the heat and cover for 10 minutes. Strain and serve with Almond milk and honey. *Drink 4 cups a day.

Taking the time to sit and enjoy a cup of tea is a great way to slow down the fast pace of modern society. I have often heard mothers tell me that they do not have time to make tea, let alone sit and drink it. I often run into people who want the quickest, easiest solution and health does not work that way. The ability to manage stress, slow down, breath and calm the mind can do just as much for the body as the nutrients in a cup of this alfalfa tea.

I have faithfully incorporated alfalfa into my diet for years, especially during the years I was pregnant. My favorite method for taking alfalfa is in powder form, and mixing it with almond milk. Typically, I will add a teaspoon of the powder into a teacup and cover with ¼ cup of almond milk and mix well. Sometimes I add a few drops of vanilla and molasses. Vanilla is for the taste, and molasses for the high iron content needed to keep pregnant mothers from the troubles of anemia. I will then drink this in the morning and it always give me extra energy for the day. My daughter who is now three loves the taste of alfalfa, and when I mix this special drink, she will drink it with a straw. I like to give this to her because she is petite, and alfalfa can add some extra weight. I am confident that she is getting her needed nutrients with this daily dose.

                The following is a simple recipe made from trial and error. There is always the challenge of getting people, especially children to take herbs because many of the medicinal herbs are bitter, and not naturally sweet. Alfalfa has a definite grass-like taste, and can be pleasing when you are used to it. I so not use animal milk products, and have found that almond is my favorite for “masking” the alfalfa flavor. However, I have also tried hemp milk and flax milk which are equally delicious. The blackstrap molasses is another nutritive food that can be very strong and overpowering. This too becomes mild when mixed with the milk, and vanilla just makes everything taste good.

Morning Alfalfa Drink:
-Tablespoon Alfalfa powder
-½ cup Almond milk
-1 teaspoon Blackstrap molasses
-3 drops pure Vanilla extract

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly in a cup or mug. Drink first thing in the morning, before starting the day. This drink can be modified or blended with frozen fruit to make a smoothie. I prefer it though, this simple way.

                Alfalfa is one of the most mineral- rich foods known to man, and that is because the roots can grow as much as 130 feet into the earth. It is exceptionally high in chlorophyll as well enzymes, amino acids, and carbohydrates. The minerals are in a very balanced form, as opposed to laboratory made multi-vitamins from hard mineral/ non-plant sources. This allows for easy absorption, alkaline action and neutralizing effect on the intestinal tract. Some of the conditions helped by alfalfa have been arthritis, ulcers, gastritis, liver disorders, eczema, hemorrhoids, asthma, constipation, body odor, bleeding gums, athlete’s foot and even cancer. If you have never used natural supplements, or herbs there can be a hesitancy or concern when incorporating for the first time. My suggestion is to find a local health food store, herbalist, or natural doctor for recommendations on obtaining herbs like alfalfa. I strongly discourage buying herbal products from chain stores, and big box locations. The product quality is not the same, and thus the effect of the herb is greatly diminished.7

                Smoothies are exceptionally popular and can be a very good way to consume your daily nutritive needs. There can be a tendency to add to much sweetener and I try to avoid that in my own recipes. Instead I depend on the natural sweetness occurring in the fruits added to the blended mix. For this recipe, I recommend using fresh alfalfa sprouts, especially for people who are not fond of sprouts in salad or alone. The flavor can be effectively masked by the other ingredients. I always urge people to be creative about their methods of incorporating herbs. The goal is to eat them, and I am not too particular in how that is accomplished, but I try to create as many tasty options as possible for myself and others.

Super Green Smoothie
-1 cup full fat coconut milk
-1 cup pineapple juice
-1/2 cup frozen strawberries
-2 Tablespoons chia seeds
-1/2 cup alfalfa sprouts

Blend all the ingredients until smooth. If the smoothie seems too thick, add a little almond milk until you have a creamy consistency. You can garnish with a sprig of peppermint, and sip with a straw. This drink is perfect on a warm day. It cools the body and reenergizes at the same time. The alfalfa sprouts are very easy to digest and assimilate and will have a tonifying effect on the digestive system.

                As an herbalist, or plant enthusiast, it is important to well versed in the knowledge of plants that aid the body in correcting organ systems, and herbs that nourish the body. Dr. Christopher calls it “cleanse and nourishing.” Alfalfa is one of those herbs that nourishes the body, and works markedly well if the body is in good and healthy condition. The more you take care of your own vessel the more able a plant is to make small adjustments, corrections and improvements on the health of an individual. We must take the time to cultivate an ongoing relationship with plants and nature and to develop a harmonious attitude towards what nature has provided for our benefit.


1 Grieve, Mrs. M. “A Modern Herbal, Volume 2.” Dover Publications, (1982): 501-502.
2 “Edible: An Illustrated Guide to the World’s Food Plants.” National Geographic, (2008): 182.
3 Castleman, Michael. “The Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines.” Rodale Press, (1991): 37.
4 Castleman, Michael. “The Healing Herbs: The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature’s Medicines.” Rodale Press, (1991): 38.
5 Stephen, Foster and Rebecca L Johnson. “Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine.” (2006): 12-13.
6 Gladstar, Rosemary. “Herbal Healing for Women.” Simon & Schuster, (1993): 186-187.
7 Balch, James F. and Phyllis A Balch. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing 2nd ed.” Avery Publishing Group, (1997): 73.

Alfalfa

Comments

4/4/2021 Comments

7 Herbs for Mom's and Kids

Red Clover

I am a mother, and momma of 5 children. Each of my children has helped me to develop a greater sense of love and connection to the healing plants given to us. Just like every child is different with his or her unique sensibilities, so too are all the herbs. They are like little children with personalities, qualities, and abilities that really makes it hard to favor one over another, but rather to love them all equally, as I do with my own children.

                The list of herbs I am about to share, predominantly, are found in my local environment, all but 2 can be gathered by wild crafting methods in my surrounding fields and woods. That is where my story begins. It is in the gathering and talking about herbs with my children, before we even begin to use them for medicine and food.

                My boys can identify a lot of plants. They know them by their names and by what each plant can do. I often see my son Abe sitting in the grass eating white clovers. Jay, my youngest, will often come inside smelling of sweet spearmint or sometimes it is the fragrance of onion grass, resembling garlic in its odor. I think I prefer spearmint scented children. Cal, my second oldest knows how to find a piece of plantain and bruise it to take away a sting, or itchy patch on his skin.

                Red Clover or Trifolium pratense in Latin, is actually a member of the pea family. Interestingly enough, apart from a few butterflies, bumblebees are the only insect with a long enough nose to reach the nectar which is why in the United States raw red clover honey is readily available. In fact, red clover depends on bees for fertilization. This brings me to an important point, whenever possible, collect your herbs in your neighboring habitat. Herbs, honey and food is more suited for your body when harvested in the locality where you live.

                My children will go out to the garden, and the field next to our home and pick the clovers, popping them right into their mouths- eating them raw and right from the earth. I personally prefer to dry them and add them to my herbal teas. What I typically do is make a large pot of tea each morning. In the summer months I love to wake up early while the dew is still on the ground and gather my herbs first thing. Before the children wake, I slowly simmer my red clovers and other herbs, preparing a big pot of tea for everyone before breakfast.

                Red clover historically has been used for coughs by the Chinese, and asthma by the Russians, as well as for digestive ailments in Europe. The Native Americans used red clover as a remedy for sore eyes, burns, and as a food source. Modern day practitioners have found red clover to regulate hormones, maintain bone density as well as calcium storage, improve cardiovascular health, and to inhibit cancer cell growth. 1 It is for these many reasons, and the abundance of this herb on our land that I highly value it for my family.

                Another highly abundant herb, even more so than red clover, is the lowly plantain, also called ribwort. The name of this plant in Latin is Plantago major. I say plantain is lowly, because plantain is a low growing plant, often mixed in with the typical yard grasses. It is often thought of as a weed, to be eradicated. Herbalists and plant lovers know its value and it is prized for its many useful abilities. I love it because of the plants’ availability and versatility. I use plantain in ointments, salves, juiced, raw, frozen and in dried preparations.

                I think plantain was one of the first plants my children learned to identify and use on their own. It grows everywhere in the spring and summer on our property, in the woods, along streams and in meadows throughout Pennsylvania. It is bright green with broad leaves, and a stiff channeled stem that pokes up in the grass. Inevitably as the weather turns warm and clothes are shed for outdoor play, children scrape knees, get stung, or walk through a patch of poison ivy. This little plant is happily growing nearby to be of useful service.

                Plantain comes to the rescue and all of my children know how to find the leaves, bruise them with their hands or teeth and rub the green juice on their skin. The powerful herb works immediately. One summer, while I was pregnant with my third or fourth child, I was stung by a wasp right on my protruding belly. It surely stung me! I quickly grabbed a leaf and chewed it a bit, to release the juices, before placing the pulp directly on the sting. In less than a minute the pain was neutralized, and the swelling went right down. It really is a miracle working plant.

                Jewelweed is another incredible plant for skin conditions. Impatiens capensis likes wet soil and grows all along our creek. It is most easily recognized by its yellow orange flower and green succulent stems waving in the breeze. This plant is another fast growing, prolific herb, easily harvest and readily available. My favorite method of using the jewelweed plant is to cut the long stems and blend the pieces of stem, leaf and flower in a food processor or blender along with equal parts water.

After blending, I strain all the pulp away, squeezing out the extra juices, and save the left over herb water in a quart jar. I will actually freeze some of the liquid in ice cube trays, and reserve about a pint at a time in the refrigerator because the shelf life of this juicy liquid is not very long, hence the freezing method.

When my children get into poison ivy, or develop a summer rash, it is wonderful to pull out frozen jewelweed ice cubes and let them melt over the rashy area. The coolness of the ice, along with the properties in the jewelweed soothe and rebuild the affected skin. My boys also know how to get cotton balls and remove the reserved refrigerated jewelweed and swab their skin just as if they were using some other over-the-counter poison ivy product.

                The next herb is a bright sun, shining herb with a pleasant sounding name reflecting its pleasing appearance, and that herb is calendula or Calendula officinalis. Calendula is also called pot marigold, and sometimes poet’s marigold. As the name suggests, this plant has large orange-yellow (gold) flowers that are produced from early summer to late autumn. They are a welcome addition to any garden and like most herbs are very hardy. Interestingly in Europe, during the middle ages the flowers were used to flavor stews, soups and drinks. It has also been named “poor man’s saffron,” and the dried parts were used with rice or chowders in lieu of the more expensive saffron. 2

                My children have helped me collect the flowers by popping off the colorful heads. They usually snap off easily. We will put them in paper bags to dry. I like this method because it is easy and keeps all the herb contained within the bag. I give my kids the job of shaking the bags to help encourage air flow and the drying process.

                When the flowers are dried, I make a skin ointment with them. I firmly believe in nourishing our skin with only real food ingredients. As an herbalist, I do not use over the counter lotions for this most important, protective organ. Since calendula has properties for soothing irritated or chapped, even cracked skin, sunburn and eczema it makes a great remedy for many skin conditions. I will share my favorite recipe for making Calendula ointment. It has kept my skin looking fresh and it moisturizes rather nicely without leaving a greasy or sticky film behind. I also feel rest assured knowing my children can use it safely on their skin, as it is free of chemicals and additives.

                Dandelion or Taraxacum officinale is another of our family favorites. I think my personal preferred way of enjoying the benefits of dandelion is as a salad. The bitter, but tender greens are best selected before they flower. I enjoy dressing them simply with olive oil and balsamic vinegar with a dash of salt and pepper. Sometimes I do add a splash of maple syrup to the dressing because the greens are rather bitter. During the spring, I will serve dandelion greens even at the breakfast meal.

                Dandelion greens are a very high source of vitamins A, calcium and iron. The bitterness of the leaves comes from compounds in the herb that stimulate the bile flow and aid in digestion. Tea from the leaves can be sipped and acts as a mild diuretic for the system. Since dandelion is high in natural potassium, it does not deplete potassium from the system as do other diuretics. All parts of the dandelion from flower to leaves and roots can be used safely by women and children, including pregnant women. The root is also very beneficial as a liver tonic and digestive aid. 3

I could write volumes on this plant. It is right up there in my top 10 favorite herbs. Many people here in the states try to kill dandelions that come up in their yard. In fact when we moved to our 1.5 acre property, there were barely any dandelions in our grass. My neighbor was a little disturbed after the first spring when she saw we were not killing the dandelions as the previous owner had. She told me they would spread everywhere, and rest assured they certainly did! Now, 7 years later, a few dandelions has turned into a dandelion field during spring bloom. It is beautiful to behold the hundreds of yellow tops as they turn into puff balls. The children love to run through them scattering the seeds in the breeze.

The next plant is not one we harvest in our local area. I purchase the roots already dried. This herb in native to Europe and western and central Asia. Glycyrrhiza glabra or Licorice root, in its common name is a deliciously sweet herb, often used in combination with bitter herbs for a more pleasing taste. Roman legionnaires chewed the herb’s roots on the battlefield and Napoleon was said to have the same habit during his military exploits, claiming its calming effect on his nerves. I actually give one of my sons licorice root to chew on, as he has a habit of wanting to chew on his nails. It seems to soothe that nervous need, and I know he is benefitting from the properties in the root. 4

Licorice is one of the oldest, mildest and most efficient laxatives, very safe and effective for constipated children or for adults with stomach weakness. It softens, lubricates and nourishes the entire alimentary canal. I especially love to combine licorice with other highly beneficial herbs that are quite bitter. Horehound and licorice combine well together to make a superb tea or syrup for coughs, colds and hoarseness. When combined with honey, youngsters will beg to take some of this delightful remedy. 5

This prickly plant is one of the best natural sources of digestible iron, as well as being high in calcium, and vitamin A. Nettle, known as Urtica dioica will strengthen and support the entire body. It is used for fatigue, edema, menstrual difficulties, and allergies. It is found easily, but beware, you will want to wear gloves because the leaves have a prickly sting that will form a dermatitis on the skin- hence its other name stinging nettle. 6

In the winter I will buy this herb dried from a health food store, but as long as it can be harvested in the warmer months- I collect it in nature. I stay away from roads, or busy industrial areas so that I know the soil is healthy and free of contaminants. If making into a tea from the fresh leaves, I just rinse them off in the sink along with the stem and put them in a big pot to lightly simmer on the stove. I quite enjoy the earthy, slightly astringent taste of nettles with some milk and honey. Sometimes I do add other more flavorful herbs to my tea. Nettles are safe and nutritious for children and for my own children I will make tea and then pour into big glass bottles to cool in the refrigerator. My son Rhys likes to mix a little apple juice and tea together in a cup for a slightly sweetened, wholesome drink during the hot summer days.

Nettle is an herb that I recommend for pregnant women. During my last pregnancy I drank copious amounts of nettle tea. It is a top pick for female issues and can be excellent for building up the blood during pregnancy. It may be the best prevention for hemorrhaging when drunk throughout pregnancy. After childbirth, it can remain an excellent tonic to rebuild the body and enrich as well as increase the flow of mother’s milk. My most recent pregnancy and birth was my best experience yet, and I believe it was in part due to my faithfulness to nettle tea each morning.

Calendula Ointment
1 oz. dried calendula flowers
3 cups light olive oil
3 tablespoons shaved beeswax
Slow cooker, or crock pot
Jars or other ointment tins (4-5 depending on the size of your jar)
Fill a quart jar with 3 cups olive oil. Add the dried calendula flowers and cover with a lid. Shake the jar to fully coat the flowers in oil. Set this jar on the window sill for 5 days, agitating the jar each day. At the end of the five days strain the oil and put in a slow cooking crock pot. Turn the pot on low and add the beeswax. Keep an eye on the mixture and turn off when all the beeswax has melted. I then use a metal gravel spoon to scoop the melted oil into jars to cool.

Cold Nettle Tea
4 cups fresh nettles or 1 cup dried nettle leaf
16 cups warm water
Large pot
A few sprigs of peppermint or spearmint
¼ cup raw honey

Fill your pot with 16 cups warm water. Add the nettles and stir. Heat the water on the stove to a low simmer. Stir in the peppermint or spearmint and turn off the heat and cover with a lid. Let the tea sit for 5 minutes. Next, add the raw honey and stir. Continue to let the tea sit for about 10 more minutes or until it reaches room temperature. They you can strain into glass milk jugs and store in the refrigerator. Don’t forget to label. When full chilled, serve as a delicious and nutritious beverage for your children.

Red Clover Morning Tea
1 cup fresh red clover blossoms
2 cups dried red clover
2 fresh sprigs of lemon balm
16 cups of water
Large pot
Turbinado sugar to taste

Fill your pot with 16 cups warm water. Heat the water on the stove to a boil. Turn off the heat, and remove from the burner. Next, stir in the red clover and lemon balm and cover with a lid. Let the tea sit for 5 minutes. Serve hot in a teapot. Add turbinado sugar to taste.

Jewelweed Poison Ivy Remedy
4 cups fresh jewelweed plants (with flowers)
5 cups distilled water
Blender
Quart jar

Rinse off freshly picked jewelweed plants and let dry slightly on some paper towels. Put the plants in a blender, ripping them into smaller pieces. Add the water and blend thoroughly. Then strain the jewelweed through a hand strainer. Press the herbs lightly with your hands to squeeze out the extra water. Reserve the water and pour into a quart jar and cover with a lid and label immediately. Put in the refrigerator for use on poison ivy. This will last about 1 week. Best if made fresh weekly, or if you already have poison ivy.

Dandelion & Garlic Salad
4-6 cups fresh dandelion leaves
2 crushed cloves of garlic
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 Tablespoons maple syrup
Pint jar
Salt and pepper to taste

Rinse your freshly harvested dandelion leaves, and set aside to dry. You can then make your salad dressing. In a jar crush 2 cloves of garlic, and add the olive oil and vinegar. Stir in the maple syrup. Put a lid on the jar and shake. Place your greens in a salad bowl and pour over the dressing. Add the salt and pepper to taste and stir and serve immediately.

Licorice Root Syrup
4 ounces licorice root, cut or powdered
1 quart distilled water
1 ounce dried horehound
1 pound honey
Stir the herb into the water while cold; cover and soak for 2 hours, keep stirring and slowly bring to a boiling point. Simmer for 15 minutes; strain and return to a clean pot. Bring to the boiling point again and stir in the honey and keep stirring until fully dissolved. Remove from the heat and allow to cool to room temperature. Put the syrup in small jelly jars, label and store in the refrigerator. You can administer 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day for an adult and ½ tsp. 3 times a day for a child.

Plantain Ointment
Slow cooker & spatula
Tea strainer
2 ounces dried plantain leaves
2 cups extra virgin olive oil
½ ounce beeswax
Containers for storage
In a slow cooker pour in your olive oil. Add your plantain leaves and stir. Turn the cooker on very low and turn on for 1 hour. Set your timer so you know when to turn off. Turn off for an hour. Then pour the oil and herb into a jar and set on the window sill for 24 hours. Make sure you have a lid on securely and agitate the jar a few times a day. The next day strain the olive oil from the dried plantain back into the slow cooker. You will want to use the spatula to scoop out all the oil. Add the beeswax to the cooker and turn on low. When the wax has fully melted turn the heat off and wait about 5 minutes before pouring the ointment into containers. I then wait until the ointment is completely cool before putting on the lids. Label and store in a cabinet for later use.




1 National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine p.304-305
2 National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine p.74-75
3 Herbal Healing for Women p. 175
4 National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature’s Medicine p. 230-231
5 School of Natural Healing p.355-357
6 Herbal Healing for Women p.30

Wild Calendula Flowers

Jewelweed

Comments

3/23/2021 Comments

Feng Shui with Plants

Unsplash photo

I am an herbalist, and there are many ways to find refreshment, wellness and even wholeness with plants, besides drinking them in herbal infusions, or applying on the skin as oils and ointments. The plant world is abundant and full of life and energy and provide enormous benefits as a way to balance and refresh your home. I have always felt that I could not put plants in my home because A. I do not have deep window sills.

Growing up, we had an old stone home with very deep window sills and for some reason I have it programmed in my mind that you can’t have plants without deep sills. The other reason I have stopped myself from decorating and balancing my home with plants is that I do not have a lot of good direct sunlight. This can easily be remedied by using plants that thrive even in the shade.

As a healer, I often challenge mindsets and thought patterns that people hold on to and are not serving them in a beneficial way. I do not always see my own negative thought patterns, but a recent vacation gave me the opportunity to really challenge my way of seeing and viewing the world. We recently spent some time in Maine, and stayed at an old farmhouse owned by a Master Gardner. Her occupational experience was more than evident in every little detail of the house. I had a chance to talk with her, as we both possess a love of plants. I had the knowledge and know-how in regards to the use of plants as medicine, but she “used” plants in a healing way by planting and placing and enhancing the home environment.

In Feng Shui- which is defined as “the study of how to arrange your environment to enhance the quality of your life,” in Terah Collins book The Western Guide to Feng Shui: Room by Room. Plants serve to provide happiness, and even health to your home environment. They can deliver more oxygen to the air, soften sharp angles and transform the entire feel of a room by its presence. There are some things you want to keep in mind when selecting plants for your home. I will give you five steps for plant selection and placement that can get you started on a whole new home and a whole new you.

The first thing you want to do is choose a room to start with. I like to begin by going through my house room by room and making necessary changes to freshen and liven up a room. Remove any objects that are no longer serving you, and you may want to read the book I have listed above, or another book on Feng Shui to help with design, but it is not a requirement before plant placement. The next thing you will need to consider is the light source for the room you are energizing. Take a day or two to notice how the sun comes through the window and the length of time, and angle of the light. Make some notes so that when you go shopping for plants you can choose plants that have light requirements that will suit your light source.

The third step is of course plant selection. Choose plants that are soft and make you feel peaceful. I would stay away from prickly plants, unless you have a designed cactus garden, but in that instance, I recommend placing other soften plants in coordination with the prickly and spiky. You may also want to consider fragrance and if you have great light sources, definitely look to purchase plants that bloom.

After plant selection, comes container selection. You will definitely want to buy some containers to place your plants into. Usually plants are set in black plastic sleeves at the greenhouse, but to really bring cheer and life and to follow the Feng Shui suggestions, the container your plants live in are equally important. Ceramic bowls, crocks or pots are perfect. If you do not have the funds for pottery, there are some beautifully colored plastic containers that can be used as well. Keep your eyes open, because you never know when you are out and about, when you will see something that would be perfect for your plants. You can always change the crocks too, if the plants outgrow them.

Lastly, do not forget that your plants can be cut flowers. In the blooming months I regularly cut plants, and flowers, even herbs from my garden and display on my kitchen counter, window sill, and even in the bathroom. Flowers are not just reserved for kitchen areas, you can place them in bedrooms as well. For instance, 2 pink roses are meant to enhance Love and Marriage in the bedroom area, and purple irises are supposed to help enhance career goals. Just remember that fresh flowers can deplete the energy of a room once they are past their prime and begin wilting. I try to remove old bouquets to the compost bin once they begin wilting. Or I may just remove a few blooms that look weak and keep the lively ones a few extra days.

You do not need to be a gardener, an herbalist, or an expert to begin experimenting with plants. I also want to stress that you do not need to have a green thumb either. I use to say that I didn’t have a green thumb, and that was another one of my limiting beliefs that kept me from working with live plants. They just take some practice, experience, and time to learn how to care for. It can be discouraging when a plant dies. It is a living thing. If you are really nervous about that outcome, ask someone at a greenhouse for very hearty plants so you can get comfortable with their various temperaments. Herbs are great beginner plants, because they thrive wonderfully and are hard to damage. Whatever your level of skill, I encourage you to add more green to your home. You will find immediate revitalization and clarity in the simple act of bringing life to the interior living space.

My indoor Catnip and Peppermint plants.

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12/31/2020 Comments

How to Make Ginger Tea with Fresh Ginger Roots

I hope you were able to enjoy the holiday. It was definitely different for us this year. Very quiet. I am using these quiet times for the good.

I recently posted that I was going off Facebook and Instagram. I actually never got into Social Media when it first started, but have spent the past 4 years using it for connection and building my business. In these times though, I feel that the invasion of privacy is more than I want to accept.
My energy feel scrambled by it all, and as a healer, I feel I need to be in a healing flow if I am to help others.

OTHER NEWS

I have been making herbal remedies for people for 9 years plus- actually it is more like 12 years in total. I started Sheep Hill Herbs 9 years ago, but I was making capsules, and tinctures 3 years before that. I always thought of labeling my herbals and I only just did it!
Go to my ETSY store and see my herbal products. I am actually still updating it on a daily basis, and will be adding TEAS (Which I am really excited to add) and more ointments, and more tinctures.

ETSY STORE ENTER HERE: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SheepHillHerbs

FOR THIS POST I WANTED TO TALK ABOUT GINGER 🍃🍃

Who doesn't know this herb? It is very common and even accepted by the medical profession as an "acceptable" herb for nausea. Ginger is so much more though. Zingiber officinalis aka "The Hot Root"
and if you even ate a piece raw, you will find- it is hot!

When you drink ginger tea, and I mean real ginger tea, made from fresh roots, it warms your whole body (head to toe). In the warmer months, I love to add ginger to my food as a spice, but in the winter and cold months, I relish how drinks with ginger that renew my body and actually circulate my circulation.

Ginger tea is a fine tea if you have chills, or are just chilly from a brisk walk outside. If you just can't seem to warm up your hands and feet, a hot cup may just be the trick. 🌿

Ginger is also a HEART loving herb. ❤🧡🧡
It stabilizes the blood, may help to balance cholesterol, and can strengthen the heart. THE KEY🔆 to any good herbal remedy is knowing how to take the herb. If you think you can sprinkle some dried ginger (bought from the grocery store) on your food, and have these effects and benefits, I am sorry to say- you will not. There may be a little good, but you won't have the WOW- amazing herbal experience that comes from fresh good quality herbs, or great quality dried herbs.

Ginger can also be useful for unchecked weight problems. It stimulates saliva which then activates enzymes needed to break down proteins and fats. It also increases metabolic heat to burn calories.

(Information found in the book 20,000 Secrets of Tea by Victoria Zak)

SO HOW TO ? ? How to make a great cup of tea.

Please go to my video on YouTube at the link just below here. The one that has the honey pot. I am posting it right here. You can watch How To. When you are on my channel I am going to ask you to Subscribe, and make a comment so I know you were there. Share your favorite way to enjoy Ginger.

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12/11/2020 Comments

My Obsession With Black Walnut- Herb

Study is wonderful. Reading and learning is great. I do it all the time. I ready daily and study what others have recorded. The best reading or best books are written by people who have had actual experience, and then attempt to write that experience down as clear as they can for others to benefit.

I have studied and read about plants for 20 years. Reading about a plant, does so very little in the way of getting to really know the plant. Reading provides me information and knowledge, but there is so much more when you spend time in the growth cycle with the actual plant. I just think about all the millions of people who lived before the written word, or when those who could read and write were small in number.

There is a wealth of information to be learned by observation and study in nature. A child will even be able to teach you from this kind of study. My son Caleb loves birds, and has spent hours looking for them, and listening to their voices. He can identify dozens of birds by their call, not to mention their sight. He also can identify by seeing their nests. I find this amazing.

Plants may seem like a mystery to those only use to purchasing from a store, or who only grow a very few in their garden. Plants are mysterious, but they are also very identifiable and you can get to know their properties and abilities after a full season of watching them bloom, grow, respond to the weather, flower and seed. Each year I make it my mission to learn more plants this way, and the ones I already know, I watch for their many characteristics. I truly get excited to see what each tree will do in the year. Will it blossom early? Will there be more fruit? Will it be strong?

This brings me to Black Walnuts- because I have spent a lot of time with this tree, and its fruit. Oh what I would have done without this tree?! It has helped me so much with my skin, and healing long standing skin issues. It is truly a helper, a friend, and a beneficial part of creation that I am grateful for.

In the video below I will talk a bit more about Black Walnut hulls- turned into medicine. I also have other videos on Black Walnut Hull Tinctures at my You Tube Channel, Sheep Hill Herbs (you can find them after you link over there). If you have had an amazing experience with Black Walnut (herb), leave a comment below.

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12/6/2020 Comments

Black Walnut- Green Hulls and Juglone

I love Black Walnut tincture, made from Green Hulls. It is truly the best way to enjoy this plant and herb. Every fall I can't wait to pick the green hulls and make A LOT of tincture for the year. It is one plant and remedy I always wildcraft and make from scratch. I just have not found the dried version of black walnut hull powder to be as effective.

I have depended on Black walnut to heal my skin of some pretty persistent eczema, which is really a concoction of bacteria, and fungal issues combined on the skin. Nothing has worked so effectively for me as this wonderful plant.

We have also been saved or our teeth have been saved by swishing the tincture at least 2 times a day. I have seen teeth enamel repair and harden from repeated, consistent care. (DIET IS ALSO IMPORTANT). We eat a Paleo diet. Grains, especially processed can really leach minerals from the body because of acidity. Properly processed grains, the ancient way as not acidic. I personally do not have enough time to process my grains the old fashioned way. We do have some brown rice, and buckwheat once a week or so. Wheat and Gluten- no. Just found my family healthier without it.

I have multiple videos on Black walnut, especially how to make your own tincture. I also have a few other blog posts here on this site. For now, I wanted to share my most recent video on this wonderful herb. I can't wait to see the blooming trees next year. They line our property and street. They are the sign of summer and give me a feeling of well-being with their big green hulls.

My own tincture can be found at: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SheepHillHerbs
Thanks!💚

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12/4/2020 Comments

Rosemary in Bloom and Indoors

This morning, I was greeted by 2 little blue flowers on my rosemary bush. I was so surprised. I mean, I know that plants have flowers, and that they bloom, but I have never ever had a rosemary that bloomed. In fact my rosemary's have often died before their time.

I think I was determined this year to have success with my rosemary. I love this amazingly beautiful, and fragrant plant. In the past, I have planted it right in my garden, and when the deep cold of winter sets in, it just is too much for this warm weather loving plant. My sister lived in Texas (I am in PA), and her rosemary bush was gigantic, like an actual bush.

What I have learned is to put my rosemary in pots, and move the pots in and out of the house. I move it in for the winter, usually starting in November, and take it out maybe late March. The problem is, or was, or has been that I never seemed to have one live through the winter, until March and go back outside. Last year was the first year where this very plant, pictured below lived through the winter, went outside and is not happy inside, blooming.

My actual Rosemary.

I actually use to say that I didn't have a green thumb. The truth is, I most definitely do. It was a matter of learning some skills, techniques and a whole lot of observation. That mixed with a mindset of not being afraid to fail. I think I use to be so afraid to "kill a plant." I have killed many plants. I would bargain to surmise that this may be a common thought for people who are not really developed in their plant skills. It truly does not feel great to kill a plant.

I remember one time in college- I had a plant in my small dorm room. I can't believe I did this, but I had NO idea what I was doing with plants at that time. I had hot water in my dorm room and because the bathroom was down the hall, with sinks, and I did not want to go down there. I thought I would just water my plant with this hot water. Needless to say the plant died rather quickly (within a day or so), and I felt horrible. Thinking back on it actually, I may have been able to save it if I knew what I know now.

There is a lot of risk taking in working with plants. I think when you approach them with hesitancy, and fear- they sense that. Now, I get in there and dig around the dirt, move, cut, trim, transplant and the plants keep on thriving. I never ever water my plants with hot water though! I do however use my herbal tea, after its cooled down and is no longer of interest to me. When I say cooled, like room temperature. I figure the plant will be enriched by the minerals in the tea.

As I was writing, I brought 2 rosemary pots in this November. The one was looking rather shabby, as it had gone a stretch without water. It is coming around though. The other looked very healthy when I brought it in and it is the plant that now has little blue blooms.

I love what I learned about Rosemary in of course 'Rosemary Gladstar's' book Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide.

"Rosmarinus means "dew of the sea. In reference to the plant's natural habitat on the warm, sunny hillsides bordering the sea." (Medicinal Herbs p. 84)

Rosemary has a great recipe for ensuring that your plants survive indoor settings. I followed her instructions and I have to say, she was exactly correct!
"It loves fertile soil and the full sunlight, though it will tolerate some shade. Water thoroughly, and don't let the soil dry out completely between waterings, but don't over water either. To have a really happy rosemary plant, mist the leaves weekly with a diluted seaweed spray."
-Rosemary Gladstar (Medicinal Herbs p. 84)

I have done exactly that. I have given my plant full sun- or the best sunny window in my house. I have been watering it a lot. Every 2 to 3 days. I am sure what problem I ran into before was that I let the soil become way too dry in-between watering. I have not been misting with seaweed spray, but I have been misting the leaves when I water. I can tell it has made a difference.

I am posting my own video on this lovely plant below. Go check it out on YouTube. My channel is Sheep Hill Herbs.

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11/14/2020 Comments

The Future of Herbs and Herbal Remedies (My Projections)

There is a swing, a swing that has been happening for decades back to the natural, back to herbal medicines. Plants are unavoidable, and grow everywhere, despite mans best efforts to control them. They defy weed eaters, and even atomic bombs. They are diligent, virulent, and extremely durable. When we are all gone, they would cover our magnificent structures and buildings in no time. Just look at your property. In one season, without care of the lawn, wood surfaces, decks, cement, driveways, and just about every surface, including the house and the roof, plants would take over. A jungle would quickly cover the earth. A thick jungle of plants.

Photo credit: Jacek Poblocki unsplash

At one time- plant medicines were the only medicines available. Ok- there are some brews that are made with toads, and other animals. I am not for that at all. Plants have been with us from the beginning. Where do I see this going? I see a movement for people returning to nature. I do not want to see more mega companies sprouting up selling supplements globally or through Network Marketing. THIS IS NOT SUSTAINABLE. Truly it puts us back in the place of dependence on the producer, and not in a place of independence.

What I am suggesting is not going to be desirable for the person who wants to make millions and billions of dollars. I honestly think it is a shame to use plants this way. To mass market them, harvesting them like we have with animals is ridiculously wasteful. I have always appreciated how the Native peoples of this land used everything and wasted not. I love small companies making small batches of herbals from nature, and their gardens, and small farms. If more people did this- we would see a big shift.

I also want to TEACH people how to take care of themselves this way, or at least a few individuals in every small community. We live on less than 2 acres, with access to a few more acres, and the breadth and wealth and abundance of plants on that small acreage amazes me continually. To me, there is no better form of care than taking what the earth provides at your doorstep. I guess I am talking to country people. If you are in the city, that is harder, but the creative ways people build city gardens, and community gardens can be an answer for many.

It saddens me deeply to see the world turned upside down by the scare of a virus. Man has been working with natural remedies and viruses for thousands of years. Now if we are talking the Big C, or some other disease- this is much harder to take care of naturally and requires many lifestyle changes. For the world to grind to a halt over an acute health issue is only because of lack of knowledge. The bible says "My people are destroyed because of lack of knowledge." Hosea 4:6

photo credit: Tarun Anand Giri Unsplash

While people have been swept away with the world, and the senses, we have forgotten who we are, where we come from and the power we all hold as divine souls. We are created in God's image. We are more than worthy. He has given us all the things He gave Jesus, and more. He gave us the power from on High, through his Spirit, as we are spiritual beings. The world would have us forget. The world would have us be slaves to men.

Where do I see Herbal trends going? I see people who know how to read the land, and understand Spirit will not be swept away in this madness. Take what you are learning and apply it. Come to your true self. Learn who you are. Turn off the noise. Get still. Be quiet. Listen to the still small voice. Start growing plants. Learn about the plants you have near your home.💚

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10/21/2020 Comments

Why Are My Herbs Not Working?

I wanted to address a question or concern that the herbs you are taking may not be working, or seem to be taking a long time to work. There are a number of reasons that this could be so, but I want to look at 2 big reasons.
The first is that the herbs you are eating, or taking, or applying topically are of inferior quality. Unfortunately this happens a lot. My personal favorite way to "use" herbs is to grow, gather, and collect my own plants, dry them and make medicine from them. The next best method, is if you have a friend, or community Herbalist who is doing this and you get your herbs from them. If you buy herbs in capsules in bottles, you have no way to be sure that you are getting a great product. Of course you could go on the recommendation of others and what has worked for them, but just remember by the time you buy a bottle of capsules, the herb has gone through a lot of processing. Even a great herbal company will lose some potency and effectiveness in the herb just through process.

The best way to preserve is drying immediately and saving the dried herbs as tea, or fresh wilting them, and turning them into tinctures for long term preservation. I do recommend Mountain Rose Herbs as a reputable herb supplier, and have a banner below for their herbs. I also like many other small farms that grow and make small batches of herbal products, like Free Verse Farm in Vermont. I hate to say it, but stay away from big chain store brand herbal products. I do not want to name names, but if it is a box store, don't get your herbs there.

The second main reason your herbs may not be working, is that your mind or your thoughts are working against the herbs. Herbs work. They work so well that if you give even small amounts, of safe herbs to a child or even a pet, the herbs know what to do, and work on fixing a problem. The child or the animal has no preconceived thoughts, fears, doubts or troubles and when they take the herbs that are given to them by a trusted person, the herbal medicines do their job.

If you have suffered from some sort of chronic or long term affliction, you will have built thought patterns of doubt, disbelief, frustration and even skepticism of ever really getting well. So you may take handfuls of herbs every day, and your subconscious mind may be working against you actually getting better. If you are one of these people, and you find yourself frustrated with your results, and lack of progress, you will want to get to the deeper level, the subconscious level of the mind and "reprogram" your feelings about wellness.

I am going to have to say that this is going to be difficult, at first. Your conscious mind will reject the new programming. If you have been afflicted for years, there is a lot to undo. The trick, or technique I am going to suggest will feel uncomfortable and very hard, at first. If you can continue though, on a daily basis, you will find that you are making progress at a faster and more successful rate. I learned about these techniques from a motivational speaker, Jake Ducey. He is not an Herbalist, but I apply much of his teachings to my herbal practice.

The best time to do what I am going to suggest, is right before bed, when you are relaxed. In fact, you will definitely want to help relaxation by doing something with herbs. Burn a smudge stick of Mugwort, put Lavender on your pillow, drink a cup of chamomile tea, take a few drops of Valerian. Or you may need to do all of these things to relax before this exercise.

Then you will lay down in bed, with the lights low. I don't want you to fall asleep yet. Resting, say to yourself, "I am healthy." You can do this out loud, or in your head. As you say it though, you need to visualize, or imagine a picture of yourself, as a healthy self. For instance, I see myself leaping through a sunny field, almost floating through the grass, smiling, feeling free, and wonderful. If you have been sick for a long time, this will be most difficult, but give it a try. Imagine yourself as the healthy way you want to be. You can be anywhere, doing anything, but really get into the feeling of it. FEEL it happening, see it with your mind. Repeat "I am healthy." For the first night, do this 5 minutes, and then go to sleep.
It is really important to be in the feeling of health before falling asleep because this will carry into the deeper parts of your mind, as you sleep. When you wake up, I know you will feel better than ever. Then throughout the day, when you feel tempted, or frustrated again. Remember that feeling of health and the visual you created for yourself, and tell yourself again, "I am healthy."
Continue with this exercise every night, maybe extending it up to 10 minutes before sleeping. Do this as long as you need to see the results you want to see. I cannot tell you how long, but it will be different for each person. I think for myself, I did a certain visual for at least a few months, maybe up to 6 and then as if peeling the layers of an onion, I would "work" on something else.
I still do this technique before bed, as I am wanting to manifest other things in my life, and I know that it all starts with how our subconscious mind has been programmed. I could go on an on about this, but I will say that I had to do this to see my own personally healing. I actually said "I am healthy, wealthy and wise," as my little mantra. I said it over and over, and really felt it. I have seen my health increase many times over, and the wealth of our household. Wisdom- well lets just say I have always been wise.😉

Photo credits for this post, www.unsplash.com

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10/12/2020 Comments

How to Make Dandelion ROOT Tea Yourself

photo credit www.unsplash.com Elijah Hiett

Oh- how I am already missing the plants of spring, and look forward to the next time I see them bloom. When you can not enjoy a fresh plant, or fresh root, dried is the next best thing. What I have learned, and also experienced is that herbs are the best medicine in tea form. There is something spiritual, earthy and so natural about making a tea/ tisane/ decoction or infusion of plant matter.
Let me first define those for words for you: An Herbal Tea is plant material extracted into water, by sun, heat, or even lunar rays.

Tisane- This is actually another word for Infusion, and is employed when working with the delicate parts of a plant, like the flowers, leaves, stems, seeds, and roots that have volatile oils.
"Infusing extricates the easily rendered vitamins, minerals, tannins, mucilage, delicate volatile oils, and many of the plant's chemical constituents."
-Rosemary Gladstar (The Science and Art of Herbology)

A Decoction- Is a type of infusion, but is used for roots and barks. The plant matter that is harder, and stubborn and needs some more time in slightly boiling water to extract the important materials.

To make a really good, and strong Dandelion Root herbal tea, you will employ the decoction method. Dandelion roots, can be dug up and I do have video on this process you can watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E71XwW0i03k

Chances are you have not already dug up roots, or enough for an entire winter. I know I have not. I usually use my dandelion roots pretty quickly and have to rely on those I buy. Look for herbs that are strong in smell, color, and taste. It may be hard to taste before buying but if you are able to sample from a small farm, then I would recommend that. More than likely if you buy from a small farm your herbs will be good!

Dandelion roots smell so good! I love opening a bag and taking a deep breath. I think I crave dandelion in all forms, the leaf, the flowers, the roots. My body must need them!

I also learned from Rosemary Gladstar's teachings to never make just a cup of tea. (Unless you are using tea bags). I am going to do a link here for Traditional Medicinals Dandelion tea. This was Rosemary Gladstar's company in the beginning and truly I think the only box tea worth drinking. If you do not want to buy the roots, but want to enjoy dandelion root tea. Try Traditional Medicinals Organic Roasted Dandelion Root tea.

Anyway let us get back to the directions. You will need a large pot with a lid, 1 cup dandelion root (dried), and 1 gallon of water. That is it! Three ingredients. I like to make my dandelion tea strong. It is much tastier, and more effective herbally. Pour your water into the pot and put on the lid. Turn the heat on medium high for a few minutes. Add the dandelion roots and replace the lid. You will want to keep watch on the pot, as soon as the water is boiling, turn the heat down to medium, or a simmer and put the lid back on. Simmer the roots for 25 minutes (with the lid on).

When the simmer is up, remove from heat and let stand another 10 minutes to "steep" further. At this point you can serve the tea hot with honey and milk, or let it cool further and put in a gallon jar in the refrigerator to drink cold. I personally like it both ways.

Lastly- I think it would be prudent for me to share the virtues of dandelion roots, as it is most fitting for this post. According to Dr. Nicole Apelian in her book The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies (which is a great starter book by the way) "Dandelion root is used to aid digestion and benefits the kidneys, gallbladder, and the liver. It stimulates bile production, helping with the digestion of fats and toxin removal. It removes toxins from the body and restores electrolyte balance, which improves liver health and function."