THYME: Herb of the Month

Thyme is a low-growing aromatic perennial herb that is common to Mediterranean countries and parts of Europe. Thyme was brought to North America, and has become a beloved garden herb. It is one of the most commonly used plants both medicinally and for culinary uses and has a rich history throughout the world. In ancient Egypt, thyme was used in embalming fluid. Thyme was one of the favorite plants in ancient Rome, and was beloved by the emperor. It was considered protective and healing, and was believed to protect against poisoning. It was also burned by the Romans and Greeks to purify homes and temples. The Romans used it to flavor alcoholic beverages and cheese. It is said that the Romans also gave this herb to people to cure them of melancholy and shyness. The Romans then introduced this herb to England, where it took on the same popularity it had in the Mediterranean. During the plague, which took hold of Europe in the mid 1300's, people would wear and carry thyme as protection. Rich in both antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties and loaded with vitamin C, thyme is medicinal for many different ailments. One of its most common uses is for respiratory issues. Because of its antibacterial and expectorant properties, thyme can help with soothing a cough. The antispasmodic property works as a cough suppressant, helping one to sleep through the night. Thyme can also be a wonderful digestive aid and can help bloating and malabsorption. It has also been shown to be beneficial to bone health because of its calcium content, and to be an aid in proper cardiac function because it relaxes the valves and veins, thus improving the heart's overall function.

If all these benefits aren't enough, thyme is also documented to increase feelings of positivity and to work to uplift the mood and ease stress. It contains many powerful compounds including caracrol, which has been shown to have a positive effect on mood as it increases level of serotonin and dopamine. Drinking thyme tea, consuming it, or diffusing the essential oil in an aromatherapy diffuser, can elevate feelings of well-being and enhance feelings of relaxation.

by Theresa Musatto

SIBERIAN GINSENG: Herb of the Month

As winter deepens, the energy of the plants goes into the roots, storing energy for the spring. Likewise, many animals hibernate in the winter- humans, too, can go into a bit of “hibernation mode.” The root of Siberian ginseng can help you build deeper strength and energy this winter so you are ready to blossom in spring. 

Siberian ginseng is a small, woody shrub, native to Northern China, Japan, Korea, and Russia. It is now cultivated in many temperate climates throughout the world. The name Siberian "ginseng” is a bit of a misnomer, for it is not a true ginseng- it is in a completely different family than the other ginsengs and does not have ginsenosides, which are natural saponins found in ginseng. However, Siberian ginseng's properties somewhat mimic the other ginsengs and it is considered a superior herbal medicine. It also goes by the name eleuthero, from its latin name, eleutherococcus senticos. 

An herb used extensively throughout the world, eleuthero is a mainstay for many who know about its uses. Used in China for over 2,000 years, the medicinal properties of eleuthero are well-documented. “I would rather have a handful of eleuthero than a cart of gold and jewels,” said the well known Chinese herbalist Li Shi-Chen, in 1596 in his treatise for herbal medicine. It has been used for thousands of years to promote vitality, help build and support immunity, help heart ailments, and decrease mental strain.

Eleuthero is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress and balance anything that might be out of balance. Because of it's well-documented ability to increase endurance and strength, many Olympic and professional athletes are reported to take it to increase their performance, training, and stamina. The plant can also be useful to counteract effects of radiation; many Siberian citizens were given eleuthero to help counteract the affects of Chernobyl. Eleuthero can also strengthen the immune system to prevent the onset of colds and flus.

Eleuthero is a difficult herb to beat in terms of plants that increase your life energy and strengthen the overall system. It can help combat the issues of chronic fatigue disorder and any stress-related conditions. Those who are overworked, overtaxed, and chronically tired, will find a good friend in eleuthero.

by Theresa Musatto

Side effects: Generally considered safe by many herbalists. Consult your doctor before taking eleuthero if you are taking any medications or have considerable health problems. Use cautiously if you have high blood pressure. Do not take if you are pregnant or nursing.

WILD CHERRY: Herb of the Month

As winter progresses, wild cherry bark can help you with any coughs or colds that come along. Considered one of the most precious herbs to the Native Americans, it can be used in a variety of ways. Known best as a cough suppressant, one can often find wild cherry bark syrup at their local natural food or herb store. Because it is also a bronchiodilator, it not only suppresses coughing (very useful if it is keeping you up at night), it can also open up your airways. Its astringent actions reduce mucus, and its gentle nervine action helps you to feel soothed. Being a member of the rose family, it is not surprising that wild cherry bark is also a wonderful heart tonic. It both tones the heart and aids in relieving congestion of the cardiovascular system. It can help remedy heart conditions such as heart palpitations and high blood pressure.

Wild cherry bark is also considered a wonderful digestive tonic. Being a bitter, it promotes the secretion of digestive juices, which help the breakdown of food and aid in the absorption of nutrients. Additionally, it can tone and strengthen the digestive system and can be useful for cases of indigestion.

Many Native America tribes used the berries and inner bark to treat worms and diarrhea. Used as a poultice, wild cherry bark and root have proved to be useful in treating a variety of skin problems and wounds. The inner bark was applied as a poultice on cuts, ulcers, wounds, and burns by the Chippewa tribe.

Prunus serotina (wild cherry) is very closely related to prunus virginia and both are often referred to as chokecherry. According to the Field Guide to Medicinal Wild Plants, "When Captain Meriwether Lewis fell ill with fever and abdominal cramps on the Lewis and Clark expedition, he was on his feet the next day after being dosed with chokecherry twigs simmered in water." 

Wild cherry should be avoided in large doses and for long periods of time. In addition, avoid if you are pregnant or nursing. Consult a doctor if you are taking it with medications because wild cherry bark can affect how they are are broken down by the liver.



by Theresa Musatto

HAWTHORN: Herb of the Month

The season can be for many, about bringing a more heart-centered awareness, with gratitude and the giving of gifts. Hawthorn fits perfectly into this season, as it is a main heart herb, both physically and emotionally. The physical effects are documented and extensive. Emotionally, it can give you the “Christmas morning feeling”, both warming your heart and making you feel more relaxed.

Hawthorn, also called thornapple, is a thorny shrub or small tree belonging to the rose family, and is native to the north temperate zone. It is a tree that has long thorns and small red (or ranging from yellow to black) berries that are a bit tangy and are packed with nutrition. The leaves, berries, and flowers are used as medicine. Known best as a heart medicine, hawthorn also has a variety of other medicinal properties. It is an all around heart herb- besides its astonishing ability to regulate blood pressure, it has been shown to help with conditions such as angina and heart failure.

The berry is also known to activate bile and gastric secretions, which aids in the digestion of stagnant food in the GI track, especially food that is rich in protein or fat. The berries are packed with antioxidants and also contain a variety of compounds that help gut flora to improve digestion of nutrients.

Hawthorn has a very rich history in the Celtic tradition, where it was considered a portal to the realm of Fae, and it was written about in many different myths around the world. It's known as one of the oldest medicinal plants that has a written history. It was prescribed as a remedy for heart problems by the ancient Greek physician Dioscorides in the first century AD. 

While hawthorn is generally considered safe and has been consumed as a food in jams and syrups throughout history, it's always best to consult your doctor before using hawthorn medicinally if you are on a heart medication.

VALERIAN: Herb of the Month

If you are already feeling like going into hibernation mode, valerian can help you. Valerian is a flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. Its uses are well-documented throughout history; from Hippocrates to Culpepper. Known best as a sleep aid, valerian can also help with anxiety. It has a compound in it called valerenic acid that is believed to work on receptors that enhance GABA in a similar way as sedative medications. It is often referred to as “nature's Valium”and is a wonderful remedy for general stress.

Native Americans used it to heal ulcers and wounds, as well as treating coughs.

The smell and taste of valerian is pretty unique and there's really nothing that mimics it, in that regard. The only way to know what it tastes like is to try it! Some people think it smells like dirty socks, others describe it as deeply floral.

It is best not to take large doses of valerian over an extended period of time. There is a very small percentage of the population that actually has a reverse reaction to valerian and are highly stimulated, therefore it's best to start with a small dose and see how you react to it.

SUMAC: Herb of the Month

As autumn continues and seasonal colors begin to abound, sumac is among the brightest of the plants. Bright red sumac, with its leaves turning pink to orange to yellow, and its furry clusters of berries, gather in abundance around roadways and forests. Sumac is a shrub that grows in subtropical to temperate climates throughout the world, including North America, East Asia, and Africa. There are many different varieties of sumac, the red kind many see growing is often staghorn sumac or smooth sumac. The bad hype sumac gets is pretty unfortunate. Most people have heard the term “poison sumac” but the kind that is poison has green or white berries, not red. It's harder to find the white variety as it grows in swamps or marshy areas and most have not seen it at all. The red sumac is a great medicinal and culinary herb that many cultures like the Middle East have utilized for thousands of years. Sumac contains very high levels of vitamin C and the berries, bark, leaves, sap and root of the harmless sumac variety are used for many different conditions including skin conditions, inflammation, digestive issues, cold and flu, urinary tract problems, diarrhea, and fever.

Late summer, autumn, and even very early winter sumac berries can be harvested. It is best to harvest sumac in late summer or autumn (now!). When you are harvesting, try to make sure the sumac berries are dry- it is best not to harvest them right after a rain shower.

Enjoy the last glimpses of warmth with soothing sumac lemonade.

Sumac Pink Lemonade

Add 1/8 to ¼ cup of berries to a quart size jar of water and place in the refrigerator overnight. Otherwise, you can heat this up in a saucepan over medium heat with equal parts sugar, stirring until the sugar has dissolved, for about five minutes before straining. Depending on your preference, you can add honey, maple syrup or stevia.

by Theresa Musatto

MEADOWSWEET: Herb of the Month

Meadowsweet is a beautiful perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia but has been naturalized in North America. It has a spray of ethereal creamy white flowers with a strong, sweet smell. In Celtic times, the Druids held it sacred. It represented the maiden aspect of the triple goddess- the flowerbride or "blodeuwedd." It was once used to flavor mead, hence one of its common names, "mead wort".
Because it is bountiful in salicylic acid, it is effective for pain relief. In fact, aspirin gets its name from meadowsweet's botanical genus name, spirea. One of the downsides to aspirin use is its negative effects on the stomach. Meadowsweet is actually very soothing to irritation of the mucous membranes of the digestive tract while reducing acidity. Studies have found it to prevent stomach lesions and heal chronic ulcers. Meadowsweet's effects are gentle, yet effective, and can even be used to treat diarrhea in children. Its soothing pain relief works very well in instances of fixed pain, such as with headaches.

If you are prone to heartburn, try this Heartburn Relief tea from nittygrittylife

2 ounces dried meadowsweet

1 ounce dried calendula

1 ounce dried marshmallow root

1/2 ounce dried licorice root

Combine and store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. To prepare the formula, steep 1-2 teaspoons of the mixture in 8-10 ounces of freshly simmered water for 5-7 minutes (tea), or 10-15 minutes (infusion). Strain and serve.

by Kristy Baird

LINDEN- Herb of the Month

The delightful aroma of Linden tree flowers gently invite us to enjoy its medicinal benefits. Linden is a common flowering tree that grows in the US, Europe and other similar climates. The flower, wood and leaves are all used as medicine. It is a long-standing favorite European remedy. It is considered to be a family herb in that it is helpful to both young and old, alike. It is most commonly used as a nervous system tonic, as it relaxes the nervous system. It makes a delightful, aromatic cup of tea that is great for unwinding at the end of a long day. Its uplifting nature makes it a wonderful antidote to depression. It is said to also help with heartache and grief. The well-regarded herbalist Matthew Wood uses a combination of linden and elder as a successful treatment for hyperactive children and linden, hawthorn and elder for cases of ADHD. Linden covers a large range of maladies, from insomnia, nervous and muscle tension, depression, anxiety, hysteria, mania, digestive issues, hyperactivity, diarrhea, colds, coughs, arteriosclerosis, asthma, bronchitis and sore throat. Being an antispasmodic, it can ease muscle spasms, cramps, tight muscles, headaches and migraines, as well as menstrual cramps. Other uses include assisting in lowering blood pressure and aiding colds, as it can help break a fever. It can be used topically to help regenerate the skin and for boils, acne, burns, rashes, freckles and wrinkles. It is also used as a gargle for mouth sores.

Try linden in a cup of tea by itself or make an enjoyable summer iced tea blend of linden, lemon balm, mint, rose, and hibiscus.

Linden can also be used in baths as a relaxing agent. The fresh flowers can be placed in a jar of honey for a few days to make a very tasty linden-infused honey.

by Theresa Musatto

PASSIONFLOWER: Herb of the Month

Passionflower is a flowering, fruiting plant that grows in warmer environments such as the southeastern US and the tropics. Though it was used by natives for thousands of years as a food and medicine, it got the name Passionflower when Spanish explorers came across it and believed the flower to be symbolic of Christ's crucifixion.
Passionflower is a wonderful antidote and remedy for the stress of modern day living. It is a great anti- anxiety herb that can help with insomnia, ADHD, and restlessness as well as lowering blood pressure and insulin levels. It's been reported to be helpful for women with menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and premenstrual syndrome.
In one study, volunteers with trouble sleeping were asked to drink a cup of passionflower tea at bedtime for a period time and all reported notable sleep improvement.
Passionflower increases GABA in the brain and this action reduces anxiety that is frequently associated with insomnia. It can also help with tension stored in muscles and involuntary muscular twitching.
It can be taken in various forms such as infusions, teas and tinctures. To make passionflower tea, simply put a teaspoon or more in a cup of boiling water and steep (with a lid).
Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or suffering from liver damage/disease should not take passionflower.
It also can interfere with blood thinning and blood pressure medications. If you are on these medications, consult your healthcare provider before using. Operating machinery is not recommended after using passionflower, due to its sedative effects.

by Theresa Musatto

YARROW: Herb of the Month

“Flow on for ever, Yarrow Stream! 

Fulfill thy pensive duty,

Well pleased that future Bards should chant

For simple hearts thy beauty”

-William Wordsworth

Yarrow is an aromatic and hardy perennial plant that grows in the eastern and central parts of the US. You have probably seen yarrow and not known it. It is sometimes confused with Queen Anne's Lace, though it's feathery leaves give it away. It is a medicinal plant that has been used since ancient times as a remedy for physical, spiritual and emotional conditions. Its history of worldwide medicinal use and in folklore is very rich- a whole book could easily be written about yarrow. It has been used as medicine from China to ancient Greece to India. Medicinally, it is very valuable. It has numerous beneficial properties and can help with anything from colds and flu to digestive complaints to nosebleeds and varicose veins.

Yarrow is a wonderful ally for colds and flu, as it is a diaphoretic- an herb that induces sweating. This is useful when attempting to bring down a fever. It can relieve sore throats and is an immune stimulant. Yarrow's scientific name, achillea millefolium, is said to be derived from the name of the Greek hero Achilles, who was said to have an affinity for the herb and use it to heal his wounded soldiers. It is a styptic- an astringent herb that is used to stop bleeding. It can be used as a remedy for the circulatory system for moving stagnant blood, as well as helping with blood clots. It can tone blood vessels and help to lower high blood pressure by improving blood flow.

Yarrow is probably one of the most popular herbs for its folklore and history with divination. Spiritually, in ancient China, yarrow stalks were used as part of a divination ritual. Researching the folklore of it, one is overwhelmed with the depth of yarrow's history. Magically, it is used to manage the energetic flow in the body- much like it's medicinal use of managing the blood flow.

Yarrow is a great plant to grow in one's garden because it attracts beneficial insects such as bees, wasps and butterflies. It also strengthens and protects other plants around it from disease because of the secretions that come from its roots! It can also help to keep unwanted pests away due to its potent aromatic essential oil.

Yarrow Natural Insect Repellent

(from Learning Herbs)

Gather enough yarrow leaves and flowers to fit snugly in a jar.

Chop them up and put them in the jar.

Pour in vodka to the top of the jar.

Shake it every day for a first week.

Strain after 2 to 6 weeks.

Pour desired amount into a spray bottle and add catnip and lavender essential oils.

Note: There is a rare possibility that yarrow may cause photodermatitis in sensitive individuals. If you have sensitive skin, it would be best to test this bug spray on a small area. (The area needs to receive sunlight to see if there is a reaction.)

Herb of the Month: PLANTAIN

If you think you've never seen plantain, you only have to look down to see how wrong you are. Growing literally all over North America, you'll find both the lance-leaf and broad-leaf varieties in sidewalk cracks, lawns and roadsides. Its latin name plantago means "sole of the foot", which may be a reference to its broad leaves or the fact that it was referred to as Englishman's Foot because it was thought to have been brought to America on the shoes of the English.
Topically, plantain is supreme as a drawing agent and for healing tissues. Bug bites, rashes, scrapes, stings, poison ivy and other skin irritations are quickly relieved by bruising the leaves and applying plantain fresh, as a poultice. It can also be made into a gargle for sore throats or an eyewash for blepharitis or conjunctivitis.
Internally, plantain acts as an alterative, purifying the blood. It also reduces inflammation and deters infection. The young leaves are edible raw or cooked. You can also eat the older leaves, but probably want to remove the fibrous ribs first.

Plantain Salve
1 cup fresh plantain leaves (gather far away from roadways or anywhere that has been sprayed)
1 1/2 cups olive oil or melted coconut oil
1 Tbsp + 1 tsp grated beeswax
a few drops tea tree essential oil (optional)

Chop your plantain and leave it laid out in a single layer to wilt. Once wilted (you want little to no water in your salve), add to your oil in the top of a double boiler, with a few inches of water in the bottom. Allow to infuse over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring with a chopstick and being careful not to fry your herbs. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain the oil through cheesecloth and let sit for a day or two so any oil or sediment will settle to the bottom. Pour the oil (avoiding the sediment) back into the top of a double boiler and add the beeswax. Melt over low heat. Remove from heat and allow to cool a bit. Add essential oil, if using. Pour into a sterilized jar and allow to cool at room temperature. Your salve will keep for years if stored in a cool, dark area and tightly lidded.



by Kristy Baird

CHICKWEED: Herb of the Month

Chickweed's genus name is stellaria, meaning "star", which is easy to remember when you look at the plant's tiny white star-like flowers. It is a low-growing annual that appears just about everywhere- even in sidewalk cracks. It is so tenacious that you can find it pretty much any time of year, but it is best harvested May through July.

Chickweed is very nutritious, containing essential minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, selenium and zinc. The leaves are very tasty raw in a salad and are most tender in the spring. They can also be boiled and taste sweet and earthy, much like spinach.

Chickweed is anti-inflammatory and great for skin conditions that are hot or itchy, such as eczema, psoriasis or hives. It is cooling and moistening when applied as a fresh poultice on the affected area.

Because of its moistening properties, a tea of chickweed is effective in treating coughs and hoarseness of the throat. 

In Mrs. Grieve's classic "A Modern Herbal", we are told that "chickweed water is an old wives' remedy for obesity." Modern research studies have found this to be true for mice, but we are not yet certain if that translates to  humans. Chickweed may, however, counteract the effects of excess progesterone, which is often a reason people accumulate more fat.

Chickens and many other birds are very fond of chickweed, which may have contributed to its common name.

In magical traditions, chickweed is often used to attract love and maintain a relationship.

If you spot some chickweed, make sure it is unsprayed and far from a road. Grab few handfuls and try this recipe for Chickweed Salad from tyrantfarms.com!

Chickweed Salad

3 cups chopped chickweed

1/4 cup purple daikon radish cut into small chopsticks

1/4 cup carrots cut into small chopsticks

1.5 Tablespoons organic extra virgin olive oil

1 Tablespoon kombucha vinegar or use other salad vinegar

1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice or blood orange juice

1 teaspoon fresh or dried citrus zest Meyer lemon or blood orange

Hawaiian red sea salt or pink sea salt to taste

Chop veggies. Chickweed is a very delicate green so you want to balance that with the crunch of carrots and radishes without overwhelming the salad, hence why you want to cut the roots into fine chopsticks.

Combine liquid ingredients in bowl and whisk together. Pour on veggies and toss. Sprinkle on sea salt and toss - taste to make sure it's the perfect amount of salt for your tastes.

Sprinkle on zest once salad is plated.

by Kristy Baird

RED CLOVER: Herb of the Month

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) dots the fields of many of our memories, as it grows wild all over North America, Europe, Africa and Asia. It has quite a few medicinal actions and makes a very tasty tea. The Druids believed it to ward off evil, while medieval Christians associated the three-lobed leaves with the trinity.
Most often, we hear about red clover in use as a "women's herb". It helps to balance hormones and lower the symptoms of menopause. It also improves the mineral density of bones. It is one of the world's most well-known herbal treatment of many varieties of cancer. Breast cancer, in particular, seems to benefit from red clover. Herbalist Matthew Wood describes how using red clover can cause a membrane to form around tumors, slowing their growth until they can be removed.
Men and women alike can appreciate red clover's cardiovascular benefits. Regular use of this blood purifying herb can correct deficiencies in the circulatory system and lower cholesterol. It helps to thin the blood and reduce the risk of clots and arterial plaques.
If you're feeling under the weather, you can glean the benefits of red clover's respiratory actions, as it fights infections and inflammation and stops the accumulation of mucus in passages. It's inflammation-fighting extends to that of skin irritations, helping greatly in the treatment of psoriasis and eczema. If used for several months, it can greatly benefit the mood, libido, energy levels, scalp & hair health and sleep.
In conclusion, red clover is a safe and effective herb that works quickly and brings positive health changes. Next time you come across a field of it, snag a few to brew as tea!



by Kristy Baird

ECHINACEA: Herb of the Month

Echinacea is one of the most widely used and researched herbs in the world. Most commonly, echinacea augustifolia and echinacea purpurea are used, but there do exist other medicinal varieties. Echinacea is native to North America and has been used by the Great Plain Tribes for more than 400 years, as well as by traditional herbalists. Before 1950, when antibiotics were introduced, echinacea was a very popular medicine. It remains popular today as an easy-to-grow ornamental garden flower, with showy pink or purple petals and a mounded head on long stems. (It is also called purple coneflower). Bees and butterflies are particularly fond of these blooms.

Current research has shown that echinacea can reduce your chances of catching a cold or flu by 58% and reduce the duration by one and a half days, if taken early as a tea or tincture. The roots, seeds and flowers of this plant all have medicinal properties. The aerial parts of the plant are the most effective, as they contain more polysaccharides, which are known to trigger immune function.

Most historical references to echinacea speak of the topical use as a pain reliever- it can be made into a paste and applied to help with headaches, tonsillitis, stomachaches, toothaches, eczema and other skin conditions. If taken regularly as tea, those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis can benefit. Echinacea soothes inflammation and helps to heal the stomach. It is also hepful for urinary tract infections, upper respiratory infections and wounds that are slow to heal.

Use echinacea with caution, as high doses can cause nausea.

by Kristy Baird

ASHWAGANDHA: Herb of the Month

Ashwagandha (withania somnifera) is a small shrub with yellow flowers that is native to India and North Africa. The root has been used in traditional Ayurvedic practice in India for over 3,000 years as a stress reliever, energy tonic and concentration aid. Ashwagandha is a part of a group of herbs called adaptogens- that is, it helps your body adapt to and manage stress. Ashwagandha, when taken daily, is well-known for reducing cortisol. One study reported that it “blocked the stress pathway in the brains of rats by regulating chemical signaling in the nervous system.”

Those who suffer from diabetes and schizophrenia may also benefit from Ashwagandha's ability to lower blood sugar. It is also believed to inhibit tumor growth and help treat certain types of cancer. Ashwagandha “is believed to generate reactive oxygen species, which are toxic to cancer cells but not normal cells. It may cause cancer cells to become less resistant to apoptosis.” Research has also shown that it protects nerve cells from free radicals and promotes antioxidant activity.

Another amazing ability of this plant is lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. When taken daily, it can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass in connection with exercise. Ashwagandha can also increase testosterone levels in infertile men. It decreases inflammation and lowers heart disease risk.

Ashwagandha is safe for most people to take. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid it, as well as those with autoimmune disease. If on thyroid medication, use caution because it can increase hormone levels in some people. Because it decreases blood pressure levels and blood sugar, consult your doctor if you are already taking medication for these.

Ashwagandha Latte

1 tsp dried Ashwagandha root

1 tsp rose hips

1 tsp pine needles

1 Tbsp coconut oil

8 oz unsweetened almond milk

honey, to taste

Bring almond milk and ashwagandha to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes. Turn off heat and add pine and rose hips. Allow to steep for 5 minutes. Strain into blender and add coconut oil and honey. Blend until foamy. Enjoy in a mug with a sprinkle of nutmeg for a creamy winter treat.

By Kristy Baird

ELECAMPANE: Herb of the Month

Elecampane is named after Helen of Troy, who was said to carry the flowers with her as she was abducted from Sparta. It is also called Elfwort. This lovely plant ally has vibrant yellow flowers and downy leaves and is in the same family as sunflowers and ragweed (if you're allergic to chamomile, feverfew or echinacea, she may not be for you).
Elecampane is a bitter, spicy, aromatic and warming antimicrobial herb. It is great for helping to dispel that cold, damp early winter malaise. Typically, it is taken in a tea, capsule or tincture.
Most commonly, Elecampane is associated with lung issues. This makes sense, as it is a great expectorant and can help with chronic bronchitis and pertussis, bronchial asthma, emphysema and tuberculosis. It helps to relax cold, wet lung issues by warming, loosening and drawing forth stuck phlegm.
Elecampane is also a great helper for digestive issues, such as bloating and gas. It helps to stimulate digestion and can be candied or given as a syrup. It is a wonderful herb to reach for when treating children and the elderly, as it is sweet and stimulating and helps to combat invading illness. Its high inulin content can help to stabilize blood sugar and it can be taken as a general tonic for the pancreas.
Elecampane is also said to enhance psychic abilities. It is one part of a medieval nine herb bath blend that is said to impart protection from witchcraft. The root can be burned as a protective incense or worn as an amulet.



by Kristy Baird

SCULLCAP: Herb of the Month

Scullcap (scutellaria lateriflora) is a powerful calming herb with many uses. The name comes from the latin scutella, meaning "little dish". It is also sometimes called Mad Dog Weed, because in the 1700's it was used as a treatment for rabid dog bites. 

Scullcap calms and strengthens the nerves, relaxes spasms, relieves pain and promotes rest. It can help to rebuild nerve sheaths, and can actually stimulate the brain to produce more endorphins. People who are going through opiate withdrawal may find scullcap to be a calming ally. 

Scullcap is very high in antioxidants. It fights free radicals and therefore has been researched as a cancer fighter. Also due to its high antioxidant content, we find scullcap to be very helpful in calming anxiety as a nerve tonic. It is comforting and is used to promote emotional well-being and relaxation during times of distress. Those with epilepsy may find a reduction in seizures- it also reduces tremors, muscle spasms and other nerve-related symptoms. 

Scullcap also reduces inflammation and can be helpful for those suffering from arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. It also has cardioprotective efffects, helping to reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Scullcap is a very potent herb and should be used with precaution, particularly when using it in tincture form. It should not be used during pregnancy.

Try a cup of scullcap tea at the end of a long day to help relax and ease into sleep.

by Kristy Baird

CALIFORNIA POPPY: Herb of the Month

California Poppy is native to the southwestern United States. It is the state flower of California. The flowers are usually orange, though they can sometimes be purple or yellow. They have four petals and close at night.
Although it does not contain opiates (though it is related to the opium poppy), this poppy is a skeletal relaxant that encourages restoration of the nervous system, and it is nonaddictive. It contains an alkaloid called protopine, which is similar in structure to morphine, but has different effects on the body, helping to relax. The Cahuilla Indians once used the plant as a sedative for babies. Today, it is used in the treatment of anxiety, bedwetting (due to stress), insomnia, headache, over-excitability, pain, restlessness, stress and toothache. Tincture of California Poppy can help with persistent coughing. Topically, California Poppy can be used as a compress to relieve pain and inflammation.
World-renowned herbalist Juliette de Bairacli Levy suggests grinding California Poppy seeds into a meal, mixing them with honey and then forming the paste into "cakes". These can then be dried in the sunlight and given to children who have trouble sleeping or relaxing.

by Kristy Baird

SAGE: Herb of the Month

In an era so enthralled with white sage for smudging that it's becoming overharvested,
we often overlook the fragrant, delicious and also powerful common garden sage.
Salvia Officinalis is typically used as a culinary herb for flavoring meats, soups, stuffings, etc. It has also been used for thousands of years in traditional practices like Ayurveda and Chinese medicine.
Sage has been shown to improve mental capacities and has significant effects on cognition. This makes it valuable in treating memory loss in individuals suffering from Alzheimer's and Dementia. It can help with recall, alertness and contentedness.
Those with diabetes and associated inflammation have found sage to be helpful in lowering glucose levels. It also balances cholesterol by lowering LDL and HDL levels. A study performed on menopause subjects with fresh sage in capsule form found that many symptoms, such as hot flashes, were quickly relieved.
Sage also helps in the garden- pests like carrot flies and cabbage moths are repelled by it, but pollinators love it. The great outdoors is also the best place to utilize common sage as a smudge for removing negativity, as it is very effective but inhaling the smoke can be damaging to the lungs.


Try this recipe for Squash Fritters & Fried Sage- a delicious autumn appetizer!

Ingredients:
Vegetable or peanut oil, for frying
1 1/2 cups flour
1 1/2 cups seltzer or club soda, chilled
Kosher salt
1 1/2 lbs kabocha squash or sugar pumpkin- peeled, seeded & cut into 1/8" thick wedges
1/2 cup sage leaves
Flaky sea salt and lemon wedges, for garnish

In a saucepan, heat 1" of oil to 360 degrees. In a bowl, whisk flour & 1 1/4 cups of seltzer
til smooth like sour cream; add seltzer if too thick. Season with salt. Working in batches,
dip the squash and some of the sage in the batter; let excess drip off. Carefully add
the battered pieces along with some uncoated sage leaves to the hot oil. Fry over
moderately high heat, turning, until lightly golden and crisp, 3 to 5 minutes. Using
tongs, transfer to paper towel to drain. Season with sea salt and serve immediately with
lemon wedges.

MOTHERWORT: Herb of the Month

Motherwort is so named because it is very beneficial to women's health. It is a uterine tonic, helps to relieve menstrual cramping, and can also ease the symptoms of menopause. However, men can also  benefit from this wonderful plant, as it calms the heart and relieves anxiety. Motherwort is a mild hypertensive herb and can be used to decrease hypertension. It strengthens the kidneys and acts as a mild diuretic. Motherwort can also be used as a digestive bitter, as its bitter taste helps to stimulate digestion. Although this herb can be useful during labor, pregnant women should consult their doctor before working with motherwort. 

A tea made of half lemon balm and half motherwort is an effective (and tasty!) remedy for anxiety.

by Kristy Baird