Morgan Botanicals

Avena sativa is one of my favorite herbs for just about anybody. Anyone who is stressed, overworked, or anxious, should include oats as part of a daily health regimen. It is a safe tonic herb for the nervous system. Avena is exceptionally rich in silica, calcium, and chromium and are one of the highest sources of magnesium.

 I highly recommend oat straw tea during pregnancy for calming nervous tension and stress. It is also safe for yeast infections that occur during pregnancy and it is great for varicose veins as the infusion is useful in strengthening the capillaries. If your looking for a great pregnancy tea try Nutritional Herbal Pregnancy Tea.

For children, oat straw is a perfect choice for nighttime unwinding, as well as high in calcium to support growth spurts. Use for children who are nervous, hyperactive, or stressed. Our valuable blend, Teddy Bear Tea is all natural, healthy, and yummy. This tea will become your favorite nighttime ritual.

Take advantage of this simple herb and you'll see how gentle and effective it is. Combine with lemon balm and passionflower for a good nervine, and with valerian as a sleep aid, or with digestive bitters for any liver or digestive upset.

As always, please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com.

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Washable herbal wipes are a super green and economical way to wash baby’s bottom, plus, it’s a great chemical-free rinse! The diaper service here in Tehachapi suggests that by using natural products like your own diaper wipes and natural herbal baby balms such as Sweet Cheeks Baby Balm and baby powders such as Happy Hiney Herbal Powder that the diapers last longer.

We suggest at least a couple dozen or more if you go longer than 2 days between washings. You can store your wipes in a container and simply toss used ones into the diaper pail and wash with your diapers.

I have found that these herbal recipes are best to use with cloth wipes. These will clean baby's bottom or face without any unnecessary chemicals.  During outbreaks of rash you will find these useful recipes may come in handy. Try these great baby tested recipes:

Basic Recipe for Baby Wipes (For Every Day Cleansing)

• 2 tablespoons unscented baby Castile wash
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as olive oil or sunflower oil)
• 2 cups distilled water

  Antimicrobial Tea Tree Baby Wipes

• 2 tablespoons Infused Calendula oil or other pure vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons unscented baby Castile
• 2 cups distilled water
• 4 drops Tea Tree essential oil

Anti-Fungal Herbal Baby Wipes

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1-2 cup Aloe Vera Gel (fresh if possible)
• 1 tablespoon infused Calendula Oil
• 2 drops Lavender Essential Oil
• 3 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil

Soothing Aloe Vera Baby Wipes

• 2 cups hot distilled water
• 1/2 cup Aloe Vera Gel (fresh if possible)
• 4 drops Tea Tree Oil

For all of these herbal wipes recipes, mix in a jar and then pour over your contained cloth wipes (do enough for a couple days at a time).  Store any extra solution in the fridge.  You and your herbal baby are going to love diaper changes!

 

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com.

Copyright 2007. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

There is a sense of excitement that comes from growing something new in your garden each year. Why not explore your creative side and plant something unusual this year. I've put together some extraordinary vegetables with unusual flavors that will be worth the extra effort it takes to find these magnificent plants.

• Asparagus Bean, also know as yard-long bean. A beautiful addition to any vegetable garden, and as good to eat as they are strange to behold. Easy to grow, produces abundantly, and has a pleasing taste all their own.
• Borage is not the prettiest of plants when mature but useful to say the least. Leaves possess a mild, cucumber-like flavor guaranteed to perk up any salad.
• Burdock doesn't need much water and is easy to grow. Slice the roots up for refreshing, sweetish, unusual aromatic flavor in stir-fry dishes or soups.
• Chayote is low in calories and high in trace elements plus a good source of fiber. This vegetable pear is a tasty stand in for asparagus, or use it as you would potatoes or French fries.
• Dandelion is enjoyable all year, and a closer look at its nutritional value should persuade you to do just that.
• Horseradish root is useful both as food and medicine. Cook as you would parsnips or spice up a pot roast or baked ham. In the spring, the first leaf shoots of the plant can be picked for an unusual and pungent potherb.
• Jicama tastes very much like water chestnuts, but with a slight hint of sweetness. These tubers can be used in a multitude of ways.
• Luffa is a member of the cucumber family and is seldom seen growing in America, but spa-bathers and boat scrubbers are undoubtedly familiar with this sturdy "vegetable sponge." Grow some to scrub your veggie's!
• Nettle if handled with care will make a valuable addition to you garden. Arm yourself with gloves and harvest away.
• Orach has a mild flavor and contains much less acid than most other types of spinach. Add to quiches, roll up in crepes, toss into soups, or enjoy this delicious vegetable by itself.
• Rocket is an excellent late crop with the flavor quite distinctive- sharp, spicy, pungent. Enjoy it at its best raw in salads.
• Salsify has a multitude of uses. These roots can be baked, boiled, fried, or served in soups.
• Scorzonera is delicious served hot with melted butter or a cream or mushroom sauce. But like Salsify can be baked or fried as well.
• Sea Kale shoots have a delicate, nutty, slightly bitter flavor. They are yummy when eaten raw with cheese or in salads, or prepared like asparagus.
• Skirret responds well to interplanting with salad crops such as radishes, onions, and leaf lettuce. Boil these roots up with salt and mash like potatoes.
• Tomatillo's are the first cousin of the ground cherry. These sticky green berries are the perfect accompaniment to any Mexican dish.

The best part about planting unusual veggies is tracking down the seeds! Love you garden and it will love you!

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com.

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

For those who have learned to respect its sting and recognize its amazing herbal attributes, stinging nettle truly is one of our most delicious, nutritious and medicinal foods. Even though this plant can offer a crash course in plant identification, as well as contact dermatitis, painful tiny blisters, and possible burning like sensations, (OUCH!) get to know it, nettle has so much to offer.

Besides being very high in iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, and vitamins A, C, and D; it is nutritive, astringent, diuretic, tonic, and antihistamine. Nettle is particularly effective in treating allergic rhinitis, relieving nearly all the symptoms of itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose. This herb can be taken in the form of tincture, capsule or as I prefer in tea; two or three times daily throughout hay fever season. Some herbalist recommend nettle for dogs that suffer seasonal allergies as well.

The stinging comes from the presence of the histamine in the bristle. This is what delivers a stinging burn when the hairs on the leaves and stems are touched. But, the histamines and histamine-like compounds in nettle seem to be what interferes with the release of histamines produced by the body, thus relieving much of the symptoms that inevitably results from airborne allergens each spring. Combating seasonal allergies really can be as simple as a cup of nettle tea away. Morgan Botanicals offers nettle by the ounce and nettle seed as well as personal blends. If you would like an allergy tea blended please feel free to contact me.

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com.

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

Soap nuts are the dried fruit of the Chinese Soapberry tree (Sapindus Mukorossi), found primarily in India, Indonesia, and Nepal.  The outer shell of the soap nut contains saponin, a natural substance known for its ability to cleanse. But its no secret, this fruit has been used to clean fabric for centuries. Now with the "Green" movement this plant is gaining popularity here in America and Europe as a natural alternative to modern soaps and detergents.

These nuts are incredibly gentle on clothes and skin, especially those with sensitive skin; including babies and those that suffer from allergies, eczema, and psoriasis.  Because soap nuts are biodegradable, they’re a better choice than regular detergent. They’re safe for the environment and even safe for septic and greywater systems.

Soap nuts are a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic shampoos and cleansers. They are often used in Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for eczema and  psoriasis. These nuts have gentle insecticidal properties and are traditionally used for removing lice from the scalp as well.

I use soap nut most often to do laundry, but I also recommend using this soap alternative to clients with skin issues. If you suffer from psoriasis or eczema then this is an option for you. A new cleansing regimen combined with herbs; internal and external can offer relief. Soap nuts can be found in many online stores, and some health food stores. Look for the Skin Clarity Line in my store Morgan Botanicals here at Local Harvest. I have a tea, bath, and salve. This is one of my best sellers for skin complaints.

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com.

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

 

The skin is the largest organ in the body. Our skin is absorbent and alive, and everyday it absorbs chemicals from our laundry detergent, bleach, or whatever we put next to our skin. Treat your skin to nourishment by soaking in a medicinal herbal bath. Herbal baths are beneficial to your skin, ease stress, and help soothe aches and pains.

Morgan Botanicals uses fresh organic dried herbs and essential oils that smell wonderful! No artificial ingredients or synthetic fragrances. As you soak with whole herbs and botanicals such as Eucalyptus, Lavender, Spearmint, or Chamomile, you will feel your stress evaporate. Nourish your mind and your body with our line of botanical tea baths. They are hand-blended in small batches to ensure superior quality and optimum shelf life 

We have many herbal bath soak blends specially designed to soothe or relax. All our bath soaks come with a reusable muslin bag. Try our Ready to Relax blend or Simply Sensual.

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com.;

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

 

Trifolium pratense, or red clover is one of the most useful remedies for children and adults alike, not to mention the tasty treats you can make. If your lucky enough to find this clover growing you’ll want to pick them in the morning just after the dew has dried off. Be sure to select only the fresh, newly opened flowers, and avoid any that look withered or brown. Carefully remove the stems and spread them out on trays. Try not to crowd the blossoms and allow to dry in an airy place, away from direct sunlight. When thoroughly dry, they will be crisp to the touch. Store them away from the light, in tightly closed jars.

This herb is a source of many valuable nutrients including calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, and vitamin C. Red clover is also considered to be one of the richest sources of isoflavones.

These beautiful edible flowers are slightly sweet. You can pull the petals from the flower head and add them to many dishes throughout the summer. A few tiny florets are a delightful addition to a summer iced tea: try serving your summer guests a cup of iced alfalfa mint tea with a slice of lemon and five to ten tiny clover florets floating on top- delicious! Or press the fresh florets into the icing on a summer birthday cake. The raw greens of this plant are very nutritious and can be enjoyed fresh or dried to get the nutrients.

Some of my favorite recipes can be whipped up in a flash.

Red Clover Tea
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 Tbsp fresh or dried red clover herb. Let steep about 5 minutes, strain, and serve with honey.

Red Clover Lemonade

• 4 cups fresh Red Clover blossoms
• 1 gallon water
• 2 cups Red Clover honey
• 1-1/2 cups fresh squeezed lemon juice

Gently simmer Clover blossoms in a covered pot for 10 minutes. Add honey, stirring until it dissolves. Cover and let steep and cool for several hours or overnight. Then add lemon juice and chill in the fridge.

Red Clover Syrup

• 1-quart fresh Red Clover blossoms
• 2 cups Red Clover honey
• 1 1/2 cups water

Crush blossoms gently, then combine all ingredients. Over low heat, bring to the boil, turn down and simmer for 15 minutes. Let cool. Strain and bottle. This syrup is soothing for coughs and sore throats and makes a pleasant flavoring for tea or pancakes. I hope everyone enjoys these recipes as much as I do. Look for fresh red clover herb and red clover seeds in my Local Harvest Store : Morgan Botanicals.

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com.;

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

Making and using compost is not only a life-changing experience, but it is the world's best soil conditioner. I use my spent tea leaves as compost for my house plants; cactus, succulents, and herbs, plus I toss them in the garden. Tea leaves are full of Nitrogen, which is always needed for the healthy growth in plants. Its been known that by putting them in the soil that it helps with color development in flowers too, especially in red varieties.

I throw all my spent leaves either in the compost bin or directly on the garden as mulch. Both are very beneficial.

Using tea compost on your garden means:

    * You’ll spend less time weeding and watering your garden

    * You’ll need to use less artificial fertilizer in your garden

    * Your soil will be healthier, so you’ll grow healthier plants

    * You’ll save time and money

    * You’ll be keeping green waste out of landfill

 

All Morgan Botanicals loose-leaf teas, baths and soaks are compostable, it’s even on the labels! Look for Morgan Botanicals herbal products here at Local Harvest. So next time you buy tea, whether loose leaf or in tea bags, don’t forget to toss it in the garden. Does any one use their brewed leaves for anything interesting? I would love to hear your comments.

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.

"Better to be deprived of food for three days than of tea for one!"

I love tea, whether its just to warm me up, to clear out my lungs, or to sit and swish around in- in the tub of course!. Today I just feel like sharing some of my favorite recipes. Hope you enjoy.

TUMMY TEA: This tea is not only delicious but very effective for stomach ache and indigestion, plus it's safe for children and adults alike, to drink daily.

• 1 part rose hips
• 1 part spearmint
  
• 1 part dried orange peal
• 1/2 part star anise
• 1/8 part licorice root

Combine all herbs in a pot, and cover with boiling water. Stir well, cover, and steep 15 to 20 minutes.

PRETTY BLEND: I love this tea! It is visually gorgeous too! This yummy tea is aromatic and will bring happiness. Drink it hot or iced.

• 1 part lemon verbena leaves
• 1 part peppermint or spearmint
• 1 part rose hips
• 1 part dried orange peel
  
• 1/2 part rose petals
• 1/4 part calendula flowers
• 1/4 part freshly grated ginger root

Combine all herbs in a pot, and cover with boiling water. Stir well, cover, and steep 15 to 20 minutes.

FEVER FLUSHER: If you've got a cold or a fever then this is the brew for you. The yarrow in this tea will cause heat flushing, which is good for breaking a fever.

• 1 part echinacea root
  
• 1 part peppermint leaves
• 1 part catnip leaves
• 1 part yarrow
• 1 part lemon balm leaves

Put echinacea in 1 quart of water and bring to a boil. Simmer, covered, for 20 minutes. Add the rest of the herbs, stir well, cover and steep 15 to 20 minutes. Strain and add honey and lemon, if desired. Drink a lot of it!

I hope everyone enjoys these tea blends as much as I do. Look for these fresh loose leaf herbs and other natural herbal products in my Local Harvest Store : Morgan Botanicals. As always, email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

Many herbs can safely be used for weight loss and provide a natural way to help you lose those excess pounds. Herbal teas will ease digestive disorders, provide increased perspiration, add bulk and cleanse your body; and increase energy, bringing new vitality to your system. Herbs have no calories or fat. But always keep in mind that weight loss involves changing your whole lifestyle.

One must always begin with eating fresh whole foods and sufficient water consumption. I personally enjoy four to six glasses a day, one of which I swirl in a tablespoon of flaxseed.  For those who can’t get down plain water, try adding a squeeze of lemon, lime, or orange juice, or crush up some mint. Eating and living with herbs will bring you a lifestyle that may be more conducive to weight loss. The following list of herbs has been know to aid in weight loss, especially when combined with healthy eating and exercise.

    * Alfalfa - this herb is not only nutritious but also filled with essential amino acids for strength, a cleanser and mild laxative which will help keep your intestinal track in top condition. Mixes great with peppermint.

    * Cayenne - sprinkle cayenne on your food. It contains an ingredient called capsaicin that stimulates saliva, stimulates digestion and increases your metabolism and fat burning safely.

    * Dandelion - A natural diuretic and cleanser with potassium and vitamins. Works gently and naturally to balance your body’s fluids.

    * Calendula - Make this calming floral tea to ease digestive disorders and de-stress your stomach lining and bowels.

    * Oatstraw - A full body tonic with tons of vitamins and minerals. Adds bulk if taken in capsule form.

    * Raspberry - Iced fruit and berry teas will fulfill the need for sweet drinks and sodas- you’ll get fit faster!

    * Sage - Helps increase digestive enzymes and stimulates your liver.

    * Green Tea - This tea is a natural stimulant with the added benefit of vitamin C and flavoniods (compounds that are antioxidants).

    * Ginseng - helps to boost energy and metabolism.

    * Yerba mate - A vitality tea with lots of B vitamins to combat stress. This metabolic stimulant will help your body utilize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Hope you enjoy your herbal slimming teas! Look for these herbs in my local harvest store: Morgan Botanicals. Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H

I am frequently asked for custom herbal preparations to help with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Most clients that I have worked with were on conventional medication and were unhappy with their results. Herbs can replace prescription drugs such as Humera, but please consult with your RA doctor before stopping Humera or any prescription drugs, and let them know that you are considering alternative methods. Herbs have been used with outstanding results for RA sufferers, they do however, work much slower, gentler, and efficiently. Consider discussing with your doctor the best way of weaning your body off the current medication and then supplement with herbs and dietary suggestions. This way your body can readjust.

Herbs; internal and external, green tea, great food choices, and yoga are all very good additions to an RA regimen. Fish oils are also good supplements to try for rheumatoid arthritis since they reduce inflammation. Cod liver oil is a good choice.

Some dietary guidelines I like to suggest- avoid sour foods (yogurt, vinegar, oranges, grapefruit, and pickles) as these over-stimulate the liver, causing it to contract tendons and increase pain. Also, avoid acidic foods (citrus, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, potatoes, red meat, excess grains, alcohol, caffeine), which aggravate arthritis.  Maybe research acid/alkaline food balancing.

Some herbal preparations specific to RA and other joint related complaints that I make include teas, balm, baths, liniments, and poultices. These blends can be customized to your specific needs. I would suggest combating RA with internal and external applications simultaneously. Together, your body will be healthier and happier. Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M.H.

Leonurus cardiaca, or Motherwart, is an interesting herb; not just because its quirky name, but because it has a long history of medicinal uses. This herb is so important that the Japanese have a Motherwart Festival on the ninth day of the nithh month, also known as the “Month of Motherwart Flowers”

The plant and its use as a medicinal herb originated in Central Europe and Asia, although it has long been in use in the North America as well. It is very useful for a variety of ills, and is very nourishing, much like stinging nettle or dandelion. The herb contains the alkaloid leonurine, which is a mild vasodilator and has a relaxing effect on smooth muscles. For this reason, it has long been used as a cardiac tonic, nervine, and an emmenagogue.  

For menopause, use motherwort regularly to: Lessen the severity, frequency, and duration of hot flashes, relieve faintness with flashes, ease stressed nerves, relieve anxiety, and to relieve insomnia and sleep disturbances. An infusion prepared from motherwort may be used as a tonic to treat menopausal symptoms, anxiety, weakness of the heart as well as menstrual pain.

In addition to be a useful remedy for the reproductive system disorders among women, motherwort also possesses properties that invigorate as well as strengthen the cardiac system.

Motherwort calms a rapidly beating heart with readily usable minerals, trace elements, and an alkaloid exceptionally tonifying to the heart (and uterus). It has been known to strengthen the heart, reduce palpitations and tachycardia, while it tonifies the functioning of the thyroid, blood vessels, liver, heart, and uterus.

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals

Consult your physician before using this herb if you take prescription medication for your heart. Not recommended while pregnant.

 Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M. H.

Viola ordorata, or Blue Violet as it’s commonly called, is not only cultivated for its beautiful and fragrant flowers, but is also used in perfumes, food flavorings, and herbal medicines. The plant can either be used fresh, or dried. The young fresh leaves and flower buds are used; and can be eaten raw or cooked. They make a wonderful addition to salad, but a tea made from the flower or leaves is equally as tasty. The flowers are demulcent and emollient and are often used for treating lung troubles. The flowers are also used to make herbal and culinary jellies and syrups.

The whole plant is anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, and laxative. It is taken internally in the treatment of bronchitis, respiratory catarrh, coughs, and asthma. Externally, it is typically used to treat mouth and throat infections.

The dried leaf is traditionally used as a tea, and the fresh leaf and flower is traditionally used in salads, soups and other food preparations. May also be taken as a liquid herbal extract.

I like to use dried Blue Violet Leaf to treat digestive issues related to constipation and lung disorders. A Violet tea infusion is a good choice for lymph congestion due to colds, while Violet syrup is great for relieving respiratory ailments, asthma, coughing, lung congestion and sore throat. Violet Leaf tea is made by simply pouring boiling water over the loose dried herb and allowed to steep before drinking. Purchase Blue Violet leaf.

Blue Violet Syrup Recipe
Ingredients:
* 2 oz of dried Blue Violet Leaf (Viola odorata)
* 1 quart of distilled water
* 3 quarts of honey or glycerin

Place the Blue Violet Leaf in a stainless steel or glass pan and cover with the quart of water. Let it sit overnight. Place over low heat and simmer the mixture slowly until the liquid is reduced to about half the original volume. Remove and strain the mixture, pressing the herbs. Measure retrieved liquid. Take that measurement and add 3 times the amount of honey or glycerin to the liquid. Heat gently until the mixture is incorporated, then pour into sterilized jars and cap. Label and store in a cool place. Syrup made in this manner has a shelf life of 1 year so be sure to date the jars.

Refrigerate after opening. Standard dose for taking a syrup is approximately 1 teaspoonful as needed.

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals

Disclaimer - The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information in this article for self-diagnosis or to replace any prescriptive medication. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem, suffer from allergies, are pregnant or nursing.

Jessica Morgan, M. H.

Parsley did not have a great start in Greek mythology. It was said that it sprang from the blood of Opheltes, infant son of king Lycurgus of Nemia, killed by a serpent when his nanny wasn't looking.

Parsley was soon equated with death, but this perception later changed when it was heralded by the Romans as a remedy for water retention, epilepsy, and fresh breath. The superstitious Europeans viewed this poor herb with vague unease and believed that it should only be planted on Good Friday to appease evil spirits. The German abbot and herbalist, Hildegard of Bingen, prescribed parsley compresses for arthritis, or boiled it in wine for chest and heart pain.

Culpepper used it internally for problems with "urine, wind, kidney stone and cough", and compresses to help bruising and inflamed eyes.

As told by its historical origins, the simple parsley plant is often sold short of its medicinal powers - many people see it as only a decoration on their plate of food, but as you can see amazing little humble plant has stamped its part into our history.

Please email any questions to herbalist@morganbotanicals.com.

Copyright 2009. All rights reserved. Jessica Morgan, M. H., Morgan Botanicals.