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(Keyport, New Jersey)
Mother Earth Recommended . . .
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- The scientific name for a group of vegetables that research has proven may provide protection against certain cancers. Cruciferous vegetables contain antioxidants (Beta Carotene and the compound sulforaphane). These vegetables, which are all high in fiber, vitamins and minerals, are: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, chard, kale, mustard greens, rutabagas and turnips. The health benefits of these vegetables seem to have been known for some time. Around 234-149 BC, Cato the Elder, a Roman statesman, wrote a treatise on medicine that included the following insight: "If a cancerous ulcer appears upon the breasts, apply a crushed cabbage leaf and it will make it well." Today these vegetables have been found to combat cancer of the breast, endometrium, lung, colon, liver, colon and cervix. Many cruciferous vegetables cause flatulence after eating and may increase a feeling of bloat.
- Many edible beans, including broad beans and soybeans, contain oligosaccharides, a type of sugar molecule also found in cabbage. An anti-oligosaccharide enzyme is necessary to properly digest these sugar molecules. As a normal human digestive tract does not contain any anti-oligosaccharide enzymes, consumed oligosaccharides are typically digested by bacteria in the large intestine. This digestion process produces flatulence-causing gasses as a byproduct.
- Though beans are good and good for you, they have the unfortunate side effect of causing the formation of gas in the lower digestive tract. This digestive dilemma can be mollified by adopting some or all of the following practices: Discard the soaking water prior to cooking: Some nutrition-in the form of minerals-is lost, but you are getting rid of up to 80% of the oligosaccharides that cause flatulence. The best way is to bring the beans to a boil for 3 minutes, remove from the heat, cover, and allow soaking for 4 hours, then draining and cooking in fresh water. Cook the beans thoroughly: You should be able to easily mash the cooked beans with a fork. Thorough cooking softens starch and fibers, making digestion more efficient, the main reason why refried beans are easier on the digestive system than whole beans. Give your body time to adjust: If you don't eat beans often, your body never fully adapts to the extra work required to digest the complex sugars in beans. Beginning with small amounts, try eating beans at least 3 times a week while gradually increasing quantity. Choose beans that are easier to digest: A general rule is that the sweeter the bean, the easier it is to digest. Adzuki, Anasazi, Black-eyed Peas, Lentils, and Mung beans top the list. The most difficult beans to digest include Navy, Limas, and whole cooked Soybeans. Cook beans with a bay leaf, cumin, epazote, or kombu: Certain herbs have gas-reducing properties, with epazote being one of the most effective. Add 2 teaspoons dry or 6 fresh leaves to a pot of beans before cooking. Kombu sea vegetable also works well and has the added advantage of replenishing some of the minerals lost in soaking. Add a two-inch strip per one cup of dried beans during cooking. Avoid beans that are cooked with added sweeteners: Some people who easily digest most beans have trouble with sweetened beans due to the added carbohydrates. If adding brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup to beans stresses your digestion, opt for plain beans instead. Try a digestive enzyme product: Digestive enzymes made from a safe, food-grade mold help break down the oligosaccharides before they reach the large intestine, which is where the flatulence problem begins. They are sprinkled on cooked beans or taken in tablet form with the first "beany" bite.
I offer a tea called "I Had Beans!" here on the Local Harvest website, it can come in handy when you feel the rumble tumble in your belly after a delicious and healthy meal.
Peaceful Blessings and Happy "Tooting"!
P
Posted by Sharon
@ 10:19 PM EDT
Do you ever take the time to read labels on your body soaps, lotions, shampoos or really anything you are putting on your skin? Skin is the largest organ and what you are applying topically is being absorbed into your system and is being utilized by other organs.
Reading labels on skin care products is very important, if you read what was really in there you may put it back. If a tomato was labeled with "Formaldehyde", would you buy it? Probably not, so why then do most people disregard what is in their body lotions? Most don't realize or look at foods the same way they do other products when in reality they are one in the same . . . body products are food for your skin!
I become especially concerned with skin care needs when young girls begin to learn about cosmetics and all those scented body glittler sprays. Did you know that teenage girls can use up to 17 personal care products per day and adult women can use up to 12! That's a lot of snacks for your skin! I stress skin care with young women because most of the ingredients in drug store brands could intefere with proper hormone production and function during an adolescence time of growth. This change in levels could damage the reproductive system, bone growth, immunity issues and the exposure to these toxins long term in young women who begin breast development could increase the risk of cancer as they age.
These ingredients should be avoided so be sure to check your labels - Ammonia, Formaldehyde, Parabens (just look for this work mixed in with any other words you may not be able to pronounce), Peroxide, Phtalates, Sodium Laurel (laureth) Sulfate, Triclosan and Triethenolamine. I state it like this, if you can't pronounce it or try spelling it again, then chances are it's not the best for you. Sometimes companies mask good ingredients with their scientific names but these companies will also put in parenthesis next to the scientific name, the layman name so you know what you are really buying. (i.e.: Avenna sativa - Oat)
The above ingredients could be found in anything from soap, acne washes, shampoo, conditioners, hair spray, facial and body lotions to nail polish!
Try to avoid synthetic preservatives, heavy frangrances and chemicals - look for products containing pure essential oils and natural based butters and ingredients. Also, be aware - just because the front label may read "natural" be sure to actually read the ingredient list! Some companies boast they are natural because they have a few plant based ingredients but read deeper and you may find sodium laurel sulfate in the blend. In addition, avoid harsh exfoliating and tight firming lotions as well as chemical based anti-aging serums - these are loaded with parabens and synthetics unless they are a natural based product.
Did you know that one of the best forms of exfoliating your feet is a walk on the beach? Instead of the heavy pumice based foot cremes, salves and scrubs; if you live near the sea, take a stroll and feel how soft your piggies will be after!
There are many great natural skin products on the Local Harvest site but if you want to explore more and learn about how natural based soaps and lotions are made check out www.northerncatskillsessentials.com or for info on natural based skin care and products for young adults go to www.teensturninggreen.com
Any of the skin care remedies I offer like Grandmom's Queens of Hungary's Water, Astringent Herbs, Herbal Pimple Popper, Herbal Facial Steams or Herbal Hair Rinses are all 100% natural and the carriers I use are natural based and work with the body. I never use any chemicals or preservatives only mediums that are from the Earth to be used with gentle healing on various skin concerns. These are all topical and can be used in conjunction with my Liver Detox Tea or Skin Detox Tea for deeper skin conditions. Did you also know that may skin conditions stem from an overtaxed Liver? Read more about this if you view my Liver Detox Tea.
I hope this helps the next time you grab that watermelon scented lotion, it may smell wonderful but are the side effects worth it long term?
Peaceful Blessings and Happy Pampering!
Posted by Sharon
@ 09:08 PM EDT
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I have composed a list of herbs most in danger of extinction. Many can be found locally in nurseries and garden centers while other are protected by local preservation societies. If you happen to see one of these herbs (some may be found in the perennial section of your garden center), please take a look and try to grow it. If the herb is local to your area it may prosper and you can take great pride in knowing you are helping to preserve the future of one of the Earth's most precious healers. Some parts of the plant may be toxic to harvest unless you consult the help of an Herbalist, healer or educated gardener but nonetheless you will be greatly helping the cause!
American Ginseng - Arnica - Black Cohosh - Bloodroot - Blue Cohosh - Echinacea - Gentian - Goldenseal - Eyebright - Helonias Root - Lady's Slipper - Lomantuim - Oregon Grape - Osha - Partridgeberry - Slippery Elm - Sundew - Trillium - Yerba Mansa
If you should research these herbs and know what you are looking for and see it growing wild, please do not wildcraft - leave it be and pray it will spread it seeds.
For more information on herbs in danger of extinction you can visit the United Plant Savers website for more information as well as for a more in-depth list.
Many blessings and if you have any questions or would like to harvest one of the above herbs and would like to know how to use the whole plant, please contact me, I will be more then happy to help.
Peaceful Blessings!
Posted by Sharon
@ 09:41 PM EDT
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With the warmer weather upon us and as we grab for the sun block, I am frequently asked what is the best routine I do to keep my skin happy and healthy? There are lots of things especially in our diets to keep our glow about us but if you want to keep your skin looking great try starting a simple cleansing routine every day or night to topically help while you work on the internal side of skin.
I will blog more about "skin internals" at a later time but thought I would share a really quick skin care routine to get you going for the summer months.
20-Minute Skin Care Routine
1. Cleanse face with gentle cleanser to suit skin type, using a cotton ball or a washcloth.
2. Steam face with head over bowl of steaming hot water for 2 minutes.
3. Apply a moisturizing, purifying face mask composed on French green clay.
4. Bathe or shower with a few drops of relaxing essential oil or invigorating oil in the water. You may also put herbal tea bags like my Puffy Eye Tea, or cucumber or potato slices over your eyes to remove the bagginess around the eyes. I like to put the cucumbers in the freezer for a few minutes to really help with deep opening of the capillaries. Relax totally for 10 minutes.
5. Pat body dry with thick warm towels. Apply a natural body lotion like cocoa butter all over while skin is still moist. Take special care of feet, knees, elbows, and neck. If you prefer using oils on your skin try coconut, jojoba or almond.
6. Remove mask with warm water and spray or splash face with mineral water.
7. Apply an eye-soothing gel or aloe vera (fresh if possible) if you are going out or night eye cream (if you are going to bed) around eyes and on lids.
8. Apply moisturizer to face if going out, or your favorite night cream/oil if not. My favorite for either day or night use is Camocare light moisturizer.
9. Apply a natural hand cream and a nail cream around cuticles. I use cocoa butter as a lotion and use Vitamin E oil or almond oil on my cuticles.
Breathe deep, relax and enjoy the aura of your skin, it is the largest organ and needs some forgotten pamerping too!
Peaceful Blessings!
Posted by Sharon
@ 03:34 PM EDT
We all try to use as many fresh herbs as possible but what happens when you are left with a small amount and not enough to make your favorite dish? Or how about when you use almost every leaf off the stem but have not even a handful left and you know if you leave it in the fridge it may die or shrivel up in the veggie drawer? Very easy, make herbal ice cubes!
Fill an empty ice cube tray with whatever leftover herbs you have whether it be for cooking, baking, salads or whatever you are using them for. Top off the tray with either water or vegetable broth. I like using the vegetable broth on all culinary and aromatic herbs that you would use for sauces, saute's, soups and baked dishes. I use water when I am freezing herbs like Mint for example which can easily be added to a fresh glass of sun tea.
Once the cubes have frozen, remove them from the tray and store is a resealable food storage bag and be sure to label the bag. Once the herbs freeze, they tend to look alike and you won't know exactly what are using unless you slightly defrost it.
All herbs can be frozen in this way; this is such a special treat in the winter months when you are craving for some fresh cilantro to add to your broth, basil to add to your sauce or just a pinch of sage for your butternut squash soup! I have also froze many mints as well as lemon balm, lemon verbena, dill, caraway leaf, fennel leaf, sage (I use organic chicken broth to freeze), salad burnet (I use water to freeze and then add it to a homemade ranch dressing recipe), scented geranuims (great for baking, use water to freeze), pineapple sage (fabulous in iced tea, use water to freeze), chives . . . well, now that I think about it, I have frozen in cubes almost every single herb I grow . . . and that's lot's and lot's and lot's!!!
Enjoy harvesting and happy preserving!
Peaceful Blessings!
Posted by Sharon
@ 11:35 PM EDT
I made my last batch of flower sugar last week when my lilacs were in final bloom. I love "lilac sugar", it has such a unique flavor and can really add a twist to some common dishes and drinks. I espcailly like to add it to Green tea or Jasmine flower tea.
You can make all types of flower sugars with edible flowers like violets, lilacs and roses; just make sure the flowers are orgaincally grown with no chance of them being misted with any type of insectide.
My 2 year old daughter was so excited to make the flower sugar with me this year that I had to share this simple recipe. Children love to interact in the kitchen and especially with this project they can really get involved wihtout getting too messy or without ingesting too many goodies!!
Flower Scented Sugar Recipe
2 cups granulated sugar (I use organic sugar in the raw) 1 cup violet, rose or lilac petals, gently crushed to release aroma
Combine the sugar and petals in a glass container (washed spaghetti jars work great for this), shake well as to evenly distribute the petals. Cover the jar and let it sit at room temperature for about a week; don't leave it near the stove where it could warm it up and increase melting. After a week or so, sift the sugar to remove the flower pieces (I actually leave the flower pieces in if I am using a dusting of sugar for a cake or brad topping - people are amazed that they are eating flowers!). Enjoy the delicious scent and store the sugar in the same glass jar. You can substitute the flower sugar for any plain sugar in any recipe for cookies (sugar cookies are very yummy), breads, plain cakes (angel food cakes are tasty too), jams/jellies or syrups.
This can get addicting and you will be so sad when you use the last of your flower scented sugar that you will want to rush the year by to make more.
Flower Garnish
I like to be creative and when most people see flowers on a plate they will not touch them at all, so how do you get your friends to try something new? Easy, fool them into thinking the flower is a sugar garnish!!! Violets work best for this . . . pick fresh organic violets, use a small craft brush and lightly coat the petals with egg white and dip into crystal sugar. You can shake off the extra so it doesn't look caked on. Heat your oven to about 250F and bake petals for about 8-10 minutes or until you see the leaves start to wilt. Ovens and temperatures vary so it may be a little trial and error until you get the timing perfect for your oven. Garnish as you like!
A family friend always did this in the spring and it was so magical to see the flowers coated with sugar - they looked like tiny dew drops on the petals, I use to call them fairy tears when I was a child and still do today!!!
Happy harvesting your petals and happy cooking!
Peaceful Blessings!
Posted by Sharon
@ 10:06 PM EDT
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How does one garden by the Moon? Farmers have done it for centuries and many of our ancestors only followed the planting and harvesting patterns despite newer technologies. The lunar phase controls the amount of moisture in the soil. This moisture is at its peak at the time of the new and the full moon. The sun and moon are lined up with earth. Just as the moon pulls the tides in the oceans, it also pulls upon the subtle bodies of water, causing moisture to rise in the earth, which encourages germination and growth. Tests have proven that seeds will absorb the most water at the time of the full moon.
You can also plant and harvest by the zodiac signs as well. This can be a little more complicated as not every calendar will show you when you might be in a barren or fruitful sign. I will blog about this another day as this can be tricky if you don't have a good calendar handy.
There are 4 basic phases that you need to watch for when gardening by the Moon: New, First Quarter, Full and Last Quarter.
  
You will want to sow, transplant, bud and graft plants during New Moon through Full Moon. This is easy to remember plant when there is no moon through when it is bright and shining in the sky. At the new moon, the lunar gravity pulls water up, and causes the seeds to swell and burst. This factor, coupled with the increasing moonlight creates balanced root and leaf growth.
When your calendar shows New Moon, plant above ground crops with outside seeds, examples are lettuce, spinach, celery, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and grain crops. and flowering annuals.
Once the Moon quakes with its First Quarter through the Full Moon phase you can plant above ground crops with inside seeds. In this quarter the gravitational pull is less, but the moonlight is strong, creating strong leaf growth. It is generally a good time for planting, especially two days before the full moon. Examples of these plants are beans, melons, peas, peppers, squash, and tomatoes. Mow lawns in the first or second quarter to increase growth.
On the last day of the Full Moon through the Last Quarter plant root crops like beets, carrots, onions, potatoes, and peanuts, bulbs, biennials and perennials for active root growth. After the full moon, as the moon wanes, the energy is drawing down. The gravitation pull is high, creating more moisture in the soil, but the moonlight is decreasing, putting energy into the roots.
From the last day of the Last Quarter through the New Moon do not plant at all. There is decreased gravitational pull and moonlight, and it is considered a resting period. This is also the best time to cultivate, harvest, transplant and prune. Mow lawns in the third or fourth quarter to retard growth.
As of today, May 19 we are between the last quarter and the New Moon. The offical date of the New Moon will be Sunday, May 24.
Happy planting and harvesting; if you don't quite make the cycle this time, there is always next month!!!
Peaceful Blessings!
Posted by Sharon
@ 03:56 PM EDT
I was flipping through a great book called Detox for Women by Natalia Rose, a great nutritionist and found this wonderful salad recipe to help detox the system. It is very, very tasty!!! This salad can be made anytime as it is full of vitamins and minerals to give the body an extra boost. It is also great because leafy greens are diuretic in nature and can help expel added water weight and cabbage is phenomenal at helping to rid the system of yeast. Greens also help to bring balance to the system by adjusting pH, they also help eliminate any toxins that may be present and are loaded with vitamins that we tend to lack through the winter months. This salad is the perfect beginning to spring and is handy to keep and prepare through the winter to be sure you are getting a good amount of vitamins in your system when your body battles the frigid temps.
If you can find organic or naturally grown veggies and greens that would be great and especially now the markets will be opening and there wil be lots to choose from.
Detox Salad Recipe
1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded or finely chopped - 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, chopped - 1/2 cup carrots, shredded - 1/2 cup alfalfa sprouts - 1 cup mesclun greens or baby lettuce - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice - Stevia to taste - 1 teaspoon fresh garlic, diced
** If you are counting carbs or are on a low sugar diet you can eliminate the carrots and replace with spinach and also eliminate the Stevia and replace with lime juice or apple cider vinegar - this is my suggestion and not listed by the author ***
The author suggests to arrange the greens on a plate and arrange the carrots, cabbage, peppers and sprouts in four circular piles along the top of the plate like a rainbow - I like it all jumbled up but you can make it as you choose. Then, mix the lemon juice, stevia and garlic together and drizzle on top.
In case you can't find pure Stevia, I do offer here in my Local Harvest store - here's a link - http://www.localharvest.org/just-stevia-C10641
If you are thinking of trying my Liver Detox Tea or Kidney Cleanse Tea - this salad would be a prefect compliment. I enclose other recipes with these blends too but this salad is a great addition to any meal or detox diet.
Peaceful Blessings and Happy Cleansing!!
Posted by Sharon
@ 09:42 PM EDT
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After having a long discussion with a friend who wanted to pull every last little root of Mugwort from her yard because she was so frustrated with it's regrowth and noxious habits, I decided to educate everyone on its wonderful properties. Here is information I have gathered through the years from my Materia Medica on the wonderful herb Mugwort. To many, this herb is a pretty annoying weed but . . if you read on, you may not want to be so hasty to pull it and disregard it.
I will caution, if you have it growing wild in high amounts, you may want to wear a dusk mask if you decide to mow it down. I say this because Mugwort can be used to induce dreams and I have heard many, many, many (and I say this over again because it is true!!!) stories of people cutting it down and then suffering from outrageous and even frightening nightmares and dreams.
Hope you enjoy the info I have collected, some of which has also been passed down to me from my Grandmother and her ancestors. I love this herb, it has such a history and is loaded with folklore!!
  
Mugwort - AKA: Artemisa, Carline Thistle, Chiu Ts'Ao, Ai ye or Hao-shu, Common Mugwort, Douglas Mugwort, Felon herb, Sailor’s tobacco, Wormwood, Cronewort, St. John’s Plant, Wild Chrysanthemum, Cingulum Sancti Johannis, Moxa, Armoise, Chrysanthemum Weed, Muggons, Naughty Man , Old Man , Old Uncle Henry, Artemis Herb
Description: life cycle - perennial, reproducing by seed (rare in north) and rhizomes stems - upright, tall, become woody in late season leaves - alternate, deeply cut, lobes with sharp points, upper surface smooth (sometimes slightly hairy), undersides appear fuzzy or velvety, white to gray hairs flowers - heads of greenish-yellow disk (tubulate) florets; leafy panicles above. Sepals are absent, sometimes replaced by a structure of hairs and scales called a pappus. Small dry fruit develops below the pappus containing a single seed that is dispersed by wind or animals. Each head consists of several to many small flowers attached to a disk shaped, conical, or concave receptacle. For identification and classification, the flowers are considered either disk flowers (those with a tubular structure and found in the center disk) or ray flowers (with a flat, petal like corolla distributed around the margins). other - chrysanthemum scent when bruised or crushed. Common Mugwort has leaves lying upon the ground, very much divided, or cut deeply in about the brims, somewhat like Wormwood, but much larger, of a dark green color on the upper side, and very hoary white underneath. The stalks rise to be four or five feet high, having on it such like leaves as those below, but somewhat smaller, branching forth very much towards the top, whereon are set very small, pale, yellowish flowers like buttons, which fall away, and after them come small seeds, enclosed in round heads. The root is long and hard, with many small fibers growing from it, whereby it takes strong hold on the ground; but both stalks and leaves do lie down every year, and the root shoots anew in the spring. The whole plant is of a reasonable scent, and is more easily propagated by the slips than the seed. Perennial herb native to Africa, temperate Asia, and Europe, widely naturalized in most parts of the world. Found growing on hedge banks and waysides, uncultivated and waste land. Cultivation - Mugwort prefers slightly alkaline, well-drained loamy soil, in a sunny position. Blooming is from July to October. Mugwort is closely related to Common Wormwood (Absinthe). Often grown in Moon gardens.
Uses: Mugwort leaves are edible, young leaves are boiled as a pot herb or used in salad, they aid in digestion although said to have a bitter taste. An infusion of the leaves and flowering tops is used in the treatment of all matters connected to the digestive system, it increases stomach acid and bile production, eases gas and bloating, improving digestion, the absorption of nutrients and strengthening the entire digestive system. It is used in alternative medicine to expel intestinal worms, nervous and spasmodic affections, asthma, sterility, functional bleeding of the uterus and menstrual complaints, and diseases of the brain. As a gargle for sore throat, a wash for sores and a poultice for infections, tumors and to stop bleeding. The leaves have an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of Staphococcus aureus, Bacillus typhi, B. dysenteriae, streptococci, E. coli, B. subtilis, and pseudomonas. A weak tea made from the infused plant is a good all-purpose insecticide. The fresh or the dried plant repels insects. Also used to induce dreams and is used as a sleep aid. The infused oil can be used as a massage oil to increase circulation. Apply compresses of Mugwort Oil to areas of the body which are blue in color or cold to the touch, such as varicose veins where the flow of blood is restricted or stagnant. Helpful for bringing 'summer forces' during the winter-time, or for winter-like conditions of the body: cold hands and feet, and hardening or stiffening conditions like rheumatism. Helpful for those who need to balance a predominance of 'moon' qualities (such as emotional and psychic sensitivity) with solar clarity and embodied physical warmth. Recommended by many midwives during labor and delivery, and for facilitating lactation. It has a mild nervine action in aiding depression and easing tension, insomnia and nervousness. Mugwort is also used to bring on delayed or suppressed menstrual cycle and may help to regulate menstrual cycles. The leaves can also be rubbed on the skin as an antidote to Poison Oak. In a clinical trial, crushed fresh mugwort leaves applied to the skin were shown to be effective in eradicating warts. A traditional Chinese herbal therapy of burning moxa sticks or cones containing Mugwort over inflamed and affected acupuncture points of the body. It stimulates the blood and energy of the affected areas and removed prior to the skin burning. Knowledge of acupuncture points is recommended. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reported on the successful use of moxibustion in reversing breech birth positions. The study found that 75% of 130 fetuses had reversed their position after moxibustion treatment of the mother. The technique is said to stimulate the acupuncture point known as BL67, located near the toenail of the fifth toe, stimulating circulation and energy flow and resulting in an increase in fetal movements.
Actions: antibacterial, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, haemostatic, nervine, purgative, stimulant, stomachic, and tonic, cleansing toxins from the blood Cautions: Should not be used by pregnant women since it can cause a miscarriage. Excessive doses can lead to symptoms of poisoning, but nothing is to be feared from normal use.
Folklore: In Native American folklore Mugwort was also a Witchcraft medicine, rubbed the leaves on ones body to keep ghosts away or wearing a necklace to prevent dreaming of the dead. In the Middle Ages a crown made from its sprays was worn on St. John's Eve to gain security from evil possession. Mugwort derived its common name from being used to flavor drinks like beer before the introduction of hops. The Name Artemisia is from the Goddess Artemis (1st century AD) who inspired the plants genus name. In the Middle Ages, there were many superstitions connected with Mugwort. It was rumored to preserve the traveler from fatigue, sunstroke and evil spirits. It was believed that John the Baptist wore a girdle of Mugwort in the wilderness for protection. Mugwort oil can be used as anointing oil for its connection to Artemis and the lunar cycles. Anglo-Saxon tribes believed that the aromatic mugwort was one of the nine sacred herbs given to the world by the god Woden. Mugwort is considered a magical herb, with special properties to protect road-weary travelers against exhaustion. The Romans planted mugwort by roadsides where it would be available to passersby to put in their shoes to relieve aching feet.
Magical: Mugwort is a versatile sacred herb. It can be used for spiritual cleansing, protection, healing, and consecration, and it can aid dream work, trance, and intuitive development. Associated with the Full Moon and with the Summer Solstice since ancient times, Mugwort also is suitable for rituals year round. It can be used as a ritual tool in many ways. A garland crown, or ritual head wreath, can be easily fashioned from one or more freshly cut Mugwort stalks. Dried wreaths hung on or above doorways, are wonderful house blessing charms. Make a smudge stick from thoroughly dried sprigs of Mugwort leaves. Wave the burning smudge stick back and forth to move the smoke around to consecrate the ritual place and participants. Fresh or dried leaves, flowers, and sprigs of Mugwort can be used as an offering in personal and group rituals. Leave Mugwort offerings at a shrine, place on the ground, or cast into a sacred fire. Use dried, sturdy, mature stalks that are at least 1/4 inch thick to make a scared wand. Dip the Mugwort aspersing wand into a chalice or bowl of ritual water, and then flick water droplets onto the place, ritual objects, or participants for consecration. Dried Mugwort stalks can be burned in combination with Oak and other sacred woods in ceremonial fires. Dried Mugwort leaves and flowers also are good additives to sacred fires. Make a Mugwort sachet or pillow, smell its fragrance as you do an affirmation to bless sleep, guide dreaming, and aid dream recall and interpretation upon awaking. For use in scrying, place some Mugwort potion in a dark colored ritual bow and meditatively gaze into it in subdued light. In addition, Mugwort also can be used as a sacred flavoring in ritual brews and foods. At the culmination of a home blessing rite, hang a fresh Mugwort sprig above the main door into your home for protection and good fortune. Hang a Mugwort sprig or wreath above your bed to bless sleep and dreaming. Fill an amulet bag with Mugwort, energize it, and wear it around your neck for healing, spiritual growth, and intuition. Put a pouch of Mugwort in the glove compartment of your vehicle or hang a Mugwort amulet bag from your rear view mirror to bless your travels. In addition, Mugwort can be combined with other ingredients in making amulets and charms for a variety of purposes. Grow Mugwort in a ritual garden. Create a year round ceremonial circle with a Mugwort hedge. Grow Mugwort next to your home to bless and protect it. Meditate and commune with living Mugwort for relaxation, healing, and inspiration. Place Mugwort in the shoes to gain strength during long walks or runs. For this purpose pick Mugwort before sunrise, saying: Tollam te artemesia, ne lassus sim in via. Mugwort is also burned with sandalwood or wormwood during scrying rituals, and a Mugwort infusion is drunk (sweetened with honey) before divination.The infusion is also used to wash crystal balls and magic mirrors, and Mugwort leaves are placed around then base of the ball (or beneath it) to aid in psychic workings. According to ancient tradition, when carrying Mugwort you cannot be harmed by poison, wild beasts or sunstroke. In a building, Mugwort prevents 'dark elves' and 'evil things' from entering, and branches of Mugwort are used in Japan by the Ainus to exorcise spirit's of disease who are thought to hate the odor. In China, it is hung over the doors to keep evil spirits from buildings.Mugwort is also carried to increase lust and fertility, to prevent backache, and to cure disease and madness. Placed next to the bed it aids in achieving astral projection. GENDER : Feminine. PLANET : Venus. ELEMENT : Earth. DEITIES : Morrigan , Artemis, Áine POWERS : Strength, Psychic Powers, Protection, Prophetic Dreams, Healing ,Astral Projection
Peaceful Blessings and please think twice before ridding your garden of Mugwort!!! :)
Posted by Sharon
@ 10:19 PM EDT
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Here is great list of essential oils that may aid in pregnancy. I used many myself during my pregnancy and found much relief. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me and I will be happy to help!
Many blessings for a wonderful pregnancy and best wishes to you and your little one!
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ESSENTIAL OIL
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USES
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SUITABILITY
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BERGAMOT
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Uplifting, refreshing
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Cystitis, skin irritations, anxiety
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Postnatal use, babies and children (if oil diffused in air)
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CALENDULA
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Antiseptic, healing.
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Stretch marks, nappy rash, skin irritations
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Advanced pregnancy, babies and children
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CHAMOMILE ROMAN
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Calming, soothing, anti-inflammatory, very gentle
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Nausea, postnatal breast care, nappy rash, dry skin, insomnia, morning sickness.
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Pregnancy, babies and children
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CLARY SAGE
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Antispasmodic, astringent, euphoric, uplifting
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Menstrual pain, pre-menstrual, tension dry skin stress anxiety depression
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Late stages of childbirth. Postnatal use
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CYPRESS
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Astringent, warming
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Perineum healing, hemorrhoids, anxiety, tension
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For pregnancy if secure after five months, post natal use.
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EUCALYPTUS
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Anti bacterial, antiviral, decongestant, energizing
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Colds, fever, asthma, sinusitis, wounds, bronchitis
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Babies and children (if oil diffused in air)
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FENNEL SWEET
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Diuretic, hormone balances
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Strengthens womb, stimulates lactation, cellulite, edema
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Last weeks of pregnancy. Postnatal use
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FRANKINCENSE
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Relaxing calming healing comforting
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Labor, stress fear
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Advanced pregnancy
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GERANIUM
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Antiseptic, uplifting, antidepressant, hormone balances, stabilizing
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Dermatitis, eczema, postnatal depression
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Advanced pregnancy, childbirth, postnatal use.
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HYPERICUM
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Anti –inflammatory, soothing
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Stretch marks, skin irritation, nervous tension
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Advanced pregnancy
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JASMINE
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Uplifting, stimulating
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Postnatal depression, uterine tonic, coughs, dry skin, dermatitis
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Late stages of child birth postnatal use.
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JUNIPER
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Diuretic, detoxifying
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Perineum healing, stretch marks, constipation, cellulite, tension
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Postnatal use
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LAVENDER
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Antibacterial, antidepressant, soothing, calming, balancing, versatile
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Headaches pain eczema, insomnia, and nappy rash, postnatal breast care.
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Pregnancy, childbirth, postnatal use, babies and children
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LEMON
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Antiseptic uplifting, cleansing, refreshing
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Morning sickness nausea, heartburn, colds, lymphatic tonic
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Pregnancy postnatal use babies and children
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MARJORAM
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Sedating, warming
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Insomnia, perineum healing
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Postnatal use
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MYRRH
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Anti fungal, antiseptic, anti –inflammatory, cooling
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Nappy rash thrush, skin care
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Postnatal use older babies and children
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NEROLI
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Soothing balancing, healing calming
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Dry skin, scars circulation, stretch marks, stress, anxiety
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Pregnancy ,,postnatal use
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ORANGE
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Uplifting, calming
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Skin care stress, insomnia heartburn, lymphatic tonic, anxiety
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Pregnancy babies and children (if oil diffused in air)
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PEPPERMINT
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Anti bacterial, analgesic, decongestant, antispasmodic
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Morning sickness, nausea, headaches, indigestion
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Late stages of pregnancy
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PETITGRAIN
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Antidepressant, uplifting, refreshing
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Skin care, insomnia, stress, inexpensive substitute for neroli
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Pregnancy postnatal use.
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ROSE
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Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, soothing, uplifting, hormone balances
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Dry skin strengthens womb tension, nausea
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Last weeks of pregnancy, childbirth postnatal use
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ROSEWOOD
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Antiseptic, tonic, sedative, calming
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Nervous tension anxiety, stress tiredness, dry skin.
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Later stages of child birth
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SANDALWOOD
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Healing sedative relaxing warming
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Skin rash, nausea, heartburn diarrhea colds nappy rash
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Pregnancy, childbirth. Postnatal use, babies and children
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Tags: remedies spring herbal herbs farm tea pregnancy
Posted by Sharon
@ 12:03 PM EDT
Stevia is a South American herb that has been used as a sweetener by the Guarani Indians of Paraguay for hundreds of years. The leaves of this small, green Stevia rebaudiana plant have a delicious and refreshing taste that can be 100 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar) at a 10% sucrose concentration. It has been declared as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) by the FDA.
Stevia has many excellent properties. The body does not metabolize the sweet glycosides from the stevia leaf or any of its processed forms - so there is no caloric intake. Stevia doesn't adversely affect blood glucose levels and may be used freely by diabetics and does not promote tooth decay.
Stevia truly enhances the flavors of other foods and remains stable in the presence of acid (tomatoes) and high heat. It makes a really tasty marinara sauce and nice, sweet pesto (if you choose to add a pinch). Stevia does not caramelize or brown the way sugar does; you can either add a bit of fruit juice in your recipe or you can add fresh fruit. Check your food by touch, smell and by inserting a tooth pick in baked goods to see if it is all cooked through.
A little pinch goes a long way - you can bake with it, add it to many recipes, use it in place of table sugar, give it to children in recipes and feel good knowing you are using an all natural sweetener rather then a processed sugar!! Do not overdo it or have a heavy hand or you will get an herby aftertaste. You will need to experiment a bit if you are replacing your sugar in recipes with Stevia but a general rule of thumb is 1 teaspoon of liquid Stevia extract or 1-1/2 to 2 tablespoons of powdered or sifted for each cup of sugar.
I grow Stevia in my naturally grown (organic) gardens, I offer Stevia per ounce here in my Local Harvest store. My Stevia is chopped and sifted; and is not a powder and it is not bleached. http://www.localharvest.org/just-stevia-C10641
Here is my FAVORITE recipe:
Blueberry Muffins
1/2 cup rolled oats - 6oz pineapple juice - 1/4 cup vegetable oil - 1 egg - 1 tbsp vanilla extract - 2 oz milk - 1/2 cup plain yogurt - 1-3/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour - 1 tsp baking powder - 3 tablespoons of Stevia sifted (or 15 packets of powdered) - 1/4 tsp salt - 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1. Preheat oven to 375 F and oil a muffin tin. In a small bowl, soak the oats in the pineapple juice for 10-15 minutes.
2. In another bowl, beat together the oil, egg and vanilla. Mix the milk into the yogurt to thin and then add to egg mixture. Fold in the oatmeal and juice.
3. Sift together the flour, baking soda, stevia and salt; fold into the wet mixture, stirring as little as possible. Fold in the blueberries just before the flour is completely blended. Spoon the batter into the muffin tin and bake 25-30 minutes.
Yields 12 muffins
Peaceful Blessings and Happy baking!!
Posted by Sharon
@ 03:13 PM EDT
We had our first harvest of Chives yesterday and with the warm air and spring breeze it could not have been more perfect. I love adding chives to everything, such a wonderful little herb and bursting with flavor.
The medical properties of chives are similar to those of garlic, but weaker; the faint effects in comparison with garlic are probably the main reason for its limited use as a medicinal herb. Containing numerous organisulplide compounds such as allyl sulfidesand alkyl sulfoxides, chives have a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, acting upon it by lowering the blood pressure. As chives are usually served in small amounts and never as the main dish, negative effects are rarely encountered, although digestive problems may occur following over-consumption.
Chives are also rich in vitamins A and C, and contain trace amounts of sulfur and iron.
Chives have been cultivated in Europe since the Middle Ages, although signs of its usage date back to 5000 years ago. The Romans believed chives could relieve the pain from sunburn or a sore throat. They believed that eating chives would increase blood pressure and acted as a diuretic. Romanian Gypsies have used chives in fortune telling. It was believed that bunches of dried chives hung around a house would ward off disease and evil.
It acts as a great insect repllent too when planted in the garden and grows very well indoors throughout the winter.
Harvesting is easy, when the chives reach about 2-5 cm or they start getting a little ragged, trim them down to the base of the plant. The plant will continuously make new growth throughout the growing season. You could have fresh chives every few weeks depending on your growing conditions.
Like I mentioned, I LOVE chives and add them to everything like eggs, various meats and salads. I am adding a few recipes here that I love, I got these online and keep going back to them because they always turn out perfect. The dip is sooooo delicious, I usually wait with this one until my Dill is ready but I thought I would put it out there now so you could have it when your Dill is ready or if you would like to purchase Dill from your grocer.
1. Vegetable Dip Mix
Yield: 1 servings
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl: blend well. Spoon mixture onto a 6-inch square of aluminum foil, and fold to make airtight. Label as Vegetable Dip Mix. Store in a cool, dry place and use within 6 months.
Makes 1 package (about 2 T) of mix. Vegetable Dip: Combine 1 T lemon juice, 1 cup Mayonnaise, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 package of mix. Chill at least 1 hour before serving.
2. Lemon Chive Sauce
Serve this sauce hot with broiled or grilled chicken, baked fish, or asparagus.
Ingredients:
· 1/3 cup butter
· 2 tablespoons finely chopped chives
· 1 tablespoon lemon juice
· 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel
· 1/2 teaspoon salt
· dash ground black pepper
Preparation:
Melt butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Add remaining ingredients and heat through.
Serve hot with broiled chicken, baked fish, or asparagus.
3. Sauteed Chicken Breasts with Creamy Chive Sauce
Makes 4 servings
ACTIVE TIME: 35 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 35 minutes
EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), trimmed of fat
1 teaspoon sea salt, divided
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, divided
3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided (I use Grapeseed Oil)
2 large shallots, finely chopped
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 14-ounce can reduced-sodium chicken broth (I use organic, free range broth)
1/3 cup reduced-fat sour cream (I use the real stuff!! :) )
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 cup chopped chives (about 1 bunch/handful)
1. Place chicken between sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet or heavy skillet until flattened to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. Season both sides of the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Place 1/4 cup flour in a shallow glass baking dish and dredge the chicken in it. Discard the excess flour.
2. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate, cover and keep warm.
3. Heat the remaining 1 teaspoon oil in the pan over medium-high heat. Add shallots and cook, stirring constantly and scraping up any browned bits, until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon flour; stir to coat. Add wine, broth and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt; bring to a boil, stirring often.
4. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pan, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until heated through and no longer pink in the center, about 6 minutes. Stir in sour cream and mustard until smooth; turn the chicken to coat with the sauce. Stir in chives and serve immediately.
Enjoy cooking and happy harvesting. I will have some dried chives available in my Local Harvest store shortly, I am just witing from them to dry!
Posted by Sharon
@ 02:32 PM EDT
The sun is bright and shining today, it makes you want to get moving and motivated for the summer months ahead. Let's face it, we all put on a couple pounds over the winter; our body goes into hibernation mode and we eat almost all the wrong goodies - throw in holiday cookes and bake sales and forget it, we can be healthy and fit all year until the winter holidays!!!
Time to start getting into shape again and begin to work on losing those extra pounds. I have compiled a list of simple stretches to get you moving before you begin any type of work out. For some, these stretches are just enough, while for others it is a great warm up for their fitness program.
Tips for stretching
- Warm your muscles slightly before stretching them. Walk or do some other light aerobic exercise for a few minutes, then start stretching.
- Ease yourself into the stretch, relax, and don't push or bounce. You should feel a stretch in the muscle but not pain.
- Exhale as you do the stretch. While you are holding the stretch, inhale deeply.
- Try closing your eyes while stretching. It helps you relax and reduces self-consciousness and the urge to compete.
- Take a moment to enjoy the good, warm feeling that comes after a good stretch.
Physical activity is good for your health, but it does stress and strain your body in ways that a more inactive lifestyle does not. If it's done too suddenly or without basic precautions, exercise can lead to injury or illness. Even if you have long been active and are fit, keep safety in mind. Do not assume that basic precautions do not apply to you. The most important ways to avoid injury and illness are to: learn about the risks of any new activity you begin. Take lessons, if appropriate. Always use the safety gear that is recommended for your chosen activity, such as helmets and knee pads. Learn about the use and proper fit of safety equipment, begin an exercise routine slowly and gradually increase intensity and most importantly, pay attention to your body's signals, such as pain and fatigue, when starting a new activity or when increasing the intensity of your physical activity. General muscle soreness is common when you try a new activity, but pain can mean you're injured. If you are very tired, you may be doing too much too soon.
Stretches
Do all stretches gradually. Do not push or bounce the stretch. You should feel a stretch, not pain. While you hold the stretch, inhale. Exhale as you relax. These are basic stretches, please consult with your health care provider to be sure you are well enough to begin a stretching/exercise routine.
Latissimus stretch
- Stand with your back straight and your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Hold your arms above your head and lace your fingers.
- Pull upward while leaning to either side. Keep your lower body straight. You should feel the stretch along your side.
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Triceps stretch
- Bring your right elbow straight up while bending your arm.
- Grab your elbow with your left hand and pull your right elbow behind you with light pressure.
- Switch elbows.
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Calf stretch
- Place your hands on the back of a chair for balance.
- Step back with your left leg; keep the leg straight and press your left heel into the floor.
- Lean forward and bend your right leg slightly. Feel the stretch in your left calf.
- Repeat on the other side.
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Quadriceps stretch
- Lie on your side with one hand supporting your head.
- Bend your upper leg back and grab your ankle with your hand.
- Stretch your leg back. If this causes stress on your knees, do not do this stretch.
- Repeat on the other side.
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Groin stretch
- Sit on the floor and put the soles of your feet together. Keep your knees as close to the ground as possible and pointed outward.
- Grab your feet and gently pull yourself forward, bending at the hips.
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Hamstring stretch
- Sit on the floor with the right leg extended out straight, the knee slightly bent, and the toes pointing toward you.
- Bend your left leg so that your left foot is next to the inside of your right thigh.
- Lean forward from the hips and reach for your right ankle. Do not try to touch your forehead to your knee.
- Switch legs.
I have formulated two herbal tea blends that have helped many get back into the work out mode after a long winter. My first blend is called Better Flex Tea and the second is called Slim Trim Diet Aid Tea. Both of these blends are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help replace vitamins and minerals that may be lost while exercising or while beginning a new diet. Both blends can be found here at Local Harvest and as always, if you have any questions, feel free to email me!
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Posted by Sharon
@ 03:41 PM EDT
I have been asked by many if any of my teas (which are really herbal infusions and decoctions) could be used loose instead of in a tea bag. The answer to this, of course, is yes!!!
I choose to place the herbs in a tea filter because of the ease of clean up and convienence. I know many folks, including myself, enjoy steeping the herbs as loose and you can do so with any of my blends. Should you purchase a blend in a tea filter, simply cup open the filter and use the herbs in your tea pot, diffuser or add directly to boiling water or whichever herbal preparation you are doing.
I do offer all of my herbal teas and topicals as loose, I can't list everything in my Local Harvest store or the seems would burst but if you contact me directly I would be happy to help you and if you wanted loose herbs, I would be happy to send it to you.
All of herbs are fresh and naturally grown, no pesticides, no chemical fertlizers, no nothing - just plain plants and natural occuring vitamins, minerals and constituents!!
Which brings me to another topic - many people also ask me what type of "tea" leaves do I use in my blends? Well, the answer is, I do not use "tea" leaves in any of my blends. Then, the second question follows, well then why do you call your blends teas? I call them teas because that is how most relate to them. I actually offer herbal infusions and decoctions and what these words means is whether or not the herbs are added to boiling water (infusion) or whether the herbs, usually roots, barks, stems, seeds and berries are boiled with the water from the start (decoction).
To explain this - I have some herbal preparation definitions here to help answer any questions:
Infusions
Infusions are a simple way of extracting the active principles of herbs through the action of hot water. The preparation of infusions is similar to the way we prepare tea. This method is used to extract the volatile components of the dried or green aerial parts of herbs and plants, like flowers and leaves. Infusions may use single herbs or a blend and are drunk hot or cold. Hot infusion is recommended for the harder parts of the plants, while cold infusion is more suitable for flowers and leaves. Certainly this is the most common and cheapest method of extracting the medicinal compounds of herbs.
Decoctions
Roots, barks and fruits being thicker and less permeable than the aerial parts of medicinal plants, do not liberate their active principles by simple infusion. It is necessary to simmer these parts in boiling water in order to extract their medicinal constituents. The material should be cut or broken into small pieces. In order to avoid loosing volatile constituents, use a lid over the simmering pan. Decoctions can be taken hot or cold. Macerate To make, pour 500ml of cold water over 25g of herb and leave to stand overnight. Then strain and use as you would a decoction.
Massage Oils Use 5 drops essential oil to 20 ml carrier oil. Sweet almond, jojoba, avocado or grapeseed make good carrier oils. You can also used infused oils.
Ointments
Ointments are prepared like hot infused oils, the difference being that herbs are simmered in waxes or fats containing no water. After separating the simmered herbs by squeezing and cooling, the result is a solid mixture of the wax or fat with the medicinal constituents of the plant. Petroleum jelly, soft paraffin wax and beeswax are some common bases used. Ointments form an oily barrier on the surface of injuries and carry the active principles to the affected area. Plaster Wrap the chopped or boiled herbs, or a paste made from them, in cheesecloth or muslin before applying to the affected area. This is good for herbs that might irritate the skin, such as mustard.
Poultice Boil herbs in a little water for a hot poultice, or bruise or chop slightly for a cold one. Smooth a little oil on the skin to keep the herbs from sticking, apply the herb, and wrap with muslin or gauze strips.
Steam Inhalants Place a few tablespoons of the dried herb in a bowl and pour boiling water over them. Drape a towel over your head and breathe in the steam. AKA: Herbal Facial Steam!!
Syrups
With some rare exceptions, such as peppermint which is a familiar flavoring agent in toothpaste and chewing gum, infused or decocted herbs are not palatable, especially for children. In order to disguise their taste, infusions and decoctions can be mixed with honey or unrefined cane sugar. These syrups combine the soothing action of these solvents to the medicinal properties of the infusions and decoctions, resulting in additional benefits - especially for treating cough and sore throats.
Tinctures
Most of the volatile components of medicinal plants and herbs are soluble in apple cider vinegar and alcohol to name two as well as the strongest. By immersing dried or fresh parts of plants in either menstruum, the active principles are easily extracted at concentrations that exceed those that can be achieved by infusion or decoction. Highly concentrated solutions that will last for one to two years are a convenient way to store and use medicinal plants constituents. Ideally tinctures should be made using pure ethyl alcohol distilled from cereals or pure apple cider vinegar (preferrable organic). However, since this product is not available to the public, good Vodka with 35-45% alcohol can be used. The extraction is fairly quick. Never use methyl alcohol, methylated spirits, isopropyl alcohol or any other kind of unknown spirit to make tinctures. Tinctures made from apple cider vinegar and alcohol will keep for many years; while those made of vegetable glycerin, aloe ver juice/gel, apricot kernel oil or other menstruums may only keep for up to year but may keep longer if refrigerated. Tonic Wine Pour 2 liters good quality wine, preferably red, over 500 g. dried herb, making sure all the herb is covered by the wine. Cover and leave for 2 weeks. Strain and take in 1/3 cup doses.
Wash A tea or infusion meant only for external use. A mild form of a wash would be 1/4 ounce of herb to one pint of boiling water, steeped until lukewarm, then applied.
Compress Soak a soft cloth in a hot infusion, decoction, or 5-20 ml tincture in 500 ml hot water. Squeeze out excess water and hold pad against affected area.
Creams
Creams are mixtures of oils or fats with water. Since water and oils are not miscible, it is necessary to add an emulsifying agent that prohibits their separation. Creams are therefore stable emulsions of oils or fats. Medicinal properties are added to creams when they used with or are made with tinctures, infusions, oil infusions, essential oils or decoctions. Creams are permeable, allowing the skin to breathe and sweat. Their water content and some additional hydrophobic agent like Glycerin promote the hydration and cooling of the skin.
Essential Oil
Essential oils are the volatile oily components of aromatic plants, trees and grasses. They are found in tiny glands located in the flowers (neroli), leaves (eucalyptus), roots (calamus), wood (sandal) and resins (frankincense). Essential oils are extracted by four main methods: steam distillation, expression, solvent extraction and effleurage. In the first method, the oil is extracted by the action of hot steam and then selectively condensed with water from which it is separated. In the second method, the oil is extracted by pressure or centrifugation. In the third method, the oil is dissolved in a volatile solvent that, when evaporated, leaves a heavy natural wax substance called concrete. When separated from the wax, the resulting liquid is called an absolute, the most concentrated form of aroma available. Effleurage is a longer process involving the dissolution of the oils in animal fat and its separation using alcohol. Although essential oils’ main usage is in cosmetics and perfumery, many of them do have proven therapeutic properties.
Infused Oils
Pure vegetable oils like sunflower, almond and olive oil are easily found at grocery stores. They have the property of dissolving the active, fat-soluble active principles of medicinal plants and herbs. This process is called infusion and can be carried out at room temperature or higher. Infusion is a slower process than alcohol extraction but has the advantage of resulting in an oil based solution of medicinal constituents that can easily be used to make creams, skin soothing topicals, tinctures and ointments.
I hope this helped explain more about various herbal preparations- these are the basic ones as there are other which can get quite detailed.
All the best and green blessings on this gorgeous spring day!!!! Sharon
Posted by Sharon
@ 03:06 PM EDT
- Herbal hair rinses help to restore hairs natural luster and beauty. Depending on which variety you choose you can deep clean hair, lighten or darken your original hair color naturally, prevent dandruff or stimulate the scalp to increase growth.
- Types of rinses:
Chamomile: This will bring our natural blonde highlights in light-colored hair. You can also add natural lemon juice to heighten lightening effects in the sunlight. This is a safe and effective alternative to products like "Sun-In" which can damage hair.
Calendula: This will bring out the auburn and red-highlights of medium colored hair.
Rosemary: This will bring out the warmth, richness and depth of dark colored and silvery hair. Rosemary is also been known to stimulate the scalp, prevent hair loss and help to regrow hair.
Nettle: This will help prevent and treat dandruff and stimulate circulation in the scalp. Excellent for use during winter.
- Administration: Simply add a tea bag to large mouth glass jar and fill with boiling water and cover. Allow the herbs to steep for about 30 minutes. Apply the rinse after shampooing, rub into the scalp and leave the rinse on. Your hair will be smooth and soft, blow-dry and style as normal. Each tea bag is good for one use. You can find these herbal haor rinses at my store on Local Harvest.
- Healthy Hair Tips
- Good hygiene is important for healthy hair. This includes brushing the hair properly and washing it with a mild shampoo. Good nutrition (a well - balanced diet of fresh foods and lots of water) not only helps one to have beautiful - looking hair but also improves it's texture. Wash your hair daily or every other day. The extra circulation provided by the shampoo /message stimulates the oil glands to work more efficiently and brings natural oils into the hair. This applies to all types of hair. Use shampoo that is pH balanced and that is designed specially for you hair type (dry, oily, etc.). Ask your hair specialist to assist you in selecting the right shampoo for your hair type. Always rinse with cool (not hot) clean water for extra shine. Allow your hair to air dry naturally whenever possible. Never brush soaking - wet hair, as the hair is quite elastic at this time and can be pulled and stretched to the breaking point. A wide - toothed comb is best for wet hair. Give your hair a good brushing before bed. This should be done by bending forward from the waist, head down, brushing from the back to front. Brush at least fifty to one hundred strokes. This will help remove dirt, pollutants and damaging particles from the hair in addition to stimulate circulation which will increase natural oils for added sheen and oxygen to the hair and scalp. Once a week massage jojoba oil with one to two drops of rosemary oil for dry or oily hair and tea tree for hair that show signs of dandruff into the scalp. Leave on over night, wash out the next day.
- Dull hair without hair damage in most cases can be the result of a build-up of shampoos, conditions, and hard-water particles. These build-ups can deprive your hair of the bounce and sheen for which you bought the shampoo and conditioner in the first place. Clean your hair thoroughly to rid it of hair - care products and residue. Try a shampoo specially designed to remove build-up, or you can use a solution of plain apple-cider vinegar and water. This procedure will restore the acid mantle, which is essential to a healthy scalp and clean, shiny hair. Rinsing your hair after shampooing with the apple-cider solution of apple-cider vinegar and water (half and half mixture), massage in well, then raise out. Now apply your conditioner. This should be done every two weeks. This is very important if you wash your hair consistently with hard water, which has more metal ions. When combined with soaps, these metal ions leave a residue that when left on your hair will make it dull and dry.
- The problem with lack of body in your hair is that it leads to three other problems: less elasticity, less flexibility, and less strength. Look carefully at your hair. Does it look limp and flat shortly after you've washed and groomed it? Hairspray can weight it down and make it look flat and limp so use very little. If you use a commercial conditioner that contains a fabric softener such as stear-alkonium chloride or some other quaternary ammonium compound, it will make the hair look flat and limp. It will destroy the body your hair naturally has. Choose a shampoo and conditioner that has a pH of 4.5 to 5.5, that is natural and contains protein. Use a protein pack that contains horsetail and/or sage once a week, or you can add four to five drops of sage to a protein treatment pack.
- Falling Out and Thinning Hair : Avoid using stiff nylon brushes, rollers, pony-tails, and other hairstyles that put great pressure on the hair. Avoid rough scalp massages and towel dying, perming and hot blow drying (these weaken the hair shaft even more). Let hair dry as naturally as possible or if you must blow dry, use low to medium heat only. Hold the blower at least 6 inches from your scalp. Use a de-tangle and a wide-tooth comb to untangle the hair. Minimize use of a brush on wet hair. Do not wear hats or wigs on a regular continued basis. Hats and wigs can cut off circulation and oxygen, causing possible further hair loss. Lightly massage your scalp with the tips of your fingers, always using a circular movement for five minutes when shampooing. This is good for blood nourishment to the scalp. After shampooing, rub a few drops of a blend of essential oils such as tea tree, jojoba oil, and rosemary into your hair and scalp and message in; do not rinse out unless your hair is oily.
- Dry and Brittle Hair: A through brushing of the hair using a slow, gentle, even strokes to minimize pressure on the split ends every day keeps it free from unwanted particles and helps to bring the natural oils from the scalp to the hair split ends. This will make your hair less dry and brittle and will help it to look silky and lustrous. Avoid sun damages, chlorinated swimming pools by wearing hats and swimming caps. Avoid shampoos that are extremely alkaline or that contain alcohol. Keep split ends or dead hair cut. In most cases you cannot repair the damage by treating hair from the "outside-in." Hair has to be repaired from the "inside-out." Keeping the hair healthy and free of dead and/or split ends will help new hair grow faster. Use the jojoba oil and rosemary mixture on your hair once a week. This can be applied overnight (wear a cap or use a old pillow case) or use as a hot oil treatment under the hair drier
- Dandruff appears in many forms, such as common dandruff, psoriasis, neurodermatitis. Dandruff itches and when scratched falls away easily. Psoriasis is a more difficult disorder where the scales, silver-white in color, cling tenaciously to the scalp. Neurodermatitis is a condition confined to the area at the base of the scalp, characterized by extreme itchiness and common among menopausal and post-menopausal women. Avoid fry foods, animal fats, nuts, avocado and dairy products. Eliminate refined sugars from the diet. Use a gentle shampoo and dilute it before using Commercial anti-dandruff shampoos are too harsh can dry out the hair. Besides these shampoos will only take care of the symptoms not the problem. Use a natural shampoo with tea tree oil, nettle leaf extract and/or rosemary oil. Lightly massage your scalp with the tips of your finger, always using a circular movement for 5 minutes. This is good for blood nourishment to the scalp. Massage a blend of essential oils of jojoba oil, tea tree, nettle and rosemary oil into your scalp with your finger tips for 5 minutes at least once a week and leave in overnight (use a old pillow case) .
- As with all medications, natural or conventional, please keep out of reach of children and pets. This information is not meant to treat, prevent, cure or diagnose illness and has not been evaluated by the FDA.
Posted by Sharon
@ 02:45 PM EDT
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