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The Publisher does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or
completeness of any material contained herein. Please note that none of
the information, techniques, skills and concepts contained herein is in any
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help.
Furthermore, the Publisher expressly disclaims all liability to any person
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partially, upon any information presented in this document.
I thank you God for this most amazing day, for the leaping greenly spirits of
trees, and for the blue dream of sky and for everything which is natural,
which is infinite, which is yes. - E.E Cummings.
For Your Information 7
A Brief History of Herbs: Their Emergence in Western Culture 8
What is an Herb Anyway? 13
The Common Active Components of Herbs 16
The Safety and Quality of Herbs 21
The Benefits of Growing Your Own Herbs 25

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Soil and Space: How to Get Quality Soil and Design Your Garden Space 29
Harvesting and Storing Herbs 32
How To Dry Herbs 36
Setting Up Your Kitchen Herbal Pharmacy 41
How To Buy Dried Herbs and Detect Good Quality Practices While
Purchasing 44
What are Essential Oils? 47
How To Check For Quality Essential Oils 51
Amazing Herbs To Get Started With – Tips On How To Grow Them, Their
Medicinal Properties, and Recipes You'll Love 55
ALOE VERA 56
Cultivation Of Aloe Vera 56
Tips On Growing Aloe Vera 57
Medicinal Uses Of Aloe Vera 57
DIY Homemade Aloe Vera Solutions 58
BURDOCK 62
Cultivation Of Burdock 62

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Tips On Growing Burdock 63
Medicinal Uses Of Burdock 63
DIY Homemade Burdock Solutions 64
CALENDULA 68
Cultivation Of Calendula 68
Tips On Growing Calendula 69
Medicinal Uses Of Calendula 69
DIY Homemade Calendula Solutions 70
CHAMOMILE 74
Cultivation Of Chamomile 74
Tips On Growing Chamomile 75
Medicinal Uses Of Chamomile 75
DIY Homemade Chamomile Solutions 76
CHICKWEED 80
Cultivation Of Chickweed 80
Tips On Growing Chickweed 81

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Medicinal Uses Of Chickweed 81
DIY Homemade Chickweed Solutions 82
DANDELION 86
Cultivation Of Dandelion 86
Tips On Growing Dandelion 87
Medicinal Uses Of Dandelion 87
DIY Homemade Dandelion Solutions 88
ECHINACEA 91
Cultivation Of Echinacea 91
Tips On Growing Echinacea 92
Medicinal Uses Of Echinacea 92
DIY Homemade Echinacea Solutions 93
ELDER 96
Cultivation Of Elder 96
Tips On Growing Elder 97
Medicinal Uses Of Elder 97

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DIY Homemade Elder Solutions 98
GINGER 101
Cultivation Of Ginger 101
Tips On Growing Ginger 102
Medicinal Uses Of Ginger 102
DIY Homemade Ginger Solutions 103
HAWTHORN 107
Cultivation Of Hawthorn 108
Tips On Growing Hawthorn 108
Medicinal Uses Of Hawthorn 109
DIY Homemade Hawthorn Solutions 110
BASIL 112
Cultivation Of Basil 112
Tips On Growing Basil 113
Medicinal Uses Of Basil 113
DIY Homemade Basil Remedies & Solutions 114

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CAYENNE PEPPER 117
Cultivation Of Cayenne Pepper 117
Tips On Growing Cayenne Pepper 118
Medicinal Uses Of Cayenne Pepper 118
Homemade Cayenne Pepper Remedies and Solutions 119
CINNAMON 122
Buying and Keeping Cinnamon 122
Medicinal Uses Of Cinnamon 123
DIY Homemade Cinnamon Remedies and Solutions 124
GARLIC 127
Cultivation of Garlic 127
Tips On Growing Garlic 128
Medicinal Uses of Garlic 128
DIY Homemade Garlic Remedies and Solutions 129
LAVENDER 132
Cultivation of Lavender 132

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Tips On Growing Lavender 133
Medicinal Uses of Lavender 133
DIY Homemade Lavender Solutions 134
LEMON BALM 137
Cultivation of Lemon Balm 137
Tips On Growing Lemon Balm 138
Medicinal Uses of Lemon Balm 138
DIY Homemade Lemon Balm Solutions 139
LIQUORICE 142
Cultivation of Liquorice 143
Tips On Growing Liquorice 143
Medicinal Uses Of Liquorice 143
DIY Homemade Liquorice Solutions 144
MARSHMALLOW 147
Cultivation of Marshmallow 148
Tips On Growing Marshmallow 148

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Medical Uses Of Marshmallow 148
DIY Homemade Marshmallow Solutions 149
NETTLE 152
Cultivation of Nettle 152
Tips On Growing Stinging Nettles 153
Medicinal Uses Of Nettle 153
DIY Homemade Nettle Solutions 154
PEPPERMINT 157
Cultivation of Peppermint 157
Tips On Growing Peppermint 158
Medicinal Uses of Peppermint 158
DIY Homemade Peppermint Solutions 159
PLANTAIN 162
Cultivation of Plantain 163
Tips On Growing Plantain 163
Medicinal Uses Of Plantain 163

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DIY Homemade Plantain Solutions 164
RED CLOVER 168
Cultivation of Red Clover 169
Tips On Growing Red Clover 169
Medicinal Uses Of Red Clover 169
DIY Homemade Red Clover Solutions 170
ROSEMARY 173
Cultivation of Rosemary 173
Tips On Growing Rosemary 174
Medicinal Uses of Rosemary 174
DIY Homemade Rosemary Solutions 175
SAGE 178
Cultivation of Sage 179
Tips On Growing Sage 179
Medicinal Uses Of Sage 179
DIY Homemade Sage Solutions 180

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SPEARMINT 183
Cultivation of Spearmint 183
Tips On Growing Spearmint 184
Medicinal Uses of Spearmint 184
DIY Homemade Spearmint Solutions 185
ST JOHN’S WORT 188
Cultivation of St John’s Wort 188
Tips On Growing St. John’s Wort 189
Medicinal Uses of St John’s Wort 189
DIY Homemade St. John’s Wort Solutions 190
THYME 192
Cultivation Of Thyme 192
Tips On Growing Thyme 193
Medicinal Uses of Thyme 193
DIY Homemade Thyme Solutions 194
TURMERIC 198

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Cultivation Of Thyme 198
Tips On Growing Turmeric 199
Medicinal Uses of Turmeric 199
DIY Homemade Turmeric Solutions 200
VALERIAN 204
Cultivation Of Valerian 204
Tips On Growing Valerian 205
Medicinal Uses of Valerian 205
DIY Homemade Valerian Solutions 206
YARROW 209
Cultivation Of Yarrow 209
Tips On Growing Yarrow 210
Medicinal Uses Of Yarrow 210
DIY Homemade Yarrow Solutions 211
For Your Information

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Gas Mark Fahrenheit Celsius Description
1/4 225 110 Very Cool/ Very Slow
1/2 250 130 —
1 275 140 Cool
2 300 150 —
3 325 170 Very Moderate
4 350 180 Moderate
5 375 190 —-
6 400 200 Moderately Hot
7 425 220 Hot
8 450 230 —-
9 475 240 —-
A Brief History of Herbs: Their
Emergence in Western Culture

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Herbs have been used for hundreds of thousands of years, and their
earliest uses can be traced back to scents, foods, flavorings, medicines,
disinfectants and even currency. One of the first cultures that were known
to experiment with herbs was the Ancient Egyptians that lived in 3500 B.C.
This ancient civilization understood that herbs could play a significant role
in treating disease, which was a unique perception since many old
civilizations believed that magic was at the root of healing. By 2700 B.C.,
Chinese dynasties began using herbs in a scientific manner.

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In 460 B.C., our friend Hippocrates borrowed the beliefs from earlier
cultures and developed a system for diagnosing various illnesses using
herbs. At this time, it was believed that sickness was not a supernatural
event but a natural one that required the help of herbs instead of magic.
Although much progress was made in terms of science and medicine,
much was lost with the fall of the Roman Empire. The Middle Ages
retracted to many of the original beliefs that earlier cultures had: sickness
and disease were supernatural, and herbs should be used in mystic rituals.
During the Renaissance period, trade with other civilizations became more
abundant, and with this practice, knowledge surrounding herbs grew. In
fact, the New World was discovered as a result of searching for herbs and
spices that would provide medicinal purposes. In the 16th and 17th
centuries, universities taught botany and herbalism, and psychic gardens
were planted on their premises. There was a firmer understanding for the
nature of herbs but also much confusion. A single plant may have had
many names, and a single name may have been given to many plants.
Also, there was a conflict between herbs and doctors. In 1652, Nicholas
Culpeper published a book on natural remedies and how people should
rely on these herbs to recover from illness rather than the advice of
doctors. Naturally, doctors did not agree with his works. As society moved
into the 18th and 19th centuries, people began relying on medicinal cures
instead. In some parts of the Western world, herbalism was outlawed
unless practiced by a qualified doctor.
Herbs in Other Cultures: A Global Commodity

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Herbs get a lot of recognition in Western culture, but they have been
prominent in numerous civilizations across the globe. The Chinese have
been using herbs for some of the longest periods of time, and they still rely
heavily on certain herbal blends to aid in the prevention and treatment of
various medical conditions. Native Americans have also used herbs for
many centuries and lived longer, healthier lives than the Europeans did
before Christopher Columbus arrived. People often believe that Europeans
had the edge in terms of health, technology and education, but this wasn’t
always the case, and many primitive cultures surpassed the Europeans
during the 12th and 18th centuries.
Growing Herbs: An Apothecary for American Pioneers
During the 1800s, it was commonplace for American homes to have their
own gardens, equipped with an apothecary section that included a variety
of herbs. These herbs were designed to treat a variety of illnesses or
unpleasant symptoms as well as to flavor foods, preserve meats, fragrance
the home, keep linens fresh and disinfect floors and surfaces. Having
these herbs in the garden was a practical choice and an essential feature of
pioneer homes.
Herb gardens were generally placed in a corner near the home so that the
herbs were readily available as needed. If you’ve ever had your own
garden planted near the home, you understand how convenient it is to go
outdoors and pick a fresh herb or ripe tomato to use in your cooking. What
made this particular time in history especially conducive to growing herbs
is that there were many settlers coming to America. They were bringing a
variety of herbs with them that were native to their country, and this
resulted in the exchange of different plants.

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Some of the most abundant herbs during this time included watercress,
liverwort, lavender, wild leeks, sorrel, anise and pennyroyal. Today, there
are many types of herbs that can be planted in the modern-day garden, but
the classification of them differs. You may find that one book mentions 50-
something herbs while another lists 70-something. Herbs are broken
down into various categories, including the following:
- Culinary Herbs
- Aromatic Herbs
- Ornamental Herbs
- Medicinal Herbs
- Annuals
- Biennials
- Perennials
The 21st Century Shift to Simplicity

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During the late 1800s and 1900s, people started relying more on chemical
ingredients and less on herbal ones to treat and cure illness. And,
rightfully so. In many contexts, chemical ingredients were more effective.
Penicillin was used to treat infection, anesthesia was given to surgery
patients and an emphasis was placed on sterile environments. With more
research in the early 1900s, people were beginning to understand the link
between germs and sickness. Improvements in public health and nutrition
were being made to reduce the number of lethal outbreaks, and it was
working.
Today, we rely on conventional medications to help with just about
everything, but this mentality has taken a turn for the worse. Although
medicine is a vital part of our lives that allows us to prevent and treat
disease, there is a price to pay for our dependence on these drugs.
Mounting Problems from Conventional Medications
Just think about how many articles have been written, television shows
made and songs sung about how dependent we are as a nation on
medication. We’ve been referred to as Pill Nation, Pill Poppers or
Operation Pill Nation. We’ve become so accustomed to treating the
symptom, we’re afraid to feel anything. When we only treat the symptom,
we don’t uncover the root of the symptom. For instance, you could be
living with thyroid disease without knowing because the symptoms of
fatigue, constipation and weight gain would be treated with caffeine,
laxatives and diet pills.

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Emergency rooms have seen a significant spike in the number of patients
being brought in for drug interactions. Poison control centers receive
numerous calls from people who have overdosed on their medication.
Then there are the terrible allergic reactions that children and adults have
suffered from conventional medication. The medical community also
worries about the growing resistance to antibiotics.
What about America’s drug problem that revolves around pain
medications, muscle relaxers and mood enhancers? Many of our youth
have spiraled into heroin addictions because of an earlier addiction to pain
medication. Why are pain medications such a popular drug for teens?
They can be found in the medicine cabinets of parents and grandparents.
Finally, allergies, attention disorders, chronic fatigue and mental illness
are conditions that have exploded into modern culture. As the medical
experts look for new diagnoses and medications to treat these ailments,
the unforeseen nature of these conditions has left us yearning for
something simple and natural instead.
While traditional medication is valuable and necessary to our existence,
our reliance on it is not.
Modern Life, Modern Problems

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Even in the wake of new problems, we can still expect something good to
come from them. This is exactly what is happening as we speak. As we hear
another story or come face-to-face with a personal experience, we see that
conventional medication has its complications, especially when not used
correctly. This new way of thinking has led many people to start
questioning what other types of prevention and treatment is available. Do
you need antibiotics for every sinus infection? Can walking and exercise
do more good for the mind than an antidepressant? What herbs are
available to treat allergies, fatigue or muscle weakness?
As a result of modern-day problems, there has been a strong preference
for using organic and natural products. People have suffered allergic
reactions and skin conditions from the chemicals used in body and hair
products. We’ve witnessed an obesity problem emerge from poor eating
habits from processed and fast foods as well as a sedentary lifestyle
complicated by emerging technology. As a result of increased allergies,
attention disorders, early puberty in children and certain cancers, people
have started to question every product they pick up.
At one time, organic or natural products were not the norm. They were
almost unheard of. Yet now, these are the products that consumers are
demanding. Even in the midst of a recession, consumers are still willing to
spend more on a natural product compared to one stuffed with chemicals.
Manufacturers are completely aware of this trend, and more are starting
to redesign their labels and rethink their ingredients to fit the more
accepted and approved organic profile.

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Basically, people want to get back to the basics and depend on natural
products before chemically enhanced ones. From makeup to hair products
to the foods we eat, everyone is starting to ask, “What’s in this product?
Where did it come from? How will it benefit my family?” It’s this
mentality that has led us back to our ancestors and their use for herbs.
Herbs in the 21st Century: Do They Have a Place?
Herbs are natural, and while it’s important to know their effects since they
too can have negative reactions, they are about as natural as you can get.
There are more products being offered to consumers that are herb-based,
including soaps,skin products and supplements. Instead of flavoring foods
with salt and butter, people are turning to natural herbs like chives, mint
and oregano. Herbal teas have also been known to alleviate symptoms like
sore throats, stuffy noses and headache. Even the simple sniff of a lemon
balm leaf can do wonders for the soul.
We still have a long way to go, but we are headed in the right direction.
While herbs certainly won’t cure or prevent everything, they should be
used in conjunction with conventional medication. If you consider the
benefits to a natural ingredient before jumping to medicine, you can avoid
some of the long-term consequences of prolonged chemical exposure.
The bottom line is that the more you understand and appreciate the
simplicity and efficacy of herbs, the better you can meet the unique needs
of your family while protecting their precious health and wellbeing.
What is an Herb Anyway?

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Herbs are plants that are used in medicine, cuisine and aromatherapy. In
the culinary industry, herbs have a more specific meaning and refer to the
leafy green parts of the plant. Herbs can be dried or fresh, and they are
used to flavor dishes but never act as the main ingredient. Some of the
most common herbs include basil, parsley, thyme, dill and rosemary.
When it comes to a broad topic like herbs, you’ll find that there are many
definitions that are accepted around the world. Botanists have a more
general definition for herbs and describe them as coming from small,
seed-bearing plants that have fleshy parts rather than woody ones. Herbs
may also include trees, shrubs, vines and annuals as well as ferns, mosses
and algae.

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It may be easy to tell an herb apart from something like a vegetable. Take
spinach for instance. Spinach is green and part of a plant, but you can
prepare this food on its own and use it as the main ingredient in a dish. It’s
the same case with lettuce; the plant is green and found in the ground, but
it acts as the main ingredient. Therefore, both spinach and lettuce are
vegetables, not herbs.
Vegetables and herbs have a clear difference, but the lines become
blurred when making the distinction between herbs and spices. Since
herbs are the green parts of the plants that are used for flavoring dishes,
spices are pretty much everything else. Things like roots, berries, twigs
and dried bark are all examples of spices. Some of the most common
spices include allspice (dried berries), cinnamon (bark) and cloves (dried
flower buds).
What are the Uses for Herbs?
Herbs are found all around the world, and some are native to the area
while others have been introduced. For people who study herbs, they
understand the dynamic nature of these small but intriguing plants. For
instance, did you know that there are over 90 varieties of rosemary?
With so many different varieties of herbs, you can imagine that they have
many uses in traditional living. Herbs are valued for their flavor, fragrance,
medicinal purposes, pesticidal properties, dyes and health qualities. Let’s
delve deeper into the various contexts where herbs are used.
Culinary Herbs

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One of the most common uses for herbs is to add flavor to dishes. Every
American home has some type of dried herbs in their spice cabinet, and
they may even have a fresh herb garden in their backyard. Most culinary
herbs are perennials or biennials such as thyme, rosemary, basil and
parsley.
Culinary herbs have been used for centuries, and they were especially
popular during the pioneer days when immigrants were traveling to
America and bringing native herbs with them. While herbs have remained
a large part of the culinary world, processed, frozen and fast foods have
become popular staples for American families because of their
convenience. These foods rely on preservatives and sodium to bring flavor,
but they also carry little nutrients or health value.
Thankfully, this trend is starting to reverse itself, and there is more
appreciation for flavoring fine cuisine with a blend of herbs and spices
rather than salt and butter. As we learn more about how these ingredients
can contribute to health problems, there is a drive to get back to the basics
and start cooking with natural ingredients. Herbs also have many health
benefits, so adding them to foods delivers both flavor and a natural health
boost.
Medicinal Herbs

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Since plants have photochemicals in them, they have the potential to cause
various effects on the body. The same goes for herbs; when ingesting them
into the body, they have certain effects, many of which are beneficial to the
functioning of our bodies. The medicinal purposes for herbs are no secret,
and our ancestors used them regularly to treat certain health conditions.
The problem was that the information surrounding medicinal herbs was a
bit confusing, and quantities, dosages and the types of herbs could be
easily confused.
For instance, St. John’s Wart extract in a low, controlled dose can help with
depression and stress. Yet if you take the extract in large quantities, it can
lead to toxic overload that can result in serious complications for the body.
Still,herbs can be a powerful tool in alternative medicine. When used
appropriately, herbs can provide the body with antioxidants, aid in
digestion, calm upset stomach and anxiety and deliver anti-inflammatory
properties. Some of the most common medicinal herbs include
chamomile, ginger, milk thistle, peppermint and ginkgo biloba.
Sacred Herbs
Another use for herbs is in a sacred manner. Interestingly, some of our
earliest uses for herbs were in sacred rituals, as sickness was often tied to a
supernatural occurrence. In countries other than America, herbs are
actually quite popular to be used in rites of passage, religious ceremonies
and spiritual cleansings. Yet there are many people across our own
country who choose to use herbs in their practice of magic to aid in
spiritual enhancement, protection and healing.

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Before now, you probably didn’t think much about what an herb really was
and the many ways it could be used. Herbs are very interesting, and their
numerous uses have given them a solid role in our world. Before
processed foods and commercial products, our ancestors depended on
what the world around them could produce – water, plants, herbs and wild
game for example. Today, we are starting to appreciate this simplicity and
recognize that sometimes things in their most basic form are the best for
our health and survival.
The Common Active Components of
Herbs
Have you ever wondered what the active ingredients in herbs are?

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When we start to turn to more natural lifestyle solutions, herbs pop up in
just about all areas. They can be used in cleaning products, hair and skin
products and supplements. They can be used to flavor foods, aid in
relaxation during massage or aromatherapy and be prescribed as an
alternative medicine. Before we turn to these products to replace
conventional, chemical-based ones, we can’t help but wonder, what are the
components that make up an herb?
Herbs are similar to foods in that they contain a variety of ingredients,
including vitamins and minerals. Below are the active components found
in plant-producing herbs that modern medicine and science has
discovered thus far.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are compounds that are found naturally in certain foods and
beverages. They are most commonly linked to foods like wine, berries,
tea, chocolate, fruits and vegetables. They are also responsible for creating
the yellow and orange colors in herbs. Flavonoids have many benefits for
the body, including antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. They can
also act as diuretics, lowering blood pressure and healing the blood
vessels.
Volatile Oils

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Volatile oils, or essential oils, are made up of various chemical compounds
that create their flavorful aromas. Volatile oils are most commonly used in
massage therapy or aromatherapy thanks to their relaxing effects on the
mind and body. Science has yet to prove that volatile oils can be beneficial
from a medical perspective, but many people firmly believe that essential
oils can treat and prevent certain health conditions, and because of their
complex chemical structures,there is no reason to believe why they can’t.
Volatile oils are taken from the plant through a process called distillation.
The oils are a mix of hydrocarbons and oxygenated compounds. The
oxygenated state is what determines the taste and smell of the mixture
since it’s this form that is soluble in water and alcohol. Monoterpenes are
the largest group of volatile oils and include camphor and menthol.
Essential oils are used in settings beyond aromatherapy and massage
therapy thanks to their antiseptic and fungicidal properties. Volatile oils
have anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic effects, allowing them to be used
for conditions like ringworm, hair loss, colitis and irritable bowel disease.
They enhance the body’s ability to fight off certain infections, and they can
be used as expectorants or diuretics. Some of the most common volatile
oils used for these purposes include thyme, rosemary, chamomile and
parsley.
Volatile oils can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled or taken in foods,
drinks and herbal medicines.
Phenols

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Phenols are found in the tissues of the plant, and their chemical structures
are varied, leaving them to exhibit their own unique characteristics and
traits. Thymol, eugenol and salicylic acid are examples of simple herb
phenols. Although phenols have many different chemical structures, they
are often used for their antibacterial and antiseptic qualities. In some
instances, phenols can be used for anesthetic purposes as well.
Tannins
Tannins are polyphenols that are found in tree bark, wood and the leaves
and roots of a plant. What’s interesting about tannin is that it is found in
almost all plants across the world. Some plants have a lesser quantity of
tannins, such as algae and fungi, but most plants will have some level of
these polyphenols. Tannins can be divided into two groups: hydrolysable
tannins and condensed tannins.
In plants, tannins are meant to protect them from microorganisms, but
tannins also have many uses in our everyday world. For instance, tannins
can be used to dye leather or cloth. It has strong antiseptic properties, so it
can also be used as a medicinal astringent. Since tannin is designed to
protect plants, it also has unique properties that may help with gingivitis
and provide anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic benefits.

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Tea and coffee also contain tannins; the slightly bitter aftertaste and brown
color can be attributed to tannins. Who knew? Wine is another drink that
has tannins from the grape plants. Too much tannin is not ideal since it can
lead to calcium deficiencies, but you would need to drink a lot of coffee or
tea for this to happen. Still, it’s a factor to keep in mind if you consume a lot
of these beverages, as it may be best to switch to a white or green tea.
Polysaccharides
You may remember from science class that polysaccharides are the long
chains of sugar that store carbohydrates for plants and animals. For
humans, polysaccharides are one of the three types of carbohydrates.
Examples of polysaccharides include starch, pectin and cellulose. Foods
with these simple sugars are beneficial to the body since they provide it
with energy, help maintain healthy digestion and allow the body to feel
fuller for longer.
Since the majority of foods with polysaccharides are starchy ones –
potatoes, beans and grains – they can lead to weight gain if you eat too
much of them. This happens because polysaccharides are insoluble in
water and are able to store glucose without affecting other cells until the
glucose is needed. When you consume a lot of carbohydrates, you can
gain weight. While a human may not appreciate this fact, for plants and
animals that don’t have readily available food like we do, the ability to
store energy is crucial.
Alkaloids

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Alkaloids are plant-derived organic compounds that are composed of
oxygen, hydrogen, carbon and nitrogen. Some alkaloids are toxic, but
many others are used for medicinal purposes. All alkaloids have
physiological effects on the body.
Many of the plant components we’ve discussed today may be foreign to
you, but you’ll be surprised to learn that substances like cocaine and
caffeine are alkaloids. Alkaloids are generally found in herbs that are used
by herbalists and doctors,and they tend to have potent effects, so they
must be used carefully. The good news is that as long as the dose is
controlled, the effects are generally safe. The most common alkaloids
include morphine (opium poppy), nicotine (tobacco),atropine (deadly
nightshade) and theobromide (coffee, black tea and cocoa leaves).
Glucosinolates
Glucosinolates are organic compounds that contain both sulfur and
nitrogen and are found in plants from the Brassica genus. When humans
eat vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, they
consume glucosinolates in their normal diet, which is beneficial to the
functioning of our bodies. Glucosinolates detoxify the human body from
harmful carcinogens, and they contain antioxidants and enzymes that help
the body fight off certain cancers, including breast, lung and colon
cancers.

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Moreover, glucosinolates work in conjunction with other components such
as flavonoids, folate and Vitamin C to cleanse the body and remove toxins
and free radicals. It’s important that we eat a diet that is rich in
glucosinolates, about five cups a week of vegetables like kale, cabbage and
spinach. Other good picks for glucosinolate-rich foods include bok choy,
turnips, mustard greens and arugula.
Vitamins and Minerals
Herbs are packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for the
healthy functioning of our bodies. With dozens of herbs such as
fenugreek, kelp, saffron, watercress and parsley, it’s possible to get a
healthy boost just by adding more herbs to your diet. Below are some of
the most common vitamins found in herbs.

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Vitamin A is found in herbs such as dandelion, okra pods and parsley.
It’s good for the eyes and the functioning of the mucous membranes
and skin cells.
Vitamin B1 and B2 are good for growth and development and are part
of a healthy diet. These vitamins are found in herbs such as
fenugreek, dulse and bladderwrack.
Vitamin B12 helps the development of red blood cells and can help
maintain weight in young children. It’s found in kelp and alfalfa.
Vitamin C is needed daily since it cannot be stored in the body, but it
keeps our immunities boosted and our teeth and gums strong. This
nutrient can be found in elder berries, marigold and paprika, among
others.
Vitamin D is essential for building strong bones and teeth, and it is
contained in herbs like watercress and wheat germ.
Vitamin E is known for its healthy bone building qualities as well as
contributing to healthy eyes and skin. Herbs like wheat germ,
watercress and dandelion leaves contain plenty.
In addition to the above vitamins, herbs contain Vitamin G, K and B as well
as niacin. All of these vitamins and minerals help the body function
properly, boost immunity and keep the skin, bones and teeth healthy and
strong. By eating plant-based foods or using herbs to flavor dishes, you can
nourish the body with more of these wholesome ingredients that are
naturally good to the body, unlike fatty oils, dressings and butters.
The Safety and Quality of Herbs

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Over the past two decades, the use of herbs in the United States has greatly
increased as a result of more people shifting to simpler, all-natural
methods to manage, prevent and treat various health conditions. Herbs
can be used for therapeutic and medicinal purposes, but they must be used
correctly. Many people are under the impression that because herbs are
natural, they are safe. Unfortunately, this isn’t necessarily true.
Let’s review the reasons why we need to exercise caution when using
herbs, preferably under the care of a medical professional.
Misleading Information Online

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When taking an herbal supplement, you can easily educate yourself
online. If you notice, much of the information is positive and written by
herb enthusiasts, so it can add to the image that herbs are always safe. You
need to be especially aware of exaggerated accounts of herbal
supplements that are used for marketing purposes. There are companies
out there that are merely interested in profits and sales, so they will write
anything to make their product look better.
There are also many websites that have no marketing motive, but they still
write about herbs positively and recommend them for treating certain
conditions, even if they have no authority to make the claims. They may be
sharing their own experience or belief, but this doesn't mean that taking
the herb will have the same outcome for you.
Why is there so much misleading information online?
The biggest reason is because there is so little evidence supporting
Medicinal Uses of herbs. Scientific studies show that conventional
medications are best for treating health conditions, and the effects of herbs
are not supported. This contradicts with what many people believe, and
science hasn’t exactly ruled out the fact that herbs can’t help. With their
complex chemical structures and clear benefits in relaxing the mind and
body with their fruitful aromas, there may be certain ingredients in herbs
that can be used medically; we just haven’t been able to prove this yet.

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It’s important to be aware that when reading information online, you
determine where the information is coming from (an individual, a
company or a respected organization), if they have any motive for posting
positive testimonials and if their claims are well supported. Just by being
aware that not everything you read about herbs is accurate or factual, you
can make better decisions for your health and your wellbeing.
Lack of Quality Control
Another reason why we must be careful about the safety of herbs is that
this industry is largely unregulated. With conventional medications,
decades are spent researching the drug, experimenting with various
chemicals and studying their effects. These drugs are heavily regulated by
the FDA, and all information regarding them must be relayed to the
general public. If you’ve ever taken a prescription, you know the lengthy
packet that is included with the medication, explaining in detail all of the
side effects, drug interactions and complications.
This same information is not included with herbal products, and in fact,
you won’t see much information besides a label printed on the bottle. The
FDA does not regulate this industry, leaving companies to have free reign
over how they want to market their products. While there are many
reputable, honest companies, there are others that don’t hold the same
standards. Without regulations to follow, herbal supplements can be
mislabeled, making these products confusing, ineffective or risky.

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Also, there is a big difference between the quality and purity in herbal
supplements, and with no clear distinctions, consumers may pay more for
an inferior product. You may have a hard time making the distinction when
looking at the bottle,but just imagine trying to determine the quality of
what’s tucked inside. Facilities where herbs are grown and used for
commercial purposes are not regulated either, so there are varying
measures of how the herbs are grown, dried and stored.
Herbs are very sensitive, and if they are not handled correctly, the purity
and integrity of the product is jeopardized. The way the herbs are handled
is integral to how pure, potent and effective the product actually is, so look
for companies that are happy to walk you through their method for
growing and storing herbs.
Shortage of Research
A final barrier in determining herbal safety is that there is a shortage of
research on many of these natural ingredients. While the United States
may be familiar with the popular Western herbs, there are plants from
countries like Asia, Africa and South America that we know little about.
Some of these herbs are coming into the U.S. from these countries, but we
have yet to research the effects, safety, efficacy and purity of the plants.
Additionally, many herbs, including Western-based ones, have yet to be
tested in various contexts. A healthy person with no allergies may react
fine to a particular herb, but if they have a chronic health condition or are
pregnant, there may be serious side effects. When it comes to the special
populations, such as children, elders and pregnant women, it’s especially
important that herbs are only taken under the supervision of a doctor.

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We must also recognize that many people who opt for herbal drugs take
other types of medications, and we know little about how herbs interact
with these chemically-based drugs. While the FDA studies how various
drugs interact with each other,we don’t have the same information for
herbs and traditional medication.
Our intention is not to scare you away from using herbs but to educate you
on making the best decisions. Until there is more control over this
industry, it’s up to people to do the research, talk to their doctor and select
a reputable company to purchase herbal products from. When we know
that we can’t take everything we read online for granted, we can be more
cautious about the companies we trust with our sales and our health.
How Do I Ensure Quality?
If you’re ready to try a few herbs, you may be wondering how you can go
about the process safely. Your first step is to talk to your doctor. It’s
important that you get the green light on taking any herbs, since your
doctor should be aware of any medications you are on as well as any
factors that may affect your ability to take herbs, such as a chronic illness
or allergy. When you get the doctor’s approval, you can begin your search.
If possible, get a recommendation from your doctor or a friend who has
been using herbs. They can refer you to a dependable, reputable company
that delivers an ideal product. You can also read online testimonials and
reviews, but remember that many of these are doctored up by the
company itself for marketing purposes. Still, you can learn a lot about a
company and its products just by doing a bit of research online.

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While it’s not a guarantee, look for products that offer a lot of information.
You’ll find that many lower quality herbs will be sold in bottles with
printed labels and won’t have any additional information other than what’s
on the label. Reputable companies tend to have details about their
company and their process for growing and storing herbs. They know
where the herbs are coming from and what the true identity of the product
is. Contact information should be printed boldly on the website as well.
Your goal is to find a brand that you like and trust. Once you do, you can
count on the company for all of your needs. Before you find “the one,”
stick to products that are sold in the stores or recommended to you. Mail
orders and online companies should be avoided, at least until you’ve found
a trusted company to work with.
If you want the very best herbs, the solution is to grow your own. When
you grow an herb garden, you can choose the herbs you want to add to
your diet and control their purity and integrity. You never have to second
guess what you’re putting into your body, and you can take charge of your
health in a whole new way.
The Benefits of Growing Your Own
Herbs

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Learning that the herbal industry is largely unregulated by the FDA, or
any government source for that matter, can be unsettling for the people
who trust their herbal products to someone else. Not that there aren't
many notorious products out there that are regulated by the FDA and yet
are still questionable in their safety. There’s no doubt that herbs have some
wonderful benefits for the human body, and at a minimum, they can be
used to flavor foods and boost the health content of what we eat. If you’re
keen on taking herbs as part of your diet, the best solution may be growing
your own plants.

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Many people around the United States have their own herb gardens that
can be planted either indoors or outdoors. These small gardens have a host
of herbs such as parsley, oregano and thyme. For the most part, gardeners
stick to the basic herbs since these are the ones we know the most about,
and they can be easily added to dishes like pasta, soups and meats. Having
an herb garden gives you endless possibilities, so you can spread your
wings and experiment with a variety of herbal ingredients. Basil won’t just
be basil anymore.
Let’s discuss the many benefits to growing an herb garden. These perks
may be just the motivation you need to get started with your own hobby.
Fresh Herbs are Always Available
Tired of running to the supermarket every time you need a few groceries?
Or maybe you’re simply leaving out key ingredients because you don’t
have those “extras” that are added to popular dishes, such as bay leaves,
fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dill. When you have an herb garden, you can
count on fresh ingredients every day of the week. Your dishes will taste
better and have added health content and fresh flavors that can’t be
replicated from dried spices.
Emerging Hobby

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Many of us envy the neighbor who has a green thumb, but we don’t take
the initiative to start our own garden. Often times, we’re just worried that
we will put in the time and have nothing to show for it, but this couldn’t be
farther from the truth. Starting an herb garden is starting a new hobby. It
may take time and practice to get things right, but that’s the fun in
learning. You can uncover unique uses for the herbs and expand your
culinary palette. For instance, did you know that there are over 30
different types of basil?
Gardening is a healthy hobby that links us to nature, and you will finally
have something in common with that neighbor of yours. Also take the
opportunity to show your children or grandchildren the importance of
gardening, spending time outdoors and eating healthy. Gardening is a
teachable moment for young children, and they never mind digging in
some dirt!
Physical Exercise
If you plant an herb garden outdoors, there’s no doubt that you’ll work in
some physical exercise. All that bending, digging, planting and watering
takes physical energy, and while you won’t be dropping pounds like at the
gym, you will be toning your muscles and working your body. The added
time in the sun is also refreshing, so you can also enjoy a glowing tone as
well.
Improved Connection with Nature

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Some of the best therapy takes place outdoors, and having an herb garden
will promote this relationship. Planting herbs outdoors will improve your
connection with nature because you’ll be outside, listening to the birds and
taking in the sights and smells of the season. Yet even planting an herb
garden indoors keeps you connected since you’ll be learning about plants
that are naturally grown in nature. People are often surprised to see just
how much they appreciate Mother Nature when they have the opportunity
to work alongside her. Having this greater relationship with the world we
live in is rewarding in itself.
Saves Money
If you’re not running to the store for ingredients every other day, you save
money right off the bat. Plus, buying herbs is very expensive as you may
have already noticed. You can plant an entire herb plant for pennies that
produces an abundance of herbs all season long. Also remember that what
you’re growing is essentially organic herbs, so you’re able to feed your
family fresh products at a mere fraction of the cost of what you would find
in a store.
Endless Health Benefits
Of course, we can’t discuss the benefits to growing your own herbs and not
talk about how healthy they are. With your own garden, you know exactly
where the herbs are coming from. You can be confident that they haven’t
been treated with pesticides or harmful chemicals. They offer many health
benefits because of their flavonoids, antioxidants, polyphenols, vitamins
and minerals.

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It's possible that herbs may help with diabetes, cancer and heart disease, so
if these conditions run in your family, you can do more for your health by
adding these ingredients to your dishes. Some of the best herbs from a
health standpoint include thyme, rosemary, basil, garlic, oregano,
cinnamon and turmeric. What's wonderful is that you can bring so much
flavor to meals without adding calories.
Curb Appeal
Having an herb garden can bring your outdoor space much-needed curb
appeal. Many of our gardens are lacking, but we’re not sure what they
need. Herbs can add another element to the garden, especially because
they have vibrant green colors,and some flower during the spring or
summer. If you don’t have room for a separate herb garden, you may plant
these shrubs in between other plants and flowers; they will blend in
beautifully. For instance, Valerian and yarrow are hardy flowering herbs
that can add color and character to your space while providing you with
healthy herbs.
Rest assured that herbs are hardy plants that are easy to work with. Once
they are planted, they need minimum care, and most will produce an
abundance of herbs. If the plants are producing more herbs than you can
handle, clip off the leaves and store them for soups and stews during the
winter months.
You may not consider yourself to have a green thumb, but you’ll be quite
pleased with how easy herb plants are to grow and nurture.

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Soil and Space: How to Get Quality Soil
and Design Your Garden Space
Getting started with an herb garden doesn’t require much effort,
especially if you’ve already had some practice with gardening. In the long
run, you will need good quality soil to keep your herbs growing strong.
The healthier your soil is,the more productive and hardy your herb
garden will be.
How do you get good soil? We’ll show you how.
First, know that good soil needs a mix of clay (to retain water), sand (to
drain water) and organic material (to provide nutrients). Additionally,
there needs to be the right balance of these ingredients to have healthy
soil, as too much sand or clay can cause problems with drainage, growth
and resiliency.
Identify the Quality of Your Soil

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Your first step is to determine the type of soil you have in your own
community. What is it made from mostly? If it has more clay, add some
sand. If it has more sand, add clay. Almost all soils need organic matter
added to bring necessary nutrients to the plants. When you have the
proper balance of soil in your garden, you will need to start adding organic
materials such as rinds from fruits and vegetables. The best time to do this
is in the fall after the plants have been harvested.
Why Compost is Essential
By adding organic green materials to the soil, you’re essentially making
your own compost. Compost is an ideal component in soil because it
delivers nutrients that are adequately balanced. Many people are quick to
jump on fertilizer, but fertilizer can act quickly and cause damage to young
plants. Compost slowly releases vitamins so that the plants are always
being nourished. Compost also protects plants from pests and diseases,
and it helps keep the soil healthy by retaining moisture and loosening up
clay.
Making Your Own Compost Rich Soil
Now, let's get back to making your own great soil. Many people think they
need a compost bin to make compost, but this isn’t necessary. Compost
bins are convenient, especially if you’ll be using the compost in various
areas, but you can do the same for your herb garden by throwing down the
right stuff.

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Compost requires a blend of brown and green materials. Brown materials
include dried leaves, dead flowers, paper and straw. Green materials are
nitrogen-rich and include grass clippings and kitchen waste, such as fruit
rinds and cores. You should be able to find most of these items in your own
home or backyard, but if you need additional sources, ask your neighbors
for their dried leaves or grass clippings. They surely won't mind!
Ideally, your space should be about 3 feet wide by 3 feet long. When you
have the compost materials laid down, cover it with newspaper. The
newspaper will hold in the heat from the plants that are decomposing and
turn this into rich soil. Once you establish this healthy soil, you will need to
maintain its integrity. Fortunately, this is easy to do and only involves
turning the soil at the end of the growing season and adding organic
materials regularly.
You will also need to check the composition of the soil each year to ensure
it has the right balance of clay, sand and organic material. Remember, you
don’t have to spend money to get high-quality soil. Simple and natural
works best in this context.
Designing Your Garden Space

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With nourishing soil for your garden, it’s time to start planting herbs.
Designing how your space will look is a crucial element for an herb
garden. This is where you will be spending time digging, planting and
watering, so you want the layout to be conducive to these movements. You
also want to meet the needs of the herbs, such as by providing them with
sunlight or partial shade. It’s helpful to know what you’re planting so that
you can determine where each plant will go. No matter how you choose to
design your garden, remember this tip: keep it simple.
The wonderful thing about nature is that everything is down-to-earth and
uncomplicated. If you think that your garden needs expensive lawn
decorations, solar lighting and a stone trim, you’re allowing our need for
modern-day luxuries to get in the way of what should be a minimal hobby.
If you take a look around your garage or shed, you may find that you
already have what you need to create the perfect herb space.
For instance, a piece of wood garden gating can work well, providing it has
large enough squares to plant the herbs in. Simply lie this down in the soil
and begin planting your herbs. You may also build your own spaces using
pieces of treated wood that can be purchased from a home improvement
store. A wagon wheel can also be useful and create a real visual treat in
your outdoor space.
Container Gardening and Raised Beds: Great for Urban Dwellers

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If you live in an urban area, have poor soil quality or don’t have a yard
where you can plant a garden, plant your herbs in a separate planter. You
can still make your own compost and add the soil mixture to each
container. Some gardeners choose long wooden planters while others opt
for the small, individual herb planters. You can also build your own stand
that will hold all of the planters in one convenient spot. Container
gardening is smart and practical for everyone,and it may be a nice change
of pace for the winter months when you want to keep a few of the most
essential herbs on hand.
Raised beds can also work wonders if there is poor soil in your area. These
beds give the same feeling as an herb garden, except for the fact that the
garden beds are raised off the ground. They can be built using pieces of
wood and basic hardware for a minimal cost. Some gardeners make
elaborate designs with these beds, and you can go that extra mile by
adding a wire fence around the garden or installing pavers in between the
beds.
The bottom line is that creating an herb garden is effortless when you put
your mind to it. You don’t need much money to get started, and you may
even be able to find everything you need in your home already. Once the
herbs begin to fill out,your garden will look absolutely stunning, and you
can take a step back and be proud of your accomplishment.
Harvesting and Storing Herbs

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Harvesting refers to the process of removing parts of a plant to be used for
consumption. You can’t harvest a plant at any particular time; you must
wait until it’s ready to eat, which is when the oils responsible for creating
aroma and flavor are at their climax. Timing is delicate since it depends on
what part of the plant you want to harvest as well as what you intend to use
the plant for.
Below we discuss the various parts of herb plants that can be harvested and
how to successfully complete the collection process.
How to Harvest Buds and Flowers

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If you are growing herbs such as borage, chamomile or lavender, you will
want to harvest the flowers rather than the leaves. You can harvest the bud
or the flower at any point when they grow in, but you’ll want to do it before
they completely flower. The volatile oils that are in the herb plant are at
their peak right before the buds start to open, making this the best time to
harvest them.
Another critical component is the time of the day that you harvest the
flowers. It’s important that the plant is completely dry, so opt for the early
morning, just after the dew has dissolved and before the sun is hot. If your
area has gotten rain, also be sure to wipe off any raindrops that have settled
on the plant.
To begin, check your herb plant for flower buds that have grown in but
haven’t flowered just yet. However, if the buds have opened into flowers,
that doesn’t mean you’ve missed your opportunity. While the volatile oils
may not be as strong,you ultimately want to collect the flowers before
they have become withered and dry.
There are two ways to cut the flowers. The first method is to cut the entire
flower bud off the stem, just under the head of the flower. The second way
is to cut both the stem and the flower off as if you were pruning the plant.
Both ways are acceptable, and there are advantages to each.

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If you cut just below the head of the flower bud, the plant will have the
chance to grow back quickly, and you can keep harvesting the plant. With
the quick turnaround of this method, you’ll want to have a drying screen
on hand. If you decide to cut the flower bud and the stem, two new stems
will grow, and the herb plant will get bigger. Also, you can conveniently
hang the flowers by the stems to dry, so you won’t need to purchase a
drying screen. The drawback to this method is that it will take time for the
new stems to grow.
If it’s early in the season and you don’t want to over-harvest the plant,
cutting off the flower at the stem and above the leaves is best since it will
allow your plant to grow bigger. If you need a lot of flowers in a short
amount of time,cutting the buds off at the head is best.
How to Harvest Leaves and Stems
If you choose to harvest the leaves or stems of your herb plant, you’ll
follow many of the same precautions as when you harvest the flower buds.
First, the plant should be completely dry, so opting to harvest the leaves in
the morning when the dew has dried and the sun is still cool is a good idea.
Plus, you can enjoy a more comfortable environment that is conducive to
gardening. Some of the most basic herbs that can be harvested include
basil, dill, oregano, sage, parsley and thyme.
Keep in mind that you want your plant to grow large and mature, so never
harvest all of the leaves at one time. Aim for about 30 percent, leaving big,
healthy leaves to continue the growing process. Also, clip the leaves before
the plant flowers. You already know that this is the time when the volatile
oils are their strongest and will produce the best flavor and aroma.

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Additionally, if you don’t want or need the flower buds, there’s no reason
to let the plant expend its energy on producing flowers. Once this happens,
the stems and leaves form a bitter taste, so pinch off the flower buds and
encourage healthy stem growth. You’ll be surprised at just how quickly a
healthy plant will create new buds, so be sure to check for these each day.
Now, let’s get down to harvesting our leaves and stems. Never pull the
leaves off your plant, even though it may seem like the simplest thing to
do. If you want the leaves, cut the stem off and then gently pull the leaves
from the stem. This avoids you from putting pressure on the plant itself. If
you want the stem, proceed with the same method, except you don’t have
to pull the leaves off.
What’s interesting is that once you pull off a leaf from a plant, another one
will never grow back in that spot. There are some cases where it is okay to
pull off the leaves directly from the plant, such as if there are plenty of
larger leaves that are blocking the plant’s ability to absorb sunlight, or if
the plant is so massively huge, it just won’t matter. Yet early on, it’s best to
cut the stem first, and then pull the leaves.
How to Harvest Roots

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Harvesting the roots of an herb plant is a bit different than harvesting the
flowers or leaves. The ideal time to do this is in the fall since this is when
the roots are their strongest. If you happen to miss this period, you can also
harvest the roots in the springtime before new growth starts, but it can be
more difficult to find the plant. Another obstacle is that the roots tend to be
wetter during the springtime, so you’ll need to wait a longer period of time
for the roots to dry. The only stipulation for fall root harvesting is to wait
until the foliage has died off.
Harvesting roots requires patience and a little digging. Most plants aren’t
ready to be harvested in their first year, so you will have to wait until their
second birthday before you can begin harvesting them. One plant you can
harvest earlier is chicory; one plant you can harvest later (in the third year)
is marshmallow. Most other herb roots, including barberry, bayberry,
garlic, ginger, stone root and valerian root are best harvested in the second
year, in the fall or early spring.
To collect the roots, start with a spading fork and make sure the ground is
slightly moist but not saturated. Dig deep using the spade and cut off the
plant tops. Most gardeners opt to dig up the entire plant, but if you plan on
having the herb come back next year, make sure to replant a hefty part of
the root so that it can grow back. When the roots are gathered up, they will
need a good washing. You can rinse off the roots, but if they still aren’t
clean, use a brush to remove the built-up dirt.
Once clean, hang the roots to dry. Some herbs have thick roots, such as
Liquorice and burdock, so you may have to cut them vertically in order to
speed up the drying process. People are quite surprised to see just how
long this process can take; some roots take weeks to thoroughly dry.

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Storing Herbs
All herbs should be stored in an airtight jar or container once they have
been completely dried. If there is any moisture left, the herbs can grow
mold. If the entire stem was dried, take off the leaves and crumble them
just before placing them in the container. Keep the jars away from sunlight
and heat, as this will ruin the quality of the herbs. Ceramic, glass or metal
containers are best, and they darker the color, the better.
You may use the herbs as needed, just be sure that they have airtight lids
so that they stay fresh. It’s time to discard the herb contents when they
have mold on them or have become dark and fragile. With proper storage
techniques, most herbs can be stored for up to one year.
A second option is to freeze herbs, as they will retain their freshness until
they are thawed out. The process is a little different if you choose to freeze
them. Start by washing them, and then blanch them in boiling water for 1-2
minutes. Once drained and cooled, they can be placed in individual
packages and used as needed. Herbs like parsley, basil and oregano can be
thawed out and added to pasta sauce, soups and purees.
Harvesting and storing herbs is not difficult. Once you get familiar with
harvesting the different parts of the plant, you will find uses for herbs like
you never thought before!
How to Dry Herbs

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What you do with the herbs you have collected is just as important as the
harvest itself. When the herbs have been gathered, inspect them to ensure
that there are no insects or debris. If the herbs are clean, do not wet them.
If they are dirty, gently rinse the herbs, shake off the excess water and lay
them on a paper towel to dry. Also remove dead or damaged foliage. When
the herbs have dried, you may proceed with the complete drying process.
There are a variety of methods for drying herbs, yet most gardeners prefer
natural air drying because of its simplicity and efficacy.
Method #1: Natural Air Drying

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When drying herbs naturally, you will need an ideal location to do so. The
best place to dry herbs is in a large, empty room, such as a closet, attic or
pantry. In fact, many people like to hang herbs in a pantry or kitchen for
added flair. Herbs should be kept away from direct sunlight, moisture and
frost, as these conditions can severely compromise the quality and
integrity of the herbs. Make sure you select a spot that has plenty of airflow
so that the air circulates around the herbs and helps them to dry faster.
The simplest way to air dry herbs is to tie the herbs into small bunches
with string or twine and hang them upside down. Small, loose bundles are
ideal since they allow the air to circulate the best. This method is also nice
if you plan on using the herbs for decorative purposes. Gardeners
sometimes worry that the herbs will collect dust by hanging out in the
open, so if this is a concern, you may loosely tie a brown paper bag around
the bundles.
The herbs should be checked every day or two, and you should notice that
the leaves and stems dry out a little more each time. If you are using
brown paper bags and notice that the herbs are not drying out fast enough,
poke holes in the bag or trim them down further so that the herbs receive
improved air circulation. The herbs are ready to be stored when they are
dry, brittle and break into pieces.
Another natural air drying method is to set the herbs on a drying screen.
Choose the same type of dark, empty room with good airflow and no direct
sunlight. Position the drying screens in the room and lay the herbs on the
screens. Turn them over as needed to ensure thorough drying. This is a
simple way to dry out your herbs and about as low-tech as you can get.

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On average, it takes about one week for herbs to dry, and you’ll notice that
they become brittle and crispy. The length of time depends on the airflow
and temperature of the room, so it could take a little bit more time. The
bundles should be taken down immediately when they are dry, otherwise
they will start to collect dust and may even mold.
Collecting the dried herbs is easy; simply roll the bundles through your
hands and let the dried leaves collect in a bowl. Or, cover a work area with
newspaper and remove the leaves by running your hand down the stem.
The dried leaves may then be stored in labeled jars in a cupboard, away
from light. Most herbs can be stored for a year or more.
Method #2: Oven Drying
Air drying is the best way to dry herbs, but it also takes time. If you don’t
have weeks to wait and you want to dry out the leaves as quickly as
possible, then you can enlist the oven for some help. You may also have no
choice but to use the oven if there is a lot of humidity in the air that is
interfering with the herbs’ natural ability to dry out on their own. The good
news is that you can finish drying the herbs using the oven, giving you the
opportunity to dry them naturally for much of the duration.
To use the oven method, place the herbs on a cookie sheet and remove
some of the stems so they are not as bulky. Don’t overcrowd them either.
Place the cookie sheet in the oven on the lowest setting possible, which
should be no more than 180 degrees. There is a balance here, as you
shouldn’t smell the herbs cooking. This means that the temperature is too
high.

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If you’re drying out leaves that have been freshly harvested, cooking them
for about 2 to 4 hours on a setting of 180 degrees or less. If you’re
completing the drying process, aim for a temperature of 150 degrees. The
herbs are dried when the leaves are crispy and the stems feel brittle. You
may proceed in the same way to collect the leaves by running the stems
through your fingers and gathering the dried leaves over a bowl.
Method #3: Microwave Drying
Microwave drying is a fast and easy method, especially if you’re only
looking to dry a small amount of herbs. Take the clean herbs and lay them
on a paper towel, then place them in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes.
Even though microwaving herbs is quick and simple, it’s very easy to
overheat the herbs. Drying times vary based on the type of herb, the
moisture content and the wattage on the microwave.
Check the herbs and heat them in 30 second intervals if they haven’t been
fully dried within 1 to 2 minutes. If you smell the herbs burning at any
point, remove them from the microwave immediately. Like oven drying,
you may have no choice but to use the microwave to finish the drying
process if the weather conditions are humid. Also keep in mind that some
herbs are thick and will need to be dried out naturally before being placed
in the microwave. Thankfully, because herbs have such low moisture
content, they can be successfully dried in a microwave or oven.
Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Is There a Better Pick?

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When you have an herb garden, you’ll find that there are many ways to
use the herbs. For instance, you can harvest the seeds, the roots, the
flowers, the leaves and the stems. You can also clip fresh leaves to use in
dishes like pastas, soups and sauces. We’ve often been taught that fresh is
best, so many gardeners are left wondering what the difference between
fresh and dried herbs is and if there is a better pick.
When it comes to herbs, the fresh vs. dried debate depends on the type of
herb that you are using. Herbs like parsley, cilantro, dill and basil are often
best in their fresh form. You can clip a few of the leaves off of the herb
plant and add them to your favorite dishes for flavor and aroma. Herbs
such as sage, lavender and oregano are best in their dried form. However,
many herbs can be used in both their fresh and dried form, so really, it’s a
matter of preference.
Although fresh herbs are ideal in many cases, when they are dried, the
drying process creates a different flavor in the herb. Fresh and dried herbs
taste very different from each other, so your dish may taste better with one
over the other. You’ll also find that ethnic dishes have their own
preferences, as Middle Eastern cooking prefers fresh herbs like ginger
and mint while Indian cooking prefers dried herbs that are mixed together.
Dried herbs have a stronger flavor, and they can be added to raw meats or
partially cooked foods to bring out extra taste and aroma. Dried herbs are
also easier to work with since you can add them at any point in the meal
and they don’t go bad nearly as quick. Most people store them for a year or
more and use them as needed.

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Fresh herbs have more limitations. They cannot be cooked on high heats
for long periods of times, so it’s recommended that they are finely
chopped and added at the end of the meal. Also, fresh herbs have a shorter
shelf life, so they need to be used much faster. Fresh herbs can be hard to
find at grocery stores, so most home chefs prefer dried herbs instead.
However, if you have your own herb garden, you can enjoy fresh at your
convenience.
How to Freeze Herbs
If you want the benefits of fresh herbs but want to give them a longer
lifespan, you can opt for freezing the herbs. You will start in the same way
as if you were going to dry them out, by rinsing the herbs if they are dirty
and setting them out to dry. There are a variety of methods to freeze the
leaves, so it’s about finding what works for you.
The first and simplest method is to simply lay the herbs on a small tray or
cookie sheet and place them in the freezer until frozen. When the leaves
are frozen solid, place them in an airtight container and stick them back in
the freezer. When you freeze the herbs individually, they will not stick
together. You can use the herbs as needed and toss them directly into
stews, pasta sauces and casserole dishes.

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Another convenient method is to freeze the herbs in ice cube trays. Wash
and dry the herbs as usual, and then chop them up into small pieces, even
the stems are okay. Stuff the herbs into the ice cube sections and fill each
one halfway with water. You’ll notice that the herbs will float a bit, and this
is okay. Stick the ice cube tray in the freezer and when the ice has formed,
you may fill up the tray with the rest of the water. When the ice cubes are
frozen solid, remove each cube from the tray and place them in Ziploc
bags. Store them in the freezer and drop them into your favorite dishes as
needed.
As you can see, drying herbs is a wonderful way to preserve your favorite
plants and have an entire herb garden to choose from when cooking your
favorite meals. Since some types of herbs taste better fresh, you may also
freeze some herbs to expand your cooking palette. One thing is for certain:
whether fresh or frozen, herbs are a healthy, no-calorie way to add flavor,
aroma and zest to your dishes while reaping dozens of heart-healthy
benefits!
Setting Up Your Kitchen Herbal
Pharmacy
As you build your kitchen herbal pharmacy, you’ll need supplies to keep
the herbs safe from damage and infestation. Herbs are natural plant
materials, so they are sensitive to air, light, humidity and temperature.
With the right supplies,you can prevent the herbs from deteriorating in
their scent, flavor and color. With the time and effort you put forth in your
garden, correctly storing herbs is the best gift you can give yourself.

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What Supplies Do I Need to Start an Herbal Kitchen Pharmacy?
The advantage to starting an herb garden is that it’s very inexpensive. You
can use things from around your own home to start planting your garden,
such as a square garden gate and metal herb containers. When you
harvest and dry the herbs,you can hang them upside down in individual
bundles or place them on a drying screen. Up until this point, everything
you need is minimal. When storing the herbs however, you will need a few
basic supplies.
Herbs are best stored in glass jars, preferably colored ones. Glass is ideal
because it provides an airtight seal while also allowing the herbs to
breathe. The dark colored glass is best since it blocks sunlight, but as long
as the herbs aren’t in any contact with direct sun, clear glass jars will be
suitable. Glass containers also have the advantage that you can see into
them, which is nice when you want to know what herb is inside the jar.

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Plastic containers have their advantages because they are convenient,
inexpensive and easy to find. The downside is that the plastic material
doesn’t provide good airflow, so it won’t keep the herbs fresh for nearly as
long. Additionally,plastic can affect the smell and taste of the herbs. If you
do choose to use plastic, use it for a short time only. It’s not a long-term
solution if you want to properly store herbs for an extended period.
In addition to airtight glass containers, you will also need labels to stick
onto the jars. This small but effective step will help keep track of what’s
inside the jars. Write the name of the herb on the label as well as the date,
and stick the label on the outside of the jar or on the lid, wherever you will
see it best. As your herbal kitchen pharmacy grows, you will know exactly
what herbs you have and how old they are.
How Do I Store Herb Infused Medicinal Oils?
Dried herbs aren’t the only things that can be stored in jars. As you learn
about the various herbal mixtures you can make, you will need to store
these too. Herb infused oils can sound intimidating to make, but they’re
actually quite easy and an effective way to widen your herbal kitchen.
Dried herbs are always best when making medicinal oils and will provide
the mixture with a longer shelf life. Using glass jars, you can combine the
dried herbs with an oil of your choice,such as olive oil, coconut oil or
apricot oil.

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The mixture can then be stored in a glass container with an airtight seal,
the same ones you would store herbs in. You’ll also use labels with these
oils, except take it one step further by adding the ingredients that are in
the jar. For instance,if you’ve combined dried herbs with grapeseed oil,
write all of this information down on the label. Some people choose to add
a preservative such as Vitamin E or grapefruit seed extract, and this should
also be noted on the label.
You should also write down how to use the medicinal oil so that you know
exactly what the use is for. Imagine scrounging for something natural in
the middle of the night to treat an upset stomach or a stuffy nose. If you
choose the wrong jar,you could make the symptoms worse or create a
negative reaction. Keep everything simple and easy to read, but be sure to
provide enough information so that you know what you’re working with.
Getting My Herbal Kitchen Pharmacy Set Up
Glass Mason jars are ideal because they come in a wide variety of sizes, are
made of sturdy glass and have tight-fitting lids. It’s easy to add labels to
them, and if you buy the jars in a bulk case, labels will be included. Keep in
mind that most Mason jars are clear, so if you opt for these, keep them in a
dark space. You can also find colored jars that are used for jams and jellies
and will help block out sunlight.

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Essential oils can be stored in amber colored bottles that include droppers,
or you may simply store the medicinal mixtures in the same glass Mason
jars. Depending on the type of oil that you’ve made, it can be stored in the
refrigerator or in a dark room, out of the way of direct sunlight. All of these
supplies can be purchased online or from certain grocery or craft stores.
You’ll save money if you buy in bulk, so consider shopping online for a
case of glass jars that include airtight lids.
Many gardeners find that printing labels off of their computer is cheap and
effective since they can type up the name of the herb, the date and the
ingredients, if applicable. The final piece to the puzzle is finding a prime
location for your herbal kitchen pharmacy. Ideally, you want a space that is
dark, empty and has good airflow. Large closets or pantries are a great
start, but not everyone has these places. You may have to expand your
boundaries and consider a basement, unused corner in the home or a
shed.
As you grow your pharmacy, it’s important that you have consistency and
organization. The ideal herbal pharmacy includes shelves so that the herbs
can be neatly placed in jars with labels clearly printed on the outside. You
can easily build the shelves using pieces of wood or by creating a simple
bookcase-style unit. Metal kitchen racks or wire shelves also work well.
Building an herbal pharmacy takes time, but it will be your ultimate craft.
When you have natural herb infused oils, dried herbs and essential oils to
treat a variety of symptoms and boost the health content of your food, you
will learn to trust the natural solutions that can enrich our lives both
mentally and physically.

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How to Buy Dried Herbs and Detect
Good Quality Practices While Purchasing
One of the greatest benefits to growing your own herb garden is that you
know exactly where the finished product is coming from. You control the
growing conditions, when the herbs are picked and how they are dried and
stored. Buying herbs is a different story because you don’t know all of
these fine yet pertinent details.
An added disadvantage is that because herb-based products are not
regulated by the FDA, companies can make claims about their herbs that
are untrue. Even though there are many mediocre companies out there,
many high-quality companies exist as well. By doing a bit of research and
knowing what to look for, you can find good quality herbs to use for
physical, mental and health purposes.

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Ask for Recommendations from Trusted Sources
The easiest and most effective way to find dried herbs is to get a
recommendation from a friend, family member or doctor. If they’ve used
the products firsthand, they will be very familiar with the quality of the
herbs and how the business operates. If you don’t know of anyone off the
top of your head that uses fresh or dried herbs, send out a quick post on
Twitter or Facebook asking for recommendations. You’ll be surprised to
learn who uses herbs on a regular basis.
Evaluate the Company's Website
It’s still important to do your own research even with a recommendation.
View the website of the company and get a good feel for the nature of their
business. A trustworthy company should have experience in the industry,
sustainable farming practices and a commitment to quality. They should be
able to tell you exactly where the herbs are coming from and in what
conditions they are grown, dried and stored. Dependable companies will
also have their contact information posted on the top of the page.
What Storing Practices Does the Company Use?
When you have found what appears to be a reputable company, take a look
at their storage practices. While we all wish that the herbs would be
freshly picked just for us, it doesn’t work this way. In fact, the herbs you’re
about to buy may have been sitting in a jar for months or years, making it
less potent. Since you want to get the quality you’re paying for, there are a
few things to look for.

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First, how are the herbs stored? Ideally, the herbs should be stored in a
dark colored glass jar, although some companies store them in foil bags,
which is also acceptable. Clear jars are not ideal since they let in light, and
the light will cause the herbs to lose color and flavor.
This process occurs because of oxidation, which is an interaction between
oxygen molecules and the various substances they come into contact with
along the way. If dried herbs are sitting in a clear glass jar, light will pass
through the glass and come into contact with the herbs, thus diminishing
their quality. They will fade in color, taste and aroma and be far less potent.
Where are the Herbs Stored?
In addition to the herbs being stored in dark glass jars, they should also be
kept in a dark room with good air circulation. Most herb companies will
have a large storage room where they stock the herbs on shelves. What
you hope is that this room is an ideal arrangement with no direct sunlight
and good airflow. Knowing that light can affect the quality of herbs, always
inspect the product and ensure that it is of good quality. If the color of the
herb is faded and the smell is not strong, chances are the herb was either
not stored properly or is old.
Are the Herbs Clean and in Good Condition?

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If you are buying bulk herbs such as ginger root or dried flowers, be sure
to inspect the condition of the herb. Dried herbs may be cleaned up
already, but other raw materials may have grass or other debris still stuck
to them. When these herbs are picked, they may not be cleaned all the
way, so it’s a good idea to assess their condition for insects or other debris
that can affect the purity of the herb. Thankfully, most herbs are well
cleaned and dried before being sent out to the customer.
Signs of a Good Quality Herb
Old herbs are far less potent, so they won’t have nearly as good as an effect
as one would hope for. If you’re adding dried herbs to oil for instance, you
won’t get much aroma from the herbs. A good quality herb that is new and
has been stored properly will have a vibrant color and a strong smell, so
don’t be afraid to use your senses to inspect what you are getting.
If you are making a purchase online, it’s difficult to assess the quality of the
herb, so make a small initial purchase. If possible, stick to herbalist stores
where you can look at the herbs, or shop with a company that has good
recommendations. Once you know you can trust the supplier, you can buy
online or through a mail order.
Growing your own herb garden gives you the best quality products, but
chances are, you’ll need to buy herbs from a company at some point.
Whether it’s to try an herb that you haven’t grown or to buy an herb-
infused product such as an essential oil, medicinal oil or supplement, it’s
important that you have a company that you trust. There are many great
retailers out there who are committed to the environment and produce
high-quality herbal products at a fair price.

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What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are concentrated liquids from plants that contain volatile
aroma compounds. They are most commonly used in aromatherapy and
consist entirely of botanical matter. Essential oils may also be referred to as
volatile oils or ethereal oils. Similar to herbs, essential oils have many uses
that include aromatherapy, pharmacology, food flavoring and perfumery.
Botanical oils should always be used with caution since they do carry
potential dangers. Natural products are often healthy, but they must still be
adequately dosed. Too much can be toxic to our delicate bodies. When
experimenting with a new oil or trying essential oils for the first time, it’s
important to carefully follow the directions.
How are Essential Oils Made?

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Essential oils are extracted from the plant by a process called distillation.
The plant is cooked with steam so that it breaks down and releases the oils.
The steam is cooled and then the water and oil are separated from each
other. The oil is also filtered through to ensure its purity.
Distillation is the most popular use for extracting oils since it’s easy and
effective, but there are other methods that can be used as well.
Sometimes, essential oils can be extracted just by pressing on the plant.
For instance, grapes, oranges and lemons have strong smelling juices that
can be extracted by pressing on the fruits.
Uses for Essential Oils
Botanical oils have many uses because of their fresh and abundant aromas.
They are most commonly used in perfumes, cosmetics, cleaning products
and soaps. They may also be added to foods and drinks thanks to their
flavoring properties. We’ve learned from historic textbooks that essential
oils were used for medicinal purposes, primarily to treat skin conditions
and certain diseases. In modern times, chemically based medicines have
proven to be effective in treating these conditions,and evidence-based
research shows no proof that essential oils are effective from a medical
standpoint.

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Still, essential oils have been drawing in more attention for their ability to
act as an alternative medicine. While we recognize that an essential oil
wouldn’t be effective at treating an infection or curing cancer, botanical
oils may manage symptoms like anxiety and stress, lowering the risk of
certain health conditions. Additionally, essential oils used in massage and
aromatherapy can have curative effects on the total health and wellbeing
of our bodies.
Even though there may be some uncertainty regarding the healing effects
of botanical oils, we can be certain that these oils are much better for our
bodies than chemically based products. Using oil-based products may
prevent certain cancers and health conditions, so in a way, they can be part
of a preventative lifestyle.
For instance, traditional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that
have been linked to various health conditions and especially dangerous for
those with allergies and asthma. Thymol is an essential oil that is contained
in all-natural cleaning products, and this ingredient is safe yet provides the
same disinfectant properties as harsher ingredients. What would you
choose for your own home?
The bottom line is this: while we have yet to uncover all there is to know
about essential oils, choosing products that are oil based rather than
chemically based are better for the environment, our health and our
wellbeing.
Essential Oils and Aromatherapy

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Aromatherapy deserves its own spotlight since essential oils are the core
of this alternative therapy. Aromatherapy uses volatile plant materials to
alter the person’s mind, mood and health. It’s true that there is limited
research that supports essential oils from a medical standpoint, but
research does show that these oils may have benefits in a therapeutic
setting.
For those that truly believe in the power of these oils, great things can
follow an aromatherapy session, especially when coupled with a massage.
People have stated that botanical oils reduce anxiety, enhance energy and
aid in short-term memory. Others have attested to essential oils’ ability to
help with skin conditions, hair loss prevention and relaxation.
To the many people who are comforted, relaxed and perhaps even
relieved of various symptoms, scientific research doesn’t matter at this
point. What matters is that something simple and natural can lead to
improved health and cognitive functioning.
Still, we must wonder what it is about essential oils that give them their
healing effects, even if these effects can’t be measured in scientific
analyses.
Why Essential Oils May Have Curative Effects

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When looking at the structure of botanical oils, we can understand how
these substances can aid in natural healing. First, the aromas that are
released from the oils go through the olfactory system and work on the
limbic system. The limbic system is responsible for controlling our
emotional responses; therefore, the soothing, calming scents produced by
the oils have the same effects on the brain.
When the brain is more relaxed, it means that we have a better state of
mind. Obviously, with more relaxation comes less stress, anxiety and
depression. We may approach an old problem in a new way, register pain
differently or develop an improved sleep pattern, all of which alleviate
depression and anxiety. Second, there may indeed be pharmacological
effects of essential oils, even though our understanding of the connection
between the body and aromatic oils has yet to be measured by
conventional science and medicine.
Buying Essential Oils
If you decide that botanical oils may help improve your health and
wellbeing, your next step will be purchasing the oils. Essential oils are sold
in small bottles that are 5ml, 10ml or 15ml in size. When purchasing an
essential oil, it should be used in the first few months since the solution
will start to oxidize is six months or so. When oxidization occurs, the oil
starts to lose its aroma and healing effects. There are some oils that
contradict this in fact, as botanical oils like patchouli and sandalwood
actually mature with age.

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It’s best that all oils are stored in amber or cobalt blue bottles, as these
dark bottles help filter out sunlight that can break down the structure of
the oil. Glass is always the best material for the bottle, but essential oils can
also be sold in aluminum-lined bottles. Plastic bottles are not ideal since
the oils will eat away at the plastic.
You may purchase essential oils in one kind or as a blend depending on
what you plan to use the oils for. Blends can be a good option since you save
yourself money from having to buy several separate oils. However, with oil
blends, you have no control over how much of which oils are placed into
the concoction.
The price of essential oils varies greatly because of the quality of the oil.
Factors that affect the quality of aromatic oils include the country of origin,
the climate and growing conditions, the quality standards of the distiller
and how much oil was produced. As with other products, it’s best to find a
brand that you like and trust for your essential oil purchases.
How to Use Essential Oils
Essential oils are used in a variety of ways, but not all can be used in the
same manner. For instance, oils are very popular in massage and
aromatherapy, but only some can be applied directly to the skin. Lavender
and tea tree oil are often safe to put directly on the skin while other oils
will need ‘carrier oils’ to dilute them. Reading labels is important in this
context, and it’s always best to try the oils on a small area on the skin to
ensure it doesn’t cause an allergic reaction.

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Another way that aromatic oils can be used is through inhalation. Done
carefully, the oils can provide therapeutic benefits as the oil molecules
enter the lungs and are absorbed into the bloodstream. There are also
certain oils that can be taken in a pill form, but this should only be done
under the supervision of a medical professional. These pills can be taken
orally or as a suppository, but like all medications, they do have side effects
and should never be taken without the consent of a doctor.
Essential oils are intriguing; they have been around for a very long time yet
we still know so little about them. When used appropriately, botanical oils
have natural effects on the body that can boost energy, reduce anxiety and
combat fatigue without having to put any additional chemicals into the
body.
How to Check For Quality Essential Oils
When you begin to use essential oils for therapeutic or aromatherapy
purposes, you’ll enjoy the endless natural benefits that can be brought to
your lifestyle. The trouble is that not all essential oils are the same, and if
you don’t do your homework and be a smart buyer, you may end up
purchasing oils that have very little potency to them. Since this industry is
not regulated by the FDA, it’s easy for suppliers to make claims about their
products that aren’t true. To protect your health and ensure that your
money is going in the right place, it pays to be a savvy shopper.

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Ask for a Recommendation
The best way to find a reputable supplier of essential oils is to ask for a
recommendation from a trusted friend, family member or coworker. You
may also ask your doctor for a suggestion. If someone offers you a name,
ask if they have used the products before. Sometimes, people see the
names of companies and use them as a suggestion, but that doesn’t mean
that they have tried the product firsthand. You may also ask for
suggestions on Facebook or Twitter; this opens you up to more responses
from those in your cyber world.
Do Your Own Research

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Let the recommendations you receive from others serve as a base of
where to start. It’s still important to do your own research. Read online
reviews or testimonials and assess the quality and professionalism of the
website. Is there contact information clearly posted on the site? Does the
supplier know the origin of the herbs? Do they share their storage
practices? Do they have inside knowledge on the industry that can help
you make the right selections?
While not a guarantee, most reputable vendors are honest and upfront
about their products and well-versed in the industry. They may have
sustainable growing practices, a strict grading system or be able to share
inside knowledge on how to distill and store essential oils. Don’t be afraid
to ask questions, too. If you get a good response from the company, you can
assume that they know their stuff.
Know the Storage Practices
There are many companies out there that are respectable and love what
they do, but that doesn’t mean they practice the best techniques. Essential
oils, like herbs, are very delicate. They need to be stored properly and
handled delicately in order to ensure their potency. Oils should be stored
in dark-colored vials so that light does not pass through. Light will destroy
the integrity of the product and cause it lose its aroma and potency.

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Some suppliers sell their oils in aluminum bottles, and this is acceptable as
long as the inside of the container is lined. Plastic is a definite no since the
oils can leech into the plastic material. Although having a rubber
eyedropper included with the bottle is convenient, it’s better to steer clear
of these vials. The eyedropper bulb can soak up some of the oil and cause it
to be contaminated. Finally, the essential oils should be kept in a dark
room with no direct sunlight and proper airflow.
It can be hard to buy essential oils from local vendors, especially if you
don’t live near a large city. If you have no choice but to buy online, seek out
vendors that test out their essential oils and are willing to supply samples.
Again,don’t be afraid to ask questions (even if you know the answer) to test
the supplier for their knowledge on essential oils. Reputable suppliers will
often have the Latin names of the herbs, the country of origin and the
extraction method.
Be Label Smart
A big issue to watch for is the purity of the essential oil. You may find a
great website with strong reviews and solid information, but that doesn’t
mean that what they’re selling is of the highest quality. The oil may be
acceptable quality,especially for those who are unfamiliar with the herb
world, but it may not be the quality you are looking for. For instance, for an
oil to be labeled an "essential oil," it only has to be 51 percent oil. Chances
are, you want 100 percent,right?

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Additionally, terms like “fragrance oil,” “nature identical oil” and
“perfume oil” should be avoided. These terms indicate that what you’re
about to buy is not a pure essential oil. Instead, it’s most likely a
combination of oils and other chemicals that are mixed together. Also,
terms like “aromatherapy grade” or “therapeutic grade” are loosely used,
and since the FDA doesn’t regulate this market, there is no minimum
requirement to meet this “grade.”
Your best bet is to ask the vendor exactly what they mean by their grading
system. Some suppliers use therapeutic or aromatherapy grade while
others have chosen the more professional-sounding “clinical grade.”
Remember, since there are no requirements, anything is up for grabs.
You need to be careful with organic and certified organic labels as well
since organic does not automatically mean quality. Some oils may have
organic ingredients but still be distilled under high pressure. Again, ask
questions, do your research and find out why the product you’re about to
buy is labeled as such.
Knowing all of this, many people assume that they will just stick to
products labeled “pure essential oils.” After all, what else could be in
there? But even this is an overused term that doesn’t guarantee anything.
Don’t get carried away and put automatic trust in the product just because
it says pure, natural, organic or the like. It could be old, the oils could have
been distilled from poor quality crops or the product may have been
mishandled. Again, look for 100 percent pure on the label as well as proper
storage techniques, such as the oils being sold in dark-colored vials that
are 4 ounces in size and do not contain eyedropper bulbs.

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You Pay for What You Get
A final point to consider is the price. We all have to watch our money, so
it’s not surprising that you’ll be apt to go after an economically priced
essential oil, especially if the label says good things like “organic” or
“therapeutic grade.” Yet price is a big indicator in the quality of the
product. Reputable vendors spend a lot of time and money locating high-
quality oils, paying fees to test the oils and providing free or low-cost
samples upon request. They have to pay more for the product to begin with
because of the harvest and distillation techniques, and all of these costs
will be passed down to the consumer.
Also, be cautious about suppliers that charge the same amount of money
for all of their essential oils. Basic citrus oils are the least expensive, and
high-quality patchouli will cost more than eucalyptus. It’s also best to work
with companies that sell essential oils for aromatherapy and therapeutic
uses only. Vendors that work with the perfumery or food and beverage
industries often re-distill their products. Always ask about the distillation
methods that the company uses if you choose to buy from a vendor in this
industry.
There are many high-quality essential oils on the market that are pure and
will offer endless therapeutic benefits. If possible, get a solid
recommendation, but also be sure to do your own research to be a smart
buyer. It can be difficult to separate high-quality essential oils from poor-
quality ones, but the signs are usually right there in front of us.

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Just remember that in most cases, you get what you pay for. Opting for an
inexpensive oil probably means that it has poor distillation practices and is
combined with other oils or chemicals. A truly pure product will cost
more, but it will offer you the potency you’re looking for.
Amazing Herbs to Get Started With –
Tips on How to Grow Them, Their
Medicinal Properties, and Recipes You'll
Love
ALOE VERA
Native Americans called it the Wand of Heaven. Ancient Egyptians called
it the Plant of Immortality. Today, aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) is probably
most recognized for its role in hair and skin care products. Fair enough,
but there really is so much more to this incredible plant.

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The healing and soothing properties of aloe vera have made it a popular
herbal and alternative medicine, as well as a highly sought ingredient in
the cosmetic and food industries. Aloe vera is thought to have come from
somewhere in northern Africa, but it is now cultivated all over the world
for its diverse uses. The aloe vera plant is a beautiful succulent with thick
leaves bordered by tiny white “teeth”. Products made from aloe vera
include aloe vera gel (for eating and as a component of creams and
lotions), aloe vera juice, and aloe vera capsules.
Cultivation of Aloe Vera
The aloe vera plant is perfect for those without much gardening
experience. It can grow both indoors and outdoors, and it doesn’t require a
lot of TLC.
There are more than 500 known aloe species. The varieties that grow well
indoors include lace aloe (Aloe aristata), the common aloe (Aloe
barbadensis), and the partridge breast aloe (Aloe variegata).
Aloe vera thrives in full sun and warm temperatures. If you are keeping
them indoors, make sure you give them bright artificial light or place them
near a window. If you are keeping them outside, place them where they
can get sunlight all day long. However, if you live in the tropics, keep them
in pots so that you can control their exposure to sunlight. Although they
love the sun, too much can burn them.

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Aloe vera will grow best in dry, gritty, well-drained soil that has been
moderately fertilized. The plant can be a bit sensitive to over- and under-
watering. Because the aloe vera plant is 95% water, avoid watering during
the cold months. Always check the soil before watering. If it is completely
dry, then you can give it two cups of water. During the summer, you have to
soak the soil completely and let it dry before watering again.
While your plant grows, it develops “pups” or baby aloe plants on its sides.
Remove these “pups” and replant them in another pot.
Tips on Growing Aloe Vera
If you don’t have soil suited for the needs of the plant, you can
purchase a packaged cacti and succulent soil mix.
If you wish to fertilize, use the bloom type (10-40-10) and do so only
during spring.
If the leaves of your aloe vera plant aren’t growing upwards (as they
should), it isn’t getting enough light.
If the leaves are turning brown, the plant is getting too much light.
If the leaves aren’t fleshy and plump, the plant isn’t getting enough
water.
Medicinal Uses of Aloe Vera
The aloe vera plant offers a wide variety of medicinal and cosmetic uses.
For thousands of years, we have been using aloe vera for a plethora of
therapeutic uses, from soothing sunburn to improving cardiovascular
health. Even Cleopatra knew about the miraculous benefits of the plant!
Legend has it that applying aloe vera gel was part of her daily beauty
regimen, and that it was the reason for her youthful appearance. Below are
just some of the many uses of aloe vera.

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Use aloe leaves as an impromptu moisturizing body
scrub. Just cut off a leaf from the plant, slice it lengthwise, and scrub your
body with the inner sides. You can also scoop the gel out with a spoon and
use it as a liquid soap or body wash, or use it as a shampoo. Aloe vera helps
hasten hair growth and reduce dandruff. Use it as a leave-on conditioner
for smoother, more manageable hair.
Great shower buddy -
Aloe vera is your skin’s best friend. Use it to
treat sunburn, psoriasis, eczema, rashes, itching, insect bites, blisters,
acne, skin irritations, allergic skin reactions, and burns. Use it as an all-
natural moisturizer for dry skin. Use it the way Cleopatra did and get rid of
wrinkles and blemishes. Use it to exfoliate, reduce the appearance of scars,
and brighten your complexion.
A quick fix for skin issues -
Use inhalation therapy to relieve the symptoms of
asthma. Boil some aloe vera leaves in a pot of water and breathe in the
vapors. The anti-inflammatory properties of the plant will help you breathe
easier.
Relief from asthma -
Aloe vera juice has a laxative effect.
It is also an adaptogen, which means that it is effective in relieving diarrhea
and constipation. Aloe vera also aids in improving digestion, and in treating
acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome.
Loose Bowel Movement? No problem -

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Aloe vera helps lower cholesterol, prevents the
development of kidney stones, enhances the body’s cardiovascular
performance, cures candida infections, treats Crohn’s disease and ulcers,
and provides glyconutrients,vitamins A, C and E, and minerals like
magnesium and calcium. It helps stop the growth of tumors, detoxifies and
alkalizes the body, and boosts the immune system.
And many more -
DIY Homemade Aloe Vera Solutions
It is said that Alexander the Great seized Socotra in the Indian Ocean
explicitly for the aloe vera which grew plentiful on the island. He wanted
the plants for his many injured men. Such was the value of aloe vera as a
medicinal plant that a war was waged for it. Today, you don’t have to go far
or risk your neck to reap the benefits of aloe vera. These three simple
products can be made right in the comforts of your own home.
Aloe Vera Gel
The clear, colorless secretion that pours out of the aloe vera leaf when it is
cut is a highly valued ingredient in many industries. It is used in the
production of lotion, facial tissues, moisturizer, yogurt, desserts, soaps,
shampoos, and countless other products. Aloe vera gel contains 200
different phytonutrients, 20 minerals, 18 amino acids, and 12 vitamins.
What you will need:

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Aloe vera leaves
Grapefruit seed extract, coconut oil, vitamin E oil or any essential oil
A blender, hand mixer, or mortar and pestle
A strainer
A glass jar
A knife
Instructions for Making Your Aloe Vera Gel:
1. Pick some leaves from your aloe vera plant. Choose those that are in
the middle and closer to the ground. Once cut, hold the leaves
upright for 15 minutes until the dark resin flows out. This might cause
irritation, so make sure that all of the dark stuff comes out. Don’t skip
this step.
2. Wash the leaves thoroughly with clean water.
3. Cut the large leaves into smaller pieces to make it easier to peel off
the skin. Once the leaves are peeled, you should be left with the gel.
4. Blend the aloe with a few drops of any of the following: grapefruit
seed extract, coconut oil, vitamin E oil, or any other essential oil. You
can also use a hand mixer or a mortar and pestle for this.
5. After blending, use a strainer or a sieve and strain the mixture into a
glass jar. This will help separate the small fibers from your aloe gel.
Cover the jar. Keep it in the fridge to extend the shelf life.
Aloe Vera Shampoo

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Take a walk down the personal care aisle in your local supermarket and
you’ll find aloe vera listed as an ingredient in many of the soaps and
shampoos. Aloe vera is indeed moisturizing, revitalizing, soothing,
brightening, enhancing, and clarifying. But to get the maximum
beautifying effect from aloe vera, use aloe gel straight from the plant. This
way, you can be assured that the aloe you’re using is pure and that there
are no harmful chemicals in your shampoo/soap.
What you will need:
1/4 cup of homemade aloe gel
2 tablespoons of honey
2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
A blender
Essential oils (optional)
Instructions for Making Your Aloe Vera Shampoo:
1. Make your own aloe vera gel with the recipe above.
2. Combine ¼ cup of your homemade aloe gel with 2 tablespoons of
honey and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Puree the mixture in a
blender. If you don’t have a blender, you can mix the ingredients with
a hand mixer or with a spoon and a little effort.
The resulting mixture will have a not-so-pleasant smell. You can use it on
your hair as is and just rinse immediately or you can add a few drops of
aromatic essential oils to it to make it smell better.

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Make just the amount of natural aloe shampoo that you will need every
day. Honey tends to spoil when mixed with other ingredients, so it is best to
make the shampoo right before your bath.
Aloe Vera Face Pack
All-natural face packs can be used to reduce the appearance of
pigmentation and blemishes, remove a tan, get glowing skin, and get rid of
pimples. This aloe vera face pack can do all of the above.
What you will need:
Aloe vera
Ground turmeric
A teaspoon of honey
A teaspoon of milk
Rose water
A small bowl
A blender
Instructions for Making and Using Your Aloe Vera Face Pack:
1. In a small bowl, combine a pinch of ground turmeric, a teaspoon of
milk, a teaspoon of honey, and a couple of drops of rose water. Mix
everything with a spoon until a paste is formed.
2. Add aloe vera gel into the paste and mix well. You can use a blender
to get a smoother paste.
3. Pour the face pack into a glass container.
4. To use, just dab some of the aloe vera face pack onto your face and
spread evenly. Let it sit for 20 minutes and then wash it off with warm
water.

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Keep a pot or two of aloe vera on your kitchen windowsill so you can break
off a leaf any time you need one. Use it to moisturize your hands after
washing and as first aid for burns and cuts. Keep it in the bathroom and
other parts of the house as well. This useful little succulent is not just
edible and medicinal; it is an attractive house plant too.
BURDOCK
Burdock, or the genus Arctium, is a biennial plant once popular in Europe
as an ingredient in making beer before hops stole the show. Today,
burdock continues to thrive as part of the Japanese pilaf and other dishes,
and the herb remains a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine. A native of
Europe and Northern Asia, burdock has also found its purpose as a soft
drink ingredient in the United Kingdom.
Even if you think you are not familiar with the plant, chances are that
you’ve encountered them before. Or, you may have seen the burrs of the
burdock. Remember those tiny balls that cling to your pants after a walk
out in the tall grass? Those are burrs, and they were the inspiration for
Velcro.
Cultivation of Burdock
Burdock is a fairly easy plant to grow. Here’s how:

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1. Burdock is grown from seeds. Prepare some for propagation by
soaking them in water overnight. This will enhance their germination
rate.
2. Find an area large enough to grow burdock which can reach up to 6
feet in height and 3 feet in width. It is also better if the spot receives
full sun, though burdock can grow in partial shade as well.
3. Burdock prefers rich and well-draining soil. If the soil doesn’t seem
rich enough, you can add some compost. You can also till the soil and
get rid of stones and rocks that may hinder the growth of the roots.
Since the plant may grow very high, tilling the soil up to two feet will
help the roots grow longer and help stabilize the plant.
4. Plant the seeds ¼ of an inch deep and at intervals of up to 3 inches.
Each row of seeds should be separated by at least a foot. Cover them
with seed starting soil up to ¾ inch thick.
5. Though burdock can grow on its own, you can help them out by giving
them water regularly.
6. In one or two weeks, you will notice some seedlings. Make sure you
weed frequently but carefully to prevent accidentally pulling them
out. You also need to thin them out so that there is around 3 to 4
inches of space between the plants. Remove the ones with weak root
systems.
7. As the plant grows, remove the young shoots that develop by simply
pulling them out. These can already be eaten, though harvesting is
typically done at 10 weeks. You also need to prune the young leaves
with clippers and prevent the flowers from setting seed by removing
them.
Tips on Growing Burdock

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You can use high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote the plant’s growth.
Burdock roots normally grow up to 4 feet long, but there are some
varieties that grow up to 9 feet.
Wear a mask or any type of covering for your face to avoid inhaling
the seeds’ microscopic hairs, which can trigger allergic reactions.
Burdock is a biennial plant, so you can only enjoy its benefits for a
couple of years. Roots are harvested during the first year while the
seeds are gathered on the second year.
Medicinal Uses of Burdock
Burdock has been used throughout history as an herbal medicine to treat
many ailments. It is popular among herbalists as a natural blood cleaner,
diaphoretic, and diuretic.
Burdock is a good source of
inulin, which stimulates the appetite and the action of the stomach. It also
helps the digestive system and treats stomach and digestive problems.
Burdock also aids in cleansing the liver.
Works wonder for digestion and elimination -
Burdock is one of the best-known blood-purifying
herbs, and has been used for thousands of years to flush waste and toxins
out of the bloodstream.
Purifies the blood -
Through its blood-cleansing ability,
burdock also effectively flushes out the toxins that cause skin diseases like
acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
Say goodbye to skin problems -

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Scientific studies have shown that burdock, as main
ingredient of some herbal formulas, can help stop the growth of tumors.
Aside from stopping the development and shrinking the size of cancer
growths, these herbal formulas also help relieve pain and enhance the
body’s immunity which cancer patients badly need.
Fights cancer -
DIY Homemade Burdock Solutions
To experience burdock’s curative and beneficial effects, you can purchase
it in powder, decoction, tincture, pill, and extract form. Or you can try
making any of these burdock products right from home.
Burdock Leave-on Conditioner
Burdock has medicinal qualities that are perfect for hair care. It helps
strengthen the hair shaft and keeps hair strands moisturized. Burdock has
also been found effective against hair loss. It contains mucilage, a
gelatinous substance that has polysaccharides and protein, which accounts
for its ability to strengthen and condition hair and prevent hair tangles.
Mucilage also has other medicinal benefits for the body including
lowering cholesterol, preventing constipation, and inhibiting pathogenic
bacteria from causing intestinal decomposition.
What you will need:

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20 dried hibiscus flowers
3 tablespoons of dried burdock root
3 tablespoons of dried marshmallow root
Water
A pot
Plastic wrap
A strainer
A squeeze bottle
A funnel
Instructions for making burdock leave-on conditioner:
1. Pour some water in a pot and place it over medium heat.
2. When the water starts to simmer or is on low boil, lower the heat and
then add the dried hibiscus flowers. Let the flowers simmer for about
5 minutes. Avoid letting the water boil.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and pick out the flowers.
4. Add the dried marshmallow root followed by the dried burdock root.
Stir.
5. With a plastic wrap, cover the pot and allow the herbs to infuse. Let it
stand for about 15 minutes.
6. Use a strainer to separate the liquid from the remains of the burdock
and marshmallow roots. Pour it directly into a plastic squeeze bottle
or use a funnel if available.
You can use your natural burdock conditioner after shampooing. Just
squeeze some into your hand and massage onto your hair. Use a comb to
spread the conditioner. Leave it on and let your hair dry naturally.
Burdock Root Oil

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Having some homemade burdock root oil at hand is good for your health.
Some have attested to the effectiveness of this root oil against skin
conditions like acne. Others use it on their hair to treat itchy scalp. Some
people add their burdock root oil into things such as face packs, shampoos,
and conditioners. Others prefer to dab the oil directly on areas that need it.
If you want some burdock root oil at your disposal, below is a simple guide
on how to make some.
What you will need:
1 to 2 stalks of burdock root
Extra virgin olive oil or any other vegetable oil
A knife
A mortar and pestle
A vacuum-sealed glass jar
Instruction for making your burdock root oil:

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1. Wash the roots in hot water.
2. You can either peel and slice them into small pieces with a knife or
pound the cut pieces with a mortar and pestle until the flesh comes
out.
3. If you smash the roots with the mortar and pestle, give it a day to dry
out. Drying the roots allows the nutrients to stay within the root. After
drying, place the root pieces in a clean glass jar.
4. Fill the glass jar with extra virgin olive oil and then seal tightly.
5. Set the glass jar aside, preferably in a dark room, for 4 to 6 weeks.
This will allow the root to infuse. Check it at least once a week to see if
there are little bubbles present. These signify gas buildup. Just open
the lid to let the gas out before resealing tightly.
Burdock Root Tea
In Japan and in other Asian countries, burdock is not only a key ingredient
in dishes but also a popular tea. Burdock tea may be a bit strong in taste and
aroma as compared to other more common herbal teas.
What you will need:
Fresh burdock root or 1 tablespoon dried burdock root
3 cups of water
A knife
A stainless steel pot with a lid
Instructions for making burdock root tea:

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1. Chop the root and place about 2 tablespoons of it in a stainless steel
pot.
2. Fill the pot with 3 cups of water and then bring to a boil.
3. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let it steep for 20 more minutes.
An alternative way of preparing your burdock root tea is by using a peeler
to slice off pieces of the root instead of chopping them with a knife.
Also, you can dry them under the sun for up to 6 hours. You’ll need to turn
the pieces over every now and then while drying them. For a different
flavor, you can roast the dried burdock slices in a frying pan without any
oil.
Wait until they become golden brown, which may take around 10 minutes.
The next step is to let them cool before storing the dried and roasted
burdock root in an airtight glass jar. Burdock tea is made by steeping an
ample amount of the stored root pieces in hot water. You can also boil the
burdock roots along with the water.
CALENDULA
Pot marigold, goldbloom, mary bud, Calendula officinalis… these are just
a few of the many names that calendula goes by. Whatever you call it,
calendula is one of the most popular and most versatile plants there is.
Calendula is not only a great-looking plant for your garden, it also has its
uses in the kitchen and in medicine, and is even an important part of some
rituals and traditional ceremonies.

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Cultivation of Calendula
Thanks to its bright yellow flowers, the calendula has been the star of
many a garden. But the benefits of calendula don’t end with its ability to
beautify a place. The plant is also useful in the field of medicine and in
cooking. To enjoy all its many uses right from home, here’s how you can
grow them:

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1. Look for an area in your backyard that receives full sun. Calendula
loves sunlight.
2. As long as the soil is rich enough to grow other plants, then you can
grow your calendula there as well.
3. Calendula is grown from seeds. Till the soil a little and then plant the
seeds about half an inch deep and at least four inches from each other.
Cover them with garden soil about a fourth of an inch thick. Plant
calendula during the spring.
4. Right after planting the seeds, give them just enough water to moisten
the soil. Water the soil regularly for two weeks or until the seeds start
to germinate. Don’t let the bed soak. Just give them enough to stay
moist.
5. Thin the plants when the seedlings reach around 3 inches. You need
them to be at least 8 inches apart.
6. You may opt not to use chemical fertilizer and go the natural route.
Add a thin layer of compost during midsummer. This will give the
plants enough nutrients until they reach full bloom.
Some blossoms will inevitably fade. You may remove them to encourage
the plant to produce more blossoms and retain its beauty.
Tips on Growing Calendula
Calendula attracts pests like aphids and is prone to mildew. Use
natural pesticides to get rid of them.
You can enjoy your calendula for years as they can reseed on their
own.
Medicinal Uses of Calendula

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Calendula has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, and anti-
genotoxic properties. It can be used as a tincture, infusion, oil, salve, tea,
and in various other forms.
Calendula contains powerful antioxidants in its petals.
These antioxidants help heal wounds and treat burns on your skin.
Heal your wounds -
Most diaper creams use calendula as
one of its main ingredients. The herb is also used in making lotions and
creams for treating minor skin conditions.
Keep you and your baby rash-free -
Dab calendula tincture or calendula suspension on
acne. It will dry up pimples, control bleeding, reduce swelling and
redness, and heal damaged skin.
Get pimple-free skin -
An impressive amount of flavonoids is
found in calendula, making it a good weapon against free radicals that
damage the cells and sometimes lead to serious diseases.
Protect yourself from free radicals -
Aside from protecting the cells from free
radicals, calendula also helps enhance protein and collagen metabolism,
which is important in cell re-growth or the production of new cells.
Great for cell re-growth -
Calendula is the only thing in this world that
contains calendic acid. It is an omega-6 fatty acid that works as an
antiseptic, though there is a possibility that it can also help treat cancer,
specifically colon cancer.
Contains calendic acid -

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Calendula can be used in treating insect bites, bee
stings, athlete’s foot, swelling, sore eyes, fever, stomach ache, small pox,
measles, gum disease, and indigestion.
Lots of other uses -
DIY Homemade Calendula Solutions
Calendula Tea
Drink calendula tea to cure an upset stomach, reduce skin inflammations,
and combat infections. It is a great post-meal drink that helps with
indigestion and, when taken regularly, helps cleanse the body and
improve overall health.
What you will need:
2 teaspoons of calendula petals
A cup of water
A pot
A strainer
A cup
Lemon (optional)
Honey (optional)
Instructions for making your calendula tea:
1. Put the calendula petals in a pot.
2. Pour boiling water over the petals.
3. Let the tea steep for about 15 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into cups.
5. Add honey and lemon to your liking.
Calendula Salve

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A salve is a must-have in any home. It is an ointment that can treat various
minor medical conditions including bites, stings, cuts, scratches, burns,
rashes, and swelling. Some salves can also be used to treat boils, sebaceous
cysts, hemorrhoids,and stretch marks. A salve with calendula as its main
ingredient is effective in treating these conditions, along with muscle pain,
menstrual and stomach cramps, eczema, topical thrush, warts, athlete’s
foot, sunburn, and many other ailments.
Making your own natural salve provides you with all the benefits of the
plant but without the worry of chemical substances like petroleum
products that most over-the-counter ointments contain. Also, your DIY
calendula salve will help you save money. To make your salve even more
potent, you can add other herbs.
What you will need:
2 cups of calendula petals
1 to 2 cups of olive oil or hemp oil
½ cup of beeswax
5 to 10 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of tea tree oil
A stainless steel pot
A strainer/cheesecloth/tea filter
Jars with covers
Instructions for making your calendula salve:

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1. Make calendula-infused oil by filling a pot with your olive oil or hemp
oil and calendula petals.
2. Place the pot over low heat. Stir occasionally, making sure the oil
doesn’t get too hot. One way to determine the temperature is to look
for tiny bubbles. If you reach this stage, maintain it for two hours.
Anything hotter than that is bad for your infusion.
3. When your calendula oil is at the tail end of its infusion, you can
begin melting your beeswax. Just place it over low heat, preferably
from a double boiler. You also need to control its temperature. Your
calendula oil and melted beeswax should be of the same temperature
when you mix them later.
4. Separate the petals from the oil infusion using a strainer. Get as much
of the oil as you can.
5. While the beeswax is still in the double boiler, pour the calendula oil
slowly into it. Slowly stir them together.
6. Add 5 to 10 drops of your lavender essential oil and stir to combine.
7. Add 5 drops of tea tree oil and stir.
8. While still warm, pour your end-product into your jars or containers
and let them sit. Once they cool down and solidify, you can put the jar
lids on. Keep them in a cool place.
Calendula Soap
Making soap using calendula is another way of benefiting from the plant.
By making your own soap, you enjoy an all-natural and skin-sensitive soap
that anyone in your family, even your baby, can use.
What you will need:

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4 ounces of calendula-infused oil
24 ounces of olive oil
12 ounces of lye
24 ounces of coconut oil
38 ounces of vegetable shortening
32 ounces of distilled water
Dried botanical herbs (optional)
A plastic container with cover for molding
A stainless steel pot
A thermometer
Wooden spoons
Glass containers
Rubber gloves
Eye protection
Instructions for making your calendula soap:

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1. Start by making your calendula oil. Gather some petals and add them
to a pot with olive oil. Place them over low heat and stir occasionally.
After 2 hours, strain the petals and pour the infusion in a jar.
2. Use some of your vegetable shortening to grease your soap mold. Put
some on the sides and bottom. Set the mold aside.
3. Use a wooden spoon to dissolve the lye with cold water in a glass
container. Set aside.
4. Melt the rest of your vegetable shortening and coconut oil in a pot.
Place over low heat and stir continuously with a different wooden
spoon.
5. After the shortening and coconut oil have melted, remove the pot
from the heat and add the olive oil.
6. You should now have two mixtures. Continue stirring both mixtures
with their respective wooden spoons. Check the temperatures. They
should be somewhere between 95° and 98°F. If they are too hot, you
can place the container in a cold bath. You can also use a hot bath if
they aren’t warm enough.
7. Once you achieve the desired warmth, pour the lye mixture into the
oil mixture in a gradual steady stream. Stir continuously as you pour.
8. The mixture should become creamy and thick after 10 minutes of
continuous stirring. Once it has reached this consistency, you can add
all your dried herbs. Scoop around 2 cups of your soap mixture and
pour it into another container and then add your herbs and other
ingredients. Stir them in quickly. Pour this new mixture back into
your soap mixture and stir once more.
9. It’s time to make your bar of soap. Pour the mixture into your mold,
cover it and place in a warm area with blankets over it. Leave it for 18
hours.

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10. The soap mixture should now have solidified. Remove the lid and let
it sit for at least 8 more hours. Take the soap out and slice into smaller
pieces.
11. Calendula is a gardener’s favorite, not only because it produces such
lovely, vibrant, mood-boosting blooms, but because it is such an
effective natural remedy for many ailments.
Plant some calendula and perk up your garden and your health!
CHAMOMILE
The word chamomile is derived from the Greek “chamaimelon”, meaning
“earth apple”, and is the name used to refer to a number of herbs from the
Asteraceae family. The chamomile plant is a delicate-looking shrub with a
sweet scent and flowers similar to daisies. It is popular worldwide as an
herbal tea, sleep aid, and aromatherapy oil.
Cultivation of Chamomile

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The two most commonly used chamomile species are the German
chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and the Roman chamomile
(Chamaemelum nobile). The German chamomile grows up to 3 feet while
the Roman chamomile only grows about a foot and is best for ground
cover. The former is an annual plant while the latter is a perennial. Choose
which chamomile species will suit your needs and cultivate them from
seeds.
Here’s how:
1. Prepare the soil for planting. Chamomile needs sandy, slightly acidic
soil that drains well but also retains moisture. Add a moderate
amount of compost or fertilizer.
2. Scatter the seeds onto moistened soil. Do not cover them. You can do
this outdoors in the ground or indoors in a pot or tray.
3. Let the seeds germinate for a couple of weeks.
4. Once seedlings have grown, thin the plants to 18 inches (for
ornamental purposes) or to 6 inches (for ground cover).
5. Though chamomile plants are resistant to drought, watering them
regularly will keep their stems sturdy and upright.
6. Add fertilizer or rotted compost regularly for optimum growth.
7. Harvest the chamomile once the flowers have opened fully. Use them
fresh or dry them for future use.
Tips on Growing Chamomile

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Because you will be leaving the seeds exposed as they germinate,
start planting after the last frost.
Chamomile needs full sun to thrive. However, if you live in an area
with extremely hot temperatures, place the plants where they can get
some shade in the afternoon.
Chamomile plants naturally repel insects, but are vulnerable to
aphids and thrips. If you plan on using your chamomile for culinary or
medicinal purposes, use an organic treatment to get rid of pests.
Remove dead flowers regularly to keep new ones growing.
Medicinal Uses of Chamomile
Chamomile is one of those herbs that old country folk are always talking
about, and if you have a grandparent with an herbal garden, then you’ve
probably come across the plant. This wonderful herb has been used for
thousands of years as an herbal remedy for a wide range of ailments; even
the ancient Egyptians revered chamomile and dedicated it to their gods.
The entire plant is of value, but the medicinal quality is centered in the
blossoms. The disk and the florets that make up the blossoms are used to
make tonics, infusions, oils, extracts, teas, compresses, and decoctions for
various medicinal purposes. These are just some of the curative effects and
health benefits of this wonderful plant:
Grind some dried chamomile, mix it with a bit of
water to form a paste, and apply it to the aching tooth for instant relief!
Relieves tooth pain -

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Chamomile is exceptionally effective in treating
indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, loss of appetite, and related ailments.
Chamomile infusion taken an hour before meals helps relieve most of
these problems.
Settles an upset stomach -
Chamomile extract and chamomile pills made from
chamomile blossoms have long been used to treat summer diarrhea in
children. The plant has anti-spasmodic, antibacterial, and antiviral
qualities.
Stops diarrhea -
Chamomile is probably best known as a calming agent.
Taken as a tea before bedtime, chamomile helps soothe stressed minds
and bodies and aids in sleep. It is also used to fight bouts of anxiety and
panic attacks.
It’s a sedative -
Chamomile is an antibiotic, an antiseptic, a bactericide, and a
disinfectant. Chamomile essential oil has been found effective against the
herpes simplex virus type 2 and chamomile compresses have been proven
just as effective as 1% hydrocortisone ointment in treating skin lesions.
Kills germs -
DIY Homemade Chamomile Solutions
Chamomile steeped in hot water makes a soothing tea and a great tonic for
cosmetic uses. It reduces skin inflammation, fights breakouts, and is an
effective hair lightener. Chamomile is, in fact, one of the most commonly-
used herbal supplements in the production of commercial soaps,
shampoos, and conditioners.
Make your own chamomile products at home with these recipes:
Chamomile Tea

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Chamomile tea is famous for its ability to calm nerves, banish stomach
pains, and aid in sleep. Do you remember how Mrs. Rabbit sent Peter off to
bed with a dose of chamomile tea after his run-in with Mr. McGregor? It
was just what he needed after a particularly harrowing ordeal.
This comforting drink has a sedative effect when served hot and a
refreshing effect when served cold. Combine it with other herbal teas and
flowers for a unique tea blend or add it to a fruity summer punch.
Chamomile tea is best made with flowers straight from the garden. This
way, you’ll be certain that the flowers you’re putting in your cup don’t have
traces of insecticide and other harmful chemicals.
What you will need:
Freshly-picked OR dried chamomile blossoms (2-3 teaspoons to a cup
of water)
Water
Tea pot
Tea ball or strainer
Honey, stevia, or any other sweetener (optional)
Lemon (optional)
Instructions for making your chamomile tea:

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1. Put the chamomile flowers into a pot.
2. Boil the water and pour it in with the chamomile.
3. Let the tea infuse for 3 minutes.
4. Pour the tea through a strainer into cups. Alternatively, place the
chamomile blossoms in a tea ball and submerge the ball into hot
water.
5. Add honey and/or lemon to your liking.
The safety of consuming herbal teas during pregnancy is still a hot topic of
debate. According to some, chamomile tea in excessive amounts can act as
an abortion drug. If you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant, play
it safe and don’t drink chamomile tea. Because chamomile is a relative of
the ragweed, those who are allergic to ragweed should also refrain from
drinking chamomile tea.
Chamomile Lightening Hair Rinse
Attention, blondes! If your hair has gone dull because of winter or if you
simply want to lighten and brighten your locks, try this all-natural and oh-
so-easy-to-make hair lightening treatment. It works almost the same way
as lemon juice, but it smells better and leaves your hair softer and thicker
too! This natural chamomile hair rinse works better than commercial
chamomile hair lighteners, and are safer and cheaper. Why pay for it at the
drugstore when you can make some at home?
What you will need:

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A tablespoon or two of freshly-picked or dried chamomile blossoms
A cup of water
A few drops of lavender oil
Pot
Strainer
Cup or bowl
Instructions for making and using your chamomile lightening hair rinse:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a pot.
2. Add the chamomile blossoms to the water.
3. Lower the heat to a simmer.
4. Let the infusion simmer for at least 15 minutes.
5. Turn off the heat and let the infusion cool down.
6. Strain it into a cup or bowl.
7. Add a few drops of lavender oil.
8. Mix well.
9. To use your chamomile lightening hair rinse, shampoo and condition
your hair as you usually do.
10. Rinse with warm water and squeeze off excess water.
11. Stand over the tub or sink and pour the chamomile rinse all over your
hair, making sure that every strand is coated.
12. Repeat the process until you’ve used up all the hair rinse.
13. Wrap your saturated hair with a towel for 10 minutes.
14. Let your hair dry naturally. If possible, allow it to dry in the sun to
really make your highlights bright and golden.
If you don’t have fresh or dried chamomile blooms, you can use 3 to 4
organic chamomile tea bags to make this hair rinse.

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Chamomile Shampoo
You can also get the lightening effect of chamomile from chamomile
shampoo. Make your own chamomile shampoo and use it to make your
highlights stand out, your scalp healthier, and your hair smell terrific. This
chamomile shampoo recipe is a great way to use old chamomile blossoms
from last season. Use a bar of pure soap for the soap flakes and get glycerin
from the pharmacy. Keep the shampoo in your fridge to make it last longer.
Take out just the amount you need every time you shower.
What you will need:
½ cup of dried chamomile blossoms
2 ½ cups of soap flakes
2 ½ cups of boiling water
2 tablespoons of glycerin
Sieve or strainer
Heat-proof bowls
A wooden spoon
A clean glass jar with a lid
Whisk
Instructions for making your chamomile shampoo:

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1. Put the dried chamomile blossoms in one of the heat-proof bowls or
in a pot.
2. Add the boiling water to the chamomile.
3. Let the tea infuse for 15 minutes.
4. Strain it into the other heat-proof bowl.
5. Clean and dry the first bowl.
6. Put the soap flakes in the first bowl. To make soap flakes, get a bar of
all-natural soap and shred it with a grater or a knife.
7. Add the chamomile infusion to the soap flakes.
8. Let the hot infusion melt the soap. This will take about 5 minutes.
9. Use a whisk to beat in the glycerin until fully incorporated.
10. When the shampoo is cool enough, pour it into a glass jar.
11. Keep the shampoo in a cool place, away from direct sunlight.
Because it has so many uses and is so simple to prepare, chamomile is a
wonderful herb to have at hand. Include it in your herb or flower garden
and let the fragrant beauty work its spell on your yard and on your health.
CHICKWEED

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Chickweed, as its name implies, is a favorite of the poultry species.
Chickens love eating the plant, particularly its seeds. But chickweed isn’t
just for chickens; the plant also has culinary uses and is a valued herbal
medicine. It is actually quite a shame that most people only know it as a
weed and an invasive plant.
Chickweed has a distinct fresh taste that goes well with soups and green
salads. It is chockfull of nutrients and, as an herbal medicine, chickweed is
known to help prevent and treat a number of ailments.
Cultivation of Chickweed

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If you want to grow your own chickweed to enjoy at home, there are two
ways to do so. One is to find a chickweed plant and transplant it to your
own garden or in a pot. Two, grow them from seeds. Here’s how:
1. Chickweed can grow even if it’s completely under shade, so you can
choose practically any spot in your backyard. Prepare the soil by
tilling and adding some compost.
2. If you wish to control the growth of your plant, you have to surround
your cultivated soil with uncultivated land. Since chickweed only
likes cultivated soil, it will not spread any farther than the boundary
you create.
3. Use a garden hoe to make furrows. Water the furrows, but don’t soak
them.
4. After the water has drained, plant 3 chickweed seeds for every inch,
and then cover with topsoil.
5. You can expect the seeds to sprout in a week. When the seedlings
reach 2 to 4 inches, you can start thinning them so that there will be 4
to 6 inches of space between the chickweed plants.
Tips on Growing Chickweed
It is best to start growing chickweed during early spring when the
ground has thawed.
Chickweed thrives on its own. You can leave it undisturbed right after
planting the seeds until thinning is needed.
Medicinal Uses of Chickweed
Though some people, mostly farmers and gardeners, would rather get rid
of this plant, it actually deserves a place in the kitchen and in the medicine
cabinet. These are just some of its medicinal uses:

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Chickweed, in tea form, is a diuretic and an appetite
suppressant. It allows the body to flush out contaminants through
urination, which helps lessen water retention and bloating. And because it
suppresses the appetite, it helps you avoid food binges and helps keep your
waistline in check.
It’s a weight-loss tool -
Because of chickweed’s anti-inflammatory property, body
pains caused by arthritis, menstruation, rheumatism and other culprits are
lessened. Chickweed tea may be applied directly on affected areas to help
reduce swelling and pain.
Bye-bye, pain -
- Our forefathers knew about the
beneficial effects of chickweed and used it to flush out toxins from the
kidney and the liver.
Cleanses the kidney and the liver
Having problem with digestion and
constipation? Can’t stand stomach pains any longer? Drink some
chickweed tea for instant relief.
Improves digestive functions -
- Chickweed is one of the most
nutritious plants known to man and it is quite ironic that man considers it a
pest. Some of the nutrients and other beneficial substances that chickweed
contains are calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, selenium, vitamin C,
ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, riboflavin, niacin, rutin, carboxylic acids,
coumarins and hydroxycoumarins, genistein, gamma-linolenic-acid,
hentriacontanol, oleic-acid, triterpenoids, thiamin, saponin glycosides, and
flavonoids.
A hodgepodge of vitamins and minerals
DIY Homemade Chickweed Solutions

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There are more ways of enjoying chickweed other than adding them to
your salad and other dishes. Here are some you can do at home:
Chickweed Tea
Drinking herbal teas is one of the most beneficial and healthy practices
one can do. Chickweed tea, for one, is rich in essential nutrients that the
body needs to function better. In fact, aside from eating chickweed as is,
making a tea infusion out of it is the next best way to benefit from its
nutrients. Having at least one cup a day helps your body cope with
numerous medical issues ranging from simple upset stomachs to minor
skin conditions and even to weight loss, as mentioned earlier. If you are the
tea-drinking type, plant some chickweed and start making chickweed tea.
What you will need:
2 to 3 tablespoons of dried or finely chopped fresh chickweed
A cup of cold water
A small pot or teapot
A knife
A chopping board
A strainer or cheesecloth
Instructions for making your chickweed tea:

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1. If you have fresh chickweed, wash the leaves thoroughly with clean
water before drying them. Once dry, chop the chickweed leaves finely
on a clean chopping board. Put the chopped chickweed leaves into
your teacup and set aside.
2. Boil the cold water in a teapot or a small pot.
3. Pour the boiling water into the cup containing the chopped
chickweed. If you are using dried chickweed, pour the boiling water
into the cup first before adding the dried herb.
4. Wait for 15 to 20 minutes while the chickweed is steeping. Strain
afterwards. You can use a piece of cheesecloth with a sieve if you don’t
have a strainer.
5. Dried chickweed steeps a little faster. Wait at least 5 minutes before
straining.
Enjoy your tea!
Chickweed Salve
A homemade chickweed salve has so many uses! It is a great first aid
treatment for minor skin ailments such as acne, burns, rashes, wounds,
scratches, and itchiness. It may also be used for boils, psoriasis and
eczema. Since you are making a salve out of natural ingredients, it is safe to
say that you can use your chickweed salve as often as needed. Here’s how
to make one:
What you will need:

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Fresh chickweed
Olive oil
1/8 cup of beeswax
½ tablespoon of Vitamin E (per one cup of herbal oil)
Small tins and jars
A strainer or cheesecloth
A wooden spoon
A saucepan
Lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions for making your chickweed salve:

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1. You will need to make chickweed oil first. Gather some fresh
chickweed then wash and dry them.
2. Place the dried chickweed into a small jar and then fill it with olive oil.
Make sure that there are no air bubbles to avoid spoilage. Cover the
jar tightly and let it sit for two weeks.
3. Shake your jar of oil at least once a day.
4. After two weeks, use a strainer or cheesecloth to separate the oil from
the chickweed. Pour the oil into a saucepan.
5. You can use a wooden spoon to squeeze out as much of the oil as you
can.
6. Once your chickweed oil is ready, you can start making your salve by
adding the beeswax and Vitamin E to the oil. You can also add a few
drops of lavender oil. This will give your salve a refreshing scent and
help prevent it from spoiling.
7. Place the saucepan containing the oil mixture over low heat. You can
check your salve’s thickness by pouring some of the oil on a spoon
and placing it in the freezer. Once the oil hardens, you can feel its
texture and hardness. You can adjust the thickness by adding more
beeswax to the oil mixture. If it’s too thick for your liking, add more
olive oil instead.
8. Once you get your desired consistency, pour the oil mixture into
small tins or jars.
9. Let them sit until the oil hardens and turns into a salve.
Chickweed Tincture
Tincture-making is a fairly easy process. All you need are some herbs and
a bottle of alcohol. Any medicinal herb will make a good tincture.
Tinctures are characterized by their long shelf lives. Make your own
chickweed tincture by following this recipe:

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What you will need:
Fresh chickweed
Pure grain alcohol
A knife
A small jar
A strainer or cheese/muslin cloth
A large bowl
wooden spoon
Instructions for making your chickweed tincture:

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1. Gather some fresh chickweed. Make sure you don’t mix other weeds
with your harvest as they are sometimes hard to differentiate.
2. Using a sharp knife, chop the leaves into little pieces.
3. Place the chopped chickweed in a small glass jar. It is better if you fill
the glass jar with the herbs. Don’t use containers made from plastic or
metallic materials as these may undergo adverse reactions with
alcohol. Sterilize the glass jars before use.
4. Pour alcohol into your jar. Any 80- to 100-proof alcoholic beverage
may be used. Vodka is a good choice since it has little flavor and no
color, though rum and brandy may also be used. Another alternative
is to use apple cider vinegar, especially if you have reservations with
alcohol.
5. Remove any air bubbles that may form.
6. Cover the jar tightly and then label it. Include the date. Place in a cool
area that cannot be accessed by kids and pets.
7. Let the tincture steep for at least 8 days up to one month.
8. After steeping, use a strainer or a muslin cloth to strain the liquid into
a bowl. Squeeze out more liquid from the chickweed using a wooden
spoon.
9. Pour the resulting liquid into small jars, cover, and label. Your
chickweed tincture is now ready for use.
There are so many uses for plants that we often think of as mere weeds.
Chickweed is just one example. Nettle, mallow, and sow thistle are others.
The next time you come across a plant you’re unfamiliar with, try to find
out more about it. You may be in for a surprise.
DANDELION

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The dandelion is one amazing herb that is regularly used for medicinal
and taste- improvement purposes. Aging back to around thirty million
years, it is one of the oldest surviving plants in the world - and yet, a lot of
people try to, unsuccessfully, remove all the dandelion from their garden.
The dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) leaves were used as medicines in
many popular traditions in Chinese and Native American culture. From
boils to diabetes, this herb has been associated with amazing healing
properties. Dandelion flowers can be used to make wine and the leaves are
often added in salads to add flavor. Not to mention that it is full of vitamins
and minerals and are terrific cures for a low appetite.

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Cultivation of Dandelion
Dandelions are perennial, which means that they are capable of
reproduction for two years before they require re-planting. You should not
have much trouble in obtaining dandelion seeds. Early spring is the ideal
time to plant dandelions.

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1. Moist and rich soil would be an excellent place to plant, but it can
grow in almost any soil. Well-drained and fertile soil is
recommended.
2. Choose a spot where full sun is available most of the time, but partial
shade works for it too.
3. Plant seeds directly in the garden. ¼ inches deep should be perfect. A
single row or wide rows will be beneficial, and the seeds must be at
least 8 inches apart. A fully grown dandelion can reach the height of
12 inches without trouble.
4. There is no need to water too much. Being a hardy plant in nature,
dandelion are able to collect plenty of water for themselves.
Tips on Growing Dandelion
Within 95 days of planting, an average dandelion reaches full maturity.
Medicinal Uses of Dandelion
is a great medicinal herb. It is known to store a versatile array of
disease cures. The root, the leaves and the flower, every part of the
dandelion is very useful.
Dandelion
– Researches have found that dandelion proves to be a relief for
urine problems. Liver and bladder problems are relieved by releasing
body fluids with dandelions.
Diuretic
– Dandelion has long been used as a way of helping
people to get their appetite back. If you've had a long bout of sickness
where you were put off eating for a while, a regular drink of dandelion
coffee is something lots of people swear by to help them get their appetite
back.
Get back your appetite

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- Dandelion tea is a great thing for someone who has been
suffering from constipation or a stomach problem. Dandelion tea cleans up
the entire digestive system and provides you a way to end the discomfort.
Digestion
- If you are suffering from a sting from a bee or any other lightly
poisoned insect, the sap of dandelion is really great for it.
Stings
- If you are not a fan of your acne, dandelion is just the thing
for you. Warts and calluses are cured by dandelion too.
Goodbye acne
- It cannot yet be confirmed it dandelions are a beneficial for
diabetics, but it is under research and many species have positive results
on their blood sugar level.
Diabetes
- The sap found in the stem of the dandelion, while not very
edible, is very effective against common skin problems like rashes and
sunburn.
Skin care
DIY Homemade Dandelion Solutions
Dandelion Coffee
Because of the harmful effects of too much caffeine, dandelion coffee is
absolutely perfect. It gives you the effect of regular coffee without having
to worry about the excessive caffeine consumption. Besides, there is the
additional benefit of the extra vitamins and minerals that keep you healthy.
Here is how you make dandelion coffee:
What you will need:

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A lot of dandelion roots
Instructions:
1. Wash the roots of dandelion as thoroughly as possible.
2. Chop the roots in to short stick-like pieces.
3. Allow them to dry for an hour. A dehydrator tray would work well.
4. Chop the roots into small pieces.
5. Roast the pieces in the oven at Gas-mark 6 or half an hour.
6. Grind the dry pieces to fine powder and then roast for a second time.
7. Now store the powder in an airtight box. Your dandelion coffee
powder is ready to be served.
Dandelion Wine
Dandelion wine is quite popular and pretty easy to make. It even happens
to share the name with a popular novel by Ray Bradbury. Make sure that
the flowers are fresh.
So let’s take a look at how to make this concoction.
What you will need:

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1-1/2 teaspoons dried brewing yeast
6 cups of sugar
1/4 cup of warm water
2 quarts of whole dandelion flowers
4 cups of water
1 cup of orange juice
3 tablespoons of lemon juice
3 tablespoons of lime juice
1/2 teaspoon of powdered ginger
3 tablespoons of chopped orange zest
1 tablespoon of chopped lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Wash the blossoms properly and let it soak for 48 hours.
2. Put the blossoms with the water and add up the lemon, orange and
lime juices.
3. Now add the ginger, the peels of the fruits, sugar and cloves.
4. Stir and boil the mixture.
5. Strain over coffee filter papers.
6. Add yeast in the infusion that will be formed and stir again whole it is
still moderately warm.
7. Place a lid or a cover and let it rest for the night.
8. Put it in a bottle with holes on the top.
9. Let it ferment for three weeks.
10. You will find a layer of sediment at the bottom of the container. Put
the wine in another container to leave the sediment alone.
11. Store for a few months or a year for excellent taste. As they say, the
older the wine, the better it is.

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You should probably know that fermentation can take up more than three
weeks if your area happens to have a low temperature. So if you live in a
cold place, give the fermentation more time.
Dandelion Pumpkin Seed Pesto
This is a recipe for a healthy pesto that will not displease your taste buds
either. You are going to need a food processor for this particular menu.
What you need:
¾ cup of green pumpkin seeds
3 cloves of minced garlic
¼ cup of parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 cups of dandelion greens
½ tablespoon of lemon juice
½ cup pure virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
Black pepper
Instruction:

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1. Preheat the oven up to gas mark 4 (350F)
2. Roast the pumpkin seeds in a baking sheet for 5 minutes, until it’s just
fragrant.
3. Let it cool down.
4. Put the garlic and seeds in a food processor and pulse until they are
chopped finely.
5. Add the cheese, the dandelions and the juice.
6. Process together until they are properly mixed.
7. The pesto should be very thick by now. Add olive oil until it is smooth.
8. Sprinkle salt and pepper according to your taste.
So there you go. That was just barely scratching the surface of the
immense possibilities dandelion stores in it. From kidney problems,
diarrhea, rashes and (just as an edible and tasty herb) a dandelion is a great
herb and the best part of it is that it's available just about everywhere. It is
unfortunate that people often try to get rid of such a cool gift from nature.
ECHINACEA
One of the most popular herbs in America, echinacea is an effective and
widely used remedy for common cold and flu. The name “Echinacea” was
derived from the resemblance of the spikes on the central disc of the
flower with “echinos”, the Greek for hedgehog.

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Native Americans used echinacea as a general medicine for all diseases
and infected wounds. Records say that it was used against snake bites,
diphtheria, anthrax, scarlet fever and as a general pain reliever. Nowadays,
it is used for the cure of sore throat and other symptoms of cold, and
research shows promises to cure ear infections, athlete’s foot and sinusitis
and even act as a suppressor of the herpes simplex virus. The plant has 9
discovered species so far and they are commonly known as coneflowers.
Cultivation of Echinacea
Echinacea is perennial and are easy to grow from seeds. It is a very hardy
plant, and can survive quite a cold winter. It grows well in the garden and
the flowers are beautiful, giving your garden an aesthetic quality. Early
spring is a good time for cultivation.

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1. Echinacea prefers rich soil, so adding compost to your soil might be a
smart idea. Also, make sure water does not flood your soil. A good
drainage system is required and an elevated soil bed is a way to solve
that problem.
2. Seeds should be sown when the soil is around 60°F. Sowing on the
surface of the soil, 2 inches apart, will do.
3. When germination begins, push the seeds or add soil so that there is
1/8 inch soil over them.
4. Thin out the plants so that they are around 20 inches apart. Once
germinated, echinacea will grow fairly fast.
Tips on Growing Echinacea
Rabbits and hedgehogs are fond of echinacea shoots, so make sure
you have your garden protected well.
See that they are watered as seeds but, after they grow, echinacea is
capable of keeping itself watered from the moisture of the rain. So
unless you live in a very dry region, there is no need to water the
plant.
Echinacea is not a very good competition for weeds, so if your garden
has weeds, clear them up before echinacea suffers from lack of
moisture.
Medicinal Uses of Echinacea
Echinacea has a large variety of medicinal uses - a fact that contributed
heavily to its common and frequent use as a general, all-purpose medicine
in the past. Extensive research of the plant is being conducted in Germany
and even now scientists have found plenty of uses for this wonderful herb.

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- Echinacea is known to be a good immunity boost. Though
there are some debates about it, it can heavily improve our immune
system and fight infections.
Immunity
This is probably the most common medicinal use of echinacea. It is
not yet confirmed if it works as a good cure or prevention, but the fact is, it
has been shown by many to be very effective at giving your immune
system a boost during cold and flu periods. Sore throats and other
symptoms are not much of a challenge for echinacea.
Cold -
It is good for infections in the upper respiratory system.
Traction or inflammation of these organs can be helped by echinacea.
Infections -
If used early enough, echinacea is often effective and helping
the healing of wounds.
Wounds -
Boils, acne and skin infections are often treated with echinacea.
Skin -
It is also used for urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast
infection, flu, gum disease, tonsillitis, genital herpes and more.
Miscellaneous -
DIY Homemade Echinacea Solutions
Echinacea Tincture
This tincture is an excellent cure for colds and can cure it in a very short
time. It is easy to prepare and is very effective. So let’s go straight to the
making of it.
What you will need:

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1 1-pint glass jar
¼ cup dried Echinacea
1 pint vodka
Instructions:
1. Dry the echinacea and put it in the pint jar.
2. Pour the vodka on the jar, but keep a little room at the top.
3. Shut the lid tightly.
4. Now you have the menstruum which you have to leave in normal
temperature for one to one and a half month.
5. Shake the jar every few days.
6. After the allotted time, place a filter cloth on the mouth of the jar
instead of the lid
7. Take a bowl and pour the vodka out to it through the filter cloth. The
herbs will stay as residue.
8. Take the cloth of herbs and squeeze it to get all the liquids.
9. You have your echinacea tincture.
Hot Ginger Echinacea Lemon Tea
Tea is a popular drink but a cup of echinacea tea is more helpful than your
normal tea. It is great for colds and sore throats. So here’s the recipe.
What you will need:
2 cups of boiling water
A teaspoon of dried echinacea flowers
A teaspoon of ginger, finely chopped and fresh
Squeezed juice of 1 lemon
A teaspoon of honey

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Instruction:
1. In a teapot, place the ginger and echinacea.
2. Pour boiling water in it.
3. Add honey and lemon juice.
4. Stir to mix.
5. Enjoy and stay cold-free.
Elderberry-Echinacea Syrup
This syrup is marvelous for colds, flu, and fever and even helps a little with
blood pressure. The ingredients are all medically useful and are very
effective. So here’s how you make it:
What you will need:
1/2 cup dried elderberries
2 tablespoon of dried echinacea
1 tablespoon of dried ginger root
1-2 cinnamon sticks, broken in half
3 cup distilled water
3/4 cup raw honey
Instructions:

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1. Pour all ingredient except for the honey in a small bowl.
2. Add distilled water and let it boil, turn the burner to medium.
3. When you see a simmer, turn the burner to the lowest you can
without switching it off.
4. Leave it like that for 45 minutes.
5. Stir occasionally and crush the elderberries to release their juices.
6. Now strain the mixture until you have just the liquid.
7. Wait for around 10 minutes.
8. Now add the honey.
9. Stir thoroughly.
10. Once done, keep it tightly shut with the lid and store in the
refrigerator.
11. Use when you think you require them.
Now as a fair warning, echinacea is not a harmful, but it is not best for all
situations. Echinacea does not mix well with medications for immunity, so
if you are on one of them, it is better to avoid echinacea. It is also advisable
for diabetes, AIDS, multiple sclerosis, leukemia and any autoimmune
disease patients to stay clear of echinacea. If you are allergic, echinacea
can cause from mild rashes to life threatening reaction of throat
tightening.
Asthma allergic people are also considered unsafe from echinacea.

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Echinacea is one of the most popular herbs over the globe. It is easy to find,
incredibly useful and gives a touch of pretty brightness to your garden.
From hundreds of years ago, people used this beautiful flower to cure
their wounds and diseases. Even in present, it is used as an effective
medicine and still, scientists are conducting researches to find out more
use from this wonderful herb.
ELDER
Elder, and its fruit elderberry, has been used as a medicine for flu for a
long time and it has gained its reputation as a tasty fruit too. Both the flower
and the berries are used for medicinal purposes, though it is strongly
advised to cook the berries before using them, as raw berries have
properties similar to cyanide poison.
Elder is generally found in Europe, Africa, parts of Asia and even North
America. Of its many species, Sambucus nigra, the European Elder, is the
most commonly used type for medical purposes. The plant can grow up to
30 feet tall in dry or moist soil. The wood of the tree is white and easy to
cut, and hence, is quite popular for making small objects. And the flowers
are pretty enough to find a spot in a fancy garden!

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Cultivation of Elder
The ideal soil to grow Elder is one with pH 5.5 to 6.5 and also moist, fertile
and well drained, but it does not mind having other values of acidity,
fertility or texture. If you have heard the rumor that elder prefers
swamped spots, you should be aware that it is totally wrong. Elder is
intolerant of bad drainage.
So here is the method for planting elder.
1. Plant seeds in the spring.
2. It is suggested to plant them as soon as they are available, in the
nursery. Waiting long will kill the seeds.
3. Elder is really fond of fertilizers, so add compost to the soil before
sowing.
4. Plant the seeds 6 to 10 feet apart. Remember to leave about ¼ inch soil
over the seeds.
5. You have to annually add fertilizer at early spring. One pound of
ammonium nitrate for each plant is a good amount.
Tips on Growing Elder
Elder have shallow roots, so in the first season, you have to keep them
well-watered. Also, as mentioned earlier, a good drainage system is a
must.
They should be weeded regularly, or there is the threat of elder
plants taking up all the garden.
Through the roots, elder will grow more plants. You can dig them up
and replace to another spot or just mow them if you do not require
more.

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Medicinal Uses of Elder
Elder is known to be one of the most useful medicinal herbs around and
true to its reputation, it acts as a cure to many illness. It is an antioxidant,
laxative, diaphoretic and anti-inflammatory properties among others have
contributed to its fame in the medical world. It has been used in medicine
in North America, Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa in the past.
For the common cold, elderberries are very effective. Elderberry
tea is an effective method to counter coughs and sore throats.
Cold -
Flu is not much of a challenge for this wonderful herb. Elder is
thought to dampen the virus’ ability to affect the cells.
Flu -
Elder can fight bacterial and viral infections quite effectively.
Infections -
It helps to boost your immune system and improve your vision
considerably if consumed regularly.
Immunity -
Elder is great when it comes to reducing cholesterol. Its antioxidant
property comes really helpful in here and keeps the heart strong and
cholesterol-free.
Heart -
Studies show that elder might be effective against
inflammation of the bladder and the urinary tract, bronchitis, HIV and
cancer.
Under research -
DIY Homemade Elder Solutions
Elderberry Blossom Tea

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Elderberry tea is very effective for cold and sore throats, and the flavor is
not bad either.
This is how you make it:
What you will need:
1 and 1/2 tablespoon of dried elderberry blossom.
A cup of boiling water.
A thin slice of lemon.
Sugar for taste.
Instructions:
1. Place the dried elderberry in a teapot.
2. Now add the boiling water.
3. Let it steep for a few minutes.
4. Strain with a cheesecloth.
5. Add the lemon and sugar.
6. Enjoy while it is warm.
Elderberry Pie
This is a delicious pie that can be enjoyed together in a Sunday evening or
any other day. Apart from the mouth-watering taste, the pie contains a lot
of vitamins and minerals that would keep you healthy and at the same
time satisfy your taste buds. And it is a good idea to bake with a foil at the
bottom.
What you will need:

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A normal recipe pastry for a double crust, 9 inch pie.
4 cups of elderberries
3 tablespoon of corn-starch
1 cup of white sugar
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Mix the cornstarch in a small amount of water and then add the sugar
and the berries.
3. Cook it, stirring until you get the thickness you desire. You can add
extra cornstarch if you need to thicken it more.
4. Add the lemon juice.
5. Pour the mixture to the bottom layer.
6. Dot it with butter.
7. Now put on the top crust.
8. Bake for around 40 minutes until it becomes brown.
Elderberry Wine
Elderberry wine is just as tasty and effective as any other wine (blackberry,
plums, etc.) which, in fact, can be prepared using the same recipe.
So here it goes.
What you will need:

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Around 11lbs of elderberry without stem.
10 quarts of water.
4.5 lbs sugar.
Tartaric acid.
1.5 teaspoon of pectic enzyme.
3 teaspoon of yeast nutrient.
Wine yeast.
Instructions:
1. Break the berries by crushing them by hand, or pulse in a food
processor in batches. Do not squeeze and make them liquid.
2. Pour the crushed berries into a large pot with 10 quarts of water. Add
the sugar. Turn off the heat when it is shimmering.
3. Pour the juice in a large bucket and let it cool down to room
temperature. Taste the juice for sugar and acid.
4. Add another kilogram of sugar and maybe also some tartaric acid if
the acidity and sugar is low. There should be about 1.5 teaspoons of
acid in per liter of juice.
5. Add the enzyme, and cool to below 50°F in the fridge or with ice
packs. Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on the juice to keep out air.
6. Keep the juice covered and maintain this temperature for up to 3 days.
The longer you cold soak, the more flavor you get.
7. On the last day, bring the juice back up to normal temperature.
8. Now add half of the yeast nutrient while the juice warms up.
9. Once it is in room temperature, let your yeast hydrate and add in the
juice.
10. Now let it ferment.

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The elder plant is not just another plant in your garden, but it is one of the
most useful herbs that is available to us. It does not restrict its greatness to
just the field of tasty berries, but also has a great impact on the medical
field.
It has been, for centuries, used as a common cure for an awful lot of
disease, illness, cuts and bruises and colds. The natives in the woods
preferred elderberry for their medicine and, though shunned by the
introduction of modern medicine at one point, the elderberry, along with
other herbs, are regaining popularity and are proving to a gift from mother
nature. It is being extensively researched and the results we had so far are
promising that this herb has yet many potentials that will benefit mankind
for a very long time.
GINGER
In China, India, and other parts of Asia, ginger has a long and storied
history as a highly prized food item and herbal medicine. Most people only
know ginger (Zingiber officinale) for its role in stir fries and in ginger ale,
but it is actually an ancient herb that has been cultivated in the East for
thousands of years.

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Cultivation of Ginger
Though it is most prominent in Chinese and Southeast Asian cooking and
medicine, ginger is also cultivated in North America, South America,
Australia, and other parts of the world. Because it can be expensive in the
West, those who consume ginger regularly choose to grow their own. The
ginger plant requires little attention and can be easily grown in a pot
indoors.
To sprout ginger from root stock:

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1. Get some fresh ginger rhizomes. Choose ones that already have
growth buds. These are tiny protrusions that look like little horns at
the end of each piece or “finger”.
2. If you got your ginger from a store, it is best to soak them overnight,
as they have likely been treated with a growth retardant.
3. You can either plant the ginger in a shallow tub or pot with some good
potting soil or directly into the ground. Cut the ginger into pieces and
plant each piece 2 to 5 inches into the soil, about 6 to 8 inches apart.
4. Cover the ginger pieces lightly with soil.
5. Water your ginger plants regularly but don’t over soak them.
6. At the end of the season, the leaves of your ginger plants will start to
fade. You can then harvest the ginger for culinary use and for
replanting.
Tips on Growing Ginger
Ginger is a tropical plant. It loves sunlight, humidity, and rich, moist soils. If
you’re keeping your ginger plant indoors, put it in a sunny spot where it
will receive plenty of sun in the morning and dappled sunlight in the
afternoon.
Ginger is not suited to frost, strong winds, and dry or waterlogged
soil.
Mix compost with your potting soil.
If there is not enough humidity where you live, mist your ginger
plants regularly.
Medicinal Uses of Ginger
Ginger is widely known as an herbal remedy for an astounding number of
ailments.

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- Studies have shown that ginger is an effective anti-vomiting
remedy. Taking raw ginger, ginger powder, or an infusion of ginger helps
prevent and relieve motion sickness and pregnancy-related dizziness and
nausea. Ginger also helps reduce nausea in chemotherapy and post-
surgery patients.
Fight nausea
- Ginger has beneficial enzymes that heal and
protect the gut. It stops the formation of ulcers, neutralizes excess acids in
the stomach, and eliminates diarrhea-causing bacteria such as E. coli.
Keep your tummy healthy
– Ginger’s extraordinary ability to fight
inflammation is extremely helpful to the heart, where inflammation can
become chronic and lead to serious diseases. It also stimulates blood
circulation and lowers cholesterol levels.
Take ginger for good heart health
- A natural immune booster, ginger has
antibacterial and antiviral properties that protect you from airborne
diseases such as the flu and the common cold.
Dodge the common cold
A ginger a day makes the blues go
away! Some studies report that taking ginger on a regular basis can help
reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Take ginger and boost your mood -
Ginger has a “warming” effect that will help
you sweat out a fever. It can also reduce pain and fight infections.
Sweat out a fever with ginger -

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Scientists have found that there are chemicals in ginger
that fight cancer cells in test tubes. More tests need to be done to see if
they will have the same effect on humans but, for sure, ginger has
anticancer properties.
Prevent the big C -
…and a host of other serious diseases!
Is there anything ginger can’t cure? This powerful herb has also been
found effective in treating or reducing the pain caused by osteoarthritis,
fibromyalgia, alcoholism, toothaches, frostbite, liver disease, flatulence,
dysmenorrhea, colic,indigestion, and hypertension.
DIY Homemade Ginger Solutions
It’s easy to reap the health benefits of ginger. These three amazing ginger
products can be made at home and are inexpensive too!
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea tastes great and has a soothing aroma perfect for post-spa
sessions and after-dinner relaxation. A cup of hot ginger tea relieves the
pain and discomfort from sore throats and clogged noses, and is a
comforting drink to have when ill, stressed, or just feeling out of sorts. A
recommended part of Ayurvedic morning cleansing routines, ginger tea is
thought to flush out toxins and restore warmth to the body.
It is also supposed to reduce your craving for sweet and salty foods. Some
health practitioners suggest drinking a cup of ginger tea before every meal
and eating the ginger in the tea to prevent post-meal digestive problems.

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What you will need:
4 to 6 slices of fresh ginger
1 to 2 cups of water
Honey, stevia, or some other sweetener (optional)
Lemon (optional)
Instructions for making your ginger tea:
1. First, make sure that your ginger is fresh and plump, not tough and
shriveled. If the peel is too dry and wrinkled, the ginger has been in
storage for too long. The inside will be woody and will be lacking in
flavor.
2. If your ginger is very fresh, you can opt not to peel it. Simply grate an
inch or two off your ginger into a tea cup.
3. You can also peel the ginger with a spoon or a paring knife and then
chop it thinly until you have about three ounces of sliced ginger.
4. Pour boiling water over the ginger.
5. Let the tea steep for 2 to 3 minutes.
6. Strain the ginger pieces out or let them settle at the bottom of the cup.
7. Add honey, stevia, or agave nectar to your liking. Squeeze in some
fresh lemon. Stir.
8. Enjoy your cup of tea!
Ginger Oil

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Ginger oil has so many uses! As a massage oil, it leaves a gently warming
sensation perfect for aching joints, sore muscles, upset stomachs, and
menstrual cramps. It can also be used by breastfeeding moms suffering
from blocked ducts – just don’t get any on your nipple; your baby might
not like the taste!
Ginger oil can also be used as a salve and moisturizer. Add it to some very
hot water and inhale the steam to unclog your nose and relieve flu
symptoms. Add it to your bath water for a relaxing soak. If you use a high-
quality edible oil, you can even add it to your salad!
There are different ways to make ginger oil. One is to combine the ginger
and a carrier oil and cook the mixture in the oven for a few hours.
However, because fresh ginger contains a lot of moisture, cooking it in a
crock pot can be a more effective technique. Remember, the more
moisture in your ginger oil, the more likely it is that mold will grow.
Letting the ginger oil cook over a couple of days gives all the moisture in
your ginger enough time to completely evaporate – and your house will
smell divine!
What you will need:

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2 cups of fresh ginger
3 cups of oil (olive, sesame, jojoba, coconut, or palm)
An oven-safe bowl or crock pot
Muslin or cheesecloth and rubber bands
Strainer
Another bowl
A clean jar with a tight lid or a vial
A clean funnel
Instructions for making your ginger oil:
1. If you’re using the oven technique, combine the oil and the ginger in
an oven-safe bowl and let it cook on low heat for a couple of hours.
2. After, cover the top of a clean bowl with cheesecloth or muslin. Strain
the ginger-oil mixture through the cloth. Try to squeeze all the oil out
with your hands.
3. Transfer the ginger oil into a vial, put the lid on tightly, and label the
vial with the date. The ginger oil should keep for around six months if
kept in a cool, dark place.
4. If you’re using the crock pot technique, put the oil and the ginger in
your crock pot and leave it on the lowest heat setting for a couple of
days. Don’t let the mixture burn or boil. Keep the lid slightly ajar to let
the moisture evaporate.
5. Strain the oil mixture into a bowl. Let it sit for a day.
6. Transfer the ginger oil into vials or mason jars and label them.
Ginger-Infused Scrub

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The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger make it extra useful for the
skin. Ginger helps get rid of redness and puffiness, diminishes the
appearance of scars and blemishes, and helps reduce wrinkles. The oil
used in this recipe moisturizes the skin and helps keep acne away. Because
the skin (our largest organ!) so quickly absorbs anything and everything
we put on it, try to use all-natural products to make this scrub.
What you will need:
Coconut oil
Turbinado sugar
Coarsely chopped ginger
Cold-pressed oil
Kosher salt
Essential oil
Instructions for making your ginger-infused scrub:
1. Infuse the coconut oil with ginger by cooking both over low heat for 10
to 15 minutes. Remove the mixture from the heat and strain it through
a sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl.
2. Working quickly so the oil doesn’t cool and solidify, add the cold-
pressed oil and stir until the whole thing cools down to room
temperature.
3. Add the sugar and the salt. Stir some more.
4. If desired, add a drop or two of essential oil.
5. Put the scrub in a glass jar and cover it tightly.

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Ginger is a miracle herb that imparts its magic when eaten, drank, inhaled,
or slathered onto the skin. This humble-looking and often overlooked
plant is so easy to cultivate and is so worth keeping in the house or in the
garden. So what are you waiting for? Grow your own ginger plant now!
HAWTHORN

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Hawthorn is a bush that is a member of the Crataegus species. This bush
yields beautiful clusters of red (often black) berries, and it is a perfect
example of the powerful, potent abilities of nature to heal health
complaints and maladies. The use of the hawthorn bush, and its berry
often known as the “haw,” dates as far back as the 1st century AD.
The particular strong point of the hawthorn is that it can cure many
different cardio vascular conditions. Many clinical trials have proven its
effectiveness quite conclusively. The official prescription of hawthorn
berries has a reputed lineage too, with American doctors having
prescribed it since the 19th century! The powerful nature of the herb is
evident in its use – it can even treat mild heart failure. Apart from that, it
can also lower blood pressure, help maintain good artery health, and
cleanse the blood with its potent anti-oxidant power – thus keeping you fit,
healthy, and on your feet.
Cultivation of Hawthorn
Hawthorn shrubs yields the completely edible hawthorn berries, which
are quite popular. As a result, many gardens grow this delightful shrub.
The delicate flowers of the hawthorn berry arrive around May, and the
very useful berries are not far behind. This shrub is quite easy to grow, and
aside from regular cutting and trimming, not much needs to be done.

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1. The garden bed should be well tilled first. Remove any stones or
other materials, and loosen the soil with a hoe.
2. Check the nutrient content of your soil. As hawthorn will give fruit, it
needs some excess minerals, such as calcium and potassium for
complete and good growth. If your soil is lacking of these ingredients,
you should use fertilizers to get them up to range. In that case, dig a
deep trench, and place the fertilizers there. Then cover up the
fertilizer with a good few inches of unfertilized soil, and plant your
hawthorn on top of this layer.
3. You can either grow hawthorns from cuttings, or from saplings or
from seeds. For best results purchase saplings of the shrub from a
nearby nursery
4. Plant the hawthorn shrubs about 1 to 2 feet apart. If you wish to build a
wall, plant them closer together.
Tips on Growing Hawthorn
You don’t have to buy a large number of saplings to start your hawthorn
garden. Just buy one. As it grows, you can take cuttings from this hawthorn
shrub to get more shrubs. This is cost effective, and does not harm the
plant in any way.
Hawthorns are thorny bushes that can easily deter large wildlife, such as
deer. You can easily use hawthorn to make an impenetrable outer wall for
your garden. Plant your hawthorn cuttings around the perimeter of your
garden and slowly build up this amazing fencing option.

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Hawthorn berries are a prized edible of many birds, such as blackbirds and
humming birds. These are very entertaining to watch, and you can
consider having a water bath and sand bath installed in your garden for
their pleasure.
If, on the other hand, you want a large quantity of berries for yourself, you
might have to net the plants while they are growing berries to keep the
birds away. One solution is to have a few hawthorn shrubs, and to net some
for yourself, and keep some open for the birds to enjoy.
You have to keep the plants well-trimmed in order to ensure maximum
berry output. Remember to trim well before they flower. Hawthorn berries
flower around May.
Medicinal Uses of Hawthorn
Hawthorn is a potent berry that has some very practical medical
applications. It has been shown to be great for the heart in both animal and
human studies. Additionally, it has been prescribed for centuries for heart
conditions. It also has some anti-inflammatory action that is great for
treating wounds, sores and boils.
Heart failure is a serious issue and you
must never attempt to self-diagnose or treat your heart failure. Consult a
doctor before use. However, studies have shown hawthorn berries to be
greatly effective in preventing and treating heart failure. You should ask
your doctor about the proper dosage, however.
As a cure for mild heart failure -

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Hawthorn berries and their powerful anti-
oxidant action greatly improve artery health. Hawthorn users have been
shown to have avoided atherosclerosis (‘hardened arteries”) – they have
flexible, healthy arteries, that are a key to good cardiovascular health.
To improve artery health -
Hawthorn can effectively get rid of the bad LDL
cholesterol that is clogging up your arteries. Lowering cholesterol levels is
quite a challenge, and hawthorn can make it easier.
Bust your cholesterol -
Hawthorn dilates blood vessels, and this can
significantly lower blood pressure. Hawthorn can help maintain a regular,
healthy blood pressure level.
Lowers your blood pressure -
Tapeworms and other intestinal complaints can
be treated effectively with hawthorn berries.
Bust intestinal infections -
DIY Homemade Hawthorn Solutions
Hawthorn Jam
Hawthorn has traditionally been used in jams for a very long time.
Hawthorn jams are perky, tasty, and full of all the goodness of hawthorn.
You can enjoy hawthorn jams with bread, cakes or as just a standalone
treat. Easy to make and rich in the power of hawthorn, you should
definitely add this sweet treat to your diet.
What you need:
2 1/4 lb of fresh hawthorn berries
3 ¾ cups of crystalline sugar
Lemon juice (from one small lemon)

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Instructions:
1. Mash the hawthorn in a saucepan. Combine sugar and the lemon
juice and mash well
2. Add a few cups of water and bring to boil
3. Stir thoroughly, and skim the foam that forms on top of the mixture
4. Keep stirring until the mixture reaches 430F (to check the
temperature, take the saucepan off the fire, and use a candy
thermometer)
5. Test the jam by taking a small portion in a plate and transferring to a
freezer. The jam is ready if it can gel in the cold. Otherwise more heat
and stirring Is necessary until the jam reaches appropriate texture.
6. When the jam has been prepared, allow it to cool, and ladle it into
sterilized glass jam jars. Keep the jam refrigerated, as it contains no
preservatives, and will easily go bad at room temperature.
Hawthorn Leaf & Berry Salad
Hawthorn leaves are in fact completely edible. They are crunchy, tasty,
and a great addition to a salad. Combined with the sour flavor of slightly
ripe hawthorns and a few olives, a simple salad of fresh young hawthorn
leaves should leave a lingering, amazing taste in your mouth. Here is how
you make a hawthorn salad to impress.
What you need:

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Half a bowl of young hawthorn leaves (fresh picked in spring are the
best)
One and a half cup of unripe hawthorns (a slightly sour taste is
optimal)
A few olives
Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
One onion, chopped into rings
Grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Wash the hawthorn leaves thoroughly with cold water. Make sure
they are fresh, young and not populated by unwanted caterpillars
2. Wash the hawthorn berries with cold water
3. Combine the hawthorn berries, leaves and onions in a salad bowl
4. Add a liberal dash of olive oil. Toss to mix properly
5. Add in some olives for decoration
6. Add a dash of vinegar or lemon juice for further sour flavor
7. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and serve
The Hawthorn berry is truly an amazing gift of nature. All gardens should
come with one of these delightful shrubs – for the birds and for the
continued health benefit of the owners. Hawthorn is indeed a powerful
herb when it comes to improving heart health, and you should exploit this
generous gift of nature for your wellbeing.
BASIL

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If you love Italian food, you’ll be very familiar with the taste and scent of
basil, but there’s much more to this pungent herb than pasta sauces and
pesto. In medieval times, basil was considered quite a dangerous herb to
handle, being related to scorpions and the legendary basilisk; one
herbalist of the time reported that “being laid to rot in horse dung, it will
breed venomous beasts,” while the famous botanist Nicholas Culpepper
glossed over its qualities in his herbal works and concluded “I dare write
no more of it.” Today, we appreciate basil for its anti-inflammatory
properties, its poison combating abilities and its antibiotic qualities.
Cultivation of Basil
Basil is usually grown from seed, which requires some patience as it’s a
slow growing herb, but the resulting plants are well worth the effort
whether you want to use basil in your cooking or for your health.

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1. Sow in pots indoors all year round, or in a greenhouse in the summer.
2. When you have several seedlings in the same pot, transfer them
together to a warm, sunny spot outside, in well-drained soil.
3. Water sparingly.
4. When flower buds appear at the tips of the shoot, nip them off in
order to encourage further leaf growth – basil flowers are generally
bitter tasting and do not have as many uses as the green leaves.
Tips on Growing Basil
Basil prefers humus rich soil, and is harmed by over-watering.
Pick little and often as soon as the leaves are big enough to use.
Sow new plants every month or two to maintain a healthy supply of
basil.
The most commonly grown variety is “Genovese”, but you can also
try “Bush Basil”, “Ararat”, “Kemangie” (also known as lemon basil)
and “Purple Ruffles”, which as the name suggests has ruffled, purple
leaves.
Medicinal Uses of Basil
In common with many herbs, basil has a wide variety of medicinal and
healing uses as well as its obvious and well known culinary uses.
- Tests have shown that inhaling basil essential oil
increases the brain’s production of beta waves, which are the brainwaves
produced when you are thinking clearly, analyzing or solving a problem. It
seems that basil can help bring clarity of thought when you need it most.
Clear your mind

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- Basil contains compounds which can help with healing
many skin conditions. Try putting a fresh basil leaf over a wart and holding
it in place with waterproof tape. Over the course of a week or so you should
notice a significant improvement (and you’ll smell “interesting” too)!
Get rid of that wart
- Crushed basil leaves can help relieve the pain and
swelling caused by bee stings, wasp stings, insect bites and minor snake
bites, helping to draw the venom out of the wound.
Anti-venom magic
- Chewing fresh basil leaves seems to help to
relieve stress and induce a state of calm – simply chew 8-10 leaves up to
twice a day to see basil’s stress reducing properties in action.
Stay calm under pressure
Sipping water in which basil leaves
have been boiled can help soothe many minor stomach complaints,
including indigestion; as an added bonus, this will also relieve a sore throat
and help to bring down a fever in colds or flu.
Soothe indigestion and stomach ache -
DIY Homemade Basil Remedies & Solutions
Basil Poultice
Try this easy to make basil poultice on insect bites and stings, minor skin
wounds, grazes or acne. Leave the poultice in place for a few hours, and re-
apply daily for up to a week to see significant improvement and reduction
in swelling and itching.
You will need:

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A handful of fresh, green basil leaves
Rolling pin
Clean cotton or lint free cloth
Cling film or similar wrap
How to make a basil poultice:
1. Cut the cotton or lint free cloth to a size which is big enough to wrap
around or cover the affected area.
2. Trim away any excess large pieces of basil stalk.
3. Crush the leaves and small stalks with a rolling pin to release the
juices.
4. Apply the mush directly to the skin, providing a good coverage of the
area in question.
5. Cover with cotton or lint free cloth.
6. Wrap cling film over and around the poultice package where
possible, to secure it to the body.
You can also make a poultice with dried basil, although its effects won’t be
as potent:
1. Grind or crush the dried herbs into a powder with a pestle and mortar
or a rolling pin, and transfer them to a small bowl.
2. Add just enough water, a little at a time, to make a thick paste,
sufficient to cover the area of skin affected.
3. Spread this paste onto your piece of cloth, and bind to the body as
before. Use hot water if you’d prefer a warm poultice, or use a hot
water bottle to provide extra heat to the area while the poultice is in
use.
Basil Insect Repellent

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Basil is well known for its insect repellent properties, and it’s very easy to
harness these qualities into a homemade spray. Shop-bought insect
repellents can be expensive and some irritate sensitive skin – with this
homemade basil version,you can keep insects at bay without worrying
about cost or adverse side effects.
You will need:
Fresh basil leaves or basil essential oil
Water, if using fresh leaves
Vodka or rubbing alcohol or witch hazel
A spray bottle
How to make basil insect repellent using fresh basil leaves:
1. Steep 4 ounces of fresh basil leaves in 4 fluid ounces of boiling water
for several hours.
2. Strain the cooled liquid into a spray bottle.
3. Add 4 fluid ounces of either vodka, rubbing alcohol or witch hazel to
the spray bottle.
4. Shake gently to mix.
5. Spray directly onto your skin or clothes, but avoid your eyes.
How to make basil insect repellent using basil essential oil:
1. Add one part basil essential oil to ten parts vodka, rubbing alcohol or
witch hazel.
2. Decant into spray bottle and shake gently to mix.
3. Spray directly onto your skin or clothes, but avoid your eyes.
Basil Facial Steam

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Facial steams are very helpful for both health and beauty – if you have a
headache, a blocked nose or a sore throat, the steam helps to restore lost
moisture and speeds up healing and pain relief. In terms of beauty, steam
opens your pores and acts as a deep cleanser. Basil has antibacterial
properties which make it especially suitable for facial steams, so this is an
excellent and cost effective way to promote healthy skin as well as to keep
your sinuses and throat clear.
You will need:
Handful of fresh basil leaves
Water
Bowl
Large towel
Hair band, if you have long hair
How to make a basil facial steam:
1. Add a handful of fresh basil leaves to a saucepan of water and heat.
2. While the water is heating, tie back your hair and ensure you have
somewhere to sit and somewhere safe and sturdy to put the bowl of
steaming water.
3. When the water is steaming, pour it into a strong bowl.
4. Sit over the bowl and use the towel over your head to create a “tent”.
5. Relax, and inhale the basil infused steam for 3-5 minutes. You can
leave your eyes open or closed, as you prefer.
6. When time is up, dispose of the hot water safely, and then splash your
face with cold water to close the pores again and to refresh yourself.

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We’ve come a long way since medieval concerns that basil was a
dangerous herb. It’s now one of our best loved herbs in the kitchen and in
the household, and its many medicinal and health properties are only just
beginning to be explored. By growing your own basil plants at home, you
can enjoy the full range of this amazing plant’s properties – and you’ll
never be short of ingredients for a pasta sauce either!
CAYENNE PEPPER
Cayenne peppers are part of the capsicum family and are closely related to
other kinds of hot chili pepper. Since ancient times, it has been observed
that hot and spicy foods increase the body’s metabolism and that heat, in
this sense, generates heat. During the Spanish conquest of Latin America,
it is said that priests were horrified by the widespread popularity of
cayenne pepper and other peppers, considering them aphrodisiacs which
were “as hot as hell’s brimstone.” Today,however, cayenne pepper has a
wide range of medicinal uses, and can be both taken internally and used
externally to treat many ailments and conditions.
Cultivation of Cayenne Pepper

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The native climate for these chili peppers is hot and dry – this makes
cayenne peppers a challenge to grow in colder climates, but it also means
that they thrive under conditions of “benign neglect” and won’t suffer
from a lack of watering. To grow cayenne pepper from seed, plan to sow
the seeds about six weeks before planting outdoors. If you’re not blessed
with lots of warmth where you live, consider planting cayenne pepper in
pots which can be brought indoors or taken outdoors depending on the
weather.
1. Sow indoors and allow seeds to sprout in a sunny spot or in a
greenhouse.
2. Transfer seedlings to individual pots, but keep indoors for at least a
further month to give the young plants a good start.
3. When there is no danger of frost, transfer to the plants to the garden,
or to larger movable pots. Keep your plants at least 18 inches apart,
with plenty of sun.
4. Cayenne pepper is ready for harvesting when the peppers are bright
red and detach easily from the plant – typically around 70 days from
outdoor planting.
Tips on Growing Cayenne Pepper
1. Cayenne peppers prefer well fertilized, moist soil, without too much
nitrogen.
2. Don’t plant too many – one plant can produce well over 50 peppers, so
if you plant lots, you’ll end up with a lot of surplus peppers.
3. Cutting the peppers off the plant when you harvest causes less
damage than twisting them off, but either way, support the fragile
plant as you harvest.

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Medicinal Uses of Cayenne Pepper
In common with many herbs, basil has a wide variety of medicinal and
healing uses as well as its obvious and well known culinary uses.
Eating food flavored with cayenne pepper will help to
thin the mucus in your lungs when you have bronchitis or a chesty cough –
this helps you to cough more productively and to clear your chest and
your airways faster.
Get mucus moving -
Think of it as fighting fire with fire – when you eat
cayenne pepper and you have a fever, the fiery ingredient capsaicin will
help to make you sweat. How does getting hot help reduce a fever? Well,
although you’ll feel hotter, cayenne does not actually increase
temperature; the burning sensation is a false message to your brain. It
interprets this message and makes you sweat to cool down – thereby
reducing your internal body temperature and helping to reduce fever.
Reduce a fever -
Add a tiny amount of water to some cayenne pepper
powder to make a paste, and then use a small piece of cotton dipped in this
paste on a tooth which is causing you pain. This is one for the brave only, as
if the pad slips off your tooth you’ll get the full blast of cayenne pepper
flavor, but it’s surprisingly effective at reducing or at least disguising tooth
pain.
Soothe toothache -
A traditional folk remedy for cold feet is to add
chopped or powdered cayenne peppers to your socks! The fiery ingredient
of cayenne does draw blood to any area it contacts, to this does have a basis
in fact – indeed, cayenne pepper has even been used to treat frostbite!
Warm up those feet -

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Homemade Cayenne Pepper Remedies and Solutions
Cayenne Pepper Cough Mixture
If you have a wet, productive, mucus-y cough, a cough syrup made with
cayenne pepper could help. Capsaicin will boost blood circulation, helping
to speed the healing process, as well as making it easier for you to cough
up the mucus. However,too much cayenne pepper can irritate the
stomach, and has also been shown to reduce the effects of aspirin and ACE
inhibitors, so don’t try this without asking your doctor first if you’re taking
these kinds of medication.
You will need:
Cayenne pepper
Lemon juice
Honey
Water
How to make cayenne pepper cough mixture:
1. Boil a cup of water and allow to cool sufficiently for you to drink it.
2. Add one tablespoon of honey to the water, plus two tablespoons of
lemon juice.
3. Mix thoroughly.
4. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, and mix thoroughly again.
5. Drink immediately, and repeat as required.

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This mixture should help to ease your cough and will also soothe the
soreness in your throat caused by the coughing. Honey is a natural soother
and will coat your throat, while lemon helps to reduce inflammation –
combined with the cayenne pepper, this honey and lemon concoction is a
strong ally in your fight against a cough.
Cayenne Pepper Nasal Irrigation Solution
Nasal irrigation is well known to be beneficial in keeping your nasal
cavities clear and in reducing harmful mucus build-up. Adding a tiny
amount of cayenne pepper to a nasal irrigation solution can be of benefit to
those who suffer with sinusitis,but as with all cayenne pepper uses, be
cautious in how much you use – too much and you will experience burning
discomfort. Start with adding the cayenne to the solution for just a few
seconds, and work up to a longer time/stronger solution gradually if you
feel you can tolerate it.
You will need:
A neti or other nasal irrigation pot
Boiled water cooled to tepid
½ teaspoon crushed cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
An infuser or small muslin cloth
How to make cayenne pepper nasal irrigation solution:

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1. Place the crushed cayenne pepper into the tea infuser or muslin bag
and shake well to ensure that no pepper comes out loose.
2. Dissolve the baking soda and salt into two cups of tepid water, and
shake well.
3. Add the infuser or muslin bag to the tepid water for five seconds and
remove.
4. Shake again; the water should now have a pale pink tinge.
5. Use this solution according to the instructions with your nasal
irrigator.
Cayenne Pepper Tincture for Relief of Joint Pain
Capsaicin acts on nerve endings, causing them to release a particular
chemical known as substance P; substance P’s job is to transmit pain
signals the brain. When cayenne pepper is applied to the skin, it effectively
“fools” the nerves into releasing a rush of substance P
, which you
experience as a feeling of heat. Once the nerves have used up their
substance P in this way, they will not transmit any more pain signals for a
while – this is why cayenne pepper can be an effective pain relief treatment
for chronic joint pain, including arthritis.
You will need:
1 tablespoon crushed cayenne pepper
1 pint cider vinegar
Bottle with a tight fitting lid
How to make cayenne pepper tincture for relief of joint pain:

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1. Gently boil the cayenne pepper in the cider vinegar.
2. Bottle without straining, while still hot.
3. Apply regularly, directly to the affected joints.
With so many healing and health-promoting properties, it’s no wonder
that cayenne pepper is so widely used in home remedies. Whether you
enjoy the taste of this red hot spice or not, putting it to use in your home is
an excellent way of enjoying its anti-inflammatory, metabolism boosting,
pain relieving properties. It’s even said that regularly eating cayenne
pepper can help with weight loss – what a wonder-spice it truly is!
CINNAMON

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Cinnamon is a spice with a rich and fascinating history. From the ancient
Egyptians, who used it during the embalming process which produced
mummies, to the ancient Chinese, who valued it more than gold, this
sweet smelling spice has been traded, fought over and used for myriad
purposes for thousands of years. It was among the most valuable of the
spices which fueled the spice trade of the 17th century, and many myths
were told by traders to hide and protect its true origins.
Buying and Keeping Cinnamon
Cinnamon is the inner bark of one of several trees in the Cinnamomum
genus; as such it is extremely difficult to cultivate at home, and most of us
must buy the cinnamon we use. Nearly 80% of the world’s cinnamon now
comes from Sri Lanka.
Ceylon cinnamon, sometimes also called “true cinnamon” is usually only
available from specialty stores. This type of cinnamon is more expensive
than others, and has a milder taste with a citrus-y tang. The most
commonly available type of cinnamon is cassia cinnamon, from cassia
trees. Cassia cinnamon varies enormously in quality, so if you want the best
you need to ensure that you’re buying premium quality spice. A good way
to check is to look for a volatile oil content of at least 2%.
Whether you buy cinnamon quills or ground cinnamon depends on your
preferred uses of the spice, but you might want to buy some of each.
Ground cinnamon will keep well for about six months in a cool, dark
cupboard. Store cinnamon quills in an airtight jar away from direct
sunlight, or even in the fridge – quills will stay fresh for around a year
under the right conditions, although some preserved quills are hundreds
of years old!

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Medicinal Uses of Cinnamon
Cinnamon’s many medicinal uses elevate it into the realm of a
“superfood”, but it’s important to note that pregnant women should not
consume too much cinnamon. The normal amount of cinnamon
consumed when used as a food is fine, but cinnamon supplements or extra
usage of any kind during pregnancy should be avoided in case the spice
stimulates contractions.
Research and medical studies have
shown that cinnamon can play a positive role in stabilizing and lowering
blood sugar levels, because it slows down the rate at which the stomach
empties. Eating cinnamon can therefore help people suffering from
diabetes, when combined with medical treatment.
Keep your blood sugar under control -
Cinnamon smells lovely, so it’s quite rational that we
might use it to mask bad odors. It also has antibacterial properties, so it’s
the perfect spice to use to help combat halitosis.
Get rid of bad breath -
Those same antibacterial properties can be a great
help against fungal infections, including candida, ringworm and athlete’s
foot. Hang some crushed cinnamon in a muslin bag and run your bath
water through it – you’ll not only smell great, but you’ll feel better too.
Fight fungal infections -
- Cinnamon tea is a popular ayurvedic
medicine for heartburn. Simply add a teaspoon of crushed or powdered
cinnamon to a cup of hot water, leave to steep for a few moments, strain
and drink.
Douse the flames of heartburn

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Having trouble sleeping? Cinnamon has mild
sedative properties, so adding some to a glass of warm milk before
bedtime can help relax you and combat insomnia, particularly during
times of stress.
Sweeten your bedtime -
DIY Homemade Cinnamon Remedies and Solutions
Cinnamon Antibacterial Spray
This sweet-smelling spray is perfect as a mouthwash spritzer, or to spray
on your feet to prevent foot odor and help combat fungal infections. Use as
required. If you make several batches, you can decant some into a
different, larger bottle and use it as a homemade antibacterial surface
cleaner too – perfect for quick spray clean ups in the kitchen or bathroom.
You will need:
8 cinnamon sticks
4 cups water
A small spray bottle or similar container
How to make cinnamon antibacterial spray:
1. Break up the cinnamon sticks and add to a saucepan.
2. Add the water, and bring to the boil.
3. Simmer for around five minutes.
4. Take off the heat and leave to steep for 45 minutes.
5. Strain, and decant into bottles as required.

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For vaginal thrush infections, this solution can be used lukewarm as a daily
douche until the infection is cleared, but do not use for more than one
week and stop immediately if you are in discomfort or if the symptoms get
worse.
Easy Cinnamon Tea
This delicious cinnamon tea is very easy to make, and can be enjoyed just
for the taste - but it’s also a useful sleep tonic and could help keep blood
sugar levels under control.
You will need:
Two cups of water
One or two cinnamon sticks
A regular tea bag
Brown sugar or honey to taste
Milk to taste
How to Make Cinnamon Tea:
1. Add one or two cinnamon sticks to two cups of water in a saucepan.
2. Bring to the boil and simmer gently for about 20 minutes.
3. Add the regular tea bag and steep for a few minutes.
4. Remove the cinnamon sticks and stir in a teaspoon or two of honey or
brown sugar – as much as you would normally add to your regular tea
or coffee.
5. Pour into your cup and add milk to taste.

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This is for one person; if you’re making cinnamon tea for your family or for
more people, allow two extra cups of water per person and one cinnamon
stick per person. If you don’t like regular tea, you can omit the tea bag – it’s
a matter of taste and preference. Children tend to love this tea as it’s sweet
and satisfying, and quite creamy too depending on the milk you choose to
use.
Cinnamon Hair Refresher
Hair easily becomes clogged with the chemical residues of gel, shampoos
and conditioners, losing its tone and shine. Cinnamon, with its natural
cleansing properties, can be an effective way of removing build up and
allowing your hair to breathe.
You will need:
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon bicarbonate of soda
How to make cinnamon hair refresher:
1. Mix the ground cinnamon and the bicarbonate of soda together in a
small dish or bowl.
2. Pick up the powder in pinches while you’re shampooing your hair as
normal, and massage into your scalp.
3. Rinse thoroughly.
As well as washing away chemicals from your hair, the powder will help to
remove impurities. Cinnamon has hair lightening qualities, so you may
notice a very slight change in your hair tone after use. Repeat the hair
refreshing treatment once a week for best results.

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Ancient people were clearly onto something good when they realized the
many and varied uses of cinnamon. For many of us, the smell of cinnamon
conjures up memories of comfort baking, and particularly of Christmas,
but careful use of this versatile spice can enhance our lives throughout the
year. From cooking to cleaning and from hair care to skin care to infection
fighting power, cinnamon has so much more to offer us than its delightful
taste and aroma.
GARLIC

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Where would we be without garlic? From keeping vampires at bay to
keeping over-eager suitors at bay, garlic has long been prized for its
pungent aroma, unique taste and huge variety of medicinal and health-
giving properties. Hippocrates wrote of garlic that it could be used against
parasites, to regulate the digestion, to combat respiratory problems and to
boost low energy – these days, we can add to that list, with claims that
garlic can help prevent heart disease, lower blood pressure and even
prevent cancer. More than 10,000 pharmacological studies have been
carried out into the properties of garlic, and the results seem to indicate
that it’s among the most versatile, powerful and useful of all kitchen-
garden remedies.
Cultivation of Garlic
Garlic as we commonly know it is a species in the onion genus, closely
related to onions, shallots, leeks and chives. It’s a hardy plant, and
relatively easy to grow in any garden.
1. Plant whole cloves, ideally in late autumn.
2. When planting, push the cloves into the soil until the tip is about an
inch below the surface, and space the cloves around 6 inches apart.
3. Water regularly.
4. From early summer, the plants can be harvested as “wet garlic” – this
is when the plants are still leafy but there are reasonable sized heads
underground.
5. Harvest the rest when the foliage starts to dry out in late summer.
When it has dried out, dig up the bulbs and allow them to dry on the
ground in the sun.
Tips on Growing Garlic

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A 5ft row of planted cloves will yield around 10 bulbs of garlic.
If affected with rust disease (red spots on the foliage), destroy the
affected plants and don’t grow onions or garlic in that spot again for
several years, to give the nitrogen levels a chance to even out.
Dry harvested garlic bulbs well and store indoors rather than in a
shed – storing in a colder temperature may kick start the growing
process.
Treat “wet garlic” like a fresh vegetable and use immediately.
Medicinal Uses of Garlic
Note that garlic allergies, although rare, do exist – if you are not certain
whether or not you are allergic, you should always do a skin test patch
before using garlic in direct application to the skin.
Tests have shown that eating garlic daily can
reduce your cholesterol level by between 9 and 12 percent. One or two raw
or lightly cooked cloves a day are sufficient to reap the benefits; if you
don’t want bad breath after eating garlic, chew some parsley leaves to help
get rid of the odor.
Lower your cholesterol -
Raw, crushed garlic is a highly
effective antibiotic and antiseptic – so much so, in fact, that battlefield
medics used it during both world wars to help prevent infections at the
front line. Applying raw garlic to a cut may sting for a short while, but in an
emergency can make the difference between an infection developing or
not.
Treat wounds, cuts, grazes and scrapes -

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Some breastfeeding mums like to avoid garlic, as it
does pass into breast milk and can affect the flavor – however, some
studies have shown that babies prefer the garlicky taste and will stay at the
breast for longer if their mothers have recently eaten garlic, thereby
helping with fussy feeders.
Breastfeeding support -
Hold a raw garlic clove in your mouth and breathe
the fumes into your throat and lungs. Garlic’s active compounds include
allicin and allin, which have been shown in test tube studies to kill a wide
variety of nasties. Alternatively, chop a clove into tiny pieces and swallow
quickly with a glass of water.
Nip a cold in the bud -
Eat lots of garlic before you go on a camping trip.
The odor is known to come through in sweat, and insects are repelled by it.
Keep biting insects away -
DIY Homemade Garlic Remedies and Solutions
Antibacterial Garlic Ear Drops
Earaches can be excruciating, but garlic can help to soothe an ear infection
before it takes hold. Try these easy to make garlic ear drops, and attack the
problem from the inside too by eating plenty of garlic in your meals.
You will need:
A clove of garlic
A few teaspoons of olive oil
A small glass
An ear dropper
Cotton wool

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How to make antibacterial garlic ear drops:
1. Squeeze a clove of garlic to extract the juice.
2. Put the olive oil into the glass and gently warm with your hands for a
few moments.
3. Add the garlic juice to the olive oil and mix well.
4. Using the ear dropper, drop a few drops of the mixture into your ear,
with your ear facing upwards.
5. Keep your head tilted for a couple of minutes, then straighten your
head again and let the oil drain into the cotton wool.
6. Repeat daily until symptoms ease, but if symptoms do not improve or
get worse, consult your doctor.
Garlic Acne-Busting Face Mask
Garlic’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities make it
the perfect ingredient for an acne fighting face mask. This easy to make
mask smells delicious and will do wonders to help clear up troublesome
skin, reaching right down into the pores. For best results, use every other
day to clear an acne breakout, and weekly thereafter to help keep skin in
great condition.
You will need:
2 cloves of garlic
1 teaspoon honey
4 drops tea tree essential oil
1 teaspoon cornmeal
How to make garlic acne-busting face mask:

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1. Chop the cloves of garlic into tiny pieces.
2. Put the garlic, honey and tea tree oil into a blender and blend
thoroughly.
3. Stir the blended mixture into the cornmeal.
4. Apply evenly onto the face and leave for 15 minutes.
5. Rinse off.
6. Splash your skin with cold water to close the pores.
Garlic Tea
As you can imagine, garlic tea can be an acquired taste! However, this easy
to make tea is useful for a whole host of conditions and ailments, from
coughs, colds and flu to digestion problems, stress and all round fatigue.
You will need:
6 cloves of garlic
A lemon
1 teaspoon grated raw ginger
5 cups boiled water
How to make garlic tea:

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1. Boil the water.
2. While the water is heating, crush the garlic clove and grate the
ginger.
3. Squeeze the lemon, extracting as much juice as possible.
4. Remove the water from the heat, and all the garlic, lemon juice and
grated ginger.
5. Leave the tea to steep for half an hour.
6. Strain the tea, reserving only the liquid.
7. Drink all five cups within 24 hours for maximum effect – either drink
it cold (it’s surprisingly good chilled) or reheat gently for a few
moments.
As we’ve seen, garlic can be a tremendously useful addition to your
medicine chest, whether you eat it, brew it, mash it up and apply it or work
any other kind of garlicky magic with it. It should be noted, though, that
garlic has been shown to interact with warfarin and antiplatelet
medication, so if you are taking this kind of medication, do not exceed the
normal culinary amount of garlic without taking medical advice first.
LAVENDER

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Lavender engulfs one’s senses with delight and pleasure – beautiful
flowers in purple, lilac, white, pink or mauve shades featuring a sweet and
soothing herbaceous aroma. Lavender plants are definitely a lovely sight to
behold and a relaxing scent to smell after a stressful day! Lavender
(Lavandula), is a flowering plant cultivated for its use as a flavoring herb,
medicinal herb, ornamental plant for landscaping and gardening and for
the extraction of oils used widely in bath soaps, perfumes, cosmetics, body
lotions, salves, and topical ointments.
Cultivation of Lavender
With its relevance in both health and aesthetics, lavenders are widely
cultivated. Lavenders can be propagated from cuttings and seeds although
many gardeners prefer cuttings.

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1. Take lavender cuttings by snipping off 7.5-10 cm. (3-4 inches) stem
from healthy but non-flowering lavender shoots. Remove around two-
thirds of the leaves and dip the tip in a rooting solution. Plant the
cuttings 2 inches deep in a pot filled with damp sand.
2. Place the pot indoors in a sunny spot and water it to keep the roots
slightly damp. Reduce watering upon observing growth of some
leaves and roots.
3. You can now place the pot outdoors after one month when it already
have enough roots to easily survive outside.
Tips on Growing Lavender
Lavender thrives well in sandy or gravelly well-drained soils.
Lavenders love dry conditions and thus it is best to put them in a
sunny spot. Do not overwater the plants to avoid root rotting.
Prune the lavender plants during late summer.
Harvest lavender when the flowers are just opening because it is
during this stage that they are at their peak in aroma and colors.
Medicinal Uses of Lavender
Lavender is recognized not just because of its beauty but also with its
healing properties.
Got some big eye bags because of
sleeplessness? Combat insomnia by drinking lavender tea! Lavender is
known to be a tonic which can help in getting a better and more refreshing
sleep.
Sleep better with lavender -

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- After a long stressful and exhausting day, lavender
can help you feel calmer and more relaxed through its soothing effect
helping you combat anxiety, agitation and stress.
Relax and take it easy
- Suffering from wounds, sores or cuts?
Lavender can help heal these and additionally avoid infections through its
anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Lavender: A Miracle Wash
- Are you in pain? Lavender can help relieve
headaches/migraines, joint and nerve pains, toothaches and sprains.
Pain, pain – Go away
- Get a healthier and dandruff-free hair
with lavender! Lavender used as a hair rinse can help reduce hair loss and
get rid of nasty dandruff.
Lavender for your crowning glory
DIY Homemade Lavender Solutions
Here are some easy lavender solutions which you could do yourself in the
comfort of your home. Through these, you’ll be able to save some money
while increasing your knowledge and skills!
Lavender Tea
For an upset stomach or for soothing away your worries, irritation, stress
or exhaustion, making lavender tea is as easy as 1-2-3! Relax your day away
with these easy steps in making your very own lavender tea!
What you will need:

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1 ½ tbsp. of dried lavender blossoms or 3 tbsp. of fresh lavender
flowers
Hot water
Honey and lemon (optional)
Strainer
Tea pot
Tea cups
Instructions in making your lavender tea:
1. Put hot water to the tea pot and add your lavender blossoms.
2. Let it boil and then remove tea pot from heat.
3. Steep for 3-5 minutes.
4. Strain the flower buds if necessary.
5. Serve tea with honey and sliced lemon if preferred.
** Lavender tea can be served hot or iced. Just add some ice cubes and voila
– it’s an iced lavender tea for you!
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is one of the most favored essential oils. With its relaxing
scent and functionality as massaging oil, addition for a refreshing dip in the
bathtub, healing of wounds, cuts or burns as well as reduction of
congestion and easing away of sinusitis – there’s no wonder that lavender
oil is one of the most commonly used oils.
What you will need:

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Lavender flowers
Carrier Oil (Ideally, an oil with a mild scent and fair color e.g. Olive oil,
Almond oil, Jojoba oil)
Fine mesh strainer or alternatively, a piece of cheesecloth
A dark bottle or jar
Instructions in making your lavender oil:
1. Pour your selected carrier oil in the jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Place the lavender flowers into the jar and stir it together with the oil.
3. Cover the jar tightly and let it steep for 48 hours or more (depending
on the strength of aroma you prefer) in a sunny or warm spot.
4. Use the strainer to separate the flowers from the oil. Use a spoon
against the strainer to squeeze away more essence from the flowers.
You can also use a piece of cheesecloth to strain away the flowers
from the oil and effectively squeeze away the oil from the flowers.
5. Pour the oil in the dark bottle or jar. If kept in a cool and dry place or if
refrigerated, your lavender oil can last for around six months.
Lavender Lotion
Lotions are essential in moisturizing the skin and they cost some money
too. Well, making your homemade version of a lavender lotion could
prove to cost lesser than ones bought from the store. With a little effort
and patience in making your own lotion, you’d surely save a lot! And with a
plus, you’ll be able to use your imagination and decide what ingredients or
materials you’ll be using! Here’s a suggested recipe for your own lavender
body lotion:
What you will need:

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Lavender essential oil
1 cup of oil (can be a mixture of ¾ cup of almond oil and ¼ cup of
jojoba oil)
¾ cup rose water
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
1 tsp. lanolin
2 tbsp. grated beeswax
Grapefruit seed extract
Mason Jar
Double Boiler
Blender
Silicone spoon
Rubber Spatula
Instructions in making your lavender lotion:
1. Combine the oil solution with the lanolin and beeswax in the double
boiler and allow the combination to melt together on low heat. Use
the spoon for stirring.
2. When completely melted together, set it aside and let it cool.
3. Mix the aloe vera gel, rose water and 30 drops of lavender oil together
then pour it into the blender and turn it on.
4. Slowly pour the oil and beeswax mixture in the blender to combine
the ingredients completely.
5. Put some grapefruit tree extract to better preserve the mixture and
then blend.
6. Finally, put the lotion in the mason jar.

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With its beauty, fragrance and importance in medicine, culinary and even
in commercial beauty and personal products – Lavender has always been
recognized as a wonder herb! Cultivate your own lavender plants now and
enjoy its wonderful benefits!
LEMON BALM
The lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is actually a member of the mint
family. This is an herb that is touted for its calming effects. The lemon
balm, with its delicately aromatic lemony smell and its soothing flavor, has
graced some of the most fabulous fragrant teas ever made. Like other
delicious mints, the lemon balm too has its lineage in the shrouds of
medieval Europe.

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The lemon balm has been used for ages as a nerve soothing aromatic
miracle. As a matter of fact, its use in the field of calming the hot headed,
stressful people dates back to even before the medieval ages in Europe! It
has been drank in teas, added to wines, and used in recipes with the goal of
achieving mental calm through the delicate taste and fragrant flavor.
Today, the tincture of lemon balm and its essential oil are wildly popular,
and act as a relief for the modern day workers exposed to stressful jobs.
Cultivation of Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, like other members of the mint family, is a hardy plant that
can handle tough conditions, such as a bit of shade and little soil nutrients.
Thus, not a particular lot of care is needed to grow this useful herb.
However, growing lemon balm with dedication and care is bound to give
you a lot of healthy, great flavored lemon balm leaves.

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1. A well tilled garden bed is recommended, as with any other
gardening venture. Make sure there are no stones, and the turned
over soil is loose for reception of the lemon balm.
2. Lemon balm prefers growing in soil that has plenty of moisture but is
well drained. So remember not to pack your garden bed soil.
3. The recommended pH for growing lemon balm is from 6 to 7. If the
pH is higher, use an alkali such as calcium.
4. Since lemon balm leaves are picked a lot, a good fertilizer will ensure
optimal growth. You can use organic compost for maximum results.
Simply dig a deep trench in the bed, lay down a layer of the fertilizer,
and cover that up with a good few inches of soil. Then plant your
lemon balm in the soil.
5. Lemon grass is best grown from a cutting or sapling. Simply transfer
saplings to the ready bed.
Tips on Growing Lemon Balm
Your lemon balm shrub should be regularly trimmed for best results.
During periods of drought or other hard times, simply cut down the shrub
to a small size. This will significantly decrease pressure on the plant, and it
will grow back all healthy in more opportune times.
Dry lemon balm leaves are flavorless at worst. Young leaves have the best
flavor. This makes lemon balm more or less a seasonal treat. Enjoy the
great flavor in periods of new leaf growth in spring.
Protect lemon balm from frosts - Lemon balm flowers are not particularly
effective, but they do spread around seeds. To prevent your lemongrass
from repopulating, you should use mulch around the ground near your
lemon balm plant.

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Medicinal Uses of Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has reputed medicinal use since ancient times. It has often
been used as a tonic for bad moods and stress. The simple, yet fragrant
flavor of lemon balm is a great source of relaxation.
Stress relief is crucial for good health, and the accumulation of stress
causes many health complications. The use of lemon balm is therefore
quite effective towards achieving good health. Furthermore, the
antioxidants in lemon grass boosts good health, and can be used to treat
herpes sores and indigestion.
A gentle, lukewarm tea of lemon balm, together with
other soothing flavored herbs such as chamomile and vanilla, can be an
effective reliever of stress problems.
Bust your stress -
Viruses that cause cold sores have been shown to be
combated by lemon balm. Although scabbing and scarring is not much
helped, herpes cold sores have been shown to reduce in redness upon
topical application of lemon balm cream.
Treat herpes sores -
In the laboratory, lemon balm has been seen to combat
some indigestion causing bacteria. This means that the lemon balm,
together with some other effective herbs, can be used to combat
indigestion.
Treat indigestion -
Take the sting away from a bee or wasp sting using an
ointment cream made from lemon balm extracts.
Treat insect bites -

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A soothing tea of lemon balm, with its fragrant
lemon smell, can easily remove stress induced headaches.
Get rid of your headache -
DIY Homemade Lemon Balm Solutions
Lemon Balm Wine
This invigorating and refreshing summer wine can really lighten up your
mood and open up the summer festivities. The unique flavor is thoroughly
enjoyable and is bound to draw compliments. Serve it chilled to capture
the very essence of summer. It is low in alcohol content.
What you need:
2 quarts of lemon balm leaves
1 pound sultanas
The juice and the rind of two large oranges
The juice and the rind on one large lemon
5 cups of sugar
1 teaspoon of tartaric acid
1 teaspoon of pectic enzyme
Campden tablet
Brewer’s yeast
Instructions for Making Lemon Balm Wine

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1. Wash the lemon balm thoroughly in cold water. Remove the leaves
from the stalks, and discard the stalks. Wash the leaves again.
2. Fill a saucepan with water and bring to boil.
3. Put the lemon balm leaves in a container and fill with boiling water.
4. Add a campden tablet to the water and dissolve.
5. Cover up the container and leave for 48 hours
6. Strain the lemon balm off after 48 hours
7. Add to the remaining liquid the orange pulp, the finely chopped
rinds, the lemon juice and the lemon rind (finely chopped), the
sultanas, the acids and the enzyme, and the yeast.
8. Ferment the mixture for about 4 days in a dry, cool place
9. Filter off the solution and add the sugar and top off with water to
make about 1 gallon. Now pour into a demijohn and ferment again.
10. Bottle up the wine when optimal alcoholic level has been reached.
Make sure to use strong bottles.
Lemon Balm Tea
The tea of lemon balm, with its refreshing properties, is an excellent way
to end a stressful, tiring day of hard work. Breathe in the lemony scent of
this delicious, well-loved tea, sink in the lemony goodness, and forget all
your woes and worries.
What you need:
Half a cup of lemon balm leaves
Two cups of water
Honey
Instructions:

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1. Heat the two cups of water in a kettle.
2. Shred the lemon balm leaves.
3. Place the lemon balm leaves in a stainless steel mesh tea ball.
4. Put the ball in hot (not boiling) water and steep for a few minutes.
5. Add honey to the tea as per taste. Enjoy.
There is not much really left to say about lemon balm. Its lemony flavor
and its hardy nature in the garden is enough to make any gardener fall in
love. As a herb, it is outstanding – the flavor is strong enough to make its
presence known,yet not overbearing.
It is really the perfect herb. It has been used to bust stress since before
stress became widely known and understood – and this goes to show how
effective lemon balm really is in relieving stress symptoms. So add this
incredible herb to your garden and your cooking today, and just watch
your mood elevate!
LIQUORICE

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Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a flowering perennial plant with purple
and white flowers. It is native to the Mediterranean, and South and Central
Asia. The most helpful part of this plant is the sweet tasting taproot that can
grow up to four feet deep. This gray taproot (yellow on the inside) has been
the feature of prescriptions since ancient times.

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Hippocrates, the man who defined modern day medical practice in
Ancient Greece, named the root of the plant ‘glukos riza’; the ‘sweet root’ -
which is a clear indication of how sweet and pleasant tasting the root is.
Ayurvedic treatment has long prescribed this herb for the effective
treatment of upper respiratory tract problems. But that is not the only use
of this herb. Liquorice contains a blend of compounds which makes it a
useful treatment for many different maladies,including ulcers, colds, and
even as a mild laxative. However, it is important not be liberal with the use
of Liquorice. It can cause potassium deficiency and an increase in blood
pressure, and high blood pressure patients, along with diabetics, should
avoid Liquorice.
Cultivation of Liquorice
Liquorice is a very popular plant these days, and it should not be too
difficult to obtain a few seeds of the plant from the nearest nursery. The
important thing to remember is that Liquorice growing requires a bit of
patience – it takes about three to four years for the roots to grow long
enough to be harvested.

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1. Use a nail file to file off a little section of the husk of each seed.
2. Soak the seeds in water for about 24 hours.
3. Transfer the seeds into separate, sturdy 4 inch pots that can
accommodate watering.
4. Sprinkle about 1/4 inch of soil on the seeds. Give the seeds 8 to 10
hours of sunlight, and water regularly. Germination can take from a
week to two weeks.
5. When the seedlings are sturdy enough, transfer to a bed. The bed
must be turned over well, with loose soil and no weeds.
6. Dig holes into the soil, about three feet apart that are the same depth
as the 4 inch pots, but about twice as wide.
7. Slide the seedlings out of the pot and transfer to the holes. Sprinkle
soil in loosely.
8. Water the roots diligently for the first year. After a year of root
growth, the plant comes fairly drought resistant.
Tips on Growing Liquorice
During the seedling stage, it is important to keep the pots well drained. Do
not over water or the roots will rot.
It may be a good idea to grow separate batches of Liquorice every year, as
Liquorice takes 4 years to grow. That way, you can consistently harvest
Liquorice every year after four years.
Medicinal Uses of Liquorice
Liquorice roots are excellent cures for a wide array of health
complications. The leaves and stems, too, can be useful. Prescribed since
ancient times, it has been touted both through long experience of cure,
and by modern scientific research based verification.

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Liquorice can help with reducing
cholesterol by increasing the flow of bile. Liquorice root also contains
antioxidants which can significantly increase capillary health and stop
arterial plaque from depositing.
Cholesterol and cardiovascular health -
Liquorice contains anti-inflammatory and
anti-spasmodic compounds, and even has mild levels of estrogen-like
substances. So Liquorice can be used to relieve PMS symptoms.
Relief from menstrual cramps -
Liquorice has antibacterial and anti-viral properties.
This can help with preventing the return of cold sores from herpes.
Relief from herpes-
Liquorice helps cool down the stomach acid, relieving
gastric troubles.
Gastric relief -
Liquorice has surprising mood enhancing properties.
Researchers believe this is based in Liquorice’s ability to stimulate the
adrenal glands. In any case, sipping on a well-made Liquorice tea can well
uplift your mood.
Depression cure -
However, Liquorice users need to be careful not to exceed recommended
dosages. Liquorice can increase blood pressure and cause potassium
deficiency. Those suffering from high blood pressure and diabetes should
stay off Liquorice concoctions.
DIY Homemade Liquorice Solutions
Liquorice Tea

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Liquorice tea is an excellent cure for colds, sores and fevers. Rich in
antioxidants and antibacterial and antiviral compounds, it can really help
perk up your health and mood. Liquorice root is sweet as it is, and thus
Liquorice tea requires no addition of harmful sugar in order to make it
palatable.
Here is how you can make a healthy Liquorice tea:
Ingredients:
Liquorice roots
Peppermint leaves or cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Shred the Liquorice roots into coarse, small pieces using a knife,
shredder or a blender. You will need about 1 teaspoon of grated root.
2. Boil about a cup of water in a kettle
3. Place the grated Liquorice in a steel tea ball or a mesh infuser. Place it
in the hot (not boiling) water and let the root steep.
4. Add peppermint leaves or cinnamon for flavor. You may add other
herbs too. You can add these either in the infuser, or just let the leaves
into the water.
5. Drink the tea when it is mildly lukewarm. You can drink about three
cups a day, but be careful not to over drink, as Liquorice can have
some side effects in excess.
Liquorice Candy

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Liquorice candies are a favorite of young and older people alike. It’s a
healthy sweet that doesn’t use harmful refined table sugars for the
yummy sweetness. These days the commercial “Liquorice candy” don’t
have actual Liquorice, as excess Liquorice can be harmful to health. So you
can make some delicious Liquorice sweets at home, but be careful not to
overindulge!
Ingredients:
Molasses
Liquorice roots
Anise
Flour
Instructions
1. Add one cup of molasses to a heating pan. Heat gently for about ten
minutes, but do not allow the molasses to bubble.
2. Add one teaspoon of powdered anise and one teaspoon of powdered
Liquorice root to the molasses, and stir thoroughly.
3. Add half a cup flour to the molasses mixture. Keep adding with flour
until a consistent paste has been formed. About one cup of flour
should be required in total.
4. Take the dough out of the pan, and place on a counter top. Cut it out
into several pieces, and shape into tube like candies, about half inches
thick.
5. Wait until the candy has cooled. It should harden with cooling. Store
the hardened candy and enjoy when ready.
Liquorice Leaf Salad

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You can enjoy Liquorice leaves in fresh produce salads. Although they are
not as effective as the Liquorice roots, you can still derive great health
benefits from them. Rich in vitamins and minerals, they are a great
addition to any diet.
You can make a tasty Greek salad from Liquorice leaves. Surprise guests
with this delicious culinary adventure, or try it yourself.
What you need:
Half a bowl of Liquorice leaves
Olive oil
Vinegar
Parmesan cheese
Olives
Two large tomatoes, diced
Instructions:
1. Mix the diced tomatoes with the Liquorice leaves.
2. Apply a liberal dash of olive oil and toss gently.
3. Pour a dash of vinegar for the sour taste and flavor.
4. Sprinkle on about half a cup of finely grated parmesan cheese.
5. Throw in a few olives.
6. Serve in a large salad bowl.

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So that is Liquorice – an ancient herb that has deeply rooted itself into
health practice rituals with its sweet, tasty taproot. Be sure to try the
recipes yourself and experience the powers of this gray root. You know the
herb really works when everyone from Hippocrates to modern scientific
research claims its benefits and prescribes it. However, Liquorice users
should be careful not to exceed recommended dosages. Take a little care,
and enjoy the benefits of this great herb!
MARSHMALLOW
While we all wish the puffy, campfire confectionary has tremendous
health effects, it is rather the Marshmallow herb (Althea officinalis) that
does. The marshmallow has been featured in prescriptions worldwide
since ancient times. It was also quite popular as a food – so widespread was
its popularity as a food that the ancient Chinese, Romans, Sumatrans and
Egyptians have all been known to use this herb.

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The Arabs have used its leaves in poultices to combat inflammation. The
roots and the leaves of this plant contain a sticky substance called
mucilage, which can be mixed with water to form a slick gel that can be
applied topically on the throat and stomach as a balm. People with chapped
skin may also find the gel useful.
Although marshmallow has little scientific study to tout its beneficial uses,
its long history is certainly food for thought. One recent study has also
shown that preparations from marshmallow can help soothe irritated
mucous membranes. Other diseases it can help with are cough, asthma,
indigestion, ulcers and many more.
Cultivation of Marshmallow
The marshmallow is a hardy plant that grows in the wild in swamps and
marshes (hence the name). With soft, velvety leaves and beautiful pink
flowers that bloom all year, the marshmallow is an ideal decorative plant.
Unfortunately, although the marshmallow can survive (even thrive) in over
watering and other harsh conditions, marshmallows can be a little tricky to
germinate.
But you should find it easy enough with these steps:

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1. Mix the seeds with damp sand and place in a plastic bag. Leave at
room temperature for 24 hours for the moisture to set in.
2. Place the bag in a refrigerator for about 4 weeks. Give the bag a shake
from time to time to see if any seeds have sprouted.
3. If any seed has sprouted, remove it immediately and transfer to a pot
with good potting soil. Cover the seed with a sprinkling of the sand
from the bag.
4. Keep the pot covered with a plastic cling film. Always attempt to keep
the soil as damp as possible, as marshmallows thrive in swampy lands
in nature.
5. Keep the pot in a sunny but cool area, such as a windowsill.
6. When the seedlings are starting to sprout, transfer them from the pot
to a bed outdoors. To do this, till a garden bed well, and then dig holes
about a foot apart. Place the seedlings along with the potting soil from
the pot to the hole.
7. Water each plant deeply and frequently for the first year.
Tips on Growing Marshmallow
Keep in mind the conditions in which marshmallows grow in nature. They
favor a swampy land, and you should emulate this in your garden bed by
watering very frequently. Marshmallows grow very slowly in their first
year, so be patient.
After a year, they may grow much faster, and you may have to re-space the
plants to avoid overcrowding.
Medical Uses of Marshmallow

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Although marshmallow sap has found its most popular use in the famous,
well-loved marshmallow candy, the marshmallow itself has been said to
have many health benefits.
Although few studies have been conducted on the health benefits of its
use, it has been used with good effect for centuries in traditional medicinal
practices. The success of these treatments can only signify the usefulness
of the marshmallow plant in treating health complaints.
Here are some of its more widespread uses:
Marshmallow contains a demulcent that
soothes rashes, abrasions, inflammations and wounds. Use it in a poultice
to soothe skin wounds.
As a balm for skin irritation -
Marshmallow roots can be steeped in warm
water, which can then be drunk in a soothing tea that can treat bladder
infections. Some laboratory research shows that it can be as effective as the
unhealthy antibiotics.
Treat bladder infections -
Marshmallow has been seen to have a good effect on
gum health. Chew on marshmallow leaves, or toss them in a salad.
Improve gum health -
A soothing marshmallow tea can help alleviate tooth
ache, and even slow or stop tooth infections.
Reduce toothaches -
DIY Homemade Marshmallow Solutions
Marshmallow Salad

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Marshmallow leaves are tasty, crunchy and have a flavor that can truly
enhance a creative salad. You can have it regularly, and the pleasant taste
soon becomes habit forming. Enjoy all the goodness of marshmallow in a
tasty, invigorating salad.
What you will need:
Half a bowl of marshmallow leaves
Two large tomatoes
A few olives
1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
onions chopped in rings
Two large carrots, diced
Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Chop the tomatoes into rough dices.
2. Add in the diced carrots, the marshmallow leaves, the olives the
ringed onions and the tomatoes in a large salad bowl.
3. Add a liberal dash of olive oil and toss vigorously.
4. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese on top.
5. You may add a commercial salad dressing if you wish, but these are
often unhealthy so avoid if you can. You can add a dash of vinegar for
added flavor.
6. Serve the delicious salad as a starter.
Marshmallow Tea

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A soothing marshmallow tea can be really helpful for sore gums or a
toothache. You can steep either the leaves or the roots of the marshmallow
plant in hot water, and brew a wonderfully calming tea that soothes the
nerves and gives you a relaxed feeling.
What you need:
Marshmallow leaves and roots
Instructions:
1. Coarsely chop the marshmallow roots and leaves with a pair of
kitchen scissors.
2. Heat a cup of water in a kettle.
3. Bring the water to boil and then pour into a cup.
4. Place the marshmallow leaves and roots in a steel tea ball.
5. Put the ball in the hot water and steep for a few minutes.
6. Stir the ball and shake gently to get the maximum extraction.
7. You can add some cinnamon for flavor. You can also add vanilla
essence to enhance flavor.
8. Avoid adding sugar as it is unhealthy. However, you may add some
sugar if you must.
9. Consume the tea lukewarm for maximum effect.
Marshmallow and Herb Soup
You can cook marshmallow leaves in a delicious soup that is chock full of
herbaceous goodness.

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You can combine several herbs of your choice in this sup, or you can just
add marshmallow leaves to the recipe of any of your favorite soups. The
flavor of marshmallow leaves works well with most ingredients.
Here is one recipe that works well:
What you need:
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 cloves of garlic
1/2 an onion, finely chopped
1 stalk of celery, finely chopped
1 medium sized white potato, cubed
2 cups chicken stock
2 cups milk
Six ouches of fresh marshmallow leaves, fine chopped
Black pepper, finely ground
1 cup fat free sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in large saucepan. Add garlic, celery, onion, and potato and
sauté for 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken stock and milk, and bring to boil. Simmer for 10
minutes.
3. Use half of the marshmallow leaves. Cover and simmer gently for ten
minutes.
4. Place the soup in a blender and blend. Add the remaining spinach and
blend again for a creamy consistency
5. Add the sour cream. Serve.

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As you can see, marshmallow is a great herb that can be used in a large
repertoire of applications. Add this healthy herb to your diet and you are
bound to feel healthier every day. Marshmallow leaves are tasty too, and
trying them in your cooking is bound to receive great appreciation.
NETTLE
The stinging nettle (Urtica dioica and related Urtica urens) is a herb that
has a long history of use for beneficial human health practices. The use of
this surprisingly helpful herb dates back to medieval European traditional
medicine, where it was used as a diuretic (a substance that stimulates
urination - helping to get rid of excess water) and as an effective balm for
muscle pain.

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By itself, the stinging nettle can be rather unpleasant to the skin. The
stinging nettle has fine hairs which can be very stinging to touch. It
contains some irritating chemicals that cause this sting. However, when
applied to painful areas on the body, it helps to relieve pain in that area. It is
thought that the chemicals in stinging nettle interfere with the nervous
system, thus alleviating the muscle pain.
Cultivation of Nettle
Nettle is a highly invasive species. This can be a blessing if you are growing
nettles, and a curse if you are growing anything else. This distant cousin of
the mint can be rather painful to control. One good idea would be to grow
your nettles indoors, or to separate your nettle growing operation in
another part of the house, such as the backyard.
Here is how you can grow your nettles:
1. You can find nettle seeds in most nurseries. There is no need to
germinate them separately or take any special care – simply find a
secluded garden bed, far away from your precious flower beds or
vegetable patches, sprinkle the seeds and sprinkle soil on.
2. Water the nettle bed every once in a while. Don’t water log the seeds.
3. When the seeds have germinated, keep watering for healthy growth.
Fertilization is not particularly necessary.
Tips on Growing Stinging Nettles
Always use protective gear when picking nettles. Wear gloves, long pants
and don’t leave any skin exposed to the nettles. Diligence is the only way to
avoid hours or stinging pain.

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The plant grows to six feet long. In summer, you must chop down the
nettle shrubs. If you don’t do so, the seeds can spread all over your garden
by the wind, invading your precious flower beds.
Keep the children away: Educate your children on the very painful nature
of your herbs. Prevention is the best medicine with the sting of the nettle.
Medicinal Uses of Nettle
The stinging nettle is a herb deeply rooted in ancient European culture
and folklore. Knights of yore have found benefit in this stinging herb for
their health complaints and muscle sores. You may not be brandishing
huge swords or convening at Arthur’s Round table, but you will be sure to
benefit from the many health benefits of the stinging nettle.
Here are just a few highly effective uses of stinging nettles:
The ancient use of the stinging nettle is one
you can benefit from right after hitting the gym again after many days.
Apply the stinging branch of the nettle right on the muscle sore, and just
feel your pain disappear. Be careful while picking the nettle though! You
don’t want to be stung in places where it doesn’t hurt.
As a cure for muscle sores -

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This is a useful
application of stinging nettle that has been touted by some serious
research. As a matter of fact, this is the more popular treatment for an
enlarged prostate in Europe. The medical treatment in fact decreases the
size of the prostate, whereas the treatment using stinging nettle stops it
from growing, and alleviates the problems caused by enlarged prostate,
such as inability to urinate properly, constant desire to urinate, and
incomplete urination.
As a cure for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) -
Say goodbye to arthritic pain – apply stinging
nettle topically to get rid of pesky joint pain.
As a cure for Osteoarthritis -
Hay fever can be an annoying condition. Use nettle
capsules to relieve itching and sneezing problems.
Cure hay fever -
Blood pressure and blood sugar levels can be
lowered by using nettle. This has been shown in animal research, but not
much research has been done on humans – yet.
Lower blood pressure -
DIY Homemade Nettle Solutions
Nettle Beer
When served chilled, this is a truly refreshing and energizing drink. It is
not a very hard drink to prepare, and can be a very welcome beverage in
summer. Whip up this incredible brew and surprise family members and
guests alike with the goodness of nettle.
What you need:

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2 pounds of nettle tops (must be from young plants)
1 gallon of water
1 pound of Demerara sugar
2 large lemons
Brewer’s yeast
1 quart Cream of Tartar
Instructions
1. Wash the nettles in cold water and sort.
2. Place nettles in a saucepan. Add thinly sliced rinds of lemon and
water.
3. Bring to boil and then simmer the water for about 20 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture. Add the strained liquid to one gallon water and
add the sugar.
5. Add the cream of tartar and cool.
6. Add the yeast mixture when the solution reaches appropriate
temperature. Also add the lemon at this stage.
7. Pour the mixture into a demijohn, leave for 3 to 5 days.
8. Cool off the mixture to stop the yeast’s action.
9. Bottle the mixture into strong bottles. Make sure to use sturdy
containers that will not burst under internal pressure.
10. Serve chilled.
Nettle Risotto
Any risotto is a difficult feat to get right, and this nettle risotto is no
exception. However, if done right (which is very rare) this risotto can be
very pleasing, with the nettle providing a unique taste.
What You Need:

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1/4 lb nettles (from young plants)
11 oz of Arborio (risotto rice)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp butter
1/2 cup white wine
6 cups of chicken stock
Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper
:
Instructions
1. Wash and sort the nettle leaves. Blanch in boiling salt water for a few
minutes.
2. Drain the nettles and finely chop.
3. Use half the butter to sauté the onions for a few minutes.
4. Add in the nettle and cook for a few more minutes, stirring.
5. Add in the rice and heat at a higher temperature for about 2 minutes.
6. Add in the wine.
7. Heat until the wine has evaporated.
8. Pour in boiling chicken stock (heat it beforehand in a saucepan). First
add a cup, and then keep pouring in half cup portions as the stock
evaporates.
9. Keep cooking for about 15 minutes, when the rice riches the ‘al dente’
consistency – soft but with a bite.
10. Pour out the risotto and add in the remaining butter. Season with salt
and pepper.
Nettle Omelet

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A cheerful nettle omelet is a perfect breakfast item, or a great snack for
some hungry time. You can whip it out in no time at all, and the nettle
really adds a different dimension to the egg.
Things you need:
2 large eggs
Olive oil
Mozzarella cheese
A few nettle leaves, coarsely chopped
A clove of garlic, finely chopped
Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Sauté the nettle leaves and the garlic with olive oil.
2. Beat the eggs to a smooth consistency.
3. Add in the grated mozzarella cheese.
4. Add in the garlic and the nettle leaves (cooled) and beat into the
mixture until consistent.
5. Heat oil in the frying pan and pour in the mixture. Fold and turn for
the perfect omelet.
6. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot.
The nettle is a great, surprisingly useful herb. From its ancient European
origins, it has consistently shown that behind unpleasant stinging exteriors
often lie useful interiors. Add nettle to your garden, but with care not to
have it rule your yard. Experiment with the delicious nettle recipes and
rediscover this great herb.

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PEPPERMINT
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is a very popular herb for its characteristic
hot, minty flavor. It is used in cooking for its exotic flavor, and peppermint
extracts have found their way to toothpastes, teas, and balms.
The uses of peppermint are wide and varied, and they rely mainly on the
numbing and calming effect of peppermint. Peppermint offers sweet relief
from headaches, nausea, skin irritations, flatulence, diarrhea, menstrual
cramps, and many other health problems. Peppermint extracts have also
been shown to have some antibacterial and anti-fungal properties in the
laboratory. When topically applied, it can soothe pains, skin irritations and
relieve cough symptoms. In the stomach, peppermint relaxes the stomach
muscles, and also helps to boost the flow of bile from the liver. This helps
speed up the digestion process, and relieves flatulence and gas problems.

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Cultivation of Peppermint
Peppermint is a hardy perennial plant that is very easy to grow. It is so easy
to grow, in fact, that it is very invasive, and will soon take over a garden
unless proper precaution is taken. So be careful with the cultivation of this
herb. Some people also like to have a bedding of peppermint on their yard
or garden in place of grass and you can consider this unique option too.
1. Choose a well tilled flower bed that drains well. Fertilization is not
particularly required, but can be used for quick growth.
2. It is best to grow peppermint in full sunlight, but it grows in partial
sunlight too.
3. You can either start off your cultivation with cuttings or seeds. With
seeds, sprinkle on the soil and sprinkle some soil on top. It is not
necessary to be particularly caring, as peppermint can well take care
of itself.
4. Harvest leaves when fully grown.
Tips on Growing Peppermint
You might have a lot of trouble keeping this persistent herb’s population in
control. Try to pluck off any excess growing outside your garden bed as
soon as possible.
Menthol and menthyl acetate, the substances that give peppermint its
characteristic flavor, are mostly found on older, more mature leaves. So for
cooking purposes, only use fully grown leaves.

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It might be a good idea to grow peppermint in pots indoors. They thrive
well in indoor conditions – just give them a patch of sunlight. This ensures
that your garden is not overrun with peppermint.
Peppermint has been known to deter insects, and you can even use a
peppermint spray to ward off insects from other plants. So not much
attention is needed for pests, except caterpillars – which grow into very
beautiful butterflies.
Medicinal Uses of Peppermint
Peppermint is, of course, a very popular kitchen herb. Surprisingly,
however, it has also found a great deal of use in medical applications.
Peppermint has a calming, gentle flavor that makes very soothing teas to
relieve stress. It also has a great deal of powerful health enhancing
capabilities, including anti-inflammatory properties, improving digestion,
and improving the quality and flow of bile, and many more. The leaves of
the peppermint tea are generally used.
Sipping on a gently flavored, healthy
peppermint tea is great way to bust stress after a long day.
Cures stress and mental fatigue -
Peppermint freshens the breath by killing off smell
inducing bacteria. Instead of using commercial peppermint toothpaste, you
can just as easily enhance regular toothpaste with a few drops of essential
peppermint oil.
As a breath freshener -
Peppermint contains menthol, which gives it
its minty flavor. Menthol is great for the stomach lining, and can sooth
stomach pain stemming from the lining of the stomach.
Soothes the digestive tract -

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Menthol also causes good quality bile to be
produced, and a healthy flow to be maintained. Bile is a substance
important for the digestion of fat, so peppermint can really help when
included with a fat rich meal.
Induces healthy flow of bile -
Peppermint is rich in vitamins A and C, which are very
important for the body.
Vitamin boost -
DIY Homemade Peppermint Solutions
Peppermint Tea
This is actually a very popular drink all over the world, especially in
Arabia, where peppermint leaves are also sometimes added to regular tea
for the flavor. A soothing peppermint tea has a large number of benefits. It
is a nerve soothing experience that you should treat yourself after a long
day of work. And it also has great benefits for the stomach. A serving of
peppermint tea after a meal can vastly improve digestion.
What you need
Peppermint leaves
Instructions:

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1. Shred the peppermint leaves roughly into small pieces.
2. Put a cup of water into the kettle and bring to boil.
3. Place the shredded peppermint leaves into a steel teal ball or a steel
infuser.
4. Add the ball to the hot water, and steep for a few minutes.
5. You can add some cinnamon or other herbs for flavor. However,
peppermint has a distinct, enjoyable flavor by itself.
6. Consume the tea when it is lukewarm. You can have sugar with the
tea, but it is best to avoid refined table sugars as much as possible!
Peppermint Tincture
Peppermint tinctures are a great cure for all kinds of illnesses. You can
apply them topically to muscle sores to remove the aching pain. You can
use the concentrated peppermint goodness as a few drops in toothpaste, or
in diets of sick family members.
One teaspoon of this tincture should be enough to treat indigestion and
heartburns and nausea in adults.
Things you need:
Half a cup of dry peppermint leaves
Half a cup of diced ginger roots
One fourth cup dried fennel seeds
One and a half cup water
One and a half cup drinkable rum or vodka, with about 40% alcohol
:
Instructions

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1. Place dried peppermint leaves, ginger and fennel seeds in a glass jar.
2. Cover the leaves, ginger and fennel seeds with boiling water.
3. Fill up the rest of the jar with the vodka or rum.
4. Keep the jar in a cool dry place for 2 to 6 weeks. Do not exceed 6
weeks.
5. Strain off the mixture after 2 to 6 weeks using a filter cloth or
cheesecloth.
6. Store the mixture in jars or vials.
Peppermint Soup
Peppermint is often used as a spicy addition to many cooking preparations.
But the minty flavor itself is quite enjoyable. This minty soup, where
peppermint is the key ingredient, can be a great food if you are suffering
from a cold, not only will it taste and feel great, but your cold will also be
cured faster.
Here’s what you need:
One large onion, finely chopped
Olive oil
2 cloves of garlic
1 medium sized white potato, cubed
2 cups chicken stock
One large chicken breast, finely diced
2 cups milk
Six ouches of peppermint leaves, finely chopped
Black pepper, finely ground
1 cup fat free sour cream
:
Instructions

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1. Heat the oil in large saucepan. The garlic, celery, onion, and potato
should be sautéed for a few minutes until golden brown.
2. Add the chicken stock, milk, and chicken breasts and bring to boil.
Simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add the peppermint leaves to the mixture.
4. Stir thoroughly, and boil for around 7 minutes.
5. Pour in the sour cream and whip up a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot for great results.
Peppermint is by no means an obscure herb. It has the classic flavor that
has made it famous for centuries. With its great health benefits as a
precious add on, this is a herb that you simply must grow and consume in
your daily diet. With a creative mind, you can incorporate the peppermint
flavor in a large portion of your cooking for some truly exotic tasting treats.
Here is to your adventure with peppermint!
PLANTAIN
Plantain (Plantago major) is a weed that you may have thrown out many
times from your garden. This is an abundantly growing plant found all
over North America. It has oval, ribbed short-stemmed leaves, with spiky
flowers. The plant grows in clumps. A very persistent plant, it has been
seen to grow in cracks in walls, on fences, and virtually anywhere it is
uninterrupted.

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Most people throw out weeds on the first instance of appearance, but you
should know that plantain is a very beneficial herb that has been used for
centuries in the treatment of medical complaints such as mouth sores,
bronchitis, tuberculosis, and many others.
The leaves of plantain are rich in tannin and allatonin, chemicals which
help heal wounds quickly. As a result, plantain leaves have anti-
inflammatory properties. The plant is also rich in vitamins and minerals,
and thus can be ingested with great benefit in salads.
Cultivation of Plantain
The important thing to remember with plantain is that it is a wild herb that
can well take care of itself. It doesn’t require extra fuss or care. On the
other hand, if allowed to grow free, it will soon take over your entire
garden, so your main effort will be in keeping its population in control.

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Plantain is best grown indoors, as placing it in garden beds is only asking
for trouble. If you are determined, however, to have a large growth of
plantain, you may keep a separate bed for them, but make sure it is
sufficiently separated from the rest of your garden, or you will soon find
your precious flower beds invaded by this weed.
Plantain seeds are probably not available in nurseries, although it doesn’t
hurt to look.
If you find wild plantain growing outdoors, pluck it out and bring it home.
Replant it in potting soil. It should soon spread seeds and reproduce quite
past in your pot.
Tips on Growing Plantain
Keep away any plantain from the rest of your garden. Once
introduced to the fertile soils of your flower beds or vegetable
patches, it may be quite hard to remove.
If you do have plantain growing in your garden, remove them and add
to your cooking as soon as possible. Delaying may cause seeds to be
spread, and you are bound to have a much more difficult time later. A
stitch in time saves nine!
Keep explanations well ready for curious neighbors who might
wonder why you are dedicating time and effort in growing what is
apparently just a weed!
Don’t worry about replanting in appropriate time - the hardy plant will
reproduce with such vigor that you are guaranteed to have a fresh
supply throughout the year.
Medicinal Uses of Plantain

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While plantain may have the humbling description tag of being just a
common garden weed, it is in fact a potent source of powerful health
benefits. Do not be fooled by its weed status – plantain comes chock full of
surprises, and a wide range of applications.
Plantain can act as an effective pain reliever. Heat the leaves
and apply to sore muscles or other areas to relieve pain.
Pain reliever -
Applying plantain tincture or a poultice to
wounds can help them to heal quickly. This is due to the anti-inflammatory
and astringent properties of chemicals found in the plantain leaves. A
chemical found in plantain leaves, called Allatoin, helps cure wounds
faster
Helps heal wounds quickly -
Plantain tea can easily relieve a sore throat. For best
results, ingest it lukewarm
Sore throat cure -
Plantain contains valuable and
important vitamins and minerals, such as Thiamine (Vitamin B1) and
riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
A great source of vitamins and minerals -
DIY Homemade Plantain Solutions
Plantain Omelet
Plantain omelets are a great way to use this pleasant herb, while boosting
your morning intake of valuable vitamins. It will also give your regular
omelet a new twist, and the delicious flavor is bound to make you a fan.
What you need:

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A few plantain leaves, coarsely chopped
Mozzarella cheese, grated
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
1 clove garlic, fine chopped
1 medium onion
Finely chopped
2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Add a dash of olive oil to a saucepan. Sauté the garlic, onions and
plantain leaves in the pan.
2. Beat the eggs in a bowl to a smooth consistency
3. Add the cooled, sautéed garlic, onions and plantain leaves, and finely
grated mozzarella cheese, and beat until the mixture is consistent
4. Heat some oil in a pan. Pour mixture in the heated oil, and fry.
5. Turn the omelet. Place in a plate. Season to taste with salt and pepper
Potato Plantain Soup
This delicious clear soup owes its goodness to the incredible harmony of
potatoes and plantain. It is full of vegetarian goodness, and is chock full of
vitamins and minerals.
Things you need:

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2 cups of finely chopped plantain leaves
6 small potatoes
About 8 cups of water
One large onion, coarsely chopped
Parsley, coarsely chopped
Three cloves of garlic, coarsely chopped
Salt and water to taste
Olive oil
Two large egg whites
Instructions:
1. Sauté the onion, garlic and plantain leaves in olive oil.
2. Pour in water and add the potatoes.
3. Simmer for about 45 minutes.
4. Mash the potatoes to get a rich, creamy consistency.
5. Add in the parsley.
6. Whisk the egg whites.
7. Pour in the egg whites in a thin trickle and stir the soup in order to get
an egg net.
8. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
9. Serve piping hot for best results.
Plantain Tea
A plantain tea is a perfect way to get all the goodness of plantain in one go.
It is a soothing tea that can be flavored with peppermint, cinnamon and
vanilla to get a truly invigorating and healthy tea. Have this tea by itself in
the morning to get your early morning dosage of vitamins, or later in the
day to combat stress.

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Things you need:
Half a cup of plantain leaves
Optional: half a cup of peppermint and a stick of cinnamon
a large cup of water
Instructions:
1. Boil the water in a kettle.
2. Finely chop the plantain leaves and the peppermint.
3. Add the leaves in a stainless steel mesh tea ball.
4. Steep in hot water for a few minutes.
5. Add sugar if necessary, but avoid if possible.
6. Serve lukewarm.
Plantain Salad
Plantain leaves provide the crunchy feeling that work great in salads. They
also have a great flavor that works great in any salad. The vitamin and
mineral goodness contained in its leaves is the reason why this salad is a
great idea.
Things you need:
One bowl plantain leaves
One large onion, chopped into rings and separated
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Olive oil
Vinegar or lemon juice

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Instructions:
1. Wash the plantain leaves and drain.
2. Place the leaves, onions in a salad bowl.
3. Throw in a dash of olive oil.
4. Pour a dash of vinegar or lemon juice for flavor
5. Toss the leaves.
6. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top.
So this is plantain. A weed that you have probably plucked out countless
times from your flower beds. A persistent weed that keeps growing – in
wall cracks and in dull corners - despite all the herbicides and all the
unfriendliness the cruel world throws at it. But it hides in its despised
frame more goodness than your average spinach. It is time to introduce
this amazing plant in your diet and to your lifestyle. Enjoy the weed and all
its healthy goodness, and see this much despised plant in a whole new
light.
RED CLOVER

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Red clover is a perennial wild flower that grows in meadows all over
Europe and Asia naturally. These days, it is also wild-growing in North
America. It is a plant of the legume family – which includes beans, pulses
and lentils. It is generally grazed on by cattle and sheep. However, this
plant has some very surprising health benefits. The red clover is rich in a
wide range of minerals, including magnesium, niacin, calcium, chromium,
phosphorus, thiamine, and vitamin C and potassium.
The red clover is rich in isoflavins - substances that act like the hormone
estrogen. As a result, red clover can potentially be used to treat hot flashes
and menopausal complications.

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However, research is still being conducted on the effectiveness of such
treatment, and present results are a bit inconclusive - even though many
people swear by it.
Traditionally, red clover has been used to prevent cancer, and as a diuretic
(a substance that stimulates urination), and as an expectorant (a substance
that clears mucous from lungs).
Cultivation of Red Clover
Red clover is often grown for its vivid red flowers. The great thing about
red clover is that it is a legume. Legume plants develop root nodules
where bacteria live, which ‘fix the nitrogen in the soil, making it available
in a form usable by plants. This means that cultivating legumes in a bed
will enrich the nitrogen content of the bed – for free! This is an effect
normally achieved by the use of expensive chemical or organic fertilizers.

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1. Till the bed well and throw away any stones.
2. Test the ph of the soil. Red clover thrives best in a neutral to slightly
acidic soil, and the ideal pH for red clover growing ranges from 6.0 to
6.5.
3. Phosphorus and potassium are also required, and enrich these
minerals with fertilizers if necessary
4. Seed ten to twelve pounds of seeds per acre of soil.
5. The best time for sowing the seeds is in late winter to early spring for
north to central US (or areas with similar clime) warmer climate
regions should have red clover seeded in autumn.
6. Harvest the clover when it is in early bloom. This may be about
summer. Up to three harvests are possible. Three cuttings are
recommended too, as it will help the red clover from spreading seed
(and thus becoming invasive) and will also keep a high nutritional
profile in the harvested produce.
Tips on Growing Red Clover
Red clover is best grown with a companion crop, such as wheat, barley
or oats. You can also plant with grass. In that case, use about 7 pounds
of seed per acre.
The seeds should be inoculated with the nitrogen fixing “Rhizobium
trifolii" bacterium in order to ensure its growth in the root nodules of
the plant. The seeds of the plant often come inoculated, so ask at the
nursery before buying.
Medicinal Uses of Red Clover

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The red leaf clover may be merely a humble grazing fodder for cattle and
sheep, but it is in fact a potent herb that stores some powerful capabilities.
It contains some surprisingly healthy perks that come packed in this tiny
plant with beautiful bloom. Both the leaves, and the flower itself can be
consumed for health benefit, along with the occasional use of the root.
Red clover contains numerous phytoestrogens and
four different types of isoflavins - chemicals which help increase the effect
of estrogens. This helps with alleviating the symptoms of menopause.
Menopausal relief -
The estrogen boosting capabilities of the
red clover also help combat menstrual cramps, along with other PMS
symptoms.
Relief from menstrual cramps -
Red clover cleans the blood, with its
antioxidant action. This helps lower cholesterol levels significantly.
Helps lower cholesterol levels -
The blood
cleansing properties of red clover also help improve heart health. It keeps
the capillaries healthy by preventing the deposition of arterial plaque.
Cleanses blood to help improve cardiovascular health -
Bone density loss patterns are also busted by the use of red
clover. It can help ensure continued bone health in post-menopausal
women.
Helps decrease the possibility of bone density loss from the onset of
menopause -
DIY Homemade Red Clover Solutions
Clover Blossom Tea

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A tea of red clover blossoms is a perfect solution for getting all the
goodness of red clover in just a few sips. Additionally, it is quite soothing to
sip on red clover tea, and a mild sedative action that is provided by some
chemicals in red clover ensures that this refreshing drink will bust all your
daily stress worries.
What you need:
A cupful of red clover blossoms
A jar of water
Instructions:
1. Heat the water in a kettle. Bring to boil.
2. Place the blossoms in a jar.
3. Fill the jar with hot water and cover up the jar for about 10 hours
4. You may add other flavorful herbs – such as peppermint or sage – to
enhance the flavor of this tea. Avoid sugar.
5. Consume about 3 cups of this tea every day.
Red Clover Blossom Tincture
The red clover tincture is a powerful medicine for all kinds of health
worries. It lowers the bad LDL cholesterol levels, it cleanses blood, it
relieves menopausal symptoms and menstrual complaints. It even battles
some types of cancer. What more can you ask for in a herb? Follow this
easy recipe to make a really useful red clover tincture:
Things you need:

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1 and 1/2 cups of dry red clover blossoms
Ginger roots, finely diced (about ½ a cup)
One and a half cup water
One and a half cup drinkable rum or vodka, with about 40% alcohol
(do NOT use rubbing alcohol or stearyl alcohol!). A higher percentage
of alcohol is preferable.
Instructions:
1. Finely shred the red clover blossoms.
2. Place the shredded red clover blossoms and the diced ginger in a
glass jar.
3. Cover up the blossoms and the ginger with piping hot, boiling water.
4. Top up the jar with the vodka or the rum.
5. Keep the jar in a cool dry place for 2 to 6 weeks. Do not exceed 6
weeks.
6. Strain off the mixture after 2 to 6 weeks using a filter cloth or
cheesecloth.
7. Store the mixture in jars or vials.
Crystallized Red Clover Blossom
You can crystallize the red clover blossoms with sugar. These crystallized
blossoms will be a great addition to any dessert, and they are great, vividly
colored decorative items that will vastly improve the plating of any dish.
You can go really creative with their use, and combine red clover blossoms
with other edible flowers to come up with truly unique plating options.
Things you will need:

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A dozen red clover flowers (or as many as you would want to
crystallize)
Crystallized sugar
Egg whites from one egg
Water
Instructions:
1. Whisk the egg white and about two teaspoons of water thoroughly,
until a creamy consistency is reached.
2. Slightly wet the flowers with water, and flick off the water.
3. Coat the flowers with sugar.
4. Use a paint brush to apply egg whites on the sugar coating. This takes
some time and patience.
5. Sprinkle some more sugar over the painted flowers. You can catch the
sugar that falls off in a bowl, but you can’t reuse it.
6. Place the coated and painted red clover blossoms in a baking tray that
has been lined with greased paper.
7. Dry off the flowers. You can bake for a few minutes in the over if you
want, but that is not really necessary. The egg whites should give you
hardened, crystallized flowers in about 2 days. Use in any recipe for a
beautiful decoration.
The red clover is a herb that can be used very creatively for some amazing
health benefits. As always, you should consult your doctor before pursuing
any treatment option, but the red clover offers relief and health benefit for
many educated users. Benefit from using this amazing herb today.
ROSEMARY

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The name rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is derived from the Latin
words ros (meaning “dew”) and marinus (meaning “sea”). “Dew of the
sea” was so named because in some places, the plant required no water
apart from the mist carried by the breeze from the sea. Native to Asia and
the Mediterranean region, rosemary is known for its sweet, herbaceous
flavor, its use as an ornamental plant, and its role in traditional
Mediterranean cuisine. The rosemary plant is a woody, aromatic shrub
with blue, purple, or white flowers and leaves like pine needles.
Cultivation of Rosemary

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Rosemary can be grown from seeds, cuttings, and roots. Use
moderately-fertilized loam with a neutral acidity and grow the plant
in a sunny area with good air circulation.
Remove some cuttings about 4 inches long each from the rosemary
bush and place them in pots filled with peat moss and coarse sand.
Place the pots in a warm, sun-filled area.
Water regularly until roots begins to grow.
If you wish to transfer your rosemary plants into your garden, find an
area where the soil is dry and drains well. If your soil has high acidity,
you can add some lime to it.
Once the plants are in the ground, watering should be done less
frequently. Overwatering your transplanted plants is not advisable.
Tips on Growing Rosemary
Rosemary prefers a Mediterranean climate, which means dry and
warm. It is, however, adaptable to whatever conditions it is grown in.
Slightly alkaline soil produces a more fragrant rosemary shrub.
Rosemary is relatively pest-resistant.
Medicinal Uses of Rosemary
Aside from its usefulness in the kitchen, rosemary is cultivated for its
efficacy in traditional and alternative medicine, its versatility as a
commercial product, and for various ceremonial uses. This remarkable
herb is chockfull of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, and is an
exceptionally good source of folic acid, vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron. It
contains rosmarinic acid, a potent antioxidant, as well as numerous
compounds that lend it its antiseptic, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and
anti-allergic qualities.

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Don’t let body pains ruin your day. Take charge and
apply rosemary oil to body parts affected by arthritis, sprains, neuralgia,
and sciatica. Oil of rosemary is an effective rubefacient that relieves tired
and aching muscles.
Kiss pain goodbye -
The scent of rosemary alone is enough
to soothe a worried mind and is conducive to meditation, yoga practice,
and quiet time. But, amazingly, rosemary contains rosmarinic acid, an
antioxidant that has been found effective in improving concentration and
preventing memory loss. Burn rosemary incense or put some rosemary oil
in a burner next time you need to relax or focus on a complicated task.
Improve your memory and focus -
Apply rosemary oil to your scalp to promote hair
growth. Rosemary oil and rosemary herb extractions stimulate the scalp
and hair follicles, helping prevent premature baldness. Rosemary also
helps relieve dryness and itching of the scalp.
Prevent bald spots -
Rosemary is a popular ingredient in hair
and skin care products. To experience the benefits of natural and authentic
rosemary on your hair, work a few drops of rosemary essential oil onto
your scalp and hair, coating it from root to tip. You will immediately notice
a change in texture and luster. Use a combination of rosemary tea and
nettle infusion as a hair rinse to get rid of dandruff. Use rosemary oil as a
post-bath moisturizer to soothe joint problems and treat skin irritations.
Get silky smooth skin and hair -

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Rosemary is used to treat and/or relieve the
symptoms of hypertension, fatigue, colds, scabies, depression, headaches,
and lupus. It helps prevent uterine spasms and menstrual cramps, speeds
the healing of wounds, and is a natural insect repellant. Scientists have
even found that rosemary may have a preventive effect against cancer.
An all-around wonder herb -
DIY Homemade Rosemary Solutions
Apart from its role in the kitchen, rosemary has been central to numerous
aspects of culture and history. During the Middle Ages, it was an important
part of wedding ceremonies. It was used in divination and in witchcraft,
and was alluded to in Hamlet and in Don Quixote. Today, rosemary serves
countless culinary and cosmetic uses and can be found in most
supermarket aisles and pantries. Try making these three rosemary
products from your plants at home.
Rosemary Tea
Who doesn’t love a good cup of tea? Try this herbal tea made with fresh
rosemary. It’s wholesome, nutritious, and has a soothing flavor and aroma
perfect for winding down.
What you will need:
1 to 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
1 to 2 cups of cold water
A tea pot
Natural sweetener like honey and stevia (optional)
Instructions for Making Your Rosemary Tea:

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1. Get some fresh rosemary sprigs from your plant and wash them.
2. Boil the water.
3. Pour the boiling water into the teapot containing the herbs. You might
want to keep the leaves or needles on the stem so you won’t have to
filter the tea later on.
4. Let the rosemary steep in the teapot for at least three minutes. The
longer you let it steep, the more nutritious but also the more bitter it
becomes.
5. Add some natural sweetener like stevia or honey to counteract the
bitter taste.
Rosemary oil can be toxic when taken orally. Note that the tea is made by
brewing the herb, not by mixing the oil with hot water. Don’t consume
large amounts of rosemary tea if you are pregnant, diabetic, or
hypertensive.
Rosemary Hair Rinse/Shampoo
Regular use of a rosemary hair rinse or shampoo will give you long,
healthy locks and will free you from dandruff and hair loss. A rosemary
hair treatment is so easy and inexpensive to make, and is a much safer
alternative to chemical hair treatments you get at the salon.
What you will need:

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4 to 6 rosemary sprigs
A paper sack
A rubber band
A vacuum container or Ziploc bag
A non-aluminum sauce pan or pot
A glass jar
Camphor oil/lemon juice/lavender oil
Instructions for making your rosemary hair rinse:
1. Rinse the rosemary sprigs in cold water then dry using paper towels.
2. Hold the stems together then remove the lower leaves.
3. Put the bunch in the paper bag with the lower ends sticking out. Use
the string or rubber band to tie the bag and stems together, sealing off
the opening.
4. Let the bundle hang in a dry room for two weeks. By this time the
leaves should have dried up.
5. Remove the leaves and place them in a Ziploc bag.
6. Make a tea out of the leaves by boiling clean water in a saucepan or
pot and then stirring the leaves into it. Let it steep for a few hours.
7. Pour the tea into a glass jar. Keep it in the refrigerator. You are now
ready to create your rosemary hair rinse or shampoo based on the
kind of treatment your hair needs.
8. If you have dandruff, get a cup of the rosemary tea and add 2 to 3
drops of camphor oil. Use a cotton ball to dab some of the mixture
directly onto your scalp. Wait 30 minutes before rinsing.
For a refreshing and soothing sensation and scent, you can add some
lemon juice and a few drops of lavender oil. Add some camphor oil and
you have an all-natural shampoo.

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Rosemary Foot Scrub
There’s nothing quite like a nice foot scrub at the end of a long workday.
Prepare this rosemary foot scrub and keep it in a glass jar ready for when
you need a relaxing end-of-the-day foot pampering at home.
What you will need:
3 drops of rosemary essential oil
3 drops of peppermint oil
1 ounce of sweet almond oil
Half a cup of cornmeal
A ceramic bowl
Instructions for making your rosemary scrub:
1. In a ceramic bowl, mix all the oils together.
2. Add the cornmeal gradually until you get the desired consistency and
texture. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes a paste.
3. Scrub away!
It makes your roasts taste phenomenal, your hair soft and shiny, and keeps
your health in tip-top shape. And it’s a charming and beautiful addition to
your garden or landscaping too. Plant some rosemary today and enjoy
good food and good times.
SAGE

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The importance of sage as a medicinal herb is apparent in its scientific
name, Salvia officinalis. The word salvia was derived from salve, which
means “to save” or “to heal”, and officinalis came from officina, meaning a
storeroom inside a monastery where medicines and herbs were kept
during ancient times.
For centuries before it was classified by Linnaeus in the 1700s, the herb
was extolled for purported miraculous properties. The Greeks and the
Romans wrote about how it could fend off evil and cure snake bites. In the
Middle Ages, it was used in a tonic thought to ward off the plague.
Today, sage is a staple in many European, North American, and Middle
Eastern kitchens. It has a soft, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor that
enhances meats and goes well with cheese, fish, and vegetables. The sage
plant is a low-growing perennial shrub with grayish green leaves and a
woody stem. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, and will thrive in
both.
Cultivation of Sage

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Most varieties of sage are native to the Mediterranean region and Asia
Minor. Though it will grow easily in almost any climate, sage grows best
when conditions are similar to that of its native habitat. This means full
sun, warm temperatures, and dry, nearly pH-neutral soil. You can start
cultivating sage either from seeds or cuttings. For seeds:
1. You will need a pot at least six inches deep and some potting soil. To
start off, pour a quart of water on the soil.
2. Once it is drained but still moist, you can place 10 to 12 seeds on top of
the soil at equal distances.
3. Cover the seeds with dry soil at least an eighth of an inch deep.
4. Use plastic food wrap to cover the pot and help the seeds germinate.
Covering the pot keeps heat and moisture in.
5. Place the pot in an area away from direct sunlight but with ample
lighting. This will prevent the soil from drying up too quickly.
6. Check the soil regularly. Add a cup of water if the soil gets too dry, but
be sure to replace the plastic cover.
7. Once the seedlings grow an inch high, you can transplant them to an
area where sunlight is plentiful. Keep the seedlings at least two feet
apart.
Tips on Growing Sage

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Transplant the seedlings after the cold season, when the danger of
freezing has passed
Sage can grow up to 36 inches high and 24 inches wide, hence the 2
feet of space between plants.
Sage grows best in soil with 6.0 to 6.5 pH.
Do some light pruning to encourage the plant to stay bushy.
The plant will become woody after 4 or 5 years, and will need to be
replaced. You can start new sage plants from cuttings from the parent
plants.
Dry sage leaves quickly so they don’t become moldy. Hang them to
dry in a warm room with good air circulation. Keep the dried sage in
an air-tight container away from sunlight.
Medicinal Uses of Sage
Ancient Egyptian women were known to consume sage tea and tonics in
hopes of getting pregnant. It was also believed that sage can effectively
lengthen one’s life span. Though these claims need to be backed up by
scientific research, there are lots of other health benefits to be acquired
from sage.
Sage is effective in treating various stomach
problems. Flatulence, gastritis, bloating, diarrhea, and appetite loss can be
treated with sage.
Keep your tummy happy -
Sage has antispasmodic properties that provide
relief from menstrual cramps, hot flashes, and excess bleeding. Its
estrogenic effects help regulate hormonal changes; its flavonoids and
phytosterols help improve fertility. It even aids in proper milk flow while
breastfeeding.
A woman’s secret weapon -

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Sage essential oil has antiseptic, antifungal,
and antibacterial qualities that help prevent and treat infections. It is used
in mouthwashes, soaps, vaginal douches, and toothpastes.
Potent antibacterial qualities -
Studies are ongoing to determine
the effect of sage on this dreaded condition. Preliminary research has
shown that taking sage extract improved the memory and thought
processes of test subjects.
Possible cure for Alzheimer’s disease -
Sage can cure a great variety of ailments! It is used to
treat cold sores, gingivitis, sore throat, asthma, heavy sweating, memory
loss, depression, cough, and fever. It helps reduce hot flashes during
menopause, enhances the appetite, improves liver function, lowers blood
glucose levels, treats diabetes, and prevents hair loss.
All-around remedy -
DIY Homemade Sage Solutions
You can experience the amazing health benefits of sage without spending a
lot. Making sage products from home is easy, convenient, inexpensive, and
rewarding.
Sage Hair Dye
Did you know that you can use sage to restore your natural hair color? Yes,
it will cover up the gray, and will make your hair soft and shiny as well.
And all this without the harmful effects of nasty chemical hair colors.
What you will need:

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A cup of dried sage
A quart of water
A large pot
Lavender oil or rosemary oil (optional)
Instructions for making your sage hair dye:
1. Pour some clean water into a pot and place it over high heat. Let the
water boil.
2. Add the sage to the boiling water and let it boil for 30 minutes to an
hour. You will notice that the water gets darker as you let the sage
steep in the water.
3. Take the pot out of the fire and let the resulting tea cool down.
4. Lean over the sink or tub, and scoop the tea over your head. Do this
repeatedly until you get the shade you desire.
5. To give your hair a refreshing scent, add some lavender oil or
rosemary oil into your homemade sage dye for your last rinse. This
also helps make your scalp healthier and your hair smoother.
Sage Incense
This is another no-brainer DIY project that you’ll wish you’d known about
long ago. Homemade sage incense gets rid of nasty odors, sets the mood
for meditation and yoga practice, and helps relax your tired mind and
body. Making incense out of sage and other herbs is incredibly easy and
won’t cost a dime.
What you will need:
Several branches of sage and other herbs like rosemary
Thread or any thin string

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Instructions for making your sage incense:
1. Make a bundle out of the branches of herbs and cut them into the
same length.
2. Tie the branches together by winding the thread or string from one
end to the other at an angle and winding it again towards the bottom
end at the opposite angle. This will create a crisscross pattern which
will help hold the branches together. Tie a knot on the finishing end,
making sure there is a loop formed.
3. Hang the tied-up branches using the loop. Let the branches dry
completely.
4. Once the herbs are completely dry, you can use it as incense. Simply
burn one end of the bundle and it will give off a nice scent.
5. Be careful when lighting and using your sage-and-rosemary incense
to prevent fire from spreading.
Sage Body Scrub
Did you know that if you rub a garlic clove on your big toe, you will taste it
in your mouth in less than 15 minutes? That is how quickly the body
absorbs anything you put on your skin. If you’re still using chemical-laden
skin products, now is the time to learn about and begin using all-natural
alternatives. This sage body scrub is a good place to start.
What you will need:

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4 to 6 leaves of fresh sage
A grapefruit
2 cups fine sea salt
Half a cup of date sugar
A cup of olive oil
A blender
A grater
A bowl
Instructions for making your sage body scrub:
1. Put the olive oil and sage leaves into a blender and then puree them.
2. In a bowl, combine the puree with the sea salt and date sugar. Mix all
the ingredients well with a spoon.
3. Use a grater to remove the zest from the grapefruit. Add the zest to
the sage mixture.
4. Cover the bowl and place your body scrub in the refrigerator.
5. During your shower, get a spoonful of your homemade body scrub
and massage it all over your body. Do so in a circular manner,
targeting the rough spots. Return the body scrub inside the fridge
when you’re done.
Sage is both an indispensable culinary herb (great in stuffing and in pasta
sauce!) and a one-of-a-kind natural medicine that works its wonders on a
wide variety of health problems. Start growing sage and enliven your
kitchen and your health.
SPEARMINT

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Native to much of Europe and southwest Asia, spearmint (Mentha spicata)
is a species of herb that is easily bruised and produces a wonderfully
refreshing smell as a result. This bright green herb, also known as the
garden mint or common mint, with its broad feathery-edged leaves is a
favorite ingredient of all chefs for it adds a unique flavor to any imaginable
dish, making it both look and taste fresh. It is used as a garnish for recipes
as well as for flavoring drink beverages such as mojito and embellishing
salads. Often, it is added to iced tea for that extra refreshing zing.
Cultivation of Spearmint
This bright green member of the mint family prefers moist, loose and
fertile soil with underground runners. The herb can grow up to 30 inches
in height with characteristic serrated leaves fanning out at 2-3.5 inches
long. The herb should be grown under full sun or partial shade conditions
in spring or fall. During late summer, it exhibits thin pointed spikes of
mauve flowers. Be warned, though: if you’re not careful, the spearmint’s
runners can take over your garden plot in no time.

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1. Buy a fresh, healthy mother plant from your local grocery store and
place it in a pot. Growing mint from seeds is extremely difficult, so
unless you’re prepared to dedicate significant time and effort into it,
don’t even try.
2. Make sure your pot is large enough and has a hole at the bottom. This
will allow excess water to flow away. Place a plate at the bottom so that
the plant can absorb the leftover water again when needed.
3. Place the pot where it can get plenty of morning sun and adequate
afternoon shade.
4. Spearmint needs plenty of water to survive. You don’t have to water it
all day long, but you want to make sure that the soil is always humid.
Remember, a thirsty spearmint is a dead spearmint.
5. Harvest spearmint sprigs before the plant flowers. You can do this by
cutting off spearmint sprigs (quarter of an inch above the junction)
from the mother plant and placing them in glasses filled with water.
6. Small white roots should grow under the water after a week.
Replenish the glasses with water when needed. Wait for the roots to
grow to a decent length and when it is long enough, take the sprig out
of the water and plant it in another pot. Do this for all your sprigs and
you should be on your way to being the owner of a fragrant spearmint
garden paradise.
Tips on Growing Spearmint

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To extend the harvesting season, pinch off the flowering birds as they
appear.
When planting in a flower bed, submerge the container at least 5
inched under the soil in order to contain the rapid growth of
spearmint roots. Otherwise, the herb will take over your garden.
The importance of super moist conditions for the growth of this plant
can’t be stressed enough.
Medicinal Uses of Spearmint
Spearmint has seen commercial use in oral hygiene products such as
mouthwash and toothpaste, as well as a flavoring agent for the ever
popular breath refresher Mentos. Since ancient times, this easily bruised
perennial rhizome has added flavor to food, transforming mediocre dishes
into delicacy. Given the fame of its flavoring properties, most would be
hard pressed to imagine that this verdant herb has an array of medicinal
uses as well. Here are some of the known medicinal benefits of this
versatile rhizome:
The essential oil, menthol, has analgesic,
counterirritant and anesthetic properties, and can help to keep your
mouth feeling fresh and devoid of pesky germs.
Spearmint can take of various digestive
disorders, including indigestion, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),
gas, diarrhea, gallstones and many more.
No more stomach aches -
Headaches, stress, fatigue, nervous conditions
and irritable itching stand no chance against a good old spearmint oil
massage or the more subtle and sophisticated spearmint aromatherapy.
Soothe all sorts of pains -

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While a good remedy for stress, fatigue and headaches,
the spearmint really show it versatility with its ability to alleviate several
respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis and catarrh.
Breathe freely -
Applying liberal amount of spearmint
cream or lotion to affected skin can get rid of itching, dermatitis and hives.
Maintain healthy and radiant skin -
DIY Homemade Spearmint Solutions
This bright perennial herb, at first glance useful for only flavoring
purposes, has an astounding number of uses. It has domestic uses in
repelling ants and freshening up a musty old closet, and both spearmint
tea and spearmint oil can be made easily at home with effort that is
minimal compared to its great benefits. Here’s how you can make them:
Spearmint Tea
Spearmint tea, according to a study published in early 2007, can be a great
way for women with hirsutism to remove excess body and facial hair
because it lowers levels of androgens. It’s a simple and affordable way to
battle hirsutism, but the refreshing flavor of this herbal tea alone is alone
reason to have it daily. Try out this easy three-step recipe for spearmint tea:
What you will need:

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A handful of fresh spearmint
4 cups of water
A pot
A strainer
Lemon (optional)
Raw honey (optional)
Instructions for making and using your spearmint tea:
1. Pour the water in a pot and put it atop a stove. Set the temperature
between moderate to high.
2. Crush a handful of spearmint between your palms to get out the
flavor and smell while the water boils.
3. When the temperature of the water is suitably high, add the crushed
spearmint and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Use a strainer placed over a glass container or tea cup to separate the
crushed spearmint from the tea.
5. Honey or lemon can be added in order to supplement the spearmint’s
natural flavor.
Spearmint in boiled water is also ideal for rinsing your hair or taking
herbal baths.
Spearmint Essential Oil

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Although not as popular as peppermint oil, spearmint oil is more suitable
for children and those who find peppermint oil hard to use. Whereas
peppermint rejuvenates the body, spearmint relaxes it. Spearmint oil has a
multitude of uses such as curing sore throats, relieving headaches and
being used as a flavoring ingredient for exotic dishes. It also has great
antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, making it a very effective
disinfectant.
What you will need:
Freshly picked spearmint leaves
A dark colored jar
Carrier oil like vegetable oil or olive oil
Water
Strainer
Corn starch
Instructions for making your spearmint oil:

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1. Pick out any bruised or dark leaves. Leave the stems attached as well
can be extracted from them.
2. Wash the leaves carefully. Make sure they’re free of insects.
3. Pack the leaves as tightly as you can into the jar and add generous
amounts of carrier oil.
4. Seal the jar and place in the sun for 2-3 weeks. This will allow the
carrier oil to pull out the spearmint oil.
5. Open the jar and mix in a few drops of corn starch.
6. Let the mixture settle for a day or two. This will give the corn starch
enough time to take up the spearmint’s fragrance.
7. Open the lid and use a strainer to separate the oil from the leaves.
8. Store the oil in a dark airtight container.
Spearmint oil can be “properly” made using steam distillation, but this is
not viable in the average household. This version of spearmint essential oil
is by no means high in oil content, but should be helpful for small aches
and pains.
ST JOHN’S WORT

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Named after its time of bloom – June 24, the birthday of John the Baptist –
St. John’s wort has yellow flowers with distinctive oval-shaped, elongated
petals, as well as a rich history of being used as medicine dating back to
ancient Greece. Theorized by scientists to be native to Europe, the western
United States and parts of Africa and Asia, St. John’s wort (Hypericum
perforatum) possesses impressive antibacterial, antiviral and anti-
inflammatory properties and is thus used for a variety of medical purposes,
such as alleviating depression and relieving physical and emotional
symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in women.
Cultivation of St John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is a perennial plant that likes its sun (but will stubbornly
thrive in partial shade). Likewise, it loves light, warm, sandy soil, but can
also spring to a healthy height of just about 3 feet even in poor soil. So easy
it is to grow that it is considered a pernicious weed in some locations. If
you’re growing St. John’s wort, make sure to keep a close eye on its growth
spread because it has a tendency to crowd out more delicate herbs. The
best time to grow St. John’s wort is in early spring or fall.
1. Locate an area (preferably indoors) that receives plenty of sunlight.
2. You can grow St. John’s wort from either seeds, stem cuttings or root
divisions. In order to accelerate germination, soak in warm water
overnight or for a few hours.
3. Let the plant flower before you harvest. St. John’s wort usually
produces yellow blooms in late July. Harvest a third of the plant – both
flowers and leaves.
4. Dry the leaves and flowers by storing in a dark and cool place from 7-
10 days or speed up drying using a dessicator.

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Tips on Growing St. John’s Wort
Separate each plant by at least one feet as the roots have a wide
spread.
If you live in a cold area, then consider growing in a pot and burying it
in soil to get through the winter.
During the winter, cover the plant with a layer of mulch.
Medicinal Uses of St John’s Wort
St. John’s wort was highly valued in ancient Greece as both a medicinal
plant and as a charm that could ward off evil. It was used as a cure for a
range of illnesses, including “nervous disorders”, but the story goes
deeper than that. Its name, “Hypericum”, comes from the Greek word
which means “over an apparition”, indicating that the plant was considered
powerful enough to ward off evil spirits. Today, it is widely used as a
substitute for anti-depressants due to the fact that it produces
comparatively fewer side effects, and is also used for numerous other
medicinal purposes.
While the jury is still out on the efficacy of St. John’s
wort as an antidepressant, scientists are generally on the consensus that it
might be effective in fighting low to mild depression, such as seasonal
mood disorder, without any of the side effects. It may also soother anxiety,
increase appetite and concentration, and make for easier sleeping.
Fight depression -
Cramps, food cravings, irritability and breast
tenderness are some of the main problems that women have to face at that
time of the month. A small dose of St. John’s wort tea or liquid extract can
relieve those symptoms of PMS considerably.
Say bye-bye to PMS -

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Cleanse your skin before applying St.
John’s wort oil on top of the burns. The healing effect should be
immediately apparent, but sometimes, they can take time. Moreover, this
plant has been proven to be highly effective and clinically safe way to treat
regular burns unrelated to the sun.
Stop worrying about sunburns -
The antibacterial properties of St. John’s
wort help in fighting inflammation, muscle pain, as well as wounds and
hemorrhoids. If the wounds are open, then mix the oil with alcohol before
applying topically.
Soothe minor wounds and pains -
St. John’s wort acts as a mild antibiotic, but also has the
ancillary properties of a disinfectant. It is an excellent antiseptic, an active
microbicide, and helps to fight gastritis and gingivitis. It is also a great
weapon against thrush. Using it in oil form will yield the best results, but
the capsule form doesn’t do too shabbily either.
Prevent infection -
Applying St. John’s oil is a great way to increase
circulation beneath your skin, which helps to keep your skin hydrated and
moisturized. Skin diseases like dermatitis and eczema are no match for the
healing power of this versatile plant. Moreover, St. John’s wort’s
antioxidant properties allow it to not only rejuvenate dry skin, but also
maintain natural skin moisture, thus keeping your skin looking radiant.
Bring life back to dry skin -
Commonly known as RA,
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes its victims
severe pain. It is recommended to massage St. John’s wort oil, rather than
the powder, over the areas where the pain is most intense.
Treat Restrained Rheumatoid Arthritis -

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DIY Homemade St. John’s Wort Solutions
St John’s Wort Oil
Of all the mediums that St. John’s wort products can be found in the
market, the most effective is its dark red oil rather than capsule or powder.
Here is what you need to do...
What you will need:
1 cupful of St. John wort’s fresh flowers
Olive oil
A jar with a lid
Instructions on how to make your St. John Wort’s Oil:
1. Make sure the jar is clean as you’re going to be extracting your oil in
there.
2. The flowers should be insect-free. You can do this by shaking the
plants and leaving them in a sunny area for around an hour.
3. Put the flowers in the jar.
4. Add enough olive oil to cover all the flowers and close lid.
5. Keep in a warm, sunny place for at least 2 weeks (4 weeks
recommended) until the oil starts taking on a deep red tone.
6. Strain the flowers by using a strainer over a bowl. Squeeze out every
bit of oil using your hands – this is more fun than it sounds!
7. Pour the thus extracted oil into dark bottles because they are better
for preservation or inside a cupboard.
8. Enjoy your bright red St. John wort’s oil for a year!
St John’s Wort Facial Toner

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Have dry and scaly skin? No problem! St. John’s wort facial cream will take
care of it in no time. Although St. John’s wort skin creams are still
relatively new to the market, they have proved effective in giving life back
to dry, dead skin. The herb is also rich in salicylic acid and ursolic acid,
which can be effective for treating acne. Reap the benefits of this
wonderful herb and revive your skin by making the facial toner at home
yourself:
What you will need:
Freshly picked St. John’s wort flowers
Boiled water (in a 1:1 ratio with the herb)
Lemon grass
A small bottle or bowl
Instructions for making and using your St. John’s Wort facial toner:
1. Make sure that your bottle or bowl is sterile, as you will be using its
contents on your face.
2. Boil it in water for around ten minutes then dry thoroughly with a
clean cloth.
3. Once clean and dry, fill it halfway with water and put a peppering of
lemon grass in it.
4. Crush dry St. John’s wort and soak in lemon grass-water mixture to
get a pasty mash.
5. Boil to a temperature of 140-158 °F (60-70°C) then cool it.
6. Apply the mask to clean skin for 15-20 minutes then wash with hot
water. This should be done 2-3 times a week.

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Whether as a spiritual charm against evil or the versatile medicinal herb it
has proven to be today, St. John’s wort is a plant definitely worth having
around the house, preferable in a warm airy spot by the window, if only for
the way its leaves perforate prettily (hence perforatum) in the sun.
THYME
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris and others in the genus Thymus) is a perennial
herb of Southern European origin. Popularly known as a Mediterranean
cooking ingredient, thyme possesses a distinctive herbaceous flavor and a
heady aroma that matches well with meat, cheese, and tomatoes. It is a
traditional component of the Arab herb mixture za’atar, and the French
herbes de Provence and bouquet garni. Aside from its role in various
cuisines, thyme is also known for its medicinal uses. Oil of thyme is a
common homeopathic treatment, while thymol, the herb’s active
ingredient, is found in commercial products such as Listerine. Historically,
thyme was used by the Egyptians for embalming and by the Greeks as
incense.
Cultivation of Thyme

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Though thyme prefers sunny and warm locales, it can also grow on
mountain highlands and in areas that experience drought and deep freeze.
It is an easy herb to grow, and will thrive whether planted indoors or
outdoors. If you intend to grow some for your self-consumption, here are
the steps you need to follow:
1. Locate an area that receives full sun. Prepare dry, well-draining soil in
a pot or plant box.
2. You can grow thyme from seeds or cuttings or root divisions. Grow
them from root divisions if you want to harvest as soon as possible.
3. If you’re starting off with seeds, you can plant them in pots filled with
potting soil, then cover them with a thin layer of compost. Planting
them in pots allows you to move them when conditions outside are
unfavorable. If starting with roots, gather the divisions (root and
foliage) from three- or four-year-old plants and then re-plant them.
4. It is important not to water them too frequently. Thyme needs
minimal watering and should only be watered during dry conditions.
Tips on Growing Thyme
Thyme effectively repels insects. You can even use a spray made with
thyme tea to keep pests away from other plants.
There are more than a hundred varieties of thyme to choose from.
The three most popular are the common thyme, lemon thyme and
wild thyme.
When the plant begins to flower, cut off the top part and dry the herb
by hanging.
Medicinal Uses of Thyme

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The medicinal properties of thyme were known even in ancient times.
Hippocrates wrote about the herb, as did the botanist Pedanius
Dioscorides. The Ancient Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans all found uses
for the fragrant, versatile plant. Today, scientists have confirmed and
continue to explore the many health benefits and curative effects of thyme.
Kiss halitosis goodbye with thyme. Oil of thyme has
powerful antibacterial properties that get rid of nasty germs in your mouth.
Thyme essential oil is often used to treat whooping
cough, bronchitis, asthma, laryngitis, and other respiratory problems,
especially those involving the upper respiratory tract. Thyme contains
terpenoids that make it a good expectorant and help improve the function
of the cilia. Hot thyme tea has a soothing effect and relaxes the bronchi.
Those who suffer from sinus infections can get the same benefits from
thyme inhalation therapy.
Clear your lungs -
Thyme’s antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial
properties help keep acne and other skin diseases away. Thyme oil can be
incorporated into facial washes, soaps, hand creams, lotions, and toners for
a detoxifying and exfoliating effect.
Get blemish-free skin -
The terpenoids in thyme, especially the ursolic and
rosmarinic acids, have been found to help prevent cancer.
Fight cancer -

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Known as a digestive herb,
thyme enhances the appetite, aids digestion, and stimulates the liver. Take
thyme to cure an upset stomach or to banish that bloated feeling you get
after a heavy meal.
Take thyme and make your tummy happy -
Thyme has antiparasitic, antifungal, antiviral, and
antibacterial properties, which is why it is often used in products such as
antibiotics, fungicides, and antiseptics. This is also why thyme is used to
treat nail fungus, wounds, cuts, burns, parasitic diseases, and various
infections.
Eliminate nasty germs -
DIY Homemade Thyme Solutions
Thyme-Infused All-Purpose Home Cleaner
You’ve probably heard of the disinfecting power of vinegar and tried using
it for cleaning. It’s great for getting rid of germs, but the smell can be a bit
overwhelming! To remedy this, infuse your vinegar-and-water solution
with some aromatic herbs. Here is what you need to do:
What you will need:
A plastic bottle with spray nozzle
Half a cup of distilled water
Half a cup of distilled white vinegar
12 to 24 drops of thyme essential oil
Other essential oils (optional)
A funnel
Instructions on how to make your thyme all-purpose cleaner:

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1. Pour the vinegar and water into the spray bottle using a funnel. If you
don’t have a funnel, you can cut out the top part of a plastic soda bottle
and turn it into a funnel.
2. Add the thyme essential oil. You also have the option of adding drops
of other essential oils to give your homemade all-purpose cleaner a
unique fragrance. Some of the other oils that you can use are tea tree
oil, orange oil, lemon oil, and peppermint oil. Lavender oil works well
too because of its scent and its antimicrobial property.
3. Cover the bottle and shake.
4. When not in use, store your home cleaner away from direct sunlight
or heat. Exposure to such elements may alter the chemical makeup of
the essential oils.
Another method for making your natural disinfectant is to use thyme
leaves instead of thyme essential oil. Here’s how:
1. Boil some water in a pot.
2. Add one to two spoonfuls of thyme leaves, dried or fresh. Let them
steep as though making tea.
3. Let the thyme tea cool before pouring it in your spray bottle.
4. Add vinegar.
5. You can also add essential oils to make your disinfectant more
aromatic.
6. If you’re dealing with hard-to-remove stains and molds, use more
vinegar than water in your homemade cleaner.
Thyme Tea

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Herbal teas are chockfull of good stuff like antioxidants, vitamins and
minerals. Regular consumption of these teas is a good way to stay healthy
and provides great relief when suffering from sore throats and colds.
When thyme is consumed as a tea, you get the optimum amount of
thymol, its beneficial active ingredient. Create your own tea out of thyme
and other herbs and make them a part of your daily life.
What you need:
2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves OR 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
A pot
2 cups of water
Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions for making your thyme tea:
1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
2. Finely chop about 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme.
3. Put the chopped fresh thyme OR a tablespoon of dried thyme into
cups and then fill them with boiling water.
4. Let the thyme steep in the boiling water for up to ten minutes.
5. Add lemon juice and/or honey to taste.
6. Enjoy your tea!
Thyme Facial Toner

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Recently, a study conducted by scientists at Leeds Metropolitan University
showed that thyme works better than conventional benzoyl peroxide-
containing prescription creams in fighting acne. Isn’t that great? And apart
from getting rid of acne,thyme also soothes inflammation, gently
exfoliates, and moisturizes dry skin. Reap the benefits of thyme and make
your skin look flawless by making and using this thyme facial toner.
What you will need:
1 tablespoon of dried thyme
3 to 4 tablespoons of witch hazel
A small bottle or bowl
Instructions for making and using your thyme facial toner:
1. Make sure that your bottle or bowl is sterile, as you will be using its
contents on your face. Boil it in water for around ten minutes then dry
thoroughly with a clean cloth.
2. Once clean and dry, put one tablespoon of the dried thyme in it.
3. Pour three to four tablespoons of witch hazel into the bottle. Then
cover the bottle and shake it well.
4. Let the thyme steep in witch hazel for 20 minutes. The witch hazel
should be light brown or darker by the time you reach the 20-minute
mark.
5. Pour a drop or two of the toner on a ball of cotton or a clean and soft
face towel and dab it onto your face gently. Let the toner linger on
spots infected with acne.
If you don’t have witch hazel, you can get the same effect by mixing thyme
oil or dried thyme with your facial products.

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You know there’s truth to a plant’s purported health benefits when even
the ancients were raving about it. And now, modern science has shown
what the Greeks and Romans knew all along. Thyme is a powerful herb
with many valuable uses to offer. Keep a pot of thyme on your windowsill
or in your garden to enjoy its benefits any time you want.
TURMERIC
If you’ve dined at an authentic Indian restaurant or have tried cooking an
Indian dish, then you’ve probably come across turmeric. This powerful
herb imparts a bright yellow color and a distinctive, pungent taste and
aroma to food. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a plant native to South Asia
that looks similar to ginger. It is an important ingredient in Indian and
Asian cuisine, is an Ayurvedic medicine, and has been used as a natural
dye for more than 2,000 years.

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Cultivation of Thyme
Turmeric plants do not produce seeds. You have to cultivate them from
roots or rhizomes.
1. Get fresh turmeric roots from your local market or nursery. Select
plump, juicy-looking rhizomes that already have little buds growing.
2. You can either plant the root directly or cut the buds or “fingers” off
and plant them one by one in pots filled with well-draining soil. Dig
holes 12 to 16 inches apart and at least 2 inches deep, then place the
roots with their buds facing upwards.
3. Place the pots in areas where they can get full sun. They can also
grow in slightly shaded spots.
4. Because turmeric plants are prone to root rot, avoid giving them too
much water.
5. After a few weeks, you will start to see some sprouts peeking through
the soil. You will then have to wait 8 to 10 months before the roots are
ready for harvesting.
Tips on Growing Turmeric
You can plant the roots directly outside, though it may be better and
safer if you keep them in pots first before transplanting them.
Transplanting should be done during late fall.
Turmeric needs temperatures between 20°C and 30°C to thrive.
Medicinal Uses of Turmeric

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This ancient herb has served numerous uses for thousands of years. Apart
from adding flavor to food, it has also been used to dye clothes and
condiments. Turmeric also serves a variety of ceremonial uses: as a
thanksgiving offering, as a dye for the robes of Buddhist monks, and as a
paste to color the body of brides and grooms.
Through the centuries, it has also gradually carved its niche in the field of
medicine. In fact, scientific studies have shown again and again turmeric’s
beneficial effects to our health. Here are some of the known medicinal
benefits of this versatile rhizome:
Turmeric has antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
Use it to keep cuts and burns from getting infected.
Helps treat wounds -
Results from a number of laboratory tests
using mice as test subjects showed considerable success after using
turmeric to prevent the spread of breast cancer. Combined with
cauliflower, it has been proven to prevent the growth of prostate cancer. It
also stops the growth of blood vessels in existing tumors.
Positive results against cancer -
Studies have shown that the
herb helps stop the buildup of amyloid plaque in the brain, which in turn
slows down the progression of this dreaded disease.
Possible treatment for Alzheimer’s disease -
Turmeric is great for the skin. It helps
prevent and treat various skin diseases like psoriasis, and can be used for
exfoliating, getting rid of acne, lightening stretch marks, healing burns,
and keeping wrinkles away.
Keeps skin healthy and flawless -

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Use turmeric for weight management. Its active
ingredient, curcumin, stimulates gallbladder activity, aids digestion, and
hastens fat metabolism. Add it to your stews, soups, and roasts to reap its
slimming benefits.
Aids in weight loss -
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric
has been found helpful in treating and managing the symptoms of arthritis.
It is also used to detoxify the liver, treat depression, prevent metastases,
regulate cholesterol levels, and reduce the physical effects of a stressful
lifestyle.
And so much more -
DIY Homemade Turmeric Solutions
The number of ways by which you can use this humble herb is astounding.
Turmeric can be used to make homemade soaps, toothpaste, and dye for
arts and crafts projects. You can even use it to make temporary tattoos!
Below are three turmeric products that you can make at home.
Turmeric Face Pack
Using an ingredient so pungent and stain-inducing to improve the skin’s
appearance may sound counterintuitive, but, in fact, turmeric can be made
into different kinds of face packs to deal with specific skin problems. Even
famous celebrities,such as the actress Thandie Newton, have shared that
they use turmeric in their makeup and in their moisturizer. Try this recipe
for a turmeric face pack to both moisturize and exfoliate the skin.
What you will need:

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2 tablespoons of fresh cream or curd
1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon of jojoba oil
A drop of sandalwood oil
A tablespoon of honey
A small bowl
Instructions for making and using your turmeric face pack:
1. Mix all the ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Wash your face with lukewarm water and then dry it with a soft
towel.
3. Scoop a small amount of the face pack and gently massage it all over
your face with your fingertips. Be careful not to get it in your eyes.
4. Keep it on your face for around 15 minutes before you wash it off with
warm water.
For best results, use this natural face pack three times a week.
If you’re dealing with acne, you need a face pack that contains neem leaves
as well as turmeric. Because of its anti-fungal and antibacterial properties,
neem can effectively treat acne and other skin infections.
What you will need:
At least 30 fresh neem leaves
5 drops of neem oil
A spoon of turmeric (grated or ground)
Instructions for making and using your anti-pimple turmeric face pack:

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1. Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until you get a paste-
like consistency.
2. Pour the paste into a bowl.
3. To use, dab the paste on the affected areas and let it sit for a few
minutes before washing your face with clean, lukewarm water.
Turmeric Juice
To maximize the health benefits of turmeric, take it in juice form. This way,
you get all of the nutrients and antioxidants that are normally lost during
cooking. But because turmeric has a strong taste and odor, you will need a
few more ingredients to make it palatable. Here is one way to make
turmeric juice:
What you will need:
Turmeric (a 5- to 7-inch piece will suffice)
5 to 7 pieces of tamarind
A couple of lemons
Raw honey
Water
A large pot
A sauce pan
A blender
A strainer
A small bowl
Any glass jar with a lid
Instructions for making your turmeric juice:

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1. Peel the turmeric.
2. Get the inner fruit of the tamarind by cracking the shell open and
extricating it from the roots.
3. Pour some water in a large pot and add the turmeric. Bring the water
to a boil and then let it boil for 20 more minutes or until the water
turns bright yellow in color.
4. In a sauce pan, add about an inch of water and the tamarind. Place it
over low heat.
5. Don’t let the tamarind settle in the pan. Instead, use a wooden spoon
to move it around continuously. Do this until the tamarind melts into
the water and becomes something like a jam. Add water if the
mixture seems too dry.
6. Turn the heat off once the mixture is soft enough and when the seeds
start to separate from the pulp. Set aside and let it cool.
7. If the turmeric water is still too hot, pour a bit of cold water into it.
Then pour the turmeric water it into a blender along with the
softened turmeric root. By blending them, the color should turn into a
more vivid yellow.
8. Next, use a strainer and a wooden spoon to drain the tamarind
mixture into a small bowl. Make sure that no peel or seed gets
through.
9. Add the strained tamarind mixture into the blender containing the
turmeric water and blend some more.
10. Roll the lemons to loosen the pulp inside before slicing them and
squeezing the juice into the blender. Give it a final whizz.
11. You’re now ready to enjoy your natural homemade turmeric juice.
Pour it into glass jars and serve chilled. It will keep for four days in the
fridge.

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Turmeric Tea
Turmeric tea is imbued with the natural goodness of the herb. Take it
every morning and/or before meals to cleanse your liver, improve
digestion, and relieve stress.
What you will need:
¼ cup of grated turmeric root or 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric
2 tablespoons of grated ginger root or ginger powder
4 cups of water
A pot
A strainer
A glass container
Lemon (optional)
Instructions for making your turmeric tea:
1. Peel and grate both the turmeric and the ginger root.
2. Pour the water into the pot along with the grated turmeric and ginger.
3. Boil the mixture for up to 20 minutes.
4. Use a strainer placed over a glass container or tea cup to separate the
grated turmeric and ginger from the tea.
5. Let it cool for a few minutes.
6. Add lemon and/or honey to your liking.

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If you are using ground turmeric and powdered ginger, allow the water to
boil before adding them. The recipe above makes 4 cups of turmeric tea,
which is enough for a whole day. However, if you are pregnant, nursing or
suffering from gallstones or an acidic stomach, it is better that you refrain
from having or lessen your consumption of turmeric tea. You might also
want to get your toothbrush ready after drinking the tea, as turmeric is
notorious for staining everything it comes in contact with – including your
teeth.
VALERIAN

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Native to Europe and parts of Asia, valerian is a perennial flowing plant
with straight, hollow stems topped by an umbrella-shaped fringe of
delicate pink or white flowers. Despite its elegant look, its roots, when dry,
can give off an unpleasant odor. Ever since the time of ancient Greece and
Rome, valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has been used as a folk remedy for a
variety of ailments, such as insomnia, anxiety, nervousness and heart
palpitations. Its popularity as a sleeping aide gradually decreased with the
advent of modern sleep prescription medication. In 17th century Europe, it
was popularly used as a perfume extract. Scientists are unsure how this
herbs, but believe it to be responsible for the increased production of
gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which regulates nerve cells
and alleviates anxiety. While this plant of many names – Setwall, Capon’s
Tail, Setewale etc. – has its medicinal uses, nowadays it is also used widely
as ornamentation.
Cultivation of Valerian
Valerian, or All-Heal or Amantilla as it is sometimes known, blooms
abundantly throughout the summer months, prolifically popping out
flowers that smell like vanilla and cherry – or perhaps aged cheese. Its
leaves are a moderate green that brings out the light white and pink of the
petals nicely, perfect for decoration. Valerian likes its light, and while it
seems to require plenty of water during its infant stage, it does well on dry
soil as an adult. This sedate herb with its trumpet-shaped cluster of airy
pink and white flowers is notoriously hard to grow from seed.

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1. The germination rates of valerian seeds are unpredictable (in fact, the
plant does not bloom its first year from seed), so get root divisions or
rooted runners of an established plant from your local nursery if
possible.
2. Plant the roots firmly in fertile soil in a place where it gets plenty of
sunlight. Water frequently enough so that the roots don’t dry out: a
growing valerian needs its moisture.
3. The roots are the medicinal part of the plant. Harvest in fall before the
frost starts biting.
Tips on Growing Valerian
Valerian has been known to attract dogs and cats (it acts like a catnip
for the latter, in fact), so in order to avoid having your valerian dug out
by the pesky feline addicts, wedge in some rocks in the root around
the soil.
Add mulch to your valerian during both spring and fall.
If you really want to try growing valerian from seeds, purchase fresh
seeds and plant them in moist, well-worked soil. Start planting in the
spring, but beware of birds. Valerian seeds germinate close to the
ground since they need light – as such, they’re very prone to
predation. By keeping the seeds more or less moist, you should have
germinating seeds on your hands in about 10 days.
Medicinal Uses of Valerian

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In medieval Sweden, this hardy, aromatic herb was tucked in the pockets
of bridegrooms in order to ward off the evil eye of elves, and it is rumored
that the Pied Piper used valerian to entice the rats into following him to the
river. Such superstitious and fantastical applications are well and all, but it
is perhaps more important to note that valerian has been long dubbed as
“the poor man’s Valium” for its sedative effects.
And that should come as no surprise because ever since the time of
ancient Rome and Greece, valerian has been used as a treatment for
insomnia. Today, valerian ranks as the most used non-prescription sedative
in Europe. Here are a few ways in which valerian can be used for medicinal
purposes:
One of the most effective ways to battle insomnia is to use
valerian, which does not leave a “hangover” effect (characterized by
fatigue or drowsiness) unlike some other sleeps aides. Although not all
studies show a positive correlation between valerian intake and quality or
longevity of sleep, positive results can be achieved if valerian is consumed
daily over a period of 2-4 weeks along with a combination of hops
(Humulus lupulus), lemon balm (Melissa officianalis) and other herbs that
induce drowsiness.
Sleep like a log -
Although no concrete evidence for its effectiveness in
curing anxiety yet exists, valerian has long been used as a treatment for
illness related to anxiety and psychological stress, including nervous
asthma, headaches, migraine, hypochondria (the irrational fear or illness),
and stomach upsets.
Ease your anxiety -

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For muscles pains and joint aches, valerian is ideal.
Some women take valerian as to ward off menstrual cramps and other
symptoms, for example, hot flushes, associated with menopause.
Say goodbye to pain -
The uses of valerian are many and varied. This
perennial herb can be used to battle against epilepsy, neuralgia, multiple
sclerosis, vertigo, chronic skin diseases and sciatica. Like spearmint,
valerian has a calming and relaxing effect on the body.
And so much more -
DIY Homemade Valerian Solutions
For an herb whose medicinal properties scientists still fiercely debate over,
valerian has seen a mind-blowing number of applications. Galen, the
ancient Roman pharmacist, surgeon and philosopher, named it “phu” after
its pungent smell, prescribing it as a cure for insomnia. This perennial herb
protected bridegrooms from the evil eye of elves during the Middle Ages
and came to be used as popular European perfume extract in the 17th
century. Native Americans turned to valerian as a substitute for flour;
Germans used it as a coffee substitute; and the British used it as base for
soup. During World War I, soldiers and civilians used it to relieve stress
and anxiety.
Valerian Tea
Having trouble with insomnia, anxiety or migraines? Taking some valerian
tea every other day can help to get you back in top form. The tea’s pungent
smell might not be for everyone, but its curative effects are more than
enough reason to take the time and effort to brew it. Here’s one way to
brew valerian tea:
What you will need:

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1 teaspoon of dried valerian root
Stainless steel or ceramic kettle
8oz of hot water and tap water
A tea pot
A strainer
Milk (optional)
Sweetener (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill the tea pot with hot tap water in order to prepare the container.
2. Pour about 6-8oz of filtered water into the kettle and boil until
bubbles form and burst rapidly.
3. Drain the tea pot of tap water, add valerian root then pour in the boiled
kettle water. Cover the tea pot with a lid.
4. Let it steep for around 10-15 minutes. The steep time is so long
because valerian roots are hardy, unlike more delicate flowers and
shrubs, and it takes time for its medicinal properties to infuse with the
water.
5. Uncover and place a strainer over a cup. Pour the tea down in order to
separate the leaves from the liquid.
6. Let it cool for a while before serving.
7. Add milk, honey or sweetener to your heart’s content.
One way to facilitate the release of medicinal components into your tea is
to use an infusion device such as a heat seal tea bag or a tea ball. Fill your
infusion device with valerian root then steep in boiled water. This arguably
produces better results than loose leaf steeping. While handling the roots,
beware that they can give off an unpleasant smell when dry.

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As ornamentation for the garden of your new cottage home, valerian with
its bright cherry-vanilla flowers attracts equally colorful butterflies. As a
protector of medieval Swedish bridegrooms against the evil eye of elves, it
has no equal. If you find yourself suddenly impecunious and can no longer
afford coffee or flour, then valerian is an ideal substitute. And as a
medicinal herb that makes your nights easier, valerian is a true friend.
YARROW

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A member of the aster family, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is closely
related to chamomile and chrysanthemums. Native to temperate regions
of the Northern Hemisphere in Asia, Europe and North America, this
flower thrives in warm, sunny slopes,as well as meadows and roadsides.
Typically, the flowers are arranged in white clusters with a hairy stem
(often no more than 3 feet in height) edged with feathery, cauline leaves,
but hot pink and pale purple flowers have been known to dominate entire
tracts of mountainous areas. Other colors include salmon, red and yellow.
Legend has it that yarrow was named after Achilles, who used this
herbaceous perennial plant as a salve to soother his soldiers’ wounds. In
fact,historically, it was for a time called herbal militaris for its ability to
stem blood flow from soldiers’ wounds. The plant has a sweet and
powerful scent, not unlike chrysanthemums.
Cultivation of Yarrow
Yarrows are easy to grow and maintain, given the right condition. A hot,
sunny place with sandy or loamy soil makes for a healthy yarrow plant.
This hardy member of the aster family will thrive in dry average to poor
soil, but will not tolerate wet soil. It is ideal to start planting in either early
spring or summer.

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1. Select a site with full exposure to sun and well-drained soil.
2. With the help of a garden fork, cut a 12-15 inch hole into the soil (at
least twice the diameter of the pot the plant resides in), then fill it with
2-4 inches of compost.
3. Carefully remove the plant from the pot and lower it into the hole.
Firm the soil around the root ball gently then water adequately.
4. Harvest only after the flowers are open and while they are still
vibrant-looking.
Tips on Growing Yarrow
Space the plants 1 to 2 feet apart. Yarrow is fast-growing and invasive
and can take over your garden if you’re not careful.
Add a thin layer of compost and at least a 2-inch layer of mulch each
spring.
If it is especially dry during the summer (less than 1 inch of rain per
week), remember to water the plants adequately.
Medicinal Uses of Yarrow
Hailed as a powerful and healing magical herb for centuries, yarrow was
used to “drive out the devil” from those who were unfortunate enough to
be possessed. However, the holy mass had to be recited 7 times in order for
this to work – and the victim was obliged to drink yellow while hanging
upside down from a church bell… Less superstitiously, the plant has its
history conjoined with advances in metallurgy since 5000 BP
.

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As hard bronze knives and swords with sharp edges capable of cutting
deep into skin became more common, so did the risk of large open
wounds that would often have been fatal – if not for the blood staunching
properties of yarrow. For thousands of years, yarrow, or the Soldier’s
Woundwort, has acted as superior wound dressing, but that’s not all. The
yarrow has plenty of other medicinal uses; here are some of them:
Yarrow’s has a great ability to staunch blood flow.
Close open wounds -
- Have unbearable menstrual cramps? A
healthy dose of yarrow tea can relax your uterine muscles, driving the pain
away in no time.
Say goodbye to nasty PMS cramps
Yarrow also has the ability to relax stomach
muscles and contains flavonoids, plant-based chemicals that increase
saliva and stomach acid production, helping digestion. In combination with
other herbs, it is effective in battling against bloating, flatulence, mild
gastrointestinal (GI) cramping and other GI-related problems.
No more stomach pains -
The ability of this perennial herb to makes us sweat has
been somewhat eclipsed by its ability to staunch blood flow in open
wounds. Nevertheless, as Dr. Christopher once wrote, “Yarrow, when
administered hot and copiously, will raise the heat of the body, equalize the
circulation, and produce perspiration.” A cup of yarrow tea during fever
should be effective in sweating out infection. Fevers are often accompanied
by cold, which too yarrow can solve when combined with elderflower and
peppermint.
Sweat out fevers -

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Because of its antiseptic properties, yarrow is believed
to be a kidney and urinary tract cleanser. It is effective as a diuretic and
anti-inflammatory in case of urinary infection, such as cystitis.
A natural diuretic -
The wonderful anti-inflammatory and analgesic
properties of this herb make it ideal for a number of medicinal uses. It can
be used for amenorrhea (irregular menstrual cycles), improving
circulation by dilating the blood vessels, heartburn and so much more!
And so much more -
DIY Homemade Yarrow Solutions
From being the greatest weapon of Achilles, who was an excellent student
of the healing arts, to being used to ward off the devil in dubious church
rituals, the number of uses that yarrow has seen boggles the mind. Apart
from its blood-staunching and sweat-inducing properties, yarrow was
celebrated among tribes for a number of things: The flower heads of
yarrow served as deodorant for the armpits of the Flathead Indians of
Montana while the Okanagon people used it as mosquito repellent by
placing it over hot coal in order to make a kind of smudge. You can try
making some simple remedies yourself.
Yarrow Oil
Containing a chemical called proazulenes, this dark blue essential oil is
extremely easy to apply and can be massaged over varicose veins or
hemorrhoids in combination with Agrimoni oil or used as chest rubs for
cold and influenza.
What you will need:

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Fresh or dried yarrow leaves and flowering tops
Olive oil (3 ounces of yarrow per pint volume)
Wide-mouthed jar
Water
Instructions for making and using your yarrow oil:
1. Make sure the yarrow is free of insects and pests. You can do this by
leaving it out in the sun for an hour or two.
2. Stuff the herb into the jar, then douse with a generous amount of olive
oil. Close the lid once the jar is filed with oil.
3. Stir every four hours on the first day and continue this daily regime
for just up to a month.
4. Keep the temperature conditions at 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. It is advisable to compensate for water content if fresh herb is used.
Once all the oil seeps out, use it to your heart’s content.
Yarrow Tea
One of the best ways to reap the benefits of the herb is to consume it in tea
form. The best use of yarrow tea is as a cold-fighting remedy or
preventative due to the presence of substances like achillin and
balchanolide, which are believed to boost the immune system. Its oil also
contains antimicrobial agents.
What you will need:

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1 cup of yarrow
6 cups of water
A pot
A strainer
Lemon (optional)
Instructions for making your yarrow tea:
1. Boil a pot full of water until bug bubbles rapidly form and burst.
2. Add in yarrow.
3. Let it steep for over 5 minutes. You want your yarrow tea to take on a
nice honey-toned color.
4. Place a strainer over a cup and pour the tea in order to filter out the
leaves.
5. Let it cool for a few minutes.
6. Add lemon and/or honey to your liking.
Whether to splash some color into a monotonously green garden or to use
as remedy for cold, fevers or chest pains, yarrow with its many names and
colors is a plant worth having around the house. You never know when you
might be in dire need of herbal gauze for open wounds!

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