tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68555533105795342962024-02-21T00:55:44.339-08:00Hamida the HerbalistSharing plant-based healing, herbs, recipes, aromatherapy, flower-essences, hand-made products, and all things herbal.
www.wisewomenofthewest.comMystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-45916424391159289672012-05-17T14:12:00.000-07:002012-05-17T14:12:29.525-07:00Making Your Own - SauerkrautI finally did it!<br />
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I live in an area which is becoming famous for fermented foods. For a couple of years they have had a Fermentation Festival here with classes, talks and demos on fermented foods: how to make them and why they are good for you. Dozens of vendors let you sample the kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha, olives, pickles and things I've never heard of, that they have for sale. <br />
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I have been getting huge heads of cabbage free every couple of weeks, so I decided it was time. My kraut has been 'working' for a couple of weeks now and it's looking good.<br />
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I used a recipe from a local free magazine called "Discoveries: For Those Who Live and Play in Northwest Sonoma County". <br />
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These are the instructions I followed and so far it's looking great.<br />
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This recipe is for Sauerkraut or Kimchee <br />
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Thinly shred a medium head of cabbage in a food processor or by hand with a sharp knife--the thinner the shred, the crunchier the result. Thinly slice 2 green onions using both the green and white parts, and two tiny red Thai chili peppers (or some crushed dried hot red peppers to taste). Add one teaspoon grated ginger and one large clove of garlic, smashed and chopped fine (Other optional ingredients are daikon radish, carrots, beets, dry hijiki seaweed, cumin, dill or parsley). [I used cabbage, garlic, ginger and seaweed in mine because I have had this combination and love it.]<br />
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In a large glass, ceramic or stainless steel bowl, add 2 1/2 to 3 tablespoons of sea salt to the shredded cabbage mixture. Mix well and let sit for about 10 minutes until liquid (the brine) begins to form. Mash everything together with a potato masher to encourage brine. (It works!)<br />
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Then put the mixture into two very clean wide-mouthed 16 ounce canning jars (or a single quart jar), packing jars full by smashing down the contents with a spoon until the brine completely covers the top of the cabbage mixture. Leaving about 1/4-inch of space at the tops of the jars, screw on the lids, but not too tightly. Set the jars on top of the fridge (in a pie tin, in case of overflow) and cover with a towel. <br />
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Let sit two to three weeks or longer. After one month, your homemade sauerkraut/kimchee is ready to eat. You can put the unopened jars in the fridge to retain a crunchy texture. <br />
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Note: if you open the lid and discover a bit of mold on top, just scrape if off and the rest will be fine.<br />
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I used pink Himalayan salt. <br />
Have another couple of weeks to go for my first batch. I'll make sure and let everyone know how it turned out. Tomorrow, I will start another batch since I just received another huge head of cabbage. I wonder what I'll put in it this time...maybe some chili peppers. <br />
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If you want to know about the Fermentation Festival which will be in the fall, you can subscribe to the <a href="http://www.osmosis.com/">Osmosis website</a> newsletter to receive updates.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-52847351350683776762012-04-20T12:15:00.000-07:002012-04-20T12:15:37.308-07:00Spring in Pocket CanyonThis is the time of year when I fall in love with my home and yard again. I begin to go outside and work in my garden, happy to see which plants have survived the winter. Yesterday I saw an iris ready to bloom that has not bloomed for 6 years! <br />
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The stinging nettle is returning as is the elecampane and the agrimony - herbs I planted years ago which come back every year. The artemisias and the mugwort are coming up. The evening primrose and the St. John's wort have expanded - yay! For the first time ever the rosemary is blooming! Thyme, oregano, savory and rue have survived. The peppermint and spearmint are flourishing. For many, these are not great accomplishments, but out here in the redwoods, cold, wet, dark winter conditions threaten Mediterranean herbs. There is not a lot of sun even in the middle of summer, because I live in a narrow canyon surrounded by hundred foot trees. But I am glad and hopeful to see each one that returns. <br />
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I notice that the bluebells are out in force, remembering that the daffodils did not do so well this year. I know they are still there, since gophers don't like them. The foliage came up, but no flowers. <br />
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There is still enough water flowing through the small creek that crosses beneath my driveway, for a mini waterfall from the huge pipe that got installed before my time. I am comforted by this sound of water...this is a safe amount. All is well. The reflection of the big creek it falls into shimmers on my porch roof. It is delightful to sit out there and eat my late breakfast, read, write and dream. Each spring I see that I am not ready to give it up - this life in the woods, despite the discomforts I endured this past winter. <br />
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In winter I swear this is it...I'm moving, I can't stand it anymore. Worrying about flooding, and suffering from the bitter damp cold for months at a time. <br />
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But then Spring finally comes and with it a whole new perspective. I managed to start some peas in my little greenhouse, then transplant them between rainstorms. Now they have found the mesh I installed for them to climb up on. <br />
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This year there are dozens of new redwood sprouts. In the 18 years I've been here, I have never seen so many. Part of me wants to pull them up as they will take over my garden if they survive, but part of me realizes this is Nature reclaiming the land. I remember that I will not always be here, but these trees could live for hundreds of years. <br />
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When I first got this place I made a commitment to protect the redwoods on my land...now I have a crop of babies! I should take this as a good sign and nurture them. The earth abides and I am grateful. <br />
Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-60009173973730110572012-04-08T12:50:00.001-07:002012-04-08T13:25:01.239-07:00Healing Power of Culinary SpicesFound this great book at the library the other day and highly recommend it. "Healing Spices: How to Use 50 Every Day and Exotic Spices to Boost Health and Beat Disease". The author is Dr. Bharat B. Aggarwal, PhD. You can purchase it through this blog by clicking the link in the sidebar.<br />
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Many of the spices you already have in your cupboard if you like to cook. Some have to be purchased at an herb store, some at ethnic grocery stores. I love it that spices and recipes from many world cuisines are included. The book describes the spice, where it comes from and how to identify it if there are others that are similar to it. <br />
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There is some history about the plants and how they have been used. It goes into research from around the world as to the healing properties both from the 'folk' point of view and through scientific research. On top of that there are recipes for using them in your everyday diet. Here are just a few examples:<br />
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<strong><em>Pomegranate Guacamole</em><br /><br />1 lime<br />1 cup sliced scallions<br />4 garlic cloves, diced<br />2-3 serrano or jalapeno chiles, diced<br />1/4 cup chopped cilantro<br />2 Tbs. pomegranate juice<br />1/4 cup pomegranate seeds<br /><br />1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a medium bowl. Sprinkle with lime juice. Mash until it forms a coarse pulp.<br />2. Add the scallions, garlic, chiles, cilantro, and pomegranate juice. Continue to mash until well blended but still a little chunky. Fold in the pomegranate seeds.<br /><br />Makes about 2 cups<br /><br />The author refers to pomegranate as "a pharmacy unto itself", with special value for blood vessels, lowering blood pressure, and numerous types of cancer. <br /><br />Another gem - Lemongrass "the calming spice"<br />And who would not benefit from that these days? This is a good one for hot summer days (haven't seen many of those for a long time)...but you could drink it hot as well.<br /><br /><strong><em>Lemongrass Tea</em></strong><br /><br />1 cup lemongrass pieces about 1/2 inch each<br />1/2 cup sugar<br />8 cups water<br /><br />It says to boil 2 cups water with the lemongrass and sugar, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Steep til cool then put in blender or food processor until finely chopped. Then you strain out all the solids. Serve cold or iced<br /><br />Lemongrass is helpful in reducing cholesterol and has anti-cancer properties as well. <br /><br />Although the book does have illustrations, more would be better. It has a chart on what you can use to substitute for spices you don't have when cooking and recipes for popular blends such as: bouquet garni and mulling spice. I was pleased to see another recipe for Ras-el-hanout since I collect them. A whole section at the back is devoted to curry and masala blends. Finally there is a section on where to find spices that may not be available in your area...websites and phone numbers.<br /><br />I appreciate the fact that the author includes research done outside the U.S. and Europe, because we don't always have access to that. He pulls it all together in a very user friendly way. This book is a 'must have' for anyone trying eat their medicine.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong>2 ripe avocadosMystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-14032978978077693232011-12-01T17:45:00.000-08:002011-12-01T17:50:07.954-08:00Perfect for this Holiday SeasonI made the salsa recipe until fresh cranberries were no longer available. You can buy fresh cranberries and freeze them to use later. I plan to do that this year because I love this salsa so much.<br />
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I probably posted this before, but it is so delicious, I thought I'd post it again. Made some for Thanksgiving and have to say...this one is so popular, you have to double or even triple the recipe if you have more than 6. People literally park themselves near this salsa and don't move! Delicious.<br />
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I have used lemon and even orange juice when lime was not available. I prefer the lower amount of sugar. I'm making some right now! It's really good with corn chips, especially blue corn chips. Unsalted best.<br />
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CRANBERRY SALSA !!!<br />
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1 BAG FRESH CRANBERRIES, RINSED & CHOPPED {FOOD PROCESSOR]<br />
1 HALF BUNCH FRESH CILANTRO, CHOPPED<br />
2 SCALLIONS, CHOPPED<br />
2 TEASPOONS FRESH LIME JUICE<br />
1/2 -- 3/4 CUP SUGAR<br />
PINCH OF DRIED HOT PEPPER FLAKES<br />
1/4 TEASPOON GROUND CUMIN<br />
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COMBINE THE ABOVE THE DAY BEFORE YOU SERVE TO "MARRY" FLAVORS, AND FEEL FREE TO MODIFY , TO TASTE.<br />
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DOUBLES EASILY REFRIGERATE TO MARRY, KEEPS IN REFRIGERATOR VERY WELL!<br />
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I haven't tried to make this but as soon as I get my new oven, I will. <br />
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CRANBERRY TART <br />
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PREP 10 MINUTES BAKE 40-45MINUTES @ 350 COOL 20 MINUTES<br />
CAN BAKE THE DAY BEFORE. COVER WITH PLASTIC WRAP & KEEP AT ROOM TEMPERATURE.<br />
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12 TABLESPOONS(1 ½ STICKS) BUTTER, MELTED, PLUS MELTED BUTTER FOR BRUSHING THE PIE PAN<br />
2 CUPS CRANBERRIES, RINSED AND DRAINED<br />
1 ½ CUPS SUGAR<br />
½ CUP CHOPPED PECANS<br />
1 CUP ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR<br />
2 LARGE EGGS, BEATEN<br />
1 TEASPOON PURE ALMOND EXTRACT<br />
CONFECTIONERS’ (POWDERED) SUGAR FOR DUSTING THE TART<br />
SWEETENED WHIPPED CREAM FOR SERVING<br />
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1.Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350. Lightly brush a 9 inch glass or ceramic pie pan with melted butter.<br />
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2.Scatter the cranberries in an even layer in the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle ½ cup of the sugar and the pecans over them.<br />
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3.Place the butter, flour, eggs, almond extract, and the remaining 1 cup of sugar in a large mixing bowl and stir with a wooden spoon to combine well. Pour or spread the butter mixture over the cranberry mixture.<br />
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4.Bake the tart until it has risen, is lightly browned, and the center has nearly set-40-45 minutes. Transfer the tart to a wire rack to cool for 20 minutes, then slice and serve warm with the whipped cream. Or, let the tart cool completely, about 1 hour, before serving. Dust with confectioners’(powdered) sugar if desired. <br />
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This tart can also be made with 1 cup chopped apple and 1 cup of cranberries.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-18413103141785236242011-11-03T14:59:00.000-07:002011-11-03T15:03:31.206-07:00Gather, Prepare and Eat Acorns<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-i-gLVtxNVDWAcHoNgfKbf_1j7-Cc4z7BxHlmpOvOHV6P-2q99LhiprDxDWy73mX39-xZ1xV1BFNY0fctVHyGa9-i9ds23epvRauJFPwj6Y-la3z2snNbZPxxHrdKSNAhSa7EdRuWFRE/s1600/yr-acone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-i-gLVtxNVDWAcHoNgfKbf_1j7-Cc4z7BxHlmpOvOHV6P-2q99LhiprDxDWy73mX39-xZ1xV1BFNY0fctVHyGa9-i9ds23epvRauJFPwj6Y-la3z2snNbZPxxHrdKSNAhSa7EdRuWFRE/s200/yr-acone.jpg" width="150" /></a>The other day on my walk, I noticed there were a lot of acorns on the ground. I know they were the staple food source for California Indian people for centuries, so I knew they were edible. In fact, at different times in my life when I was spending time with Native People, I cooked and prepared them myself. I decided to try it again.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I gathered acorns over a couple of days, let them sit for a few days, then cracked them open taking out the nuts inside. I soaked them overnight to loosen the brown skin on the nut, then removed the skins. I ground them in my Vitamix to the size of coffee grounds. I put them in cold water and poured off the water about a dozen times. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Today I am cooking the mush. It is creamy and smooth, with a mild flavor.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Acorn has a high level of protein. It was the staple food for California native people for generations until Europeans came with their animals, which escaped and fed off the acorns making it unavailable to the people. It has been said that is this the main reason the native people were forced to go to the missions...for food after their own food source was taken by the animals.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Acorn is a nut and after the tannins are removed by processing, has a light nut flavor. Tannins create a bitter taste and are not good for our liver, so must be removed, but it is not poisonous. All types of acorn can be eaten. Some have more tannin than others and so take more processing before eating. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Check out this website: <a href="http://www.grandpappy.info/racorns.htm">Acorn Recipes and Acorn Preparation</a><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">A great website, which although it is low tech...has everything you need to know about acorn. </div><br />
I think it is very useful for us to know about 'wild foods' and how to prepare them. Find out what grows naturally near you or within a short distance, that you can use for food or medicine. Learn how to prepare these items, including seeds, nuts, berries, sea vegetables, leaves, roots, mushrooms, and fruit. This will be beneficial to you in many ways: <br />
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1) it will get you out in nature, walking and being observant,<br />
2) you will be learning something new, including the cycles of nature, <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">3) you will see that you are not at the mercy of the supermarket down the street - which will empower you and help you feel more secure. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Knowing that everything you REALLY need is available and within your reach is a good feeling. It is empowering to collect and prepare wild foods. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Hopefully, we won't need to rely on these things to survive, but will just add them to our diet for variation and fun. Have a wild foods dinner with your friends. </div>Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-23241890260886263082011-10-27T14:44:00.000-07:002011-10-27T15:05:11.245-07:00Fall - Time for Spiced ChaiThis is the season for chai. Hot and spicy, it warms you up and is good for you. It's a good way to strengthen your immune system before the onslaught of winter. <br />
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I start my chai by putting fresh ginger, cardamom seeds (taken out of the pods), and cinnamon stick in the crock pot overnight. The next day, after I turn off the crock pot, I add black tea and let that steep for a few minutes. I make a large batch. I make it strong, then put it in the refrigerator for easy use at a later time. When I want some, I use about half a cup or so, add multi-grain milk and honey then heat. <br />
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There are hundreds of recipes...find one or make up one. Here is an article from the Herb Companion newsletter with 3 recipes following:<br />
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"Sensuous, soothing and simply irresistible, chai is the ideal accompaniment for savory scones … a perfect break on a busy afternoon … a satisfying finish to a holiday dinner with family and friends.<br />
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Derived from the Chinese chá, “chai” means tea in much of the world, including Asia, Eastern Europe, parts of Africa and Brazil. Masala chai is an aromatic blend of black or green tea with warming spices. Sugar and milk often are included, as well.<br />
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Travel to India, Nepal and Tibet, where masala chai originated, and you’ll likely see vendors peddling the tasty brew on street corners or at train stations. According to Ayurvedic tradition, masala chai boosts the immune system, enhances metabolism, relieves stress, aids digestion and sharpens the mind.<br />
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You can find hundreds of chai recipes associated with different locales, restaurants and even families. Preparation methods vary, too—some aficionados insist on boiling the tea, spices and milk together, while others take a gentler approach, briefly steeping the tea leaves and spices in hot water, then adding hot milk and sweetener last.<br />
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The following recipes are three twists on this long-loved delight. Experiment by adding fennel seeds, coriander seeds, nutmeg, star anise, and lemon or orange peel to create your own favorite blend."<br />
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<strong>Basic Black Chai</strong><br />
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• 1½ cups cold water<br />
• One 2-inch piece cinnamon stick, broken<br />
• 2 heaping teaspoons black tea<br />
• Seed of 3 cardamom pods<br />
• One ¼-inch-thick slice fresh ginger<br />
• 3 whole cloves<br />
• 2 black peppercorns<br />
• ¼ to ½ cup milk<br />
• 1 to 2 tablespoons sugar<br />
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1. Bring water to a boil in small saucepan. Add cinnamon, cover, remove from heat; steep 2 minutes. Return pan to heat; bring to a boil. Add tea, spices, milk and sugar; cover, and remove from heat. Steep 3 minutes.<br />
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2. Pour mixture through fine wire-mesh strainer into warm teapot, discarding solids. Garnish with cinnamon sticks.<br />
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<strong>Gentle Green Chai</strong><br />
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This is a yummy variation of kahwah, a Kashmiri green tea.<br />
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• 1½ cups cold water<br />
• 2 heaping teaspoons green tea<br />
• Seed of 1 cardamom pod<br />
• 2 whole cloves<br />
• 2 strands saffron (optional)<br />
• 6 blanched almonds, chopped<br />
• ½ cup milk<br />
• 1 tablespoon honey<br />
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1. Combine water, tea, spices and almonds in small saucepan. Cook over low heat until hot (do not boil). Partially cover; steep over low heat 10 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in milk and honey.<br />
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2. Pour through fine wire-mesh strainer into warm teapot, discarding solids. Serve.<br />
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<strong>Tulsi Chai</strong><br />
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In India, Tulsi Chai, made from holy basil (Ocimum sanctum), is used to treat colds and reduce stress.<br />
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• ½ cup holy basil leaves<br />
• 2 cups cold water<br />
• 2 heaping teaspoons green tea<br />
• Seed of 1 cardamom pod<br />
• One 1/4-inch-thick slice fresh ginger<br />
• One 2-inch cinnamon stick, broken<br />
• 2 whole cloves<br />
• Pinch of nutmeg<br />
• 1 tablespoon honey<br />
• Milk, to taste<br />
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1. In small saucepan, boil basil and water. Reduce heat, cover and simmer 3 minutes. Stir in tea, spices and honey: bring almost to a boil. Remove from heat, cover and steep 3 minutes.<br />
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2. Pour mixture through fine wire-mesh strainer into warm teapot, discarding solids. Serve with milk. Garnish with skewered crystallized ginger cubes, fresh basil leaves and grated nutmeg.<br />
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<a href="http://www.herbcompanion.com/cooking/make-chai-3-recipes.aspx#ixzz1bpzIS84q">Read more</a>Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-23046873297228096792011-10-17T16:34:00.000-07:002011-10-17T16:39:28.705-07:00Edible Mushrooms Growing in my Living Room!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw8_MTd9iPoOGhLiqycSq3GZbfrx4snmq6CPDl7P9OZY8bnTuU5npCJ72DEIUt0iQ8b12OcOMuXJvmi0-EmgJ-2IGelJlPJKqVZE08yR8PE9fXsNCW8SybpVK3ErqnLHBJSi6s1gqgaI4/s1600/Pleurotus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw8_MTd9iPoOGhLiqycSq3GZbfrx4snmq6CPDl7P9OZY8bnTuU5npCJ72DEIUt0iQ8b12OcOMuXJvmi0-EmgJ-2IGelJlPJKqVZE08yR8PE9fXsNCW8SybpVK3ErqnLHBJSi6s1gqgaI4/s200/Pleurotus.jpg" width="186" /></a>A couple of weeks ago I had a booth at the annual harvest event at Laguna Farms in Sebastopol. I was selling my herbal products and giving flower essence readings. <br />
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They offered many classes including one on growing edible mushrooms. I made two 'bags' full of rice hay and mycelium. <br />
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Two days ago they sprouted. I was so excited! Mushroom babies! I spent some time trying to find out what kind they were then finally identified them - <em>Pleurotus ostreatus</em> var.<em>columbinus </em>blue oyster mushrooms! I wasn't sure how long to let them grow before harvesting, but after I did a little research, I figured it out. <br />
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This picture shows them on the second day after they pop out of the plastic bag. They get as big as cookies and lighten in color when they are ready to eat. Once they start, they grow fast. <br />
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I have been eating them for two nights now. Although they are not supposed to do this, I notice my dreams are more vivid and active than they had been before. I am very sensitive to new energies, so it might just be me. But I do feel different. I cut the fresh mushrooms, cook and eat them in minutes. They are so alive, the first time I cut them I apologized. <br />
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I am hooked! Growing my own edible mushrooms is so easy! I always heard that, but now that I've done it and eaten the results I am a believer. <br />
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Today, the universe said YES, and sent me the latest catalog from Fungi Perfecti. I knew I had one, but couldn't find it. I have been listening for guidance about the direction I am to take next and now I know I will be growing mushrooms.<br />
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Since I live in the woods, my place is cool and dark most of the time. I have the right kind of place for growing mushrooms, both indoor and outdoor. You can eat them and it's legal!<br />
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The first time I ate them, I wanted to taste their natural flavor, so I did not use any seasoning. They were so delicious,with a mild and delicate flavor. I sauteed them briefly in a little olive oil and butter. Yummm!<br />
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Last night I mixed them with roasted eggplant and garlic over linguini sprinkled lightly with fresh grated parmesan. It was a gourmet meal. <br />
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Tonight I'm going to cook up a batch and freeze it. They are producing so many mushrooms I can't eat them all. I will cook them up, freeze them, then used them in a sauce over polenta that I will bring to a Halloween party potluck.<br />
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Not sure if they grow a second time, but I'll see. My next experiment will be to grow some medicinal mushroom like Reishi and Lion's Mane.<br />
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Here are some useful websites I found in my research:<br />
<a href="http://www.asianonlinerecipes.com/rss/index.php">http://www.asianonlinerecipes.com/rss/index.php</a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleurotus">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleurotus</a><br />
<a href="http://www.ostrommushrooms.com/varieties/grow-5.asp">http://www.ostrommushrooms.com/varieties/grow-5.asp</a><br />
<a href="http://www.ostrommushrooms.com/varieties/recipes-5.asp">http://www.ostrommushrooms.com/varieties/recipes-5.asp</a><br />
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To start "growing your own" I suggest going to the website by <a href="http://www.fungi.com/">Fungi Perfecti</a>, because they are totally reliable and they have been doing this for a long time. <br />
<a href="http://www.fungi.com/">http://www.fungi.com/</a><br />
Try growing your own. It is so amazing. A great project for kids. You can grow them on your kitchen counter. They don't take up much room and you don't have to do anything. No watering or weeding! ha haMystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-79192947498522030552011-03-21T18:03:00.000-07:002011-03-21T18:03:44.781-07:00Astrology and WellnessHad a fantastic time at Astrology Day 2011 in SF on this past Saturday. Foe more on that, <a href="http://thedesertsky.blogspot.com/">go to my astrology blog. </a><br />
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One of the speakers, Stephanie Gailing, in addition to being an astrologer, is a wellness consultant. Her presentation, titled: "Uranus in Aries: Taking Charge of Our Well-Being", included suggestions for diet and exercise as well as the herbs and essences. Her book Planetary Apothecary is for sale on my sidebar.<br />
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In general, Uranus, the god of rapid change is going into the sign of Aries, ruled by Mars. Impulsive, with child-like energy, naivete and energy, Aries rules the head and is prone to accidents and injuries due to its tendency to act first and think later. Uranus which rules the nervous system, likes to shake things up. Hmmm sounds familiar doesn't it? <br />
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So with all that is going on in the world, stress and upset are highly available. We need to focus on calming down, slowing down and acting deliberately. Now after an extremely difficult and long winter, we are all yearning to burst out the door whenever the sun shines. We need to MOVE! True, we do. But let us do so in a manner that will serve our well-being. Stephanie suggests yoga, tai chi, qi gong, ecstatic dance, Sufi dancing - among other ways of moving, so that our energy is channeled in a positive way. <br />
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We need to remember to get enough rest and sleep too.<br />
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She suggests nutritive herbs, nervines (Skullcap and Valerian) and adaptogens (Ashwaganda and Eleuthro); to help relax, Lavendar and Chamomile essential oils in rubs or bath products; and last but not least, flower essences like Yarrow, Impatiens, and Rescue Remedy. Interestingly, just prior to her mentioning Rescue Remedy, I had just taken a couple of drops of Desert Crisis Formula by Desert Alchemy, which has a similar purpose and is my 'crisis formula of choice.' The energy in the room was challenging to someone who has been sick in bed for nearly two weeks. It helped immediately. I enjoyed the conference immensely, but it was a huge energetic change for me. <br />
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Which, by the way, is how we might experience Uranus in Aries. After being in the doldrums for months, even years due to Pluto's ingress into Capricorn and the collapse of the economy, we are going to get a blast of energy that may throw us off kilter for awhile. Our challenge is to not lose our footing while setting our sails so that these winds of change move us forward, not aground.<br />
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In addition to the herbs Stephanie mentioned, I suggest Passionflower as a mildly relaxing herb. I make a blend of tinctures called <strong><em>Take It Easy</em></strong>, which is a combination of Nettle, Ashwaganda, Fennel Seed, Motherwort, Vervain, Skullcap, Passionflower, Damiana, Chamomile, Melissa, St.John's Wort, Schizandra, Cleavers, Linden Flower and Red Clover. Honey and Pomegranate Syrup make it taste good. A two ounce bottle is $28.00. For shipping in the U.S.add another 4.95 for a total of $32.95. Pay through the Paypal Keep the Essences Flowing Donation button in the sidebar with the message 'tonic' and send me your shipping address.<br />
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Meditation, contemplation and prayer can help settle your mind and give you focus for the energy that will be inside and outside you. I suggested at the conference that sometimes we take flower and gem essences because 'other people' are driving us nuts. We cannot control others, but we CAN take care of ourselves, our emotional states and our responses/reactions. During this time flower essences and especially gem elixirs are useful. Those which address the need to stay grounded, give clarity and help you relax are most helpful.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-6470144483525938072011-03-15T15:35:00.000-07:002011-03-15T15:35:52.008-07:00What Can We Do to Protect Ourselves from RadiationThere's a lot of talk about what's going on in Japan right now. They are truly going through Hell. I am praying for them. As we are finding out all the time, we are all connected. We all live on the planet Earth and the radiation that is coming from the failing nuclear reactors will move towards the west coast of the U.S. eventually.<br />
<br />
Is there anything we can do to protect ourselves from its effects? I listened to a show on KPFA today that spoke about the value of Iodine to help protect the thyroid and other glands. I suggest you investigate the proper sources and amounts so that you don't harm yourself. <br />
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I found this <a href="http://www.annlouise.com/blog/2011/03/15/radiation-coming-our-way/">blog post</a> very good in regards to food and supplements.<br />
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<a href="http://www.annlouise.com/blog/2011/03/15/radiation-coming-our-way/">http://www.annlouise.com/blog/2011/03/15/radiation-coming-our-way/</a><br />
<br />
Gary Young of Young Living Essential Oils has created a special kit called<br />
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QuadShield (#4559). QuadShield combines four potent Young Living products: Super C, Melrose, Longevity, and Thyromin.<br />
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He suggests that you use the following Young Living products to protect your home and environment <br />
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Longevity: 1–2 capsules twice daily <br />
Melrose: 6–20 drops per capsule or in yogurt 1–3 times a day <br />
Super C: 1–2 tablets daily <br />
Thyromin: 1 capsule three times a day <br />
ICP: 1 to 2 teaspoons in the morning <br />
JuvaPower: 1–2 teaspoons at night <br />
Endoflex and Digize: 1–2 capsules daily <br />
NingXia Red: 4–6 oz. daily <br />
Detoxyme: 3–5 capsules at night <br />
Allerzyme: 1–2 capsules three times a day <br />
Essentialzyme: 1 capsule three times a day <br />
Drink three liters of water daily <br />
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Gary Young suggests that essential oils have the ability to both purify the air (and should be diffused in your home) and can protect DNA from damage caused by radiation. He suggests alternating between Purification, Melrose and Frankincense oils. Also, burning frankincense resin will help purify the air.<br />
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You can purchase all the Young Living products via my <a href="https://www.youngliving.org/hamidaherbalist">Young Living website</a>.<br />
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The flower essence blend by FES, Yarrow Environmental Solution has been recommended for use in these circumstances. Go to the <a href="http://www.flowersociety.org/">FES site</a> to purchase or get at your local herb shop or health food store.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-4891853850899088632011-02-01T11:04:00.000-08:002011-02-01T11:04:29.578-08:00More on Horseradish - Herb of the YearMost of us know horseradish as a culinary plant used as a seasoning, but it does have medicinal properties.<br />
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Horseradish is a source of vitamin C, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. It is a circulatory and digestive stimulant and has antidepressant, antibacterial, anti-cancer, antioxidant, detoxifying and expectorant qualities. <br />
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<strong>Avoid horseradish if you have an underactive thyroid.</strong><br />
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The stimulating and antibiotic properties are due to the fact that horseradish contains mustard oil, which also makes it effective for lung and urinary tract infections. You may have heard of the old-time remedy for lung infections known as a 'mustard plaster'. Horseradish is also a strong diuretic.<br />
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One of the first remedies I learned to make in herb school, introduced by Rosemary Gladstar, was Fire Cider.<br />
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Here's a recipe for Fire Cider. It can be used in many ways, including as a salad dressing.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Fire Cider</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Ingredients:</strong></div><br />
1 quart Organic Apple Cider Vinegar<br />
1/2 cup Horseradish root grated<br />
1/8 cup of Garlic chopped <br />
1/2 cup of Onion chopped <br />
1/2 cup of Ginger grated <br />
1 tsp Cayenne pepper<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Directions:</strong></div><br />
Place all ingredients in a quart jar and cover with Apple Cider Vinegar. <br />
<br />
Cover tightly. <br />
Steep for 8 weeks.<br />
Strain into clean jar.<br />
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<strong>How to Use Your Fire Cider</strong><br />
<br />
~ Rub into sore muscles and aching joints.<br />
~ Soak a clean cloth in Fire Cider to place on a congested chest.<br />
~ Drink it straight or diluted in a bit of water or tomato juice.Start out with a tsp or so to test your tolerance level.<br />
~ Mix with a bit of honey to ease a cough.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Culinary Recipe</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong>Mashed Potatoes and Horseradish</strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Add grated or prepared horseradish to your regular mashed potato recipe. You can also add to garlic mashed potatoes.<br />
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Use 3-4 Tablespoons to 3 pounds potatoes. A little goes a long way.<br />
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July has been designated as National Horseradish Month and there will be many festivals and events during the year. To learn more about it go to <a href="http://www.horseradishfestival.net/">The Horseradish Festival website.</a><br />
Read more about horseradish and other herbs at <a href="http://www.herbcompanion.com/">The Herb Companion website. </a><br />
<div align="left"></div>Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-84278744817918532792010-12-30T13:09:00.000-08:002010-12-30T13:14:09.937-08:00Starting Off the New Year<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyUeFd5zxf87yYmbIs8qdEXbpPkyC5n74n2eLRWMAE4O7Uk0yaIgkuZaSZBKI3KLPd8AfHGewfYOZXyqCeHsTIF9GjlN-SJlv7X-JjbUW1j30rehApbtM90nUQ1OgBgPf51624rcQ1CqY/s1600/Horseradish+plantArmoracia_rusticana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyUeFd5zxf87yYmbIs8qdEXbpPkyC5n74n2eLRWMAE4O7Uk0yaIgkuZaSZBKI3KLPd8AfHGewfYOZXyqCeHsTIF9GjlN-SJlv7X-JjbUW1j30rehApbtM90nUQ1OgBgPf51624rcQ1CqY/s1600/Horseradish+plantArmoracia_rusticana.jpg" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Horseradish - 2011 Herb of the Year</strong></div><br />
Every year the International Herb Association chooses an Herb of the Year. This year it is horseradish. I suggest you go to the following websites to read about horseradish. <br />
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<a href="http://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/h/horrad38.html">A Modern Herbal by Mrs. M. Grieve</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.herbsociety.org/">The Herb Society</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horseradish">Wikipedia</a></div><a href="http://herboftheyear.blogspot.com/">Herb of the Year</a><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I love it with roast beef, but I also use mustard/horseradish in toasted cheese sandwiches to spice them up. </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHrECoF9nGjB-NSa8HKCUuJTXV6PhyphenhyphenAqq9YvDMrg8R_5n2cvuYBjWPgrTWFTmfRGr1VG_MJUIkj-BflTB7h7NZx5Ng-_jUC5o7RUOy6Mjlzbc2mACaQ1_93Q_dyo0YywBvqZwJUm28vE/s1600/horseradishroot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHrECoF9nGjB-NSa8HKCUuJTXV6PhyphenhyphenAqq9YvDMrg8R_5n2cvuYBjWPgrTWFTmfRGr1VG_MJUIkj-BflTB7h7NZx5Ng-_jUC5o7RUOy6Mjlzbc2mACaQ1_93Q_dyo0YywBvqZwJUm28vE/s1600/horseradishroot.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">At the Master Gardeners Christmas Potluck this year, someone brought the most delicious cranberry salsa and I want to share the recipe with you. I made it for Christmas and it was a hit, even with teenagers! Fresh cranberries and cilantro make it a great source of vitamins and anti-oxidants as well. I used a little fresh orange juice to sweeten instead of sugar. Experiment and Enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>CRANBERRY SALSA</strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">1bag fresh cranberries, rinsed and chopped (best in food processor)</div>Half bunch fresh cilantro, chopped<br />
2 Scallions, chopped<br />
2 tsp. fresh lime juice<br />
1/2 -- 3/4 C sugar<br />
Pinch dried hot pepper flakes<br />
1/4 tsp. ground cumin<br />
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Combine the above the day before you serve to 'marry' the flavors. Keeps well in the refrigerator.<br />
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</div>Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-53000749994988026562010-09-28T12:00:00.000-07:002010-09-28T12:00:29.845-07:00Herbal Jellies - Yum!Wondering what to do with the culinary herbs you grow? Here's an idea... make herbal jellies. Great as gifts. Make up a gift basket with jellies, vinegars and flavored olive oils. Who can resist?<br />
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Here's a recipe I recently received and have not had a chance to try yet. Go to <a href="http://lemonverbenalady.blogspot.com/">Lemon Verbena Lady's blog</a> for more...<br />
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I think you could use other culinary herbs as well as basils. Experiment with your favorites.<br />
<strong><em>Scented Basil Jellies</em></strong> <br />
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Makes four 8-ounce jars <br />
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• 1½ cups packed fresh anise, cinnamon, opal or lemon basil<br />
• 2 cups water<br />
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar<br />
• Pinch of salt<br />
• 3½ cups sugar<br />
• 3 ounces liquid pectin<br />
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1. Wash and dry the basil in paper towels, then coarsely chop it. Put the basil in a large saucepan and crush the leaves, using the bottom of a glass. Add the water, bring slowly to a boil and boil for 10 seconds. Remove the saucepan from the heat; cover and let sit for 15 minutes to steep.<br />
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2. Strain 1½ cups of liquid from the saucepan and pour through a fine strainer into another saucepan. Add the vinegar, salt and sugar and bring to a hard boil, stirring. When the boil can't be stirred down, add the pectin. Return the portion that can't be stirred down to a hard boil and boil for exactly 1 minute; remove saucepan from heat.<br />
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3. Skim off the foam and pour the hot jelly into four hot, sterilized (sterilized in boiling water for 10 minutes) half-pint jelly jars. Leave ½-inch (or less) headspace and seal at once with sterilized 2-piece lids. I just leave my lids in hot water not boiling until you need them. Can the jars in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.<br />
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Recipe from Recipes from a <em>Kitchen Garden</em> by Renee Shepherd & Fran Raboff, Berkeley (Ten Speed Press, 1993).Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-14162831213294198672010-08-27T11:02:00.000-07:002010-08-27T11:02:38.721-07:00My Favorite Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils - Young LivingFor therapeutic use, I have been using Young Living essential oils for over 12 years. I especially like their blends which I use all the time as perfumes or to affect my mood. <br />
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They also make some incredible personal care products and supplements. I love their deodorant and toothpaste, which I use every day. <br />
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Young living oils have a depth and complexity you never find in any other oils. I have been to their farm in Utah and seen how they distill their oils. Their Lavender oil is like a vintage wine, multi-layered and evocative. <br />
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Gary Young is the only person in the essential oil industry who personally goes to every location where the plants are grown and where oils are distilled. More and more, they are growing and distilling so as to ensure the supply and the quality.<br />
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Essential oils are like other commodities traded in the world. They are subject to political, economic and climate conditions just like food items and other raw materials. By growing their own plants and producting their own oils, Young Living is better able to control how plants are grown and processed, which makes all the difference in the final product.<br />
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Check out <a href="https://www.youngliving.org/hamidaherbalist">my personal Young Living website</a>. Sign up for the essential rewards program where you get credits for everything you buy which you can redeem for free products. By becoming a member, you can get in on special promotions.<br />
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You can make money selling Young Living products. As a distributor, you get a percentage on all sales by people you sign up. <br />
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I also like Young Living for its ongoing training and customer support. They want you to know about their products and how to use them.<br />
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To start out, I recommend the Essential Seven kit. These oils are like a first-aid kit with so many uses, you'll wonder what you ever did without them. I have made a mini-set to take with me when I travel. <br />
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One summer, I went on a four day camel trip into the Sahara desert in Morocco. Obviously, you can't take much baggage on such a trip. I made a set of a dozen or so mini bottles of oils which I carried in a fanny pack. I passed around the Peppermint when people got headaches or nausea, Lavender for wounds, and stress. <br />
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That was the 'trial by fire' - my test as to whether oils work or not. I can truly say they are the first choice in treatment, no matter what the issue. I even use oils for preventing the usual ailment travelers get.... I take a drop of Frankincense oil with every meal. It works for me. I never have to run to the bathroom.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-58735101848095177102010-08-23T13:59:00.000-07:002010-08-23T13:59:20.517-07:00Announcing: New Pluto Through the Houses Essences and Aroma-essence SprayLaunched at the recent Evolutionary Astrology Conference in Denver, my latest creation: a set of 12 <strong>Pluto Through the Houses Essences</strong>. Each one is a blend of flower, gem, and environmental essences intuitively selected to work with the issues related to Pluto in a particular house. <br />
You may work with your natal house placement of Pluto, or where Pluto is currently transiting, or both. <br />
A specially formulated Aroma-essence Spray contains essential oils and the Pluto blend. <br />
<a href="http://thedesertsky.blogspot.com/">See my astrology blog</a> for more info. You can order here or there. Remember to specify which house you want.<br />
To make the medicine go down easier, each essence contains Hazelnut and Pomegranate liqueurs. Yum! Transformation never tasted so good!<br />
Each essence is 2 ounces. The aroma-essence spray is 4 ounces.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-19375924039077644282010-08-23T12:37:00.000-07:002010-08-23T12:41:47.737-07:00Salon des Plantes August - SunflowerToday marks the 100th post on this blog. I used to post regularly, but life has gotten more complicated. One of my Summer Resolutions is to write on my blogs again on a regular basis.<br />
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Went to Annabella's Salon des Plantes yesterday at the Peralta Community Garden in Berkeley. My friend Huck met me there. Annabella makes wonderful essences and perfumes. To see her website <a href="http://lunafina.com/">click here.</a><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcTstQRVf3fcIxfhR08GO90h622n6v0QotbfT49S40_n-4SjMBr9NRcsquGgnzjxba-wcGAdbmwEfwQArQJibVqvGjUJvVlSKzzUgOuu4W8LBW3yRQYGG6PrJR1Up17NhCNpmw1Ved44/s1600/Sunflower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcTstQRVf3fcIxfhR08GO90h622n6v0QotbfT49S40_n-4SjMBr9NRcsquGgnzjxba-wcGAdbmwEfwQArQJibVqvGjUJvVlSKzzUgOuu4W8LBW3yRQYGG6PrJR1Up17NhCNpmw1Ved44/s200/Sunflower.jpg" width="150" /></a>The featured plant was Sunflower! I realized this is a plant that I take for granted. In listening to what Annabella told us about its history and uses, going through the attunement to the plant, and doing the guided visualization, I got a whole new perspective.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Sunflower originally came from Peru. It spread throughout the Americas and was brought to Europe during the Conquest. It nativized in many area and became the signature flower for Louis XIV. It became an integral part of Russian cuisine, where sunflower oil was used extensively. In addition, a cordial was made using Sunflower in vodka. Who knew? <br />
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Sunflower oil can be used both in beauty products and in cooking. The seeds of some species are used in baking and cooking. The serve as a healthy snack which contains a high percentage of protein. Sunflower seeds also feed birds and animals. <br />
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My guided visualization had me climbing a huge sunflower stalk like Jack and the Beanstalk. When I arrived at the top, I found myself on the central disk of a huge flower. I saw the spiral form of the central flowers (sunflower is a complex flower with each petal and each black/brown section as complete flowers in themselves), as a crop circle. I realized that these recurring patterns to be found in nature are there to remind us of that everything is connected. There is a plan to the Universe. We are not alone, but part of a multi-leveled Creation. The spiral at the center of the Sunflower is a hologram. <br />
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I also learned to look beyond the superficial. To deeply see the worlds within worlds. And to listen. I heard the buzzing bees of the Peralta Community Garden and realized they speak a language and that they communicate with the plants and flowers in a parallel universe that exists here and now. We live in a multi-tiered world right here on Earth. <br />
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Now when I look at the face of Sunflower I know that I am seeing the mystery hidden in plain sight.<br />
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Sunflower flower essence from FES<br />
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Positive qualities: Unique individuality, spiritualized ego forces infused into a sun-radiant personality<br />
Patterns of imbalance: Distorted or vacillating sense of Self; inflation or self-effacement, low self-esteem or arrogance; poor relation to father or solar aspects of Self<br />
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After the Salon, Huck and I took BART to San Francisco to the Mission where we ate at <a href="http://www.gracias-madre.com/">Gracias Madre</a>, an organic vegan Mexican restaurant. OMG! Incredible! One of the best, if not the best meals I have every eaten. SO GOOD! We ordered way to much food and had to bring our entries home. The first three were the appetizers and they were so good and there was so much of it that we could not even touch the last two which were our entries. Handmade tortillas from non-GMO corn! The prices were good too. We actually had ordered four meals and didn't realize it. I'm having my Enchiladas con Mole Poblano for brunch today.<br />
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Guacamole con Tostadas <br />
Mashed avocado with cilantro, onion, chile and lime<br />
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Quesadillas de Calabaza <br />
Butternut squash and caramelized onion folded into tortillas with cashew nacho cheese a pumpkin seed salsa <br />
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Papas al Horno <br />
Be Love Farm Potatoes roasted with olive oil and garlic topped with cashew nacho cheese <br />
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Enchiladas con Mole Poblano <br />
Mole enchiladas topped with mushrooms and cashew cheese, served with sauteed greens and beans <br />
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Nopales <br />
Prickly Pear cactus from Rivenrock Farms grilled with garlic and fresh herbs, served with rice, beans, pico de gallo, cashew crema and corn tortillasMystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-75593628575528155762010-07-26T16:33:00.000-07:002010-07-26T22:18:26.354-07:00Lavender at the Salon des Plantes<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6J1-uFh2XQF64len3KzOYcbq7h3rYNaNkMDniGV7rKp_qN2_NkJdQGHI2l4cTiirjr2SgUVlRWhpzPFRG35kMqtH8yX0991vt8JX-nmypUE-9ozJ5Gmvdhg2TAz9V1mcsE0S-FxT5us/s1600/Lavender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6J1-uFh2XQF64len3KzOYcbq7h3rYNaNkMDniGV7rKp_qN2_NkJdQGHI2l4cTiirjr2SgUVlRWhpzPFRG35kMqtH8yX0991vt8JX-nmypUE-9ozJ5Gmvdhg2TAz9V1mcsE0S-FxT5us/s200/Lavender.jpg" width="165" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6J1-uFh2XQF64len3KzOYcbq7h3rYNaNkMDniGV7rKp_qN2_NkJdQGHI2l4cTiirjr2SgUVlRWhpzPFRG35kMqtH8yX0991vt8JX-nmypUE-9ozJ5Gmvdhg2TAz9V1mcsE0S-FxT5us/s1600/Lavender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Yesterday at <strong>Annabella's</strong> <strong><em>Salon des Plantes</em></strong> we worked with one of my favorite plants - <strong>Lavender</strong>. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">After calling in the directions in Italian, Annabella showed us how to make lavender wands. She offered us lavender tea from both fresh and dry plants and lavender madelines....yum! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Lavender is one of those herbs that has many uses. If you lived on a desert island and could only have one herb, lavender should be your choice. It has both medicinal and culinary uses. Of all scents, lavender is the most popular. Most people like it.<br />
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Anti-bacterial, anti-spasmodic, slightly sedative, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. I use it almost everyday. It helps with burns, poison oak, and insect bites. This is interesting because bees love the flowers and yet lavender oil can soothe bee stings. I make a spray called 'burns and bites' using lavender oil.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">According to Wikipedia, "Lavender was commonly used in Roman baths to scent the water, and it was thought to restore the skin. Its late Latin name was lavandārius, from lavanda (things to be washed), from the verb lavāre (to wash). When the Roman Empire conquered southern Britain, the Romans introduced lavender. The Greeks discovered early on that lavender if crushed and treated correctly would release a relaxing fume when burned."</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">There are many varieties of lavender which have different properties and they all have a slightly different scent.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The guided visualization we participated in took me to a cave near the ocean. While in the cave, the spirit of lavender spoke to me and reminded me that the most potent lavender plants are those grown in harsh environments with little water. The less water, the better the oil. Lavender is here to remind us that the challenges of life can bring out either the best or the worst within us. Like lavender oil, let us bring out our healing essence! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I have grown lavender both from seed and from cuttings, although growing from seed is very slow.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Here are some recipes using culinary lavender:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><strong>Lavender Lemonade</strong><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">2 ½ cups of water <br />
¼ C culinary lavender </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 can frozen lemonade concentrate </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Sugar to taste </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Bring water and lavender to boil over medium heat. Turn off heat and let stand for 20 minutes. Strain the mixture. Pour into lemonade. Add sugar to taste.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><strong>Lavender Roasted Beets</strong><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">with Garlic and Lemon</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Makes 6 Servings</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 pound medium beets, with 1 inch of stems remaining </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">6 unpeeled garlic cloves</div>¼ cup plus 1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 Tbs. plus ½ tsp. dried culinary ‘Provence’ lavender buds, finely ground in a spice grinder</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">¼ tsp. finely grated lemon zest</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">2 Tbs. fresh lemon juice</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">¼ cup Italian parsley leaves chopped</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Preheat oven to 375º F. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Place the beets and garlic on a large sheet of foil and sprinkle with ¼ cup of the oil and 1 Tbs. of the lavender; toss to combine. Fold up the foil to make a sealed packet. Place on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 to 45 minutes, or until tender when tested with a sharp knife. Set aside until cool enough to handle. Slip off the skins.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Cut the beets into quarters and place in a large skillet. Squeeze the garlic over the beets. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, the remaining 1 Tbs. oil, and the remaining ½ tsp. lavender. Season with salt and pepper. Warm through over medium heat. Sprinkle with the parsley.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Serve hot or warm.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">And here's my recipe for a healing spray:<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgpUTWjUUkQQwCDBdjXEBPw2EK2cs_vf1tOvKH8hc1DGIF_xbP8al97hSTGGV1AwUE-JgLf2vcyihc4zsvXBCSzi8Iq_N5UMdI_WVmSK4uzSMwAX4J4wCNibEE5-KuYl9zWw_0Jjqkts/s1600/220px-Danish_bumblebee_on_lavendar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgpUTWjUUkQQwCDBdjXEBPw2EK2cs_vf1tOvKH8hc1DGIF_xbP8al97hSTGGV1AwUE-JgLf2vcyihc4zsvXBCSzi8Iq_N5UMdI_WVmSK4uzSMwAX4J4wCNibEE5-KuYl9zWw_0Jjqkts/s200/220px-Danish_bumblebee_on_lavendar.jpg" width="200" /></a><strong>Burns and Bites Spray</strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 oz. aloe vera gel</div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 oz. lavender hydrosol</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 oz. roman chamomile hydrosol</div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">30 drops of lavender essential oil</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">15 drops of ravensara essential oil</div><br />
Combine all ingredients in a 4 oz. spray bottle.</div>Shake and spray as needed. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Keep out of eyes.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Alleviates pain.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Promotes skin healing.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Diminishes itching. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
The best lavender essential oil comes from Young Living. Visit my new <a href="https://www.youngliving.org/HamidaHerbalist">young living website</a> to order some. They have many other products using Lavender. Check them out.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div>Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-47698526050129338762010-06-28T17:57:00.000-07:002010-06-28T17:58:30.565-07:00Salon des Plantes with Luna Fina - Elder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilXat0F-_JjAkJ46ChUL6rrjDOCV4-1WnTvwyfetayBYLlxPViWqlAUNTgB1QNd9_US7dzDLSZZglWv1ZhU1WvPGF4pqU0d1jGudooTPB8gbsvTo_7VXgKtkkLkNlPEygjTBEGN-wXLFo/s1600/220px-Elderberries2007-08-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilXat0F-_JjAkJ46ChUL6rrjDOCV4-1WnTvwyfetayBYLlxPViWqlAUNTgB1QNd9_US7dzDLSZZglWv1ZhU1WvPGF4pqU0d1jGudooTPB8gbsvTo_7VXgKtkkLkNlPEygjTBEGN-wXLFo/s200/220px-Elderberries2007-08-12.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b>Black Elder</b> <i>Sambucus nigra</i><br />
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The <b>Salon des Plantes</b> with <b>Annabella</b> this past Sunday, June 27, focused on <b>Elder</b>.<br />
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We began with Annabella calling in the directions in Italian. The first time I heard her do this, it really struck a chord with me. I grew up in a bi-lingual, bi-cultural home. My maternal grandparents spoke Italian all of their lives. My step-father came from Italy and so Italian was often spoken in my childhood home. Hearing Annabella singing out boldly in Italian warmed my heart. I think one reason I have gotten involved in her monthly Salons is just to hear her sing.<br />
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<b>Elder</b> is an herb that has been used for centuries by many cultures. The black berries contain high levels of vitamin C and anti-oxidants known as flavonoids. <br />
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<b>David Hoffmann</b> in <b>Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine<i></i></b>, says " The elder tree is a medicine chest in its own right." The leaf can be used for bruises, sprains, and wounds. The flower is an ideal treatment for colds and flu. Standardized extracts of black elderberry has antiviral properties. <br />
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Tinctures and teas can be made of the flowers. Juice or syrups can be made of flowers and berries. My <b>Cold Season Syrup</b> and <b>Immune System Tonic</b> both include decoctions of elder flower and berries. <br />
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Tradition says that <b>Elder</b> has magical properties as well. <br />
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Wikipedia says: The Elder Tree was supposed to ward off evil influence and give protection from witches, a popular belief held in some cultures. If an elder tree was cut down, a spirit known as the Elder Mother would be released and take her revenge. The tree could only safely be cut while chanting a rhyme to the Elder Mother.<br />
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The most powerful wand in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a wand made of sambucus known as the "Elder Wand".<br />
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For in depth information go to <b>A Modern Herbal by Mrs. M. Grieve </b><a href="http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/e/elder-04.html">here </a><br />
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Every session of <b>Salon des Plantes</b>, we experience the plant on many levels. There are washes, teas, and dry and fresh plant on hand. There is at least one growing plant at the <b>Peralta Community Garden </b>for us to visit and commune with. <br />
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We observe the plant, then draw it. We do a guided visualization where we are encouraged to meet the spirit of the plant and find out if it has a message for us. <br />
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This time during the journey, I found myself in a Greek temple on a hillside overlooking the sea. Elder told me that she stores ancient wisdom and that I could spend a lifetime learning her secrets. I was inspired to wildcraft the flowers that are abundantly available near my home. <br />
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A few years ago I planted an elderberry in my garden. It is quite small and doesn't seem to flourish despite the fact that so many of them grow wild in my area. This year it didn't return, or so I thought. This morning, after the Salon, I found it. I was so thrilled to see that it had survived the wet winter.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-13911200206021874982010-04-03T11:11:00.000-07:002010-04-03T12:16:16.810-07:00Salon des Plantes with Luna Fina - Mugwort<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnSLbTzuWMVaHJujYYhyphenhyphen84e5ZhUpl3j35o_9T-i59PYGQK7VfBS2v7mlftjBl_BXb75bVZZx_TMyKvT03vyVH2gJZqfh0Qw1MnF3VRj1SJMIAsyXPQWwK4NMl-mkYYZugmAgdHIfyqvUY/s1600/mugwort.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 190px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnSLbTzuWMVaHJujYYhyphenhyphen84e5ZhUpl3j35o_9T-i59PYGQK7VfBS2v7mlftjBl_BXb75bVZZx_TMyKvT03vyVH2gJZqfh0Qw1MnF3VRj1SJMIAsyXPQWwK4NMl-mkYYZugmAgdHIfyqvUY/s320/mugwort.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455991665981967682" /></a>On Saturday, March 20, my friend Huck and I went to the first <strong>Salon des Plantes </strong>put on by <strong>AnnaBella</strong> aka <strong>Luna Fina</strong>.<br /><br />Marvelous! It took place at the <strong>Peralta Community Garden</strong> in Berkeley, the perfect spot.<br /><br /><strong>AnnaBella</strong> will offer these salons once a month in different locations around Berkeley and Marin County. In July, she will be in Albuquerque, New Mexico.<br /><br />It was a delight to hear her sing in the four directions in Italian! The first time I have heard it in the language of my ancestors and it was truly inspiring. <br /><br />This first month we focused on <strong>Mugwort</strong>. We had a guided visualization, drank mugwort tea, had mugwort oil rubbed on our wrists and were smudged with mugwort. Meanwhile, we were surrounded by mugwort growing in the garden.<br /><br /><strong>AnnaBella</strong> teaches classes in many locations. She is also the creator of the <strong>Rose Chakra Flower Essences</strong> which can be purchased from her Website - <a href="http://www.lunafina.com/">click here</a> - and many other wondrous products to heal your heart and soul. <br /><br />She gives sacred footbaths, leads vision quests and showers you with love and joy. <br /><br />I first met her at the <strong>Sonoma County Herb Association Herb Festival</strong> on the campus of <strong>Santa Rosa Junior College</strong> in 1996. Since then she has served as an inspiration to me in many ways. <br /><br />So what about <strong>Mugwort</strong>?<br /><br />This plant grows in the temperate regions of Europe, Asia, Africa and North America. There are many species in the genus known as Artemisia (plants named for the goddess Artemis). <br /><br />The species we worked with in AnnaBella's Salon was douglasiana. It happens to grow wild near my house and is so easy to propagate through cuttings. I just put sticks of it in the ground and they grow. They die back in winter, but come up in early March, even in the woods where I live.<br /><br />It has both medicinal and spiritual qualities, but should never be used in excess since it contains thujone. <br /><br /><strong>Should be avoided by pregnant and nursing women</strong>. <br /><br />It is an effective digestive and has been used in Europe to flavor drinks.<br /><br />Moxa is made from pulverized mugwort and used in acupuncture. <br /><br />It can repel insects.<br /><br />It is used for lucid dreaming and is often found in 'dream pillows' or potions to bring on dreaming. <br /><br />It has protective qualities and put with rosemary can be put in a pouch near the door of your house and/or in your car to keep out unwanted visitors or thieves. But as the saying goes: "Pray to Allah and tie your camel" remember to lock your doors too!<br /><br />I make a dream potion which includes mugwort and it is part of my <strong>Lunar Salve </strong>(one of the <strong>Three Egyptian Sacred Schools Salves</strong>). <br /><br /><strong>FES</strong> makes a mugwort flower essence - <a href="http://www.fesflowers.com/fes-store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_72&products_id=60">click here</a><br /><br />Start your search with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artemisia_vulgaris">this entry from Wikipedia</a>Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-4554388155198660502010-03-21T15:24:00.000-07:002010-03-21T15:51:38.309-07:00Dill - Herb of the Year - 2010What does the old Chinese proverb say: May you live in interesting times? Well, I guess this is it for me. Last year I had many challenges including breaking my ankle while taking a <em><strong>Plant Spirit Healing</strong></em> class with <strong>Pam Montgomery</strong>. It was 'the perfect time' to break my ankle since I was surrounded by healers and deeply connecting to the plant beings. <br /><br />But it meant that I was not able to do any of my shows, work outside in my own garden, or make any products for several months. I was not even able to get outside for months. I looked longingly out the window. <br /><br />Then one of my beloved cats, <strong>Grace</strong>, who had a thyroid condition, developed a heart condition which worsened and finally led to her death. <br /><br />It seemed like there was one thing after another. And I know that others had a tough year too. In fact, many of my friends and associates died or developed grave illnesses. <br /><br />I felt I was under a black cloud and was not able to write in my blogs because I was so uninspired. Life felt meaningless. There is nothing worse for a person who has devoted their life to spiritual pursuits, seeking truth and light, but it happens. I was in the wasteland, so to speak. Having a dark night of the soul. <br /><br />I was also financially challenged because I had been unable to work for several months. I felt stuck. Surrounded by herbal remedies, flower essences, essential oils, I forgot to take them. Duh.<br /><br />But then one day, the cloud lifted. I felt a shift in energy. I knew this year would be a better and so it has been. I had gone through an ordeal and had learned the lessons. <br /><br />One thing that helped shift the energy was helping someone else. Giving what I had to give, expecting nothing in return. <br /><br />One of my teachers was going through cancer treatment. I had not been able to go to my astrology class for months - first because I could not drive, then because I had no money to pay for them. I didn't know what was happening to him until one of my classmates called and told me. One night I just had to go. Since so many people and pets had been dying around me, I thought "what if I never see him again?" I scraped up the money and went. After class I asked him about his situation and he told me what was going on. When I got out to my car I suddenly had a 'download' about his condition and its 'energetic' cause. I went back in and offered what I had seen and suggested flower essences, since they are so powerful when dealing with energetic causes - even to physical conditions. <br /><br />The next day I worked on the formula, made it up and brought it to him. We continued over a period of a couple of months or so, making new remedies as needed. He said he could feel their healing qualities while holding the bottles. He continued to get his treatments - radiation and chemotherapy - and took his flower essences. He told me that they were the only thing that gave him any relief from the side effects of his medical treatments. <br /><br />He came through the ordeal completely healed and I learned that flower essences 'work'! <br /><br />I also remembered to take them myself! <br /><br />Now I am so busy with scheduling my classes, workshops and craft shows, I have been neglecting my blogs again, but this time for a 'positive reason'. I apologize to my readers. <br /><br /><strong>The Herb of the Year for 2010 is Dill</strong>.<br /><br />One of my favorite herbs, I use freeze dried dill in salads such as cole slaw (my version), egg, macaroni/pasta, and of course, in deviled eggs. I also use it on baked fish.<br /><br />If you are interested my cole slaw recipe: It's really not cole slaw, but this is one of my favorite salads.<br /><br />Chopped or shredded cabbage green and red if you have it.<br />Diced red peppers<br />Diced carrots<br />Diced celery<br />Cilantro<br />Dried Dill<br />Oriental dressing - with ginger, soy, sesame oil either homemade or store bought.<br /><br />You can also use it fresh. <a href="http://www.herbcompanion.com/cooking/2010-herb-of-the-year-dill-anethum-graveolens.aspx">Click here</a> for an article on dill in the <strong>Herb Companion</strong> that includes recipes.<br /><br /><strong>Dill seed</strong> is sometimes used in bread where it lends a pungent flavor.<br /><br /><strong>Dill essential oil </strong>is most used for the digestive system and may help lower glucose levels and normalize insulin levels. If you have these issues, please do not self-medicate, consult a physician first. <br /><br />It can also be helpful when dealing with constipation or indigestion and headaches related to digestive issues.<br /><br />It has been used historically to promote milk flow in nursing mothers. It also supports liver and pancreas function.<br /><br /><strong>Dill essential oil</strong> is <strong>'generally regarded as safe' (GRAS)</strong> for internal consumption by the FDA, but as is the case with all essential oils, it is quite strong and should be diluted when taken orally. Use 1 drop of oil in 1 tsp. of honey or 4 oz. of beverage. When giving to children over 6 dilute further.<br /><br />Dill essential oil calms the autonomic nervous system and when diffused with Roman chamomile may help calm fidgety children. <br /><br />Put a drop or two on the wrists to help curb sugar cravings. <br /><br /><strong>NOT FOR CHILDREN UNDER 6 OR IF THERE IS A HISTORY OF EPILEPSY.</strong> <br /><br /><strong>FES</strong> has this to say about <strong>Dill Flower Essence</strong>:<br /><br /><strong>Positive qualities:</strong> Ability to experience and absorb a wide variety of sensory experiences, heightened awareness of taste, touch, hearing, sight, smell, etc. <br /><br /><strong>Patterns of imbalance</strong>: Overwhelm due to excess stimulation, hypersensitivity to environment or to outer activity, sensory congestion <br /><br />Go to the <a href="http://www.fesflowers.com/fes-store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=18&products_id=131">FES website here</a> to purchase and learn more.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-75725490354507529982010-02-13T19:02:00.002-08:002010-02-13T19:20:33.332-08:00Showing of 'Numen - The Nature of Plants'Thursday night, <a href="http://www.unitedplantsavers.org/">United Plant Savers</a> hosted a viewing of a new film on our relationship to plants called:<br /><br /><strong><em>Numen, The Nature of Plants</em></strong><br /><br />This is taken from a description of the film by UpS staff:<br /><br />'The film focuses on the healing power of plants and the natural world. Filmmakers Terrence Youk and Ann Armbrecht traveled the U.S. to speak with doctors and herbalists, ethnobotanists and others about how our disconnection from nature affects human and environmental health, and to discover how healing is made possible by embracing our place in the wider web of life. Numen features stunning footage of medicinal plants and thought-provoking interviews advocating a re-awakening of traditional knowledge about plants and their uses.<br /><br />The film provides viewers with a sobering view of conventional healthcare and the dangers of environmental insults as well as a new vision of safe, effective and sustainable medicine. In addition, it offers concrete steps to improve individual health and well being while enhancing the health of the earth. Interviewees include herbalists Rosemary Gladstar, former owner of Sebastopol's Rosemary's Garden, Phyllis Light, Dr. Tieraona LowDog, Larry Dossey and Martha Herbert, Kenny Ausubel founder of Bioneers and local herb champions , David Hoffmann, Lynda LeMole, Executive Director of United Plant Savers, Drake Sadler and Josef Brinckmann of Traditional Medicinals Herb Tea.<br /><br />"Numen is a magnificent depiction of the healing essence of plants. The filmmakers captured the magic, the mystery, the beauty of plants and their importance as herbal medicine in our contemporary health care system. Inspiring and educational, Numen has a place in the library of anyone interested in medicine, plants, gardening and earth ecology.It?s a powerful film that I?ll recommend that everyone see? Rosemary Gladstar'<br /><br />I was privileged to go on an herbal tour to Morocco with Rosemary in 2007. What a sweet and special person she is. She seems quiet and even shy and yet she has had such an impact on herbalism in America. She started so many businesses, and organizations, that have been huge successes and yet she is so humble and unassuming. <br /><br />I was proud to be a vendor at the event which was a great success. I really felt like an herbalist! My company <em><strong>Wise Women of the West</strong></em> has been around for 14 years now. Someone asked me how long I have been making things out of plants and I realized I started as a small child. I used to try to make perfume all the time. What I was actually making were flower essences! She said, "Did anyone lead you in that direction?" My answer..."it was a past-life thing," which I truly believe... at least in my case. <br /><br />They got a much bigger crowd than expected, and the place was packed. The film was a tad bit long and a little redundant, but well worth seeing. It should be on PBS!<br /><br />Try to see it if you can. <br /><br /><strong>United Plant Savers</strong> will host a conference called <strong>Planting the Future</strong> in <strong>Santa Rosa, California May 15</strong>. For more info <a href="http://www.unitedplantsavers.org/">click here</a>.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-47653867257502270572010-01-22T18:17:00.001-08:002010-01-22T19:25:44.559-08:0020 Herbs You Must Have - Part IIIHere is the third and last part of the series that Karyn Sanders did on her show, "The Herbal Highway" on KPFA radio. After the 20 herbs, she talks about some flower essences she uses a lot.<br /><br /><strong>Sweet Leaf</strong> also known as bee balm, monarda, or wild bergamot<br /><br />Used much more in south east and east. It is cooling. You can use the leaves, stems and flowers, fresh or dried. When you use the stems, use them dry. <br /><br />Good to use when there is shut down energy which tends to 'shoot all over the place' and heat up. It re-organizes and calms down energy. Very good to use when you get burned. Best to use the flowers. Chew it, because your saliva contains enzymes that help. Then apply to burn. Don't leave on more than three to five minutes. It draws out the heat and the pain. After 3-5 minutes remove and discard, put fresh poultice on as needed. If you leave it on too long, it will start burning and thus add to the problem. <br /><br />Great wash for wounds, keeps them clean and prevents infection. Good for poison oak and poison ivy as a wash to cool off the rash and dry it out. It helps with nerve pain, especially surface pain. She has used it for teeth. Takes the pain away. Short term relief.<br /><br />Useful with menstrual cramps, nausea, sore throats, gas, intestinal discomfort and coughing. Use as a tea. It is a nice under-utilized plant. A good muscle relaxant if you are really tense or you have overdone it.<br /><br />With burns, it will prevent scarring and will also soften old scars, so she uses it when people are trying to get rid of old scars. Well known for this.<br /><br />The leaf or flower good for kidney, bladder, or yeast infections. It mixes well with <em>yerba buena</em> for a hangover. Make an infusion/tea and drink it. An infusion is steeped overnight and is medicinal in strength.<br /><br />You can make a tincture using fresh or dried plant. You can make capsules out of dried powdered plant.<br /><br />It enters through the arms, so, spiritually that is where it works. Think about where plants enter the body as to what plant you will use. It calms down agitation.<br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use</strong>: It is ghost medicine, so used when there is 'corpse sickness.' She gives it to people who work around death a lot, such as morticians. Also good for PTSD, especially for corpse sickness in soldiers. She has used a lot with veterans. Inhale the flowers, don't need to ingest. Bundles of flowers. Flowers also calm down negative thoughts. It invites internal passion to come through when it is stuck deep inside. <br /><br />Not used much on this coast, but very popular in the east.<br /><br /><strong>True Solomon's Seal</strong> <br /><br />Becoming endangered, because it likes to grow on the edge of forests and meadows. That land is less available as population increases. When it comes to putting plants (or animals) on the endangered list - you have to do it way in advance, because by the time they truly are endangered, it is too late. If the territory it normally resides in is rapidly diminishing, it is a sure bet that it will soon become endangered or extinct. While plants and animals have known to adapt to new conditions, it takes decades or longer for that to happen. They can't just pick up and leave like humans can. <br /><br />Also known as "High John the Conqueror". It is wolf medicine and works where there is a lot of fracturing going on and a lot of energy splitting off from the body, way too much heat. When people are too 'edgy' that is often caused by too much heat.<br /><br />Native to east, mid-west, heading down into the south. It has large leaves, flowers and berries grow in clusters. Good for relaxing joints and muscles. Good for tendon and connective tissue repair. Use when there is any kind of tendon issue, when having surgery. Use for carpal tunnel. <br /><br />Repairs inflammation and tears, which occur during body building as well, since you are constantly ripping muscle - part of what occurs in the 'building' process. Can be used as a liniment or tincture. Not easy to find. For those whose joints or vertebrae pop out of place, use externally or internally. It helps keep them in place by keeping the fluidity in the area. Bones pop out of place when they are rigid. It dissolves excess cartilage and calcium deposits in the body. Good for people who are not assimilating calcium and start to get bumps on their fingers and other bones.<br /><br />Works well with rheumatoid arthritis pain. She uses figwort for the disease long term and true solomon seal for the pain. It also works well with osteo-arthritis, because of its effects with bones, calcium density and similar issues. <br /><br />Use with broken bones, back injuries such as herniated disks. <br /><br />It can be used for easing the pain of fibromyalgia. Does not remove the illness, just the pain. The plant can be useful when there are back and neck injuries. It is slightly anti-inflammatory... not her first choice however. Since it is becoming endangered, she only uses it when she needs it specifically. Many other better anti-inflammatories, so best not to waste in this way.<br /><br />Has laxative properties if you take a lot of it. It works for dry cough. It helps with indigestion or sour gut. It is a nice tonic for irritated mucus membranes. It reduces excess mucus. It is a blood balancer to bring the ph back to balance. To remain in good health, the blood should be alkaline, not acidic. Blood acidity can develop due to diet although some people tend that way naturally. Sugar, meat, and junk foods make the blood acidic. <br /><br />Make a tincture of fresh root. You can also use it dry. You don't need a lot. 10 to 15 drops twice a day. <br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use</strong>: This is wolf medicine and conjuring medicine. Good for creating substantial change when you are called to make a big change in who you are and the direction of your life and you don't know how to do that. <br /><br />This next year is going to be very intense energetically. It is going to be a 'Kali' year, a year of change - what has been in personal structure, work, relationships, self is not going to be there anymore. A good time for <strong>True Solomon Seal</strong> because you want to go with that kind of change even though it is hard and going to feel intense. Many people are already feeling this. It started in November and will continue for a year. It is "Kali" time. Best to go with the change which is required, rather than resist. I believe, like Karyn that Kali tells us "resistance is futile".<br /><br /><strong>True Solomon Seal</strong> provides protection against enemies and it equalizes power in an unbalanced situation such as business deals, banks, landlords. If you have to take an exam, put a little Solomon Seal in your pocket to even the playing field. Put some in your pocket if you are going into a casino. <br /><br />Not a hard plant to grow. It is a beautiful plant. It has notches on its root to tell its age, like ginseng. It grows at the edge of the trees and likes to have really good drainage. If you keep it in a pot, it must be half gravel otherwise it rots out easily. <br /><br /><strong>Vervain</strong><br /><br />Another cooling plant. Use the aerial parts, anything above the ground, fresh or dried. It works where energy is splitting off and the light is too intense. Light not diffusing but intensifying in the body and you need to tone it down. <br /><br />A great tonic for the nervous system. It is mildly sedative, not hugely so, but because it tones the nervous system down and even it out, it feels sedating. When you are ampted up and are then brought down to 'normal' it feels sedating. Hard for people who are used to being overstimulated to get used to a 'normal, healthy' degree of energy. <br /><br /><strong>Vervain</strong> a great one for 'mind chatter' especially when grief or depression is present. When you are going over the same story over and over all the time, <strong>vervain</strong> can stop that. <br /><br />It works well with OCD Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Here we are talking about small amounts - 1 to 3 drops - spirit doses. Anxiety and paranoia can benefit from vervain.<br /><br />Use where there is cramping during menses. It helps with hard painful heavy bleeding. Good to give to young girls when they first begin to have their menses 2 to 5 months.<br /><br />It makes you sweat if you drink a hot cup of it, so use for bringing out a fever and breaking it. Use to sweat out an illness to release toxins. Unless working with babies, where you must be very careful about fevers, but with adults and older children, you want to let them have a fever because fevers are a way for the body to kill viruses and heal itself. But this should not continue too long. You want to break the fever before it gets to a dangerous level. During the early stages of an infection, vervain is anti-viral. At this stage, most people do nothing. They tend to ignore until they are really sick. Because of this, they tend to miss a lot of plants that could be used to stave off the illness at the early stages. By the time you are 'full-blown sick,' vervain won't help. <br /><br />It cools the liver and stimulates it slightly, so it is a good one for stagnation, especially where it is really hot. People don't realize that stagnation can create heat because you have blocks then you have build-up.<br /><br />It helps with gall bladder inflammation, especially when the inflammation is associated with jaundice and headache. This type of headache can occur when you have eaten a really greasy meal too late at night or you are not used to it. It might taste great, but an hour later you have a huge headache and your right side hurts. Usually caused by the gall bladder not happy with the meal. <br /><br />A tincture of the root can be used for irritable bowel syndrome.<br /><br />It is a great one for animals who have nervous tension and insomnia. For animals that pace and carry nervous tension. use 1 or 2 drops in their drinking water. They really respond to this plant.<br /><br />It is the antidote for poke poisoning. <br /><br />You can drink it as a tea. She prefers them that way and prefers to give them that way, but because some plants don't taste good, people have a hard time complying. so she tends to do tincture in her practice. She would love to just use teas. <br /><br />A good one for mind chatter, especially when it is negative. It helps when mind chatter gets in the way of sexuality and you can't shut the mind up and relax and be present. <br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use</strong>: It was used in Europe quite a bit to cleanse an area to make sacred space. it was either burned or put in water and sprinkled. It tends to promote visions and prophetic dreaming. It has been used to conjure love and sexual fulfillment. When you are doing this, be very specific and what you ask for. You will get what you want, but if you leave something important out.... This is a plant for poets, writers, and singers. It also removes unnecessary burdens and emotional pressure. She uses it for type A people a lot - people who push themselves and always feel pressured. She also uses it for people who like to stay on the surface and don't like to go deep. It helps to send people down into deeper realms. <br /><br />It enhances the effect of gem and flower essences.<br /><br />It can be found in dry fields and meadows.<br /><br />DO NOT USE DURING PREGNANCY, OR WHEN THERE IS LIVER DISEASE OR LOW BLOOD PRESSURE!!! Not good for people with sleep apnea.<br /><br />Easy to grow. Will grow in blazing hot full sun and in partial shade. Vervain is not picky. She thinks people should grow their own plants, developing an association with the plant that they can then use for medicine. <br /><br /><strong>Yarrow</strong> <em>Achillia millifolium</em><br /><br />She believes every herbalist in the west would have this one one their list, if you had to pick 10 or 20 herbs. It does so much. It grows on every continent except for Antarctica. It is Wolf medicine. Used by Achilles to heal his soldiers' wounds on the battlefield. <em>Millifolium</em> means 'thousand leafed'. It does not have a thousand leaves but it does have delicate, fern-like leaves. <br /><br />Most people recognize <strong>yarrow</strong> when they see it. It grows in many conditions. Easy to grow - wet or dry and at all altitudes. <br /><br />The Druids used the stalks to divine the weather. In China the stalks were used to make the sticks for the I Ching. <br /><br />It works on fractures and densities, it forms light. It goes in and does what it has to do in the body. <br /><br />It stimulates the uterus, so good for women who have density and stagnation.<br /><br />It is extremely anti-bacterial, works on staff. Wash with <strong>yarrow</strong> then use golden seal and chamomile, or golden seal and marshmallow internally. This is one you think about for any kind of wound. Probably one of the best wound healers there is. <strong>Yarrow</strong> will start closing a wound within half an hour. She has seen that on deep cuts out in the middle of nowhere - just chewing it and putting it on a wound. Stops bleeding. (In my own herbal medicine kit, I keep a jar of dry powdered yarrow for this use.) It is a great plant to stop bleeding both internally and externally. Put <strong>yarrow</strong> on a bad cut as quickly as you can.<br /><br />It is good in the lungs and throat and pulls out mucus. If you have a lot of excess mucus use yarrow. It is an astringent. <br /><br />Great when there is a fever but no sweating, a hot cup of <strong>yarrow</strong> tea will bring on sweating.<br /><br />It helps with the menstrual cycles that are very long with extended blood flow or when there is periodic flooding. Especially during menopause when menses are getting off the usual pattern.<br /><br />Good for blood vessel elasticity if there is any issue with that. It lowers blood pressure because it dilates the blood vessels in the fingers, toes, and the periphery of the body. It works well on hemorrhoids by tightening them up and toning and elasticity to the blood vessels. Beneficial to the venous system because it keeps it from becoming brittle. Every smoker should be taking because smoking takes away elasticity and creates brittleness.<br /><br />It is a tonic, promotes bile flow for digestion, and is a good cardio-vascular tonic because it reduces inflammation in the heart area. <br /><br />It helps with fibroid and uterine prolapses. Can be used with varicose veins externally. It improves the integrity of the blood vessels. Use it for nose bleeds<br />It moves, removes and breaks up old stagnant blood. Bruising is blood stagnation. Even if the wound was years ago, yarrow will go to that sight and break up and remove remaining stagnant blood. You need to move stagnant blood. That's where injury and illness happens. Cancer cells go to stagnated blood. Cancer starts where there has been bruising or puncturing. If you get hurt or bruised use yarrow with the arnica.<br /><br />Good for chronic cystitis and urethritis when there is inflammation. Use for bladder, kidney and prostate irritation. Any chronic reproductive congestion where there is dull pain. This is for both male and female.<br /><br />Use when there is tearing after child birth or post-partum bleeding. Do a sitz bath. Helps with anal fissures, use in a sitz bath. <br /><br /><strong>Yarrow </strong>root is good for tooth pain. You can chew it. Mixed with white oak bark. Can store in alcohol and water so they don't dry out as fast.<br /><br />Use when there is chronic dysentery where there is diarrhea caused from bacteria in the gut - 'traveller's gut.' It helps with intestinal flus because it is anti-inflammatory. Use when there are stomach ulcers. <br /><br />It can be used with mild joint and muscle pain. <br /><br />When there is blistering of the skin or skin rashes use <strong>yarrow</strong>. <br /><br />The flowers make a yellow dye using alum as a mordant. if you use iron mordant, you will get an olive green color. Yarrow salve is good for joint inflammation. It enters through the arms. <br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use</strong>: Used in love spells and wedding bouquets in other countries. A wish made on the first spring blossom you see will come true. Helps remove negativity in a person, place or thing. Use in a negative work environment. Helps with boundaries. No sense of personal boundary. Either spirit drops of tinctures (1 to 3) or as a flower essence. When there are problems with relationship boundaries. Helps you create healthy boundaries. <br /><br />USE CAUTION DURING PREGNANCY!!! <br />Some people get a rash from it if they are super sensitive. <br /><br />Use when you are working with clients and you want to make and maintain good boundaries. <br /><br />Not that good for animals who cannot deal with some of the constituents - cannot break down the oxalates. <br /><br /><strong>Yerba Santa</strong> <br /><br />Only see in California and dry areas. It is warming. It works on densities and blocks. In Mexico and Central America used for everything. It is a holy herb, it is used for just about any kind of illness.<br /><br />She uses it for damp, wet lung conditions. Slightly stimulates the lungs so it brings things up. You think about it more when there is a lot of mucus and congestion. <br /><br />Use for wetness in the lungs: wet pneumonia, bronchitis, lung infections, colds. If not wet, don't use because it could actually harm you by drying you up too much. Use when there is white phlegm and constant coughs. It is an anti-inflammatory in the lungs, sinus, bronchi.<br /><br />It is good in the urinary tract and the gut. Another plant that likes to go in and 'do its thing.' Use when there is bladder and urinary tract infections. <br /><br />It's a great wound wash because it is anti-bacterial. It will start the healing process going. <br /><br />You want to harvest in late summer when shiny because contains a lot of sugars and resins then. Be careful because so sticky. it will clump up and mold before drying. Spread it out. It takes a lot of alcohol when you make a tincture. If you make an infusion, you want to cook it for hours and then let it sit overnight. Not good for kidneys or bladder long term due to the resin. <br /><br />Not a tonic. Not for long term use. <br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use</strong>: As an offering on all altars. It opens a person up to respect the sacred. It needs to grow in hot places, although it will grow in the worst soil and heat. Will grow in clay with no water. Will grow in disturbed soil. <br /><br />Essences she uses a lot.<br /><br /><strong>Lady's Tresses</strong> Alaskan<br /><br />Spiral back into the self and into the body. For a person who is hig functioning on many levels but has unseen emotional blocks. People who are out of their body, but don't know it.<br /><br /><strong>Peace Beach</strong> Hawaiian <br /><br />For most type A westerners. People afraid to slow down and be in the quiet. Helps the self and the body slow down and really rest. It allows you to recharge and be on healthy energy. For the wired out and crackly people. To let all parts of the body rest. <br /><br /><strong>Oriental Plane Tree</strong> Essences of Greece<br /><br />Allows your emotional self to change to make better decisions. For those who make most of their emotional decisions based on old hurts, traumas, betrayals and pain. It allows you to let go of and break that pattern. Helps you to start living in present time.<br /><br /><strong>Green Rose</strong> Luna Fina<br /><br />Opens the heart. No way you can be in health and balance unless your heart is open. To know what you are feeling. EVERYTHING enters the heart first. Science is finally catching up with what indigenous peoples have always known. <br /><br /><strong>Violet Rose </strong>Luna Fina<br /><br />Lets light and love into the body and the soul. That is what we all are when we are in balance - light and love. The green and violet pair well together to work with softening the heart and bringing love in. <br /><br /><strong>Liard Hot Springs</strong> Alaskan<br /><br />Helps get rid of old patterns that don't work. Releases feelings of negativity. Melts away feelings of guilt or shame. Brings back the feeling of love and innocence to a person. <br /><br /><strong>Glacier River</strong> Alaskan<br /><br />Allows for release of old patterns. Want to change but can't because old beliefs are standing in your way. Creates movement so the energy can move to bring about change. Create new patterns. <br /><br /><strong>Emerald</strong> Alaskan<br /><br />Opens the heart to love. Lets in light and energy into the body and the heart. Love in the heart is the key.<br /><br /><strong>Saguaro Cactus</strong> Desert Alchemy<br /><br />Cacti have intensity because they survive harsh environments. It balances male and female energy. It gives self-empowerment. Use when there are/were difficulties with the father. Provides healthy male imagery. Helps you to father yourself. It restores will to live and heal. Use with wild animals. <br /><br /><strong>Mariposa Lily</strong> Desert Alchemy<br /><br />When you didn't have healthy mothering or didn't have a healthy relationship with you mother. Helps you to mother yourself. Helps when you are feeling alone and isolated. <br /><br />This is my trascript from the recorded show. They archive the shows for a short time. Go to <a href="http://www.kpfa.org">KPFA.org</a>Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-15387458465146387402009-12-24T13:44:00.003-08:002009-12-24T14:27:03.190-08:0020 Herbs You Must Have...Part IIAccording to Karyn Sanders...Part II <br />20 herbs you must have. Based on <strong>The Herbal Highway</strong>, a show by <strong>Karyn Sanders</strong> on KPFA. You can tune in and listen online at <a href="http://www.kpfa.org">kpfa.org</a>. The show is on Thursday afternoons at 1 pm PST.<br /><br />Karyn says she has chosen these particular herbs because they are accessible, not rare and have many uses. They are cheap and grow on the west coast. I think it is very important that we learn which plants we can use that grow locally or that we can grow ourselves so that we can take care of our own health whenever possible. <br /><br />The law requires that I must say that you should seek the advice of a physician before using any of these plants. <br /><br /><em><strong>Lion's Mane Mushroom</strong></em> <br /><br />Found on dead wood that has come down. Looks like a white lion's mane coming down.<br /><br />A tonic herb for that can be used by everyone. It is an immune system tonic and can be taken all the time. It tones liver, lungs, heart, spleen and kidneys, and regenerates neurons. It can thus regenerate cognitive ability, and can be used with dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, MS, senility, and seizure disorders. When paired with St. John's Wort, it is useful for MS and epilepsy. It can be helpful with stomach cancer and nerves. Feeds and tones the nerves. It is nutritive for the GI tract and is useful when there are ulcers. It and can be eaten fresh - after being cooked. It tastes like oysters or clams. Make chowder and soups with it. You can make a tea of it or made into a powder to be added to food.<br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use:</strong> It soothes and brings vitality to the spirit. Use for people who need more vitality. <br /><br />If wild-crafting, never take whole plant don't harvest unless huge like a pumpkin. It is an old growth plant, so have respect.<br /><br /><em><strong>Lomatium</strong></em> <br /><br />Big medicine for Karuk people of northern California and southern Oregon. It is Bear medicine. Use the leaf when it is fresh in spring 3 to 4 inches tall. It can be used like celery leaf for flavoring. When the root is used for medicine, it is best well dried - like for one year. Fresh root is too strong. Can cause hives when it is too strong for the liver. It is used for junctures and fractures - it opens you so light flows through. Much like yerba santa. It makes you sweat. A hot cup of tea made with it will break a fever. It pulls up bronchial secretions and stuck mucus. Effective on Hep C works on liver. Improves lung circulation. Most Bear medicine works on the lungs. Use when you need to get the circulation going for more air. It brings energy and makes the lungs sweat like osha. It is anti microbial and thus is used bronchial tubes when there is infection and inflammation in the respiratory tract. <br /><br />It also opens the blood vessels and improves circulation in the periphery - in fingers and toes. Can be used for pneumonia, especially walking pneumonia. As an antiviral, it reduces viral loads and thus shorten the time of an illness. Use with different types of flu. It is immune stimulating and mild doses can be used long term. It is effective with Lyme disease, HIV, hepatitis C, Epstein Barr and chronic fatigue. <br /><br />It can be used with as a sore throat gargle. Some people do not react and others might get hives. It has a cooling energy. <br /><br />It looks like a fern with umbelliferous yellow flower heads. You will see it in dry environments mixed with oak, pine with ca poppy. and low level gentian. It likes the lower drier elevations. <br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use:</strong> for those who can't let go of the past and the old stories no matter how healed they are. Hanging on to the past. Used for grieving, As Bear medicine, it is used for protection. Has a cooling energy.<br /><br />If someone gets hives from it, use high doses of fresh dandelion root decoction or tincture. This will flood the liver and get rid of hives. <br /><br />To identify scratch the root and a yellow sap comes out. It has a menthol smell. It does not like to be transplanted. Plant in fall or early spring. It is good luck if it shows up on the land. Deer like young plant only because it is so tasty.<br /><br /><em><strong>Milk Thistle</strong></em><br /><br />It is known for channeling light and opening things up. Collect leaves in summer and seeds in late summer. An amazing plant that helps the liver regenerate and regrow. It regenerates and regrows the liver. It stimulates liver. It literally will keep someone alive while waiting for a transplant. Must use pharmaceutical grade milk thistle then. It is also a tonic. It is a stimulant to liver and gall bladder. Don't use if liver is hot, use dandelion instead. It promotes bile flow, so make sure there are no bile blockages. It is the premiere liver tonic. Helps with recovery from IV drugs use. <br /><br />It is a heavy metal solvent and and helps with metal toxicity aiding in cleaning the liver. It protects the liver and can be used as a preventive measure. If you have a toxic job use, use it as a preventive measure. Construction jobs or auto mechanics should use it.<br /><br />Slows down degeneration of liver from fats, and genetic issues. It slows down a fatty liver which stops liver from functioning. Used with all types of hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. <br /><br />Specific for amanitas mushroom poisoning. High dosage needed to help with the damage from amanitas. Must use high doses like 40 to 50 drops every 4 hours, the 25 drops every 3 hours for several days. <br /><br />Can take as a powdered condiment over food daily like pepper or tincture with high alcohol or simmered a long time as a tea. <br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use:</strong> Allows forgiveness and self-forgiveness. when things have happened and you can't forgive, the person is stuck in you. It heals broken trust between people. It is emotionally cleansing and eases the loneliness and shame that comes with low self esteem. It brings a greater sense of oneness. Animals respond well to it. Deer leave babies under it while they forage. Astrologically - best made when Venus and Saturn are square or in opposition.<br /><br /><em><strong>Mugwort</strong></em> (artemisia)<br /><br />There are many different kinds. Karyn Sanders thinks the one from Siskiyou county is the best. It grows everywhere. All types are cooling. Historically it was used to make beer in Europe. It is believed to have magical properties. It is an antidote to an overdose of opium. <br /><br />It re channels light and opens the way to let light follow. It brings things back together. People use it against internal parasites. It is an antispasmodic, so it stops cramping. It is a bitter for stimulating stomach acids and digestion. <br />Taken as hot tea, it makes you sweat and thus breaks a fever. It helps you sweat it out. The heat of fever kills virus then the sweat expels toxicity. <br /><br />It helps circulate blood through the uterus when there is congestion. If there are irregular menses or the menstrual cycle stops due to stress. It should not be used during pregnancy or nursing since it will make the milk bitter. <br />As a nervine, it relaxes people and helps with migraine caused by too much intake of sugar. If there is nausea mix with licorice. <br /><br />It helps with depression if there is nervous tension. Use tiny doses for epilepsy with other plants. Use when there is bloat from water retention accompanying PMS or fibroids. It can be effective with allergies. It stimulates the liver which is associated with allergies and thus aid the immune system. Use during colds, fevers, or bronchial infections. Use it as a wash for rash or acne to dry it out. Use for when there is anxiety and insomnia. It has been used for dreaming and put in dream pillows, some say it calms, while others say it stimulates. It is also a douche for yeast infection. Can be used as a moth repellent when put in with clothing. It calms some people and stimulates others, so not useful in dream pillows for all people.<br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use:</strong> The flower essence is used for enhancing receptive quality of the psyche and integrating it with daily life. <br /><br />Make a salve using lavender and lemon balm to relieve cramps. It can be used in a smudge. Use quartz or moonstone in tincture, but can discolor the gems. It is a deeply female plant which promotes prophetic and vivid dreams. Use a combination of mugwort and rosemary protects while traveling. Associated with the 6th chakra. In Europe it was used in divination and scrying. Connect with fertility. It clears negativity and depression. If it shows up outside the door of a healing room it connects to you to all other healers. <br /><br />It helps a person experience the fullness of grief. Don't use too long term.Some people have an allergy to it. It can be used with animals. It grows in full sun, with little water and dry bad soil. <br /><br /><em><strong>Mullein</strong></em><br /><br />It takes two years for it to grow. You just get leaves the first year, flowers, seeds and roots in the second year. It rides the surface well and breaks things up. It is a lung and respiratory system tonic. It opens bronchial passages and heals damaged cilia, thus it is good for smokers or fire fighters. Use with chronic lung issues. You can make toning steams for the sinus. Use for a dry cough.<br /><br />It is also good for irritation of the intestine (a tea) or ulcerations used in tea. It has been used for poulticing broken bones, rashes and cuts. It makes a nice a liniment, using the root for hemorrhoids, tumors and cysts. <br /><br />Use during the early part of colds if lungs involved. It is very light weight. The infused oil of fresh flowers is used for ear infections. You can eat the flowers in salad. Use the flowers for bladder and kidney infections, tea or tincture; the roots for deeper issues like emphysema, pleurisy, pneumonia and certain types of asthma. <br /><br />The leaf and root can be used for pri-mature babies born with undeveloped lungs. It is the last part to grow in a baby and often the lungs are not fully developed in primis.<br /><br />It can also be used in bone repair. Use the stalks in a liniment for sore muscles, cramping, and muscle spasm - for those who work out a lot a mullein stalk liniment. You can also use the dry stalks dry to make torch like candles. Dry well and dip in wax. (A friend of mine, named Shay, used to make the most beautiful mullein stalk candles, decorating them with beads, ribbon and feathers.) <br />Mix with marshmallow and goldenseal powder, for infections, abscesses and other external wounds. <br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use:</strong> Calms people. It helps people let out grief. Most illnesses having to do with lungs are related to grief. It also helps let in the light. One cannot be calm if there is no light running through you. <br /><br />When you pick the leaves, let them wilt a little to remove some of the water if you want to make an oil. When the plants dry at the end of the season, leave the stalks so that they drop seed. Birds love them. She has seen woodpeckers get on the stalk and peck out seeds.<br /><br /><em><strong>Poke Root</strong></em><br /><br />You have to be very careful with this plant because it is a high dose poison. It is still useful, however, because it is specific for many things in low doses. It has semi heart shaped green leaves with pink stems and later develops a cluster of indigo blue berries. It is a large plant and you use the berries and roots. It opens things up, breaks things up and brings light through. Use at junctures. Anti-viral.No more than 1 to 3 drops once a day for short term use. Don't use if not sure about what you are doing. Make sure you mark it as poison. Keep out of reach of children. <br /><br />It is a potent anti-viral that cleans the upper lymph system, a strong lymph mover - use when there is something going on from the shoulders and breasts up. It moves things out of the lymph that is really stuck. It clears boils and cirrus and fibrous tissue. It can be used with the upper digestive and respiratory tracts. It helps with laryngitis, chronic swollen glands and tonsillitis. Use a little (1 drop) with echinacea for mastitis and apply a cabbage leaf poultice. It helps with scabies on adults - externally, 1 pt tincture of poke root to 10 pts. water then put on scabies, then internally a few drops once a day. For adults only, use with varicose veins. Use if there is soreness and congestion of sexual parts. <br /><br />It can help with addictions, not to drugs but other types of addictions. It gets rid of cravings and obsessional thinking. 1 drop once, maybe twice a day. It can also help a person let go of the obsession with obsession. It opens everything up . It tones down negative emotions like jealousy, envy. It helps clear up old resentments and emotional patterns. It helps those stuck in dangerous situations on the job or in relationships. When there is abuse and you need to break free. Don't use with kidney disease or pregnancy or lymphoma, Very toxic and do for short term use only - one week or two at most. Vervain can be used as an antidote. It grows up to 10 ft. tall and 6 ft. wide in creeks, wet conditions. It likes water.<br /><br /><em><strong>Redroot</strong></em> (ceanothus) <br /><br />Also known as 'snowplant' or 'California lilac.' There are over 30 species in Ca. Male and female plants. There is one that has light blue flowers and a musky intense scent, which for some is a sexual smell. <br /><br />It is cooling and we use the roots and root bark. When you dig them up there should be no metal touching the roots. It likes to grow in dense rocky soil, so it can take hours to get one. <br /><br />It is useful when there is enlarged or damaged liver or spleen. It can be used for the tonsils or lymph nodes when the problem is lower and deep. Use cleavers for the skin and lymph nodes closer to the surface. <br /><br />It improves assimilation of fatty acids. It helps increase platelet count and aids in chronic slow blood coagulation.<br /><br />Use after chemotherapy and radiation to bring up platelet counts. When there is a sore throat or tonsillitis, use as a gargle and take internally. It reduces water and increases blood flow - helps interstitial circulation. People with poor fat digestion tend to have allergies. When you don't digest fats well, the stools will appear greasy and you can also have headaches when you eat fatty food. Or when you eat fats, you don't feel good because you are not digesting the fat. Helps with the headaches some people get from eating fatty foods. Use with spleen infections mono, Epstein Barr. Okay with mild hemorrhaging, better to use yarrow, but if not available, use redroot.<br /><br />It is helpful when there is portal vein congestion and can be used with non fibrous cysts. Mix with blue cohosh for ovarian cysts. Do not use when there is a super acute disease or very low blood pressure because it can bring down blood pressure. Don't use when there are blood clotting issues. <br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use:</strong> It eases grief. It brings it up but gently in a wave-like way so that the feelings come and go. This culture has a problem with allowing grief. We have to grieve to be in balance again. Lack of sufficient grieving makes us stuck in old issues and old resentment.<br /><br /><em><strong>Reishi Mushroom</strong></em><br /><br />There are many kinds. It is the fruiting body. It channels light brings things in and breaks thing up, depending on what is needed. It is called the 'fruit of life' in Chinese. It works on allergies, brings down histamines and is a mild anti-inflammatory. We need some inflammation, because it is part of the healing process, but not too much. Reishi regulates inflammation. It is an anti-viral, a bitter and tonic. As an immune modulator, it has the ability to assess what to do. <br /><br />It won't just stimulate the liver. It serves as a protectant by raising the T cell counts. Good tonic for the elderly because it is an anti-oxidant. It brings up mucus and helps promote oxygen in the blood. It can used with altitude sickness and whenever there a need to increase the oxygen in the blood. It lowers blood pressure lowers hypertension in the heart. It is a heart tonic. It also helps lower HDL cholesterol and helps with adrenal stress. She uses it with chronic fatigue. <br /><br />It has been used to help with the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. It feeds the nerves. Black reishi is a stronger kidney tonic than the others. It can loosen the stools. Red reishi has strong anti-inflammatory effects. There are many ways to take reishi. You can make a tincture or if making a tea, you have to cook for a long time. Put in a crock pot or simmer for 12 hours. A good way to use is in powder form. Not tasty, so you are not going to be eating it.<br /><br /><strong>Spiritual use:</strong> boosts life force - chi, the light within you. It builds stamina, promotes long life and calms the spirit and promotes sleep. Some people have insomnia because their spirit is agitated. Helps people who are really sick and need to 'go the distance.' Reishi is high in protein. In the past only available from China, but now some people are growing here but mostly on the East Coast.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-10557349063081464902009-12-11T12:23:00.000-08:002009-12-11T12:31:06.480-08:00Problem with Common Names - Sweet LeafSo for those of you who asked about "sweet leaf". I got in touch with Karyn Sanders and she said it is <em>monarda fistula</em> also known as bee balm.<br /><br />Even the term 'bee balm' is problematic as there are probably hundreds of plants known by the same name depending on where you are.<br /><br />It is vital that we use scientific terms so that we all know that we are speaking about the same plant.<br /><br />Thank you for the questions about this.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-48203949714111260682009-12-07T14:38:00.000-08:002009-12-07T15:12:17.399-08:00Basic Herbs for Home Use - Part II haven't written for awhile because I was busy preparing for a pre-Christmas show where I usually do very well. I made some new products (Return of Venus soap, spray and bath salts); made some products that were great sellers in the past (Cocoa Rose Cordial); and made more of some great sellers (Mayan Chocolate Body Butter). I don't have photos of them yet, so they are not in my Etsy store.<br /><br />Today while listening to <strong>Karyn Sanders</strong> on <strong>The Herbal Highway</strong> show on <strong>KPFA</strong> today, I was inspired to pass on what she talked about. This is even more relevant today where people are losing their health care plans (like me) and as we approach winter. Now, more than ever, we need to be able to take care of our own health. Karyn planned to talk about 20 most important herbs to have on hand. She only got to six and promised to do the rest in the next couple shows. This is actually archived on the <a href="http://kpfa.org/archive/show/36">website</a>, so you can go there to hear the show. <br /><br />First of all, before you treat yourself or anyone else with herbs, make sure that there has been a diagnosis from a physician and that physician has approved complementary use of herbs. DO NOT USE HERBS IN LIEU OF MEDICAL TREATMENT. I have to say this because that is the LAW in this country. They make it so that you cannot afford to go to a physician, then they make it a crime to take care of yourself or help anyone else. But, I don't want any liability. These are just suggestions, not prescriptions. Do more research yourself before you use any of these herbs. You are allowed to grow them all yourself and make teas or tinctures.<br /><br />The following is from <strong>Karyn Sanders </strong>on <strong>KPFA</strong> December 3, 2009 show. Listen to it yourself at: www.kpfa.org<br /><br /><em><strong>Agrimony </strong></em><br /><br />A cooling herb that moves and channels energy. It breaks things up and brings down heat. It is considered wolf medicine. It dries up excess fluid. It helps stop bleeding and can be used with bloody colitis. It can be used with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or situations where there are loose stool with or without blood. It can be used with gall bladder issues such as headaches that arise from eating too much fat, known as a gall bladder headache. It can be used with peptic ulcers and bleeding ulcers. When there is damage to the liver due to alcohol or drugs, agrimony may be helpful. Used in combination with sweet leaf, it can help with appendicitis. When there ids dark orange urine due to cystitis or nephritis, or other problems with the urinary tract, agrimony can be useful. It is a diuretic. With external issues like burns, you can make a poultice with honey, then follow with agrimony. For the conditions of the lungs where there are wet coughs, asthma, or sore throat, mix with honey in a tea. When the chest is tight on the inhale or when there is thick yellow mucus, use agrimony. You can use agrimony for kidney pain due to kidney stones. It can also be used to tighten and tone the urinary tract when there is dribbling - like when you laugh and pee a little. It tones. tightens and pulls out moisture and cools. It can be used when there is edema after chemotherapy or with post partem edema. With oily skin and acne due to poor digestion, make a wash. It can be used for the lower back pain due to menstruation It is best to use fresh plant, but dry is okay.<br /><br /><strong>Energetic use</strong>: Tension and anger under surface but under control but when anger out it is extreme. It helps remove critical thoughts. Use areal parts.<br /><br /><em><strong>Astragalus</strong></em><br /><br />Use good quality organic roots. Astragalus is long term deep. profound and slow. It is safe for all ages. It moves blocks out of the way of healing. It is an anti-viral anti-microbial. deep immune tonic. It is also a kidney and spleen tonic. It can be used for people who have long term burned out bodies, for those who are weak but don't know why. It restore chi. It is a mild diuretic and helps get rid of pus. It can help regulate sugar. It supports and strengthen tissue and can be used with different types of prolapses. It can be used in situations where there is a need for tissue regeneration, to increase vitality and with wasting syndrome where people can't hold on to fat, especially due to AIDS or chemo therapy. It requires long term cooking, put in a crock pot for a slow cooking process. Can be added to soups and stews. <br /><br /><strong>Energetic use</strong>: To open the heart and soul. Good for people who are too much in their heads. For people who have difficulty with intimacy. <br /><br />Use caution with leukemia or situations where there is white blood cell proliferation. <br /><br /><em><strong>Blue Cohosh</strong></em> <br /><br />Often called a shy plant, it needs to be approached quietly and carefully. It is known as deer medicine. It gets rid of things that are not moving. If there is mucus membrane bogginess, reproductive congestion, it gets things moving. It is not astringent, but rather is warming and lightens things up. It can cause bleeding so it should not be used during pregnancy. It stimulates oxytocin. It can bring on after birth. It can be used with spastic colon and small intestine and other types of painful cramping. It can be used with such gut issues as intestinal flatulence. Use with dull frontal headaches. It is helpful with gout, arthritis, lupus, and rheumatism. It cleans out bladder because it moves fluids. Helpful with leg cramping. During menopause when there are hot flashes with rage, blue cohosh calms you down. <br /><br /><strong>Energetic use</strong>: A quiet and strong herb that works on density. It opens the heart. Helps with fear that turns to anger and rage. For people who are shut down and their hearts have gotten mean. For people who are full of jealousy because they do not trust that their partner loves them. Those who don't feel love, and don't see love. Plant in a safe quiet place, not along the path. Blue Cohosh wants to hide. <br /><br /><em><strong>German Chamomile</strong></em><br /><br />Can use pineapple weed too. Use when there is snappy and fractured energy and when it is not being well channeled. Can be used with hay fever and asthma. It gets the gut to work better. It is anti-microbial and anti-bacterial. Use at the start of an infection. It is anti fungal and can used with candida. Most German chamomile we get grows in Hungary and Turkey and there has been a lot or research done on its anti fungal properties. If you make a strong tea, it is very bitter and thus can be used like other bitter herbs in the digestive process. It soothes inflamed skin. You can use it in steams for the sinuses. An effective eye wash but it must be strained because it has fine hairs. It can help with intestinal tract flu, and for the pain, ache and cramping that go with it. It can also be used to fight against intestinal flu. It rids the intestines of pus and inflammation. It is an effective ingredient in salves for burns or as a wash for burns. A mild tea of blue chamomile can be given to babies when they are teething. Or use the diluted oil on the outside of the cheek for teething. Dilute a little oil in olive oil and put on the outside on the cheek. As an anti-spasmodic, it is helpful against indigestion and gas. It also helps with anxiety, since it is a nervous system tonic. It can help with the fear and anger that may accompany Alzheimer's and dementia. It helps with anxiety that may interfere with sex. To get rid of impacted mucus in sinus, use a neti pot or steam. It can help with vertigo and frailty in elders or babies. In cases of conjunctivitis make a warm infusion strain in coffee filter, and apply with a cotton ball. Make sure you use separate cotton balls so that you do not pass the infection. You can make a creme for burns or salves for dry skin. For those who lose sense of humor because they are too sensitive. Assists with anxiety attack. It also heals the garden itself because it heals the other plants. It helps bring clarity. It helps you focus on present time and gives one a sense of direction if muddled and uncertain. Good quality has a vibrant alive smell like apples. Don't use old plant material. It goes bad fast.<br /><br /><em><strong>Dandelion </strong></em><br /><br />You can use all parts of dandelion, but they are good for different things. Karyn says dandelion is good for junctures. When there is nervous energy with underlying depletion on all levels. It is a bitter root. You can cook the leaves and they are great in stir fry. It is good for stomach and liver. It can have a diuretic. It moves fluid through the urinary tract but rather than depleting potassium and sodium like other diuretics tend to do, it actually adds potassium and sodium. Use the leaves for high blood pressure. In the old days, dandelion root was remedy for the liver. Leaves and flowers keep the urine acidic, which helps prevent infection. Helps with gout and all issues related to the liver including hepatitis, jaundice and liver cancer. It is a good bitter that stimulates digestion. Since it stimulates peristaltic action, it is good for constipation. It reduces inflammation and supports the spleen. Skin conditions that are related to bad diet and stagnant diet are improved. <br /><br /><strong>Energetic use</strong>: Moves repressed anger that manifests as depression. People pleasers who cannot express negativity and repress or deny emotions, may have a lot of built up anger. Dandelion releases that.<br /><br />Not to be used when there is renal failure.<br /><br /><em><strong>Golden Seal</strong></em> <br /><br />This is an endangered species, so it should never be wild-crafted. You can purchase high quality organic golden seal leaf now. Don't use any other kind. It is anti-bacterial. In the sinus can dry excess mucus. Not a tonic and you should only use short term. It is anti fungal and can be used with ring worm and candida. When there is inflammation of the stomach and can stimulate stomach acids. It is a bitter that can be used with peptic ulcers, and IBS colitis with bleeding. It stimulates bile in a sluggish liver. Brings blood to spleen. Inhibits tumor growths When conjunctivitis does not respond to chamomile, use golden seal. Can be used with abscesses after cleaning. It tightens boggy uterus, it reduce nonmalignant tumors in breast. It can be used on anal fissures and hemorrhoids. First use yarrow then golden seal. Use as a wound wash. Deep immune response strong stimulant. Mix with marshmallow for tissue damage. <br /><br /><strong>Energetic use</strong>: Helps people see past, present, and future to see what to do next. Helps you to open up and access your own power. Helps you sit with your shadow and get into your own power. Not to be use when pregnant. Not for long term use, only short term chronic internal problems or with wounds.Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6855553310579534296.post-51163237936421569002009-10-30T13:39:00.000-07:002009-10-30T14:07:03.010-07:00Keep Yourself Healthy with SoupLet's not assume that we have to get the flu or a cold this season. Instead, let's put some effort into not getting sick. It is not inevitable. <br /><br />Yes, just like you learned from you mother or grandmother, soup is good for you. Especially homemade. You don't have time to make soup? Do you have a crockpot? You can put all the ingredients in at night before you go to bed. Put it on low and voila in the morning....soup. Or, prepare all the ingredients the night before, then in the morning before you go to work, put them in the crockpot and voila2 ready when you get home from work.<br /><br />Make sure the crockpot is in a safe place where it can stay on while you sleep or are away at work.<br /><br />A good blend of ingredients that help with boosting your immune system are:<br /><br />Burdock root, dry or fresh<br />Codonopsis root<br />Ginger root, dry or fresh<br />Astragalus Root (I like the powder for soups because it works as a thickener)<br />Medicinal mushrooms<br />Garlic<br /><br />Put them in water and cook for hours. I like to eat them, but you can take them out if you wish. I like to make a stock with these items, then add the vegies, including dry seaweed. <br /><br />Rather than using salt, I use miso which deepens the flavor and is better for you than salt. If you eat meat, you would put the meat in before the vegetables. Chicken soup has been shown to be helpful when recovering from a cold. Yes, they have done research on it! Use the skin in the stock then remove if you wish (it gets kinda weird after a few hours and personally, I can't eat it). The oil that comes from poultry (chicken or turkey) is good for you, but it can be very hot...hotter than the rest of the soup, so be careful!<br /><br />Culinary herbs such as rosemary, oregano, basil and thyme have healing properties and also add flavor. Best to use fresh herbs or recently dried from your garden. You can also use 1 drop of essential oil from these herbs in your soup. Remember, essential oils are HIGHLY concentrated. DON'T use more than 1 drop or you won't be able to eat it. TOO STRONG! Make sure the essential oils are of high quality and natural, not synthetic.<br /><br />I like to add barley, beans, rice or 'pastini' (little pasta like orzo) to the soup to give it some bulk.<br /><br />There are hundreds of recipes for soup. Experiment. Come up with your own recipe. Right now, I've got lentil with fresh chillies, onion, garlic, miso and astragalus powder in the crock pot almost ready to eat. <br /><br />Soup is comfort food and these days, we need all the comfort we can get.<br /><br />I buy my herbs locally when I can from <strong>The Sonoma County Herb Exchange</strong> Otherwise I buy in bulk for <strong>Mountain Rose Herbs</strong> (see ads and yes, if you click through the Mountain Rose ads and buy something, I do get a small commission. Believe me, these days I can use all the help I can get).<br />I also buy from <a href="http://www.pacificbotanicals.com/">Pacific Botanicals</a> (where I do not get a commission) but I still recommend highly, Ha! Ha! <strong>Mark Wheeler</strong>, who founded the company is a great guy and was on the trip I took to Morocco in '07 with <strong>Rosemary Gladstar</strong> and a group of herbalists. <br /><br />For the more ambitious types who want to grow their own, I recommend plants and seeds from <a href="http://www.horizonherbs.com/">Horizon Herbs</a>. Some things can be planted now for next year. They have an incredible selection.<br /><br />This post is about soup and some immune boosting plants and herbs to put in the crockpot. There are other immune boosting herbs that I will write about next time.<br />Stay well!Mystery Ranchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04050933804542338165noreply@blogger.com0