tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51655614209411673982024-03-17T09:16:59.761+00:00Wild Woman of the WoodsI am a herbwife and plant spirit healer, this blog is for sharing my knowledge and skills in foraging, growing and using herbs and essences for wholeness and health in harmony with nature. Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-73901761079938428032016-02-21T22:04:00.002+00:002016-02-22T19:53:51.582+00:00Herbal help for colds,coughs & fluIt's that time of year when cold & flu bugs are going around, so I have compiled some advice on preventing colds & flu and useful remedies to have in the home medicine cabinet for family & friends.<br />
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The first thing to consider is prevention by keeping healthy and able to resist bugs which you are exposed to. The common cold virus can only thrive when conditions in the body allow it to, when we are run down, under stress and overloaded with toxins. A healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit & vegetables is the basis of good health. Nutritional deficiencies and difficulties with digestion are often found in people who suffer from respiratory problems. The lungs share responsibility for removing waste with the bowels, the kidneys & the skin, if those systems are not functioning well this can lead to a build-up of catarrh in the respiratory system. Those who have a tendency to respiratory conditions are advised to avoid or limit mucus-forming foods such as dairy products, gluten, eggs, potatoes & other starchy root vegetables, sugar & junk foods. It is a good idea to cut down on these foods if you are developing a cold. Polluted air also adversely affects the respiratory system, particularly the effects of smoking which increases the risk of many serious health problems. Having a good balance of work, rest & play is also important in keeping our systems strong and able to resist infections.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Nourishing vegetable soup - recipe at <a href="http://wwootw.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/new-years-day-wassail-blessing-on-land.html">http://wwootw.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/new-years-day-wassail-blessing-on-land.html</a></span></div>
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The next thing to consider is the use of herbs which stimulate the immune system. Echinacea, Garlic, Thyme, Ginger & Turmeric all have immuno-stimulatory actions as well as anti-microbial actions. Many spices have immune-enhancing, antimicrobial & decongestant actions including Cinnamon, Cardamom, Fenugreek & Coriander, they also improve digestion and balance the gut flora. Food which contains spices plus onions & mushrooms such as curry & stir-fry and chicken & vegetable soup is good for helping to keeping the immune system strong in the winter months. A great remedy for fighting colds is Fire Cider Vinegar which combines spicy food such as Horseradish with the healing properties of cider vinegar. Horseradish root is our native hot pungent food. It stimulates digestion and helps eliminate waste products of fevers & colds, clears the sinuses & is warming for muscle aches. <br />
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<u>Fire Cider Vinegar</u><br />
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Horseradish root<br />
Fresh root Ginger<br />
A head of Garlic<br />
Several red Chillies<br />
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Grate or chop the herbs and cover with cider vinegar to infuse for 3-6 weeks. I put roughly chopped herbs and vinegar in my nutribullet which chopped them up very finely for maximum absorption of the healing properties into the vinegar. Strain off the vinegar and cover the herbs with more vinegar to make a second batch. Take a teaspoon in hot water with some honey once or twice a day during the cold season and more frequently when developing a cold.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Horseradish, Garlic, Ginger & Chillies</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Roughly chopped & covered in cider vinegar</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Fire Cider Vinegar</span></div>
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The first sign of a developing cold is often a sore throat. I find a hot infusion of Sage leaves, root Ginger & Lemon with honey to be helpful for sore throats. Self Heal is particularly known for being useful for throat conditions, taken as a tea or a tincture. Honeysuckle is also known for helping with sore throats, the flowers can be used to make Honeysuckle honey. Swollen glands are a sign of infection, that the lymphatic system is removing waste as the body fights infection, Cleavers tincture is helpful for supporting the lymphatic system during & following an infection.<br />
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At the first sign of a cold take 1/2 a teaspoon of Echinacea tincture and 500mg of Vitamin C every 2 hours to help fight the infection. Also have food which contains Vitamin C and bioflavonoids which help the body to absorb Vitamin C such as Citrus fruit & Rosehips, such as Rosehip Honey (see below). Take a hot infusion of dried Elderflowers, Peppermint & Yarrow every 1-2 hours to reduce fever & clear catarrh. If you have fluey aches & pains add Boneset to the tea, if available. Other herbs which are helpful for cold & flu teas are Ground Ivy & Catmint. Vervain will help a cold to break and helps with convalescence. Aromatic inhalations or hot footbaths or Rosemary, Lavender, Thyme,
Cinnamon or Chamomile can help reduce swelling of mucous membranes and
loosen catarrh.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lemon, Ginger & Sage tea</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Honeysuckle honey</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Echinacea Tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Echinacea Tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Dried Catmint</span></div>
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Elder is a great aid to fighting colds & flu. The dried flowers are used in the classic cold season tea. Elderflowers & Elderberries can be used to make various remedies including tinctures in alcohol, elixirs which are made with single herbs or combinations of herbs in a jar half filled with runny honey & half filled with brandy and left for about 6 weeks to macerate then strained (see recipe below), glycerites using vegetable glycerine to macerate the herbs which are useful for those who can't have alcohol or honey (see recipe below) and herbal vinegars using vinegar instead of alcohol. Hot Elderberry wine before bed will help you to sweat and throw off a fever.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderflowers</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderflower remedies - recipes at <a href="http://wwootw.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/midsummer-season-of-light-and-flowers.html">http://wwootw.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/midsummer-season-of-light-and-flowers.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderberries</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Elderberry Tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderberry Vinegar</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><u><span style="font-size: small;">Anti-viral Elder Glycerite</span></u> </span></div>
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6-8 heads fresh Elderflowers picked when in flower<br />
500ml/2 cups vegetable glycerine<br />
Juice of 2 Lemons<br />
6-8 heads fresh Elderberries picked when ripe later in the year<br />
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Remove the Elderflowers from the stalks with a fork, put in a bowl & cover with glycerine, add the Lemon juice. Put into a jar, shaking once a day. When the Elderberries are ripe, strain the Elderflower mixture through a sieve. Strip the berries from the stalks with a fork and put them in a jar. Pour the Elderflower glycerite onto the berries. Stir well & leave for at least a month. Strain through muslin & bottle. Take 1 teaspoon as required neat or in hot water to prevent infection or aid recovery.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderflower glycerite</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Anti-viral Elder glycerite</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Elderberry Elixir</u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
1/2 fill large jar with fresh Elderberries<br />
Add <br />
1 Cinnamon stick broken up into small pieces<br />
25g lump fresh root Ginger finely chopped<br />
1/2 Lemon chopped<br />
Add <br />
1 jar runny honey, pour on and podge with a chopstick<br />
Fill to the top with brandy, podge and mix well<br />
Macerate for 4-6 weeks. Take a teaspoon a day during cold season or more frequently if developing cold symptoms.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderberry Elixir</span></div>
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Honey is a great healing substance for colds & other infections. Honey has anti-bacterial qualities which help rapidly clear infection and will help sore throats & coughs. Honey can be also used to extract and preserve the properties of herbs. It is simple to make a herbal honey. Chop up the herb and fill a jar then pour on runny honey and podge it with chop stick to mix the honey with the herb and release any air bubbles. Leave to infuse in the honey for several weeks before use. The herb can be left in the honey and eaten or strained out as appropriate for use. Caution - do not give honey to children under 12 months of age.<br />
<br />
<u>Horseradish Honey</u><br />
<br />
Grate Horseradish roots or use a high speed blender such as nutribullet to finely chop roots. Fill a jar with grated/finely chopped root then pour on runny honey and podge/mix with a chopstick to release air bubbles and mix well. Leave to infuse and take a teaspoon when desired.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Horseradish honey</span></div>
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<u>Elecampane Honey</u><br />
<br />
Dig up the roots in the autumn from plants that are 3 years old or more. Scrub off the mud. Slice thinly, put in a jar and cover with runny honey. Leave to infuse for at least a week. The roots can be left in the honey and pieces of the root can be eaten. Adults take 1-2 teaspoons and children 1 teaspoon up to four times a day (do not give to children under 2 years), for sore throats, sinus congestion & productive coughs. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elecampane Honey</span></div>
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<u>Rosehip Honey</u><br />
<br />
Use Rosehips which have been exposed to frost or put them in the freezer to help soften them. Cut off the stalks & ends. Chop or put in a blender. Fill a jar then pour on runny honey, podge and mix with a chopstick. Leave in the jar to infuse. Strain when using to remove the seeds & hairs.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rosehip Honey</span></div>
<br />
Colds & flus are often accompanied by or develop into coughs and
chest infections. The remedies already suggested should help prevent
secondary bacterial infections from taking hold which are more serious and debilitating. Coughing is a reflex action to remove irritants such as dust, toxins, micro-organisms or mucus blocking the throat or bronchial tubes, though sometimes can be caused by nervous tension rather than respiratory irritation. There are various different kinds of coughs and it is important to choose the right herbs for the type of cough presenting. Caution - Fever & malaise with green phlegm & breathlessness may
indicate acute bronchitis or pneumonia, it is advisable to seek medical
attention for these. It is also advised to seek medical attention for a persistent cough of unknown cause. <br />
<br />
Demulcents such Marshmallow, Mullein, Plantain & Liquorice soothe irritation and inflammation in dry tickly coughs. Wild Cherry Bark is particularly useful for treating dry irritating coughs including Whooping Cough as it has a sedative action, it can be taken as tincture or as a hot infusion of the dried bark. Relaxing herbs such as Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Holy Basil & Skullcap are helpful for nervous coughs. But it should be remembered that the inhibition of a cough does not equate with the healing of a chest infection so other herbs are also needed for treatment of infection.<br />
<br />
Expectorants & decongestants such as Thyme, Ground Ivy, White Horehound, Hyssop, Anise Hyssop, Ginger, Angelica & Sweet Marjoram help liquefy and clear phlegm in wet congested coughs. Anti-microbial herbs such as Thyme, Elecampane, Hyssop, Garlic & Cinnamon help combat infection and support the immune system in fighting it off. Elecampane is particularly useful for wet congested coughs & catarrh and for coughs which are due to digestive problems, it is not suitable for dry, irritated coughs. Its properties are well preserved in honey, see above. Some herbs are amphoteric which means they are normalisers with variable actions depending on the need of the body system at the particular time. Mullein & White Horehound are both amphoterics so may be particularly useful for coughs of different kinds. White Horehound is very bitter so needs to be combined with something to sweeten it such as in the elixir remedy below.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mullein leaf</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hyssop</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Anise Hyssop</span></div>
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<br />
Cough remedies:<br />
<br />
<u>Wild Cherry Bark tincture & cough syrup</u><br />
<br />
Cut twigs in autumn or early spring and scrape off the bark. The greenish-white inner bark is the medicinal part. Dry the bark in the shade or in a dehydrator. Use the dried bark to make a tincture with vodka, fill a jar with bark then fill with vodka, leave in a cool dark place for a month then strain. The tincture can be combined with Elderberry glycerite to make a cough syrup, using 1 part cherry bark tincture & 2 parts Elderberry glycerite, dose 1 teaspoon 3 or 4 times a day, half this for children, particularly for dry, irritating coughs. Caution don't use Wild Cherry in pregnancy or for children under age 2. There is a possible risk of stomach upset or diarrhea, if this occurs use less or stop using.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wild Cherry twigs</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wild Cherry bark </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dried Wild Cherry bark & tincture</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<u>White Horehound, Sage & Thyme Elixir</u><br />
<br />
<br />
Roughly chop fresh White Horehound, Sage & Thyme put in a jar and half-fill with runny honey, then fill to the top with brandy, podge and mix well with a chop-stick to release air bubbles. Leave in a dark cupboard for about 6 weeks, strain & bottle. Take a teaspoon at a time when needed for a chest infection.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">White Horehound, Sage & Thyme Cough Elixir</span></div>
<br />
<u>Hyssop, Elderberry & Marshmallow Elixir</u><br />
<br />
Chop herbs & cover with honey & brandy and leave to macerate and strain as above. A good general cough remedy.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hyssop, Marshmallow & Elderberry Elixir</span> </div>
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References<br />
'Bartram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine' Thomas Bartram<br />
'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal<br />
'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred<br />
'The Complete Herbal Tutor' Anne McIntyre<br />
'The Domestic Alchemist' Pip Waller <br />
'The New Holistic Herbal' David Hoffmann<br />
'Wild Drugs, a forager's guide to healing plants' Zoe Hawes<br />
<br />Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com57tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-37353659424752844162016-01-19T22:56:00.000+00:002016-01-19T23:44:00.464+00:00The call to protect the land from fracking<span style="font-size: small;">Like most of you who are reading this I am immersed in the challenges of daily life and trying to work towards living more sustainably. But there is a bigger picture that we all need to take account of and respond to in our own way. We are in the midst of an environmental crisis caused by our unsustainable society. One manifestation of this is the development of extreme fossil fuel extraction methods such as fracking, coal-bed methane and underground coal gasification. These cause contamination of the air, water and earth around drilling sites, which leads to severe health effects in people living nearby, as well as contributing to climate change. Vast swathes of Britain have been opened up to fracking & other extreme fossil fuel extraction methods by the current government, so large areas of our precious countryside & the wildlife which lives there as well as many millions of people will be directly affected if this goes ahead. See <a href="http://frack-off.org.uk/fracking-hell/">http://frack-off.org.uk/fracking-hell/</a> for details of the threat.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">In August 2013 I was contacted by a friend who asked me to help with organising an anti-fracking ritual on Glastonbury Tor. The intention of the ritual was to raise awareness and energy for the anti-fracking cause, particularly in the pagan community. Reverence for the earth is a fundamental part of pagan spirituality so this was a call I felt I had to answer. Several hundred people participated in the ritual along with hundreds more doing rituals elsewhere round the UK and round the world to send energy in support. As a result of the ritual The Warrior's Call Pagans United Against Fracking <a href="http://www.warriorscall.org/">http://www.warriorscall.org/</a> was created as an international network which encourages all of like mind to work both practically and magically to defend the land from fracking. The Warrior's Call has held 3 more international rituals over the past 2 years, in which literally thousands of people have participated. The intention of the rituals has been to inspire and empower the people participating to work on an energetic level and in practical ways to help protect our land, water and air from the threat of extreme fossil fuel extraction. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">As well as the international rituals there have been many rituals and practical actions organised by local communities affected by the threat in their area. I participated in a Winter Solstice ritual held last month at Upton near Cheshire on a piece of land that was ear-marked for drilling, that had been occupied by activists for the last 21 months. As part of the ritual I and my husband called upon the powers of Oak and Mistletoe to protect the land. We called to the ancient oaks that stood guard round the boundaries of the field and to the power of the bough of Mistletoe that I had brought from a ceremony held in Glastonbury earlier in the month. Mistletoe has associations of good luck & protection from many ancient cultures, our custom of kissing underneath it is a dim remnant of these customs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Winter Solstice ritual at Upton (photograph by Colin Gong)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsJmW38DKvAFZqiBJ3LgvxwvoTBSo6Uo2hB4pLPIJFW8g9U6iCwOQ0NjlO5VTdangsa69pXWf7zEUHWAV3GTwwAFW-Oc56lk0_uqqZZX15ASLbXb6mpb868ceCsvqWF96qad-3RCdzpWc/s1600/piper-circle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjsJmW38DKvAFZqiBJ3LgvxwvoTBSo6Uo2hB4pLPIJFW8g9U6iCwOQ0NjlO5VTdangsa69pXWf7zEUHWAV3GTwwAFW-Oc56lk0_uqqZZX15ASLbXb6mpb868ceCsvqWF96qad-3RCdzpWc/s320/piper-circle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Invoking the power of Oak & Mistletoe (photograph by <a href="http://www.chesterchronicle.co.uk/news/chester-cheshire-news/druids-visit-chester-anti-fracking-10629539">The Chester Chronicle</a>) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Very sadly the protection camp at Upton was brutally evicted by bailiffs accompanied by several hundred police officers last week. But this does not mean that resistance at Upton and across the UK is over. Far from it, a solidarity event was held at Upton last weekend, attended by 100's of local people and activists from around the country and there is an ongoing presence at the entrance to the lane leading to the site. There are scores of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10153317208488388&set=gm.490234961158817&type=3&theater">No Fracking Way</a> events planned across the UK for Sunday 31st January, to kickstart community resistance around the country in 2016. Please try to support one of these or organise your own to add your voice to the many who are standing up to defend our land from short-sighted greed which will leave a lasting toxic legacy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">As my blog is mainly about herbalism I especially invite my fellow herbwives and herbal practitioners of all kinds to answer the call to help protect the land with our particular knowledge and skills. This may be by providing much needed healing & practical support for the well-being of frontline protectors such as at Upton, please join the group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/392991340875206/?fref=ts">Herbalists Against Fracking</a> to get involved. Or it may be by doing magical work alone or in a group, calling upon our plant allies for guidance and assistance in our work to change consciousness and help bring about what is needed to stop extreme fossil fuel extraction in the UK and across the world. Or by spreading the word about the threat of extreme fossil fuel extraction in your community both online and offline. We can all do something. Our land needs us all, will you answer the call?</span></div>
<br />Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-56162372762867832122016-01-06T22:55:00.001+00:002016-01-06T22:55:18.786+00:00Herbal gifts & a cupboard full of goodnessApologies for the long gap since the last post due to various circumstances including being responsible for co-running a week-long camp at Samhain, at which herbs in various guises played a part including ritual offerings, Mugwort assisted dreaming, cold remedies & a talk about using herbs to help keep healthy over the winter. I also had my 50th birthday in November, which feels like a major milestone especially as I am in the process of passing through the transition of menopause. Then in December like many people I was busy with the lead up to the festive season. I managed to find time to make some herbal gifts of creams & salves for family and friends, using some of the infused oils & tinctures I have made, which was a lovely way to share some of what I have been doing as a herbwife apprentice during the last year.<br />
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<u>Skin Cream</u><br />
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I made some skin creams using Christopher Hedley's basic cream recipe:<br />
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1oz base cream<br />
1 teaspoon infused oil<br />
2 teaspoons tincture<br />
4 drops of essential oil <br />
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- Add the infused oil or oils if using a combination to the base cream and stir until it is all absorbed.<br />
- Then add the tincture or tinctures if using a combination and stir again.<br />
- Add the essential oil & stir in.<br />
- Spoon into small jars with screw top lids & label.<br />
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I used Olive Tree Rich Cream Base from Baldwins herbal suppliers <a href="http://www.baldwins.co.uk/olive-tree-rich-base-cream">http://www.baldwins.co.uk/olive-tree-rich-base-cream</a> for my base cream.<br />
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I made a soothing skin cream with 4oz base cream, 1 teaspoon Rose petal infused oil, 1 teaspoon Calendula infused oil, 1 teaspoon Marshmallow infused oil, 1 teaspoon of Elderflower infused oil, 4 teaspoons of Rose petal tincture & 4 teaspoons of Elderflower tincture. These are moisturising & soothing for dry skin. I didn't use essential oils, just infused oils.<br />
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I also made Rose & Elderflower skin cream using just Rose & Elderflower infused oils & tinctures in equal proportions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJeU6ORkQjNZPh57_K-2HES4PaB-YsDbadGSuURxn04-9PO3LUVGwusVPanGyGLz4Wp9YEvfTahKh4nWSLuL7bvo47zywgqMr0yHQ8BByM-6nbra5ZRZby6mg8FkLtM76vv-5gFR3-RIt/s1600/wpDSC_1193.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJeU6ORkQjNZPh57_K-2HES4PaB-YsDbadGSuURxn04-9PO3LUVGwusVPanGyGLz4Wp9YEvfTahKh4nWSLuL7bvo47zywgqMr0yHQ8BByM-6nbra5ZRZby6mg8FkLtM76vv-5gFR3-RIt/s320/wpDSC_1193.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cream, oils & tinctures for Soothing Skin Cream</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKea_dT5vrPXrQ6lkT94cVzDzMGy5Lp1OVQ8zPrQWmtpTjlEeFQqV3ktnfeUZyqV_amsfA3l51I4LYicCuwAEHpO9DnhuexrcRfaosvgM9X1cfd2y8DC_Vip1cWlWezxVRajvcVRkRV-U6/s1600/wpDSC_1192.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKea_dT5vrPXrQ6lkT94cVzDzMGy5Lp1OVQ8zPrQWmtpTjlEeFQqV3ktnfeUZyqV_amsfA3l51I4LYicCuwAEHpO9DnhuexrcRfaosvgM9X1cfd2y8DC_Vip1cWlWezxVRajvcVRkRV-U6/s320/wpDSC_1192.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mixing cream</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7eCsZFVMYyt2DokzmrEdDGc0nN1v9eqa65rqX1YVyIWMCE2I_HSk4qak91httKvHuVW7tkRFwtqdLVb9XE_cy1RZ9dm06qAiZKfDrnoQfBYNOpISDW0prJT8ujLoP8R_YOxtpguS9lQ8Y/s1600/wpDSC_1194.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7eCsZFVMYyt2DokzmrEdDGc0nN1v9eqa65rqX1YVyIWMCE2I_HSk4qak91httKvHuVW7tkRFwtqdLVb9XE_cy1RZ9dm06qAiZKfDrnoQfBYNOpISDW0prJT8ujLoP8R_YOxtpguS9lQ8Y/s320/wpDSC_1194.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Soothing Skin Cream</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAS62BVctLX2-JewufoKRJbiW2iRZZCjsChyphenhyphenOTUtfO_B6rR_xQVj3ScB3T67pNlp3PPEsDb6F0xyNk_Wdk_pDwT8TunJ94dR6ntfZ237sU1xyiN4Jjl1LcxFVgZxb_0jgXF9v4OJze3SIs/s1600/wpDSC_1197.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAS62BVctLX2-JewufoKRJbiW2iRZZCjsChyphenhyphenOTUtfO_B6rR_xQVj3ScB3T67pNlp3PPEsDb6F0xyNk_Wdk_pDwT8TunJ94dR6ntfZ237sU1xyiN4Jjl1LcxFVgZxb_0jgXF9v4OJze3SIs/s320/wpDSC_1197.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rose & Elderflower Skin Cream</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Back & Joint Salve</span></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I made some Ginger double-infused oil by chopping up a large Ginger root into small chunks then dividing into 2 batches and putting the first batch in a small pan covered with Olive oil and heated over a slightly larger pan of water on a very low heat for 2 hours, then removed the first batch of Ginger and put in the second batch into the same oil to heat for another 2 hours, the oil was strained through a piece of muslin over a sieve into a jar and labelled.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I made a salve for soothing back & joint pain using:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 fluid oz Meadowsweet infused oil - which has pain-relieving properties</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 fluid oz St John's Wort sun-infused oil - which relieves nerve pain</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 fluid oz Ginger oil - which is walming & soothing for inflamed joints</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 fluid oz Marshmallow oil - which is lubricating & soothing</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 oz chopped beeswax - which makes the salve set & has healing properties</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This was heated in a small pan in a slightly larger pan of water on a low heat and stirred until the beeswax all melted. The salve was then poured into small jars and left to set then the lids were put on and the jars were labelled.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxqp83RTVYo7-acddskuyeZs50qRN8TLZeA2BgCptYh7AGHvXWaaUHbkbyOOxw7U8o9Qbsvh0ytN0IaEyzff69Uz8abX8OG1zQQSWt9lJeXVoZmSdrMO22_H2CXfBTDfJoywcMut_9ulXp/s1600/wpDSC_1195.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxqp83RTVYo7-acddskuyeZs50qRN8TLZeA2BgCptYh7AGHvXWaaUHbkbyOOxw7U8o9Qbsvh0ytN0IaEyzff69Uz8abX8OG1zQQSWt9lJeXVoZmSdrMO22_H2CXfBTDfJoywcMut_9ulXp/s320/wpDSC_1195.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Ginger double-infused oil</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI7j5VLrT7LtFcsHpnxh4_WRInBX61fyxdkCuHQg21vBU0iLA6iFjWPUlR9q-H9dVGAd9tNPHCrCcthNFMKzgt6_X5tG4a-So3n_UlJExerz0QgE2lTetYIDEx6dq1JoexaDNjTldbNgGB/s1600/wpDSC_1196.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI7j5VLrT7LtFcsHpnxh4_WRInBX61fyxdkCuHQg21vBU0iLA6iFjWPUlR9q-H9dVGAd9tNPHCrCcthNFMKzgt6_X5tG4a-So3n_UlJExerz0QgE2lTetYIDEx6dq1JoexaDNjTldbNgGB/s320/wpDSC_1196.JPG" width="212" /></a> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Root Ginger infused oil</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXRdRG3Ch0mGKxOZiRfvXE2ohf8usVnAmPbvauFCvyUFiVbFPCZVvIULOSPOl6KYQG7f5hjgCl8CrX1wsR__nE57aublxzX5fb_I6-fHFMOtsoS2gLaqaM0N-G91wJyjRKnULAjwgM-qU/s1600/wpDSC_1199.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXRdRG3Ch0mGKxOZiRfvXE2ohf8usVnAmPbvauFCvyUFiVbFPCZVvIULOSPOl6KYQG7f5hjgCl8CrX1wsR__nE57aublxzX5fb_I6-fHFMOtsoS2gLaqaM0N-G91wJyjRKnULAjwgM-qU/s320/wpDSC_1199.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Back & Joint Salve</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">To mark the end of my first year of the herbwife apprenticeship and beginning of the next year I have taken stock of the remedies I have made over the past year and listed them all in an inventory. This will be useful to help me keep track of my growing pharmacopeia of remedies and to plan for remedies I need to make this year. I also made a list of the books I have read or used for reference over the last year. I already have some books lined up to read to continue to deepen my knowledge and appreciation of herbs as allies for health & well-being over this coming year.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCCgjIF2jqgMJrq7w5I-ezgLDRRNbcJaQ-VWMGEdvtltDy_AHmGRe2eaC8lP0WZOG7nT0Rpt24PYr9GMToXBbJyYuxMamYIhHmbPYL-boQorqG7wcB3IscLp4Bg04k2cdY8HxOAJyguYa/s1600/wpDSC_1391.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWCCgjIF2jqgMJrq7w5I-ezgLDRRNbcJaQ-VWMGEdvtltDy_AHmGRe2eaC8lP0WZOG7nT0Rpt24PYr9GMToXBbJyYuxMamYIhHmbPYL-boQorqG7wcB3IscLp4Bg04k2cdY8HxOAJyguYa/s320/wpDSC_1391.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Creams & salves in my bathroom cabinet</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1WjThiTjvGDHZJi-cS9SgoLviWu0XMG8nLkcT6wdb4xdpDlMj2wp3oyfFojQuOno26EEZ7Xn6bZMMB-g5jft-3UlBwK8JuZhpXlot1ucJepTOOwfFvNmD7HoVbxfJ8WPwShoQddqvBRud/s1600/wpDSC_1393.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1WjThiTjvGDHZJi-cS9SgoLviWu0XMG8nLkcT6wdb4xdpDlMj2wp3oyfFojQuOno26EEZ7Xn6bZMMB-g5jft-3UlBwK8JuZhpXlot1ucJepTOOwfFvNmD7HoVbxfJ8WPwShoQddqvBRud/s320/wpDSC_1393.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Oils, salves, flower essences & dried herbs</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9M4i-7e_0Ziixdd9OMYO2KsVO2JzQNbo6-3tE6FyIVxxIjHjGBsyFnvLsET3ZKk3wdQ2vdk5k-i4DfFQWzSZV3gio1hDipl5U3VjKgJeerYggLgPZKNL-tohql2VZxiqrqZHAMT-Yp0g/s1600/wpDSC_1394.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9M4i-7e_0Ziixdd9OMYO2KsVO2JzQNbo6-3tE6FyIVxxIjHjGBsyFnvLsET3ZKk3wdQ2vdk5k-i4DfFQWzSZV3gio1hDipl5U3VjKgJeerYggLgPZKNL-tohql2VZxiqrqZHAMT-Yp0g/s320/wpDSC_1394.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Herbal vinegars</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvVcSWISZNPe1Wp68XGoV-PziNiI0uFLXwnj9_hK8Yb3XYjzNOSKhvK7BLbdy6Gw9EZ-4krOqKc6qARoMYnn1wvUMet1y_yzUWQ7INxj6gKyidDSCNUmODXvBkAPBUmF1SZWe-293IHWh/s1600/wpDSC_1395.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvVcSWISZNPe1Wp68XGoV-PziNiI0uFLXwnj9_hK8Yb3XYjzNOSKhvK7BLbdy6Gw9EZ-4krOqKc6qARoMYnn1wvUMet1y_yzUWQ7INxj6gKyidDSCNUmODXvBkAPBUmF1SZWe-293IHWh/s320/wpDSC_1395.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Tinctures & elixirs</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVndxMrfcaxFzNk_QarQPLFm7zZR96v9OzeKgserl1w9t84vsbcw7gB5aQMyVwVGyDikf27fgrzqoghLu5t-GWFKPEUf_1p_vrguDmWe3VTKUl4EL-hUG2V4a_hsE_XQSsa-eUMcukiuqZ/s1600/wpDSC_1396.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVndxMrfcaxFzNk_QarQPLFm7zZR96v9OzeKgserl1w9t84vsbcw7gB5aQMyVwVGyDikf27fgrzqoghLu5t-GWFKPEUf_1p_vrguDmWe3VTKUl4EL-hUG2V4a_hsE_XQSsa-eUMcukiuqZ/s320/wpDSC_1396.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Tinctures, elixirs, glycerites & preserves</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I look forward to continuing to share my learning and reflections on my journey as a herbwife with my readers over the next year. Thanks for all the positive comments I have received over the past year, they are really appreciated. Please do post a comment if you want to know more about anything I have posted, I am happy to share information with others who share my interest in all things herbal.</span> </span></div>
Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-31713902240837963102015-10-09T22:24:00.003+01:002015-10-09T23:01:17.707+01:00Hawthorn plant spirit initiation - a transformative process<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last weekend I attended a three day retreat led by with Pam Montgomery, author of 'Plant Spirit Healing, A Guide to Working with Plant Consciousness', to make a deep connection with the plant spirit of Hawthorn, my chosen herbal ally for my first year as a herbwife apprentice. I saw the retreat advertised the same week I published a <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5165561420941167398#editor/target=post;postID=2662444368176362099;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=9;src=postname">post</a> all about Hawthorn, so I really felt a calling to attend. The retreat was organised by <a href="http://archetypeevents.com/">Archetype events</a> who run courses and conferences on plant consciousness, shamanism and related subjects. Pam and others such as Eliot Cowan, author of 'Plant spirit Medicine', have been inspired by indigenous healing traditions to work with plants on spiritual & energetic levels as well as the physical level of plants as medicinal substances.<br />
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In her book Pam writes about her realisation that practising as a herbalist using herbs purely as physical medicine was not addressing the energetic and spiritual blockages & imbalances which underlie the physical manifestation of illness. She found that working with plants on an energetic and spiritual level can assist with healing in a very profound way and leads to personal transformation to a spirit and heart centred way of being in harmony with our environment.<br />
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A method of making a spiritual & energetic connection with plant spirits is to carry out a ceremonial plant diet. Plant dieting is a traditional process which may involve a range of practices to make a profound relationship with a plant spirit for guidance and healing. Author Carole Guyett who lives in Ireland has been inspired to carry out sacred plant diets with local native plants as detailed in her book 'Sacred Plant Initiations' which describes how to carry out a ceremonial plant diet and gives examples of plants worked with in this way for each of the 8 seasonal festivals of the wheel of the year.<br />
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The retreat involved a ceremonial plant diet of specially prepared Hawthorn elixir whilst fasting or eating only small amounts of foods such as apples, nuts, nut butter & rice cakes for the 2 1/2 day period of the retreat. Participants were instructed to undertake a gentle liver cleanse for the three days prior to the retreat by taking 1-3 tablespoons of organic cold-pressed virgin olive oil mixed with 1-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice followed by half a lemon in hot water an hour before breakfast and to avoid red meat, dairy, refined sugar and excessive amounts of salt, alcohol & coffee. <br />
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The retreat was held at <a href="http://www.poulstone.com/">Poulstone Court</a> a retreat centre set in quiet countryside in Herefordshire close to the River Wye. During the retreat we spent time in beautiful hedgerow rimmed meadows running along the far bank of the river, reached by a suspension bridge, which was just a few minutes walk from the centre.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">The retreat started with gathering as a group for an introduction to the plant dieting process. The elixir used for a plant diet usually includes every part of the plant, if they can be ingested, in water-based & alcohol-based extracts and flower essences. Some plants may be used in other ways eg essential oils or infused oils of the plant may be used for anointing the skin and plants used for smudging or smoking could be used in that way. There is often a support plant for the group and individual process of the plant initiation. In this case Pam drew a card from the '<a href="http://www.natureevolutionaries.com/messages-from-the-plant-world/">Messages from the Plant World</a>', a deck of transformational plant spirit healing cards, for the group as a whole and we each drew a card for an individual support plant for the retreat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">The Hawthorn plant materials used for the plant diet had been gathered in Autumn last year and Spring this year. The extracts used for the elixir made for the retreat were flower tincture, berry tincture with berries from Wales and from Vermont in the USA where Pam is from, flower essence, infusions of flowers, leaves & berries and distilled flower essence, with the addition of local cider as apples are a support plant for Hawthorn. The distilled flower essence had been made using an alembic containing flowers and spring water heated over a low heat to create a very concentrated water extract. The plants were harvested and extracts made with spiritual intent and ceremony. The elixir contained about 1/3 alcohol and 2/3 water. There was enough elixir for each participant to have 16 fluid ounces in total, 2 fluid ounces for each of the 8 servings of elixir during the retreat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The process began with all participants putting an object on the altar laid out in the centre of the space which would be empowered with the energy of Hawthorn for us to put on our altar on return home. We also wrote our intentions on a piece of paper and put this under the edge of the altar cloth. We were each smudged in turn with Mugwort, Agrimony & Sagebrush to begin the ceremonial process. Pam then carried out a ceremonial honouring of the directions of East, South, West, North, Below, Above and Centre. The Hawthorn extracts and cider were poured into a large pan, with a smaller pan with water-based extracts only for one participant who did not wish to consume alcohol. The extracts were then ritually stirred by each participant in turn with prayers & good intentions being offered while the whole group drummed and chanted. The stirring was done in a specific way to create a vortex in one direction then in the other direction, with the spoons being handed on to the next person while the liquid was still in motion. After the stirring had been completed we had our first drink of the elixir, going up one at a time to receive our helping.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">We then were lead on a short walk to the common by the river to each find a Hawthorn to spend time with. We were invited to use all our senses to get a felt sensation of the vibratory resonance of Hawthorn, to 'put a handle' on this as a way to reconnect with the plant spirit later. We were also invited to spend time daydreaming with Hawthorn, being aware of everything going on around us and thoughts and images arising in our minds. I found a place in a ditch with Hawthorns on either side. I felt a sense of calmness and peace but also a sense of vitality with a fiery quality. I saw shimmering webs of spider's silk catching the light in the spaces between the trees, bringing a message of Hawthorn's energy of connection. When walking back through a different corner of the field I found a beautiful Hawthorn covered in clumps of Mistletoe that I returned to several times during the retreat, it felt that this was a really special tree.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn & Mistletoe</span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">After spending time with Hawthorn out in nature we returned to the retreat centre for a guided shamanic journey to meet the spirit of Hawthorn on an inner level. I found myself experiencing Hawthorn through the seasons, from the rising sap and growth of new leaves in the spring, the glorious profusion of flowers in May, the ripening fruit and abundance of Autumn, the wood as fuel for the fire in winter. I had a experience of the purifying fire energy of Hawthorn and felt a real sense of blessing from this journey. After the journey we had another drink of the elixir and were asked to notice what is different about the taste & feel of this drink compared to the first drink. Following this we walked a spiral labyrinth laid out on the lawn with rope and were asked 3 questions at the entrance, the half-way point and centre of the labyrinth, to guide us in our process for the retreat.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">After the labyrinth journey we were invited to go out alone to sing & play music to Hawthorn and maybe receive the medicine song of Hawthorn. I went back to the Hawthorn covered in Mistletoe and spent time drumming & singing there until the sun set behind the hedge-line on the horizon. That evening we had another drink of the elixir and we were asked to write a love letter or poem to ourselves. This was a very self-affirming thing to do, I let the words just flow as they came naturally. We were also invited to ask Hawthorn for a dream when we went to sleep and shared our dreams the next morning when we gathered for our next drink of the elixir.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">On the Saturday morning we were guided through the Greenbreath process. This involved breathing in a particular way accompanied by recorded music and verbal prompts to lead us through stages to break up stuck energy, release trauma and move through obstacles & blocks to the free flow of energy and connection to spirit, helped by the Hawthorn plant spirit. The breath is a way to access spirit via plants as we take in their energy by breathing in the oxygen they give out and they take in our energy by absorbing the carbon dioxide we breathe out. This process moved a lot of energy and assisted with releasing emotion, leading to a place of deep stillness and peace. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">On the Saturday afternoon we had another drink of elixir and were then invited to go out to our sit spot to find a twig and make prayers of what we want to invoke and be grateful for in our lives, winding coloured yarn round the twig for each prayer. The intention of the process was to help us to honour the sacred, to invite spirit into our lives and focus our intention on putting the heart on the throne of our lives. After this we were lead on another shamanic journey, to experience dismemberment and transformation into a new form, with the help of Hawthorn, followed by another drink of the elixir, absorbing it ever more deeply into our being.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">For the Saturday evening fire ceremony we each made a mask for our embodiment of Hawthorn and dressed in ceremonial clothing to honour and feed spirit. We held a Hawthorn council, each speaking for the spirit of Hawthorn, speaking words from the heart. On the Sunday morning we had our final drink of the elixir then went as a group to gather round the Hawthorn tree covered in Mistletoe to each speak our thanks to Hawthorn and offer a handmade gift we had been asked to bring as an offering. We concluded with a talking stick circle to each share our story of how Hawthorn is guiding us in living with heart. We were given bottles of Hawthorn flower essence to keep taking up until Samhain, the next holy day in the wheel of the year, to help us to keep working with Hawthorn and integrating the Hawthorn energy in our daily lives in the world.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn mask</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This was a very special weekend which has opened a doorway to working with plants on a deeper level, as healing spirit beings as well as physical medicines. I hope those reading this may be inspired to explore this way of working with plants in the future. May this be of benefit to our fellow beings.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">References:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Plant Spirit Healing' Pam Montgomery.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Plant Spirit Medicine' Eliot Cowan. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Sacred Plant Initiations' Carole Guyett.</span></span><br />
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<br />Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-73603705134635135482015-09-22T21:46:00.001+01:002015-09-22T22:12:45.602+01:00Harvest of richesApologies for having been 'off air' for so long, it's been a busy time.<br />
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I want to mark the Autumn Equinox by sharing some of what I have been harvesting and making over the last couple of months from my visits to Springfield Herb Sanctuary and from the herb beds in my allotment. This post will feature flowers & leaves, posts later in the Autumn will feature fruit & seeds.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Herbs harvested at Springfield Herb Sanctuary</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCQY0Ww-KyQ0IHhxg6iBiflpx3mCwP16deZCwbV4zIkxyo7WAF7-qPvrp3JvB7kLipte822CVa3Oi7IJeu2-vQYNGi1NvI6sPsJgpNeVPes2HMJdoKBpnSjEmTK1lpzROnww_yHwpUMGk/s1600/wpDSC_0995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCQY0Ww-KyQ0IHhxg6iBiflpx3mCwP16deZCwbV4zIkxyo7WAF7-qPvrp3JvB7kLipte822CVa3Oi7IJeu2-vQYNGi1NvI6sPsJgpNeVPes2HMJdoKBpnSjEmTK1lpzROnww_yHwpUMGk/s320/wpDSC_0995.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Calendula, Hyssop & Evening Primrose flowers</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Basket of herbs gathered at the allotment</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Marshmallow & Calendula flowers</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Marshmallow</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Is a mucilaginous herb, which helps to lubricate and soothe tissues. It is soothing & healing for the respiratory & digestive systems. Its energetic effects seem to be in line with its physical properties as it is said to be helpful with interpersonal relationships, it can help smooth communication, helping us to be open & warm towards others. At the August workshop at Springfield Herb Sanctuary I made Marshmallow flower essence. I picked a few flower heads and put them in a jar of spring water to infuse for several hours in the sun. The flowers were then removed with a stalk and the water was poured to half fill a jar, the rest was then filled with brandy to preserve the flower essence. The essence can be taken a few drops at a time when desired. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I took some leaves home which were used to make a double-infused oil. The oil can be used for boils, bruises, sprains, muscle aches & pains, scalds & burns, insect bites & stings. Fresh leaves could also be used in poultice for these. Marshmallow infused oil can be used in an intimate lubricant with St John's Wort oil which is anti-bacterial and Calendula which is also soothing, with beeswax to 1:10 of the volume of oil, to make a soft salve, make in small batches.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Marshmallow</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Marshmallow flower essence</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Marshmallow flower essence</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Marshmallow leaves</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Marshmallow infused oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Bergamot/Beebalm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This is an anti-viral herb. It is a hot plant so is good for sore throats, colds & coughs, taken in tea or in honey or syrup. It can also be helpful for tinnitus caused by inner ear congestion. It promotes local circulation which helps recovery. It can help relieve stomach ache & flatulence. I used Bergamot flowers to make a burns honey with Rose petals and Evening Primrose flowers. Caution - should be avoided in pregnancy & breast-feeding. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bergamot</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoOSqFo2yhEuvww1mW-hrweHgUm6v1ma7INGrOwRR1sRYl_z4w_EG6p9iQKNLYywr2Hlmd0TOdLr-xcWx4gjWLpcYn35Dqq6943kAzsWDGzyztcYPrNI827syLGEIONZQvpYZO83MmYpLB/s1600/wpDSC_1027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoOSqFo2yhEuvww1mW-hrweHgUm6v1ma7INGrOwRR1sRYl_z4w_EG6p9iQKNLYywr2Hlmd0TOdLr-xcWx4gjWLpcYn35Dqq6943kAzsWDGzyztcYPrNI827syLGEIONZQvpYZO83MmYpLB/s320/wpDSC_1027.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bergamot, Rose petal & Evening Primrose burns honey</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Yarrow</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">It will stop bleeding from wounds & nosebleeds. Taken internally it relaxes muscles surrounding blood vessels and relieves congested blood flow so is good for period pain, high blood pressure, varicose veins & fevers. We made Yarrow double-infused oil during the August workshop at Springfield Herb Sanctuary for use on old wounds such as surgical scars and skin rashes. I made a tincture with some of Yarrow I picked and kept some for use in infusions, which help to induce sweating to cool fever in colds & flu. It has diuretic & anti-bacterial properties so Yarrow tea is also useful in the treatment of cystitis. Cautions - do not use in pregnancy. It may cause skin irritation in people who are sensitive to the daisy family. It is advisable to consult a trained medical herbalist if using Yarrow for treatment of high blood pressure. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yarrow</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Yarrow infused oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yarrow oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yarrow tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Echinacea/Purple Coneflower</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">There are several species of Echinacea, they can all be used medicinally. All parts of the plant can be used. They can be used in teas, tinctures, powders & compresses. I made tincture with some of the flower heads, to use when developing an infection such as a cold or flu. Research shows that it enhances the mobility & effectiveness of white blood cells, so helps the body fight infection. It is also useful internally & externally for small wounds, sprains, abrasions, bruises & stings. In the US it is used for poisonous stings & bites, used in large frequent doses of up to 60ml of tincture at 10-30 minute intervals & also applied externally, reduce the dose & frequency when the swelling subsides, in addition to seeking medical attention. Echinacea remedies are generally most effective if taken in small amounts frequently eg 3-10 drops every 10-30 minutes when needed for an acute problem. Caution - be careful with Echinacea if you have an auto-immune disease such as Ulcerative Colitis as it could cause a flare-up of symptoms. It can also cause an allergic reaction in some people.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Echinacea</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Echinacea tincture</span></div>
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Agrimony</div>
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It was a significant herb in the European tradition in the past but is
underused in modern western herbalism, though it is still an important herb in
Chinese medicine. It is an astringent herb that is very effective in stopping bleeding & relieving pain, so it was a traditional wound herb, known as a healing plant to the Anglo-Saxons. It is also helpful for burns, used as a tincture both externally & internally, cool the burn first
under running water then wet a cotton ball with tincture and hold in
place until the burn stops hurting, the tincture can be put directly
onto the burn if needed and can also be taken internally, until the pain subsides. <br />
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It is one of the Bach flower essences, for people who hide inner turmoil & avoid dealing with difficult issues. The American herbalist Matthew Wood recommends Agrimony for mental & physical tension & work-related stress and for pain that makes the person hold their breath. He has found that Agrimony works on a magical level as well as a physical level, particularly with issues in people's work environments, just having a leaf of the plant present in the workplace can change the energetic situation.<br />
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It is a bitter herb that increases bile flow, so is useful in treating gallstones and for bowel health generally, especially for conditions which have alternating constipation & diarrhoea as it helps to release tension & balance the digestive. It contains tannins which are astringent, which reduces swelling & inflammation in the bowel wall and can help normalise gut bacteria, so is helpful for irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease. The whole flowering plant is used. It is also helpful for the urinary tract and helps to ease the pain of kidney stones, irritable bladder & chronic cystitis. It can safely be given to children for bed-wetting & to the elderly for incontinence. Dried Agrimony can be used in tea or infused in water & added to a bath or footbath. I made a tincture with the fresh herb, 3-5 drops to be taken in a little water 3 times a day for tension or cystitis, half a teaspoon 3 times daily for diarrhoea. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Agrimony</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Agrimony tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hyssop</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leaves, shoot tips & flowers can be used fresh in salads, it has an aromatic flavour. It has a long history of medicinal use. It is an aromatic, warming, anti-inflammatory member of the Mint family. It is classed as a calming tonic herb. It helps inflamed tissues heal as it strengthens capillaries & increases peripheral blood supply. It helps slow viral replication, particularly in the lungs. It encourages sweating & is a diuretic. </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It makes an excellent gargle for sore throats. </span></span>It is best known for use with respiratory infections, especially with excessive production of mucous. It is particularly helpful during the recovery phase of 'flus and fevers. Tea made with the dried herb can also be used for flatulence and other digestive problems. It is also helpful for urinary tract infections. Caution - do not use during pregnancy as large doses can induce miscarriage. For more information about Hyssop see <a href="http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/include/searchherb.php?herbsearch=Hyssop&x=0&y=0">http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/include/searchherb.php?herbsearch=Hyssop&x=0&y=0</a></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hyssop</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dried Hyssop</span></div>
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Anise Hyssop</div>
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The
flowers & leaves are edible and can be used as a garnish on salads
& fruit salads or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes or as a
flavouring in bread. Tea made with Anise Hyssop can be used as a remedy
for wounds, fevers, diarrhoea & coughs. It is a cardiac tonic and
induces sweating. Fresh herb can be used in a poultice for burns. For
more information on Anise Hyssop see <a href="http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_anise_hyssop.htm">http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_anise_hyssop.htm</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Anise Hyssop</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dried Anise Hyssop</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Calendula</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I had already made Calendula infused oil and tincture earlier in the summer. The plants have kept flowering so I have picked flowers for drying. These can be used for intestinal or bladder problems, </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">menstrual cramps & to help knit </span>broken bones. Fresh petals can be used as a garnish with salads & drinks. Dried petals can be added to soups, baked foods & rice. Strong Calendula tea can be used as a rinse to give a golden tint to blond hair, pour the strained cold tea over the hair over a bowl, repeat at least 15 times then let the hair dry with the tea in it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Calendula flower</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dried Calendula petals</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Willowherb</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Small flowered Willowherbs are a specific remedy for prostate problems, particularly benign prostate enlargement, they help shrink the tissues & normalise urinary function. This was popularised by the Austrian herbalist Maria Treben. They are also effective for other bladder & urinary problems with astringent & diuretic action toning & detoxifying the urinary tract. The dried herb can be used in tea, 2-3 cups a day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Willowherb</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dried Willowherb</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Holy Basil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Earlier in the year we planted out lots of Holy Basil plants in the herb beds at Springfield Herb Sanctuary. We harvested it during the Herb Festival in September. It is an adaptogen which is good for stress, it can be used in food. It is an annual so I will be saving some seed to try planting next year to grow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Holy Basil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">References</span></div>
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'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">'Practical Herbs' & 'Practical Herbs 2' Henriette Kress. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">'The Book of Herbal Wisdom' Matthew Wood.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">'The Herbalist's Bible' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">'Wild Drugs' Zoe Hawes.</span></div>
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<br />Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-26282858060289686642015-07-30T22:35:00.001+01:002015-08-03T22:19:24.158+01:00Treading in the footsteps of the ancestorsWe spent last week in West Wales. While we were there we visited a number of ancient sites including Castell Henllys which is an iron-age hill-fort settlement which contains several roundhouses which were reconstructed on their original foundations. They have been kitted out with the sort of furnishings and tools that would have been used when the site was occupied over 2000 years ago. There is a herb garden on the site which contains some of the herbs that would have been used by the people who lived there. I also came across plants that would have been used by the ancestral people of the area when walking in the stunning landscape of the Pembrokeshire coast & hills.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Castell Henllys reconstructed iron-age settlement</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Inside a reconstructed roundhouse</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Herb garden at Castell Henllys</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Musk Mallow in the herb garden</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Burdock growing near the coast</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sea Plantain - a variety of Ribwort Plantain which grows on the coast</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hemp Agrimony growing by the path</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Betony growing by the coastal footpath</span></div>
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I bought a little book in the excellent shop at the visitor's centre
called 'Welsh Herbal Medicine' by David Hoffman, who later went on to
write 'The New Holistic Herbal', which was one of my first books on
herbalism and which I still find an excellent resource. 'Welsh Herbal
Medicine' gives an outline of the history of medicine in Wales.
Medicine was one of the arts taught and handed down in the oral
traditions of the druids in ancient Wales. The use of herbs for both
physical and magical purposes was a central part of druidic medical
practice, alongside guidelines for healthy living.<br />
<br />
The
traditions were passed down largely orally until the middle ages when
they were written down by the famous Physicians of Myddfai, about whom
there is a legend that their founders were the sons of a magical lady
who appeared from a local lake who taught them the properties of
plants. Their descendants continued to practice medicine up until the
18th Century. The original manuscript is now in the British Museum and
refers to about 175 plants used for remedies, most of which were common
wild plants, to be made into remedies with water, alcohol, honey etc as
we still do today.<br />
<br />
As an apprentice herbwife I am
drawing on thousands of years of accumulated knowledge and experience in
working with plants for health and wellbeing. I feel drawn to
reconnect with the down to earth approach of country people of using
local plants rather than exotic plants and manufactured medicines. This is what most people would have used right up until recent times, as documented in 'Memory, Wisdom and Healing, The History of Domestic Plant Medicine' by Gabrielle Hatfield and 'Green Pharmacy, The History and Evolution of Westerm Herbal Medicine' by Barbara Griggs. In
the terminology of another author I have been reading, Susun Weed, I am
following the way of the Wise Woman, to nurture health & wellbeing
through nourishment and working with plants as allies on the journey
through the lifecycle.<br />
<br />
It feels very personally
nurturing and empowering to be able to go out and gather wild plants and
to grow plants in the garden which provide nourishment and help
maintain the healthy functioning of body and mind. Modern medicine does
not provide this, although it does have its place for diagnosing and
treating some conditions which traditional approaches may not be
effective for on their own. I am not trying to turn back the clock, I
am a twenty-first century apprentice herbwife who has the benefit of
access to scientific knowledge as well as traditional knowledge. But I
honour the ancestors who first learned how to use plants for healing and
passed those traditions down through the centuries right up until the
present day.<br />
<br />
Below there are just a few of the plants I have harvested and remedies I have made which have a history of use in traditional herbalism.<br />
<br />
Nettle<br />
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Nettles were a sacred herb to the Anglo-Saxons. They enhance our immunity and help protect from infection. They have an anti-histamine effect and can help reduce the severity of asthma attacks. They reduce blood sugar levels and stimulate circulation. They are a blood tonic as they are high in iron and chlorophyll and they help clear the blood of urates & toxins through stimulating the kidneys. At this time of year the leaves are toxic to use but the seeds can be harvested by cutting nettle heads with green seeds, laying them on newspaper to dry, then stripping the seeds off the stems. A teaspoon of seeds a day can be added to porridge or other dishes or mixed with runny honey to make an electuary which can be taken on its own. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Nettle seeds</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Self-heal</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Also called All-heal for its wide range of medicinal uses. It has a long history of use in Western folk medicine used externally for wounds and internally for </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">mouth & throat problems such as swollen glands, tonsillitis, laryngitis, mumps, mouth ulcers & healing after tooth extractions. It is also useful for </span></span>fevers, diarrhoea & internal bleeding. It has recently been recognised as having anti-viral and anti-bacterial qualities and immune-stimulating effects so is helpful for colds & flu and could be useful for treating herpes & AIDS. It has an affinity with the lymphatic system, helping the body to clear infection and toxins and to remove excess uric acid via the kidneys, which is helpful for treating gout. It is also helpful for liver, gallbladder & thyroid problems. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The 17th century herbalist John Parkinson suggested mixing the juice with rose oil for headaches for external use on the forehead & temples. </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It has a relaxing effect on the nervous system and can help lower blood pressure. </span></span>Parkinson also recommended mixing Self-heal with rose honey for mouth ulcers & genital sores. It is also helpful made into ointment for minor injuries, broken bones & dislocated joints.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Self-heal</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Self-heal tincture </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mugwort</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Is an ancient herb of healing & magic. It was a key Anglo-Saxon sacred herb and continued to be used magically in Christian times, such as the wearing of a mugwort garland on St John's day, the 24th of June, whilst dancing round the midsummer fire and casting the garland into the fire to ensure protection for the coming year. It is still used in this way for the protection of people and animals in midsummer ceremonies in the Isle of Man to this day. It has the power to influence dreams by being put under the pillow or made into a dream pillow or being drunk before bed. It can stimulate vivid, even lucid dreams, which links to its associations with magic. It can be used to make smudging sticks for energetic space clearing, on a practical level it has a history of use to dispel insects such as midges, moths & flies. It was traditionally used as a herbal flavouring for ale before hops were used. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is strongly associated with women's natural cycles of menstruation, childbirth and menopause. It can help regulate menstrual flow and the menstrual cycle. </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is an
aromatic bitter which warms the digestion and stimulates the liver. It
has a calming effect on the nervous system, relieving stress, tension
and mild depression. </span></span> It contains lots of minerals, so is
a good herb to use to make herbal vinegar which is an effective way of
extracting minerals to make a natural mineral supplement to be taken
neat or diluted. I like to take it neat as I really like the flavour.</span></span> Caution - it is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the stimulating effect on the uterus. </span></span></span> </span></div>
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Mugwort</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mugwort vinegar</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Yarrow</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">was known as a cure-all plant in the past. It is one of the best herbs to use for first-aid treatment of wounds & nosebleeds. It staunches bleeding, breaks up congested blood and is anti-microbial. It tones blood vessels so has a beneficial effect on the whole circulatory system for problems such as hypertension & thrombosis, it combines well with nettle & lime blossom for this. It is also helpful for menstrual problems including painful periods, so is an important herb for women. It is also a leading herb for use in feverish conditions such as flu by relaxing the skin to open the pores and allow sweating and the release of toxins. It is traditionally combined with Elderflower & Peppermint in a tea for colds & flu. It is safe for use for children. It is also helpful for problems of the digestive system such as diarrhoea & stomach cramps and for cystitis & arthritic conditions. Yarrow also had magical associations and was traditionally used for divination. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The leaves can be harvested fresh at any
time of year though are best gathered when the plant is in flower to make
tincture or to be dried for use in tea. </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The active constituents vary from plant to plant, some plants are a lot stronger than others.</span></span></span> </span>Caution - it should be avoided in pregnancy due to stimulating effect on the uterus. It can cause allergic rashes and make the skin sensitive to sunlight. Large doses can cause headaches. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Yarrow</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yarrow tincture</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The name comes from the word febrifuge as it was traditionally used to reduce fevers. It was often planted round houses to purify the air & ward off disease in the past. It was historically used as a women's herb for problems of the uterus and menstruation. It was also used externally as a poultice for insect bites & stings. The Physicians of Myddfai used it with Plantain, Bugle & Sage to make an ointment for bruises & sores. Research has found it has anti-histamine & anti-inflammatory effects. It is now most commonly used as a remedy for headaches and modern research has found it to be an effective remedy for migraine symptoms, reducing the frequency & intensity of attacks. It is helpful for nervousness, low spirits and as a general tonic. It has been used to help relieve withdrawal symptoms from alcohol. It is also helpful for attacks of vertigo and for fevers. It also has a pain-relieving & anti-inflammatory action which is helpful for arthritis. It has a stimulant effect on the digestion & liver and is helpful for colic & flatulence. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The leaves should be eaten fresh or made into tincture as they lose most of their properties on drying. The tincture can be taken for a few days before menstruation to reduce period pains. It should be taken at the first sign of a migraine starting. A fresh leaf can be taken every day as a prophylactic to prevent or reduce migraine attacks</span></span>. It combines well with Betony for headaches and with Cramp bark for period pains. Caution - it should be avoided in pregnancy and if on blood-thinning medication. Handling the leaves can cause contact dermatitis & eating the leaves may cause mouth ulcers in some people. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Feverfew tincture</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">White Horehound, Sage & Thyme elixir</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This elixir combines White Horehound, Sage & Thyme chopped in a jar which is then half-filled with honey and filled to the top with brandy and left to steep for about a month then strained and bottled to make an excellent traditional remedy for respiratory conditions. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">White Horehound is one of the best known chest remedies. It is very effective for all coughs, colds & respiratory conditions. It is expectorant & anti-spasmodic. It is used in acute & chronic bronchitis, particularly bronchitis with a non-productive cough. It is also used for whooping cough. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sage is particularly good for sore throats & phlegmy coughs. It helps dry up excess mucous in the respiratory tract. It has a stimulating effect on the immune system. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Thyme has a cleansing and anti-septic effect. It is best known as a respiratory herb which helps expectoration and relieves coughs and asthma. It supports the immune system and has anti-inflammatory effects. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">White Horehound</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Sage</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1C1FOKGqWxwSOEIp5r028IL8UXDsKSkIVp1-27xJjGVliSwoxpAtqcwn-CUuMlGZEyn4UTljLaPjJGleEydOTPPh0uSIS0BggNkRy6_fPxA4LKEwrQuGb6FZ1QjohPDBIkljx-S5rCWE/s1600/wpDSC_9882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV1C1FOKGqWxwSOEIp5r028IL8UXDsKSkIVp1-27xJjGVliSwoxpAtqcwn-CUuMlGZEyn4UTljLaPjJGleEydOTPPh0uSIS0BggNkRy6_fPxA4LKEwrQuGb6FZ1QjohPDBIkljx-S5rCWE/s320/wpDSC_9882.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Thyme<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9flfdqvFKG_TxOKkSIfwXpQrqxlmgCnb_Il_O7dRA_iBiTvrOqZj5Wk5nR9_cTaXvxdOro3ButkcCNLUpxjgREcwKcK5dNOx3SBIYPdViMZwVb3O4X6PlMXwZ8y0ZM3Nbjlp74ct_zkEx/s1600/wpDSC_9922.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9flfdqvFKG_TxOKkSIfwXpQrqxlmgCnb_Il_O7dRA_iBiTvrOqZj5Wk5nR9_cTaXvxdOro3ButkcCNLUpxjgREcwKcK5dNOx3SBIYPdViMZwVb3O4X6PlMXwZ8y0ZM3Nbjlp74ct_zkEx/s320/wpDSC_9922.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">White Horehound, Sage & Thyme elixir</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">References:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Green Pharmacy, The History and Evolution of Western Herbal Medicine' Barbara Griggs. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Memory, Wisdom and Healing, The History of Domestic Plant Medicine' Gabrielle Hatfield. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'The Herbalist's Bible' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'The New Holistic Herbal' David Hoffmann. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Welsh Herbal Medicine' David Hoffmann.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Wild Drugs' Zoe Hawes. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Wise Woman Herbal Healing Wise' Susun Weed. </span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-80345406325480950562015-07-18T10:11:00.000+01:002015-07-18T10:23:09.478+01:00Harvesting flowers at the Herb Sanctuary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last Saturday I spent the day at Springfield Herb Sanctuary in the Cotswolds at one of my herbwife mentor Sarah's monthly workshops. She showed us round the herb beds which are now full of plants in flower. We picked Calendula flowers to make a double-infused oil to take home with us. We were each invited to see which flower we felt drawn to and to make a flower essence with it. In the afternoon we harvested lots of the flowering herbs for drying and making remedies with. For details of the workshops at the Herb Sanctuary see <a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html</a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chamomile, Calendula & Lavender in flower </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1Wxw7_DwIcWIvNZQx6-L9W472Jh8ZZrPRyeqCkO6S58g721hsU1fsKfIw12Ck5J7nEVTZHb13NbDj0bSMLLuSEbIL2d71GajRIGFFIgifJIxTI5QBiWpYMSemNvajy0uf3krLBbw8ADZ/s1600/wpDSC_9852.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1Wxw7_DwIcWIvNZQx6-L9W472Jh8ZZrPRyeqCkO6S58g721hsU1fsKfIw12Ck5J7nEVTZHb13NbDj0bSMLLuSEbIL2d71GajRIGFFIgifJIxTI5QBiWpYMSemNvajy0uf3krLBbw8ADZ/s320/wpDSC_9852.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Calendula</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Meadowsweet in flower</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Motherwort & St John's Wort</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">St John's Wort</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wormwood & Catmint</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wood Betony flowers</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Shakespeare's Rose</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Harvest of flowers</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I was
drawn to the beautiful Apothecary's Rose which was in full bloom next to
the summer house and picked a few petals to make a flower essence with
spring water from the natural spring at the Sanctuary. The jar of water
& petals was left next to the Rose bush in the sun to infuse for a
few hours, then the petals were removed and the water decanted to half
fill a clean jar, then the other half was filled with brandy to preserve
the essence. This is the mother essence, to be used diluted 9:1 in
small doses for subtle energetic effects to uplift and renew interest in
life when feeling stressed and bogged down. Rose petals are calming
& uplifting, they help with anger & frustration & give
courage to defend your boundaries.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Apothecary's Rose </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Rose flower essence</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Rose flower essence</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">We picked all the Calendula flowers and used these to make double-infused oil. This was made by dividing the flowers into two lots and putting the first lot in a bowl with sunflower oil which was then put in a slow cooker filled with water up to the level of the oil to infuse for 2 hours. The oil was strained and the first lot of flowers was discarded then the second lot of flowers was put in the bowl with the oil and infused for another 2 hours. The oil was strained then carefully poured into jars, taking care to leave the cloudy aqueous layer at the bottom of the jug as this could make the oil go bad. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Used externally Calendula speeds the healing of wounds, it is also useful for minor burns, eczema and psoriasis. It stops bleeding so can be applied as a styptic. Deep wounds should be left to heal before using Calendula as the outer skin healing before the deeper layers could seal in infection. It is good for bruises & sprains as it enhances local blood circulation.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also picked the Calendula flowers from
my small patch in the allotment and used these to make a tincture with
vodka, which will be left to macerate for a few weeks then strained, dosage 5-30 drops 1-4 times a day. Taken internally it treats a variety of problems with mucous membranes such as intestinal or bladder problems. It also helps broken bones heal faster. It helps regulate menstruation and prevent menstrual cramps. </span></span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Picked Calendula flowers </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making double-infused Calendula oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Calendula oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Calendula flower tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The St John's Wort flowers were painstakingly all picked from the large patch at the Herb Sanctuary. These were divided between us to put in jars and fill with oil, to be left on the windowsill in the sun for a few weeks. I have covered mine with muslin to protect it whilst letting water vapour evaporate. </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also picked the few St John's Wort flowers on the small patch in my allotment to make a small jar of tincture with vodka, to be left in a dark cupboard for a month then strained and bottled. This can then be taken in doses of 1-4ml three times a day. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">St John's Wort is the herb of Midsummer,
it begins flowering on or around the Summer Solstice. The flowers
should be picked on a sunny day around midday, this is when the active
constituents are at their strongest. It traditionally has powers of
protection against evil and unseen forces. </span></span> </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">St John's Wort oil is excellent for the skin, particularly burns and hot infected eczema. It is a natural mild sunscreen & is helpful for sunburn. It has anti-bacterial & anti-viral properties. It also relieves pain, particularly nerve pain such as that caused by shingles and can be combined with other pain-relieving oils such as Meadowsweet & Agrimony to make a healing & pain-relieving salve. It can be taken internally as a tincture at the same time. </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">St John's Wort helps with digestive problems such as difficulties absorbing nutrients, ulcers, heartburn & bloating. It has a decongesting & strengthening effect on the liver & gallbladder. St John's Wort has become well known in recent decades as a natural treatment for depression, particularly Seasonal Affective Disorder. It is officially recognised as a treatment for mild to moderate depression in Germany. Taken as a tincture or flower essence it will help improve sleep quality. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Caution - if taking anti-depressant medication or any other medication including the contraceptive pill or you are pregnant St John's Wort should not be taken internally without supervision of a qualified herbalist or medical practitioner as it can lower the level of some medication in the body due to it's action in helping the liver break down & eliminate toxins. Another caution is that St John's Wort can increase the photosensitivity of the skin and increase risk of burning particularly for fair skinned people, so it should be avoided if you burn easily or are out in the sun a lot.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">St John's Wort oil</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">St John's Wort tincture</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I took a couple of cloth bags of Rose petals from the Apothecary's Rose and the Shakespeare's Rose home to make into various remedies. These are two traditional Rose varieties used in herbalism. I made a double-infused oil, using the same method as for the Calendula oil using a small pan inside a slightly larger pan with water simmering on a low heat. I put Rose petals to steep in vodka to make a tincture. This will be strained in about a month's time and combined with the Rose oil with beeswax to make a moisturising, soothing skin cream. I made Rosewater by simmering a pan of Rose petals in water for 20 minutes. This was then left overnight then strained. The strained water was measured and 1/3 of the volume added as vodka to preserve it. This can be used as a cooling astringent on the skin. The remaining Rose petals were put in a jar with brandy to make Rose petal brandy.</span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making double-infused Rose oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Rose petal oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Rose water</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rose water after straining</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rosewater</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rose petal tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rose petal brandy</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I picked some Meadowsweet flower heads in the allotment. Some of these were cut up with scissors and put in a jar which was filled up with 60% vegetable glycerine and 40% water to make glycerite for internal use, 1 teaspoon three times a day when needed. The rest was used to make a double-infused oil for external use for muscle aches & pains, backache, sciatica, painful joints & arthritis. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Meadowsweet was a sacred herb of the druids and was used in the past to treat malaria & fevers. Meadowsweet contains salicylic acid which is the active ingredient in aspirin so it is very helpful for aches and pains used externally in oil or salve. Taken internally it is helpful for pain, particularly due to arthritis and rheumatism. It is also excellent for stomach problems such as indigestion, heartburn, gastritis & hiatus hernia and does not damage the stomach in the way aspirin does. It is soothing for stomach upsets including children's diarrhoea. It is also helpful for cystitis & urethritis, kidney stones & gravel. It helps to eliminate toxins & urea. Caution - if you are allergic to aspirin you may also react to Meadowsweet.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Meadowsweet Glycerite</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Meadowsweet oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I took home a large bunch of Catmint, otherwise known as Catnip. </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Some of the Catnip was put in a
jar with honey to make Catnip honey. Some of it is being dried to use
for tea. </span></span></span></span>The rest of the Catnip leaves & flowers
were put in a jar with vodka to make Catnip tincture, dosage 10-60 drops 1-3 times a day or 1-3 drops as needed, such as before meals or before bed. </span></span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Catnip has a pleasant mild minty flavour. It is a gentle nervine, good for relieving the effects of stress and anxiety, insomnia & restlessness. It is also useful for stress-related stomach upsets, headaches & irritability. </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is helpful for toothache, including for teething infants, who can be given a cloth dipped in cooled catnip tea and frozen to chew on. It is also useful for colds and fevers. It is also helpful for mild gut or menstrual cramps. Caution - it can cause heavier menstrual flow. It is slightly bitter so helps promote digestion. </span></span>It has a gentle action and is suitable for infants, it has calming effect and promotes sleep and relives colic & diarrhoea. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Catnip tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Catnip in honey</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I took some Wood Betony flowers home to make into tincture with vodka to be used in doses of 5-10 drops three times a day as a treatment or a teaspoon three times a day as a tonic. I have also dried some for use in teas & infusions. Wood Betony was highly regarded in ancient times and was regarded as having powers of protection against evil. In modern times it has been recognised as a nerve tonic, it helps to calm & relax, to relieve stress on the mind & body. It is an excellent remedy for insomnia caused by nervous tension. A cup of tea or a few drops of tincture in the evening are useful for this. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is helpful for headaches including tension, migraine & liver headaches. It also helps to improve concentration and memory, so is helpful for exams and similar situations. Betony acts on the solar plexus and is helpful for a range of digestive problems as it harmonises the actions of the whole digestive system. It stimulates the appetite & improves weak digestion but also soothes & calms the digestion and is helpful for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis & colitis. It is an excellent tonic herb for older people and people recovering from long-term illness or people who just feel run-down generally. Caution - do not take during pregnancy.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wood Betony tincture</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIWLwKbSxhXRQRsQ0VDUM9EusYTvcmFxyt-9gUxxZYNTZAL5VA3oP95cc0X39xZh8muK4XVINlALU-xi9PPQm2bnthuldfxLEvGetLc7LswmZa-T3JNclCl0ewLWOIMVe65EG_7B6ocjy/s1600/wpDSC_9948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSIWLwKbSxhXRQRsQ0VDUM9EusYTvcmFxyt-9gUxxZYNTZAL5VA3oP95cc0X39xZh8muK4XVINlALU-xi9PPQm2bnthuldfxLEvGetLc7LswmZa-T3JNclCl0ewLWOIMVe65EG_7B6ocjy/s320/wpDSC_9948.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dried Wood Betony</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I picked a small amount of Chamomile flowers, leaves & stalks, these were chopped up and put in a jar with vodka to make a tincture, dosage 15-30 drops three times a day. The tincture is calming and helps sleep. It calms the stomach and is helpful for mild gut cramps & digestive upsets, including for colic in infants. </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtJjj6RsaVvslObjwrm_x1DIjswI1ZK33R-h7HXBBPb8s7JNDNeKDqwAKWXADVlQEWkBjRoD1vC4GrlC5CWp-wjBKuhHZM74KqMe1ak6GnLJ3fINLO1vUtnhrs4rnBIs2YkmhwTXzuYote/s1600/wpDSC_9941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtJjj6RsaVvslObjwrm_x1DIjswI1ZK33R-h7HXBBPb8s7JNDNeKDqwAKWXADVlQEWkBjRoD1vC4GrlC5CWp-wjBKuhHZM74KqMe1ak6GnLJ3fINLO1vUtnhrs4rnBIs2YkmhwTXzuYote/s320/wpDSC_9941.JPG" width="212" /></a></span></div>
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Chamomile tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> For more photographs of the Herb Sanctuary in flower see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153492879852938.1073741901.657002937&type=1&l=5fcb7d0885">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153492879852938.1073741901.657002937&type=1&l=5fcb7d0885</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">References</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Practical Herbs 1 & 2' Henriette Kress.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Wild Drugs' Zoe Hawes. </span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-58212307360632823542015-07-12T22:19:00.000+01:002015-07-12T22:26:24.803+01:00Hedgerow Medicine day with Woodland WaysLast weekend I went on a day course on Hedgerow Medicine & Medicinal Wild Plants with Woodland Ways who run great bushcraft courses in Oxfordshire and Leicestershire <a href="http://www.woodland-ways.co.uk/buy-online-hedgerow-medicine-and-medicinal-wild-plants-758.html">http://www.woodland-ways.co.uk/buy-online-hedgerow-medicine-and-medicinal-wild-plants-758.html</a><br />
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Our friendly and knowledgeable course instructor Danny led the group on a plant identification and foraging walk along the verges of a quiet rural lane, along woodland rides and along the edges of fields adjoining woodland. He then led us to the base camp in Appleton woods where we ate a packed lunch while he got the fire going for tea for which some of us used fresh herbs we had picked along the way, in my case a pleasant tasting sprig of wild mint.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBxEGhnkvpPlArc2RaXXQap2mCpwLhESAchXIFIxRoaKSsUUei0yyCLsAU1skJH25TZHIHPbDrQElOqwZRGLuO54bxtQx92FZwREUl57ordf1BvibbQEPZ1hi5RSLdsNcIFKtQ45TvrXh/s1600/wpDSC_9693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBxEGhnkvpPlArc2RaXXQap2mCpwLhESAchXIFIxRoaKSsUUei0yyCLsAU1skJH25TZHIHPbDrQElOqwZRGLuO54bxtQx92FZwREUl57ordf1BvibbQEPZ1hi5RSLdsNcIFKtQ45TvrXh/s320/wpDSC_9693.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Danny showing us Cleavers</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Ground Ivy </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Burdock</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Plantain flowers</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Ribwort Plantain leaf</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Comfrey leaf</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cutting a Willow branch</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Wild Mint</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Base Camp</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">After lunch it was all hands on deck making various preparations with
the herbs we had gathered. We made Cleavers ointment, Burdock &
Comfrey liniment, Plantain Cream, Elderflower, Ground Ivy & Bramble
shoot tea blend, dried Hedge Woundwort for wounds & stripped Willow
bark to make natural painkillers. During the afternoon tea break Danny
went through the law on foraging and showed us some useful reference
books on plant identification and use to encourage us to go away from
the course and carry on finding and making our own hedgerow medicines.
We finished the afternoon by dividing everything we had made into jars
& packets to take home our own hedgerow medicine kits.</span> </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making remedies on the outdoor work surface</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Burdock & Comfrey liniment</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Burdock Comfrey leaves were chopped up and divided in two lots. One lot was put in a billy can with distilled Witch Hazel and set by the fire to make a decocted water extract. The other lot was put in a bowl with surgical spirit to make a strong alcohol extract. Surgical spirit is used rather than vodka as it does not evaporate as quickly when applied to the skin. These were left for about 2 hours then strained and mixed together to make a liniment. This is for external use for bumps, bruises, breaks & sprains. </span> </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Comfrey leaves for chopping</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Chopped Burdock & Comfrey leaves decoction with distilled Witch Hazel</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Chopped Burdock & Comfrey leaves steeping in surgical spirit</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Straining the steeped surgical spirit</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Burdock & Comfrey decoction & tincture mixed together</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Burdock & Comfrey liniment in jars </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cleavers ointment</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Large quantities of Cleavers were gathered. These were pounded and then wrung to extract juice. The juice was added to lanolin and worked in till it combined to make an ointment. This was hard work at first but got easier as the juice was absorbed. It made a nice pale green ointment for chapped skin, eczema and similar irritated skin conditions. Caution some people are lanolin sensitive.</span> </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Squeezing Cleavers juice</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mixing Cleavers juice with lanolin</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> The mixed Cleavers ointment</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Filling jars with Cleavers ointment using improvised piping bag</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh779aa-7_ylg3BG83vlJtUV5A28FfPBPdMQFLqMHnF403qU_tVNjVrs6h0ORoDAzDgoZcMHGNStKDq6Qyg9IscFtEtOf5qJREetphjQjwfDzArGaqwljWmjdIIqU-9pO7J1XcnvcN0J68o/s1600/wpDSC_9818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh779aa-7_ylg3BG83vlJtUV5A28FfPBPdMQFLqMHnF403qU_tVNjVrs6h0ORoDAzDgoZcMHGNStKDq6Qyg9IscFtEtOf5qJREetphjQjwfDzArGaqwljWmjdIIqU-9pO7J1XcnvcN0J68o/s320/wpDSC_9818.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Jars of Cleavers ointment</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Plantain cream</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Plantain leaves were chopped up. Half of these were put in a pan and covered with olive oil and left near the fire to extract fat soluble constituents. The other half was put in pans with hot water and left by the fire to steep to extract water soluble constituents. The infused oil and water were strained into a bowl into which grated beeswax was added. The mix was whisked to make a cream which was poured into jars and left to set. The cream is good for inflamed skin such as stings, bites & thorns as Plantain has a drawing action. </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Chopping Plantain leaves</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Plantain leaves ready for decoction</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Straining the Plantain infused oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Whisking Plantain decoction & infused oil with beeswax </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Plantain cream in jars</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elderflower, Ground Ivy & Bramble shoot tea blend</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">We stripped off the dried leaves & flowers from Elderflower heads, Ground Ivy stems & Bramble shoots Danny had collected previously and left to dry. These were mixed together to make a tea blend which will be useful for colds & flu.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Fresh & dried Ground Ivy</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Elderflower, Ground Ivy & Bramble shoot tea blend</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Willow bark pain killer</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Danny cut a branch from a Willow tree along the route. The outer grey bark was scraped off with the back of a knife then the inner green bark was cut and peeled in sections which can be cut into 1 centimetre squares which can be chewed as a natural painkiller or added to tea blends for colds & flu. Willow bark contains Salicylic acid which is the active ingredient in aspirin. Caution don't use if allergic to aspirin. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Stripping Willow bark</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hedge Woundwort for wounds</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hedge Woundwort has a coagulating agent in it so is very good for wounds. The plant can be used fresh, crushed or chewed and put on wounds or used dried to make a decoction to put on wounds to stop bleeding. The plant can be laid out on sheets of newspaper to dry over a few days and crumbled into powder for use when fully dry.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Hedge Woundwort for drying</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">For more photos of the day see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153484273967938.1073741900.657002937&type=1&l=2aa3ec9cdd">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153484273967938.1073741900.657002937&type=1&l=2aa3ec9cdd</a></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-52533308443822429292015-07-02T22:01:00.002+01:002015-07-04T23:06:55.721+01:00Midsummer harvestThe allotment is bursting with life at the moment with plants at different stages of their cycles. Some have not yet flowered, some are now coming into flower such as Agrimony, Borage and Mullein, some are developing fruit such as the Apple trees and Broad Beans and some have flowered and set seed such as Sweet Cicely. I picked some Borage flowers to use in salads; Sage flowers and leaves to preserve; Mullein leaves to dry for tea for dry irritable coughs, bronchitis, pleurisy, laryngitis, & swollen glands; Chamomile flowers to use in infused oil & Sweet Cicely seeds to make a flavoured aperitif. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Borage</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Agrimony</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Marigold</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Mullein</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Sweet Cicely seedheads</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Chamomile flowers</span></div>
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I made Mullein flower essence by putting some of the Mullein flowers
in a bowl of spring water to infuse in the morning sun, this was
strained and bottled in a mix of half water, half brandy to make the
mother essence, which can be used to make stock bottles with 7 drops of
essence to a 30ml bottle of half spring water, half brandy, to use 4
drops at a time for energetic effects. Glennie Kindred in 'Letting in
the Wild Edges' states that Mullein helps to clear stuck energy, find
clarity and affirm your higher purpose.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Mullein flower essence</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">For more allotment pictures see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153466476912938.1073741897.657002937&type=1&l=f17c36ee41">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153466476912938.1073741897.657002937&type=1&l=f17c36ee41</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Back home in the kitchen I got on with processing the herbs I had harvested in the allotment.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I made a double-infused oil by putting some Chamomile flowers in a small pan of sunflower oil and heating in a pan of water for 2 hours, then taking out the flowers and putting in a second batch of flowers for another 2 hours, then straining the oil through clean muslin. The oil can be used as oil or made into a salve for skin troubles such as itchy or red eczema, sunburn & acne rosacea, small wounds, aching joints & nerve pain. The oil can be used for massage or as a moisturising oil for the skin.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Chamomile flowers</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chamomile flower oil</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I used the Sage flowers I picked to make a conserve by taking fresh Sage flowers and an equal weight of sugar, grinding them together in a mortar and leaving the mixture in a glass jar in the sun. I put the leaves in a jar with cider vinegar to make Sage vinegar. This will be left to infuse for 2-3 weeks then strained and bottled, for use as a hair rise or as a gargle for sore throats.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sage contains aromatic oils which can stimulate the pituitary gland, the adrenal glands, reproductive hormones and the immune system. It contains tannins which help dry excessive mucus in the respiratory tract and reduces sweating. A cool infusion can help reduce menopausal hot flushes & night sweats. It promotes circulation and can help the memory. It is very good for sore throats and coughs used as a gargle or in tea with lemon & honey. It can be used as a hair rinse for dark hair, often combined with Rosemary. Caution - Sage should not be used in high doses or for prolonged periods of over 3 weeks at a time. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCetQqXTbTG26Ho6NishYar6pF8bO02nCNkKeKriGc-rlzUD2hSs4RWT4cJy7F4NOhhM5ud9Jvrcc9cQjOe0hUhUzfR-tDOMLD4ZFyBGKh0mYWURssxc2xSmerqEo4A2v-_RgwvBUrx5yi/s1600/wpDSC_9685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCetQqXTbTG26Ho6NishYar6pF8bO02nCNkKeKriGc-rlzUD2hSs4RWT4cJy7F4NOhhM5ud9Jvrcc9cQjOe0hUhUzfR-tDOMLD4ZFyBGKh0mYWURssxc2xSmerqEo4A2v-_RgwvBUrx5yi/s320/wpDSC_9685.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Sage Vinegar</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I used the Sweet Cicely seeds to make an aperitif. A handful of Sweet Cicely seeds were chopped up and put in a large glass jar with 500ml of vodka and left to steep in a cool dark place for 4 days. This was strained and bottled in a clean glass bottle. This will be left to age for 2 months in a dark place at room temperature before use. The aperitif can </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">be drunk
before meals to stimulate the appetite or as an after dinner drink to
settle the digestion or medicinally for flatulence, colic or abdominal gripes. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Sweet Cicely apertif</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sweet Cicely apertif</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also used some herbs picked in the woods the previous weekend to make remedies. I put chopped up Bugle flowers and leaves to steep in vodka to make a tincture for dislocations and broken bones as suggested in 'the Herbalist's Bible' by Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. This will be left in a cool dark place for a month then strained and bottled. It is suggested to use this by soaking a cotton wool ball or a gauze pad in the tincture and apply over the injured area and kept in place for at least half an hour. The use of Bugle for dislocations and broken bones comes from the great 17th century herbalist John Parkinson, who states it is helpful used both internally and externally. He also states Bugle is helpful for bruises & wounds and for liver and gallbladder congestion by taking a decoction of leaves and flowers in wine and the bruised leaves or fresh juice is helpful for ulcers & sores. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Bugle</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOICOjNLmLT5zI8YJQPix-6Tz6XFhx3ZvDkONYYNctKfJBXbhMhv4Cf_CxrUOtSENiR0nQ4YNIuM45xSOCHvpGDc3vRuj-XH3CVU2Oaz2iD8luO5H9DyFXuJ0sGqb0NAd83p3Bsd5SbwJ3/s1600/wpDSC_9684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOICOjNLmLT5zI8YJQPix-6Tz6XFhx3ZvDkONYYNctKfJBXbhMhv4Cf_CxrUOtSENiR0nQ4YNIuM45xSOCHvpGDc3vRuj-XH3CVU2Oaz2iD8luO5H9DyFXuJ0sGqb0NAd83p3Bsd5SbwJ3/s320/wpDSC_9684.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Bugle tincture</span></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I also made Herb Robert cream with Herb Robert picked in the woods and Rosemary picked from the patio outside the kitchen, based on the recipe in 'A year with James Wong'. Herb Robert was traditionally used as a cure-all. This
cream can help soothe skin conditions including bruises, varicose veins
& chillblains.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Herb Robert cream recipe</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">8 whole plants of Herb Robert </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">6 sprigs of fresh Rosemary about 15 inches long</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">8 teaspoons of honey</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">16g beeswax</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">8g emulsifying wax</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">80ml olive oil</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">6 drops compound benzoin tincture/friar's balsam</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Put the roughly chopped Herb Robert and Rosemary in a large mortar with the honey and pound to make a paste. Leave to sit for 10 minutes to let the sugar in the honey draw the active ingredients from the plants. Put the paste in a piece of clean muslin and squeeze out the juice into a small bowl.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of the juice and put into a small pan, heat quickly until it steams but doesn't boil then turn off the heat, this much increases its shelf life.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Melt the waxes in the olive oil in a glass heat-proof bowl over a pan of boiling water then take off the heat. Pour the heated plant juice into the the bowl of melted waxes & oil, add the compound benzoin tincture/friar's balsam and whisk together. Continue whisking while it cools slightly to stop the ingredients from separating, then pour into jars. The cream will keep for up to 3 months in the fridge.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Apply to affected areas 3-4 times a day as needed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Herb Robert</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcoe6KpyaJcyb85X-6hPVjVguKTVvWURCUdyRul4S4CZKLy4N0e6lSrX4gLZUnq9uRSroE0Lz6W9NxQmnotj4lnTqM2HB8t6QK9k7nZNxy4WSLhufAjCkMnJxSiwEw-pmh52qGtNKCJmn/s1600/wpDSC_9682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitcoe6KpyaJcyb85X-6hPVjVguKTVvWURCUdyRul4S4CZKLy4N0e6lSrX4gLZUnq9uRSroE0Lz6W9NxQmnotj4lnTqM2HB8t6QK9k7nZNxy4WSLhufAjCkMnJxSiwEw-pmh52qGtNKCJmn/s320/wpDSC_9682.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Herb Robert cream</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The finished Herb Robert cream</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also bottled the Hawthorn flower tincture, Hawthorn leaf & flower vinegars & Hawthorn leaf & flower elixirs which were started in May. See <a href="http://wwootw.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/hawthorn-hedgerow-healer.html">http://wwootw.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/hawthorn-hedgerow-healer.html</a> for details of making them and what they will be useful for. I have used some of the Hawthorn flower vinegar in salad dressing, it had a nice subtle flavour. I also bottled the Plantain tincture and Nettle tinctures which were also started in May, as discussed in previous blog posts. </span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bottled Hawthorn remedies</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Plantain tincture & Nettle tincture</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">References</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">'A year with James Wong' James Wong. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">'Practical Herbs 2' Henriette Kress. </span><br />
'The Herbalist's Bible' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-23257973249159263872015-06-25T22:31:00.001+01:002015-06-25T23:01:28.906+01:00Midsummer, season of light and flowers<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We are just past the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year. I celebrated the Solstice sunrise at the Rollright Stones in Oxfordshire. My husband Barry played the bagpipes as we circled 3 times sunwise around the stone circle to honour this special time, as depicted in the video and photographs at <a href="http://www.oxfordtimes.co.uk/news/13344938.Video__Summer_solstice_at_Rollright_Stones/?ref=fbshr">http://www.oxfordtimes.co.uk/news/13344938.Video__Summer_solstice_at_Rollright_Stones/?ref=fbshr</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Solstice sunrise at the Rollright Stones</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Nature has responded to the light and warmth of this time through the
burgeoning of leaves and flowers all around us, in our gardens and wild
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Wild flower meadow and woods at Summer Solstice</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Wildflowers on Hearsall Common</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bramble in flower</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Hedge Woundwort coming into flower</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Over the past couple of weeks I have been foraging 3 types of
flowers which are in full bloom at the moment, Elderflowers, Honeysuckle and
Wild Rose. These have been used to make a wide variety of things to eat
& drink and medicinal remedies as detailed below.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Elder </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderflower in bloom</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elder is known as a fairy tree, associated with the crone aspect of the Goddess. Elder is a powerful healing tree that should be treated with respect. As a spirit medicine elder brings powers of healing & protection. Elder can help us connect with ancestral wisdom and spirit realms. The leaves can be infused in oil to make an anointing oil for protection and to bring visions of the Elder Mother and the Otherworld. In the past Elder blossoms were a traditional decoration at weddings to bring good luck. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elder is widely used in herbal medicine. The flowers help remove mucus from the body and are a traditional remedy for feverish colds and flu. A hot infusion stimulates circulation and promotes sweating which helps eliminate toxins through the skin and to resolve fever and infections. Elderflower combined with Peppermint & Yarrow is a classic remedy for colds & flu and other upper respiratory tract catarrhal infections such as sinusitis. Elderflower combined with Nettle tops is an excellent remedy for hay fever and other allergic conditions. Cold Elderflower tea can help with menopausal hot flashes and night sweats. Used externally the flowers are anti-inflammatory and can be used in skin creams or ointments. Elderflowers can help cool sunburn and heal chillblains. Cold strained infusions of the flowers can be useful as an eyewash for sore eyes and combined with Sage as a mouthwash for mouth ulcers, sore throat and tonsillitis. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I foraged for Elderflowers on my local common to make a whole range of remedies: I filled a jar with flowers, then half-filled it with honey and filled the other half with brandy to make Elderflower elixir. I filled a jar with flowers and then filled it with honey to make Elderflower honey. I filled a jar with flowers and then with vodka to make Elderflower tincture. I filled a jar with flowers then with cider vinegar to make Elderflower vinegar which can be used in salad dressings or mixed with honey as a cordial remedy for colds & sore throats. I made a double-infused oil with Elderflowers to use as an oil or basis for creams & lotions for a moisturising skin oil or ointment for dry eczema and psoriasis. I dried the remaining Elderflowers on the lowest setting in my dehydrator to keep to use for infusions, 1 teaspoon to a cupful of boiling water. I also made Elderflower water by putting several Elderflower heads in a pan of cold water, bringing it to the boil and simmering for 20 minutes. This was left overnight with a lid on then strained into a bottle and 1/3 of the volume of water added as vodka. This can be used on a clean piece of cloth to cool hot inflamed skin. I also made an Anti-viral Elder glycerite, see recipe below. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Bag of foraged Elderflower heads</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderflower remedies</span></span></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Anti-viral Elder glycerite recipe</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">An alcohol free tincture, that can help prevent viral infections or help recovery.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">6-8 heads fresh Elderflowers</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">500ml vegetable glycerine</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Juice of 2 lemons</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">6-8 heads fresh Elderberries when ripe </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pick the Elderflowers off their stalks, put in a bowl.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cover the flowers with the glycerine, ensure they are completely covered. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add the lemon juice.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Put into a jar and leave for at least a month, shaking at least once a day.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">When the Elderberries are ripe remove the berries from the stems and put them in a jar.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Strain the Elderflower mixture through a sieve and pour onto the Elderberries, ensuring they are all covered, stir well and mash the mixture.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leave for at least one more month, shaking every day.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Strain through muslin and bottle.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The mixture should keep for a year. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Take 1 teaspoon as required either neat or diluted in your favourite drink for sore throats & viral infections. For a clear complexion & smooth skin mix half and half with rosewater and use a face lotion.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe from 'the Domestic Alchemist' by Pip Waller. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Anti-viral Elder glycerite</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elderflowers also have culinary uses to make fritters, cordial, wine & champagne - see recipes below. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elderflower fritters recipe</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">6 heads freshly picked Elderflowers</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">100g chickpea (gram) flour mixed with water to make a thick batter</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sunflower oil for frying</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Caster sugar</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leave the Elderflowers in a bag for an hour to allow insects to leave, shake them gently when removing from the bag.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dip the flower heads in the batter, holding them by the stalks.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Fry in a small pan with about an inch of hot sunflower oil. You can fit about 3 heads in at once.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Fry for 2-5 minutes until golden brown.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Remove from the oil and leave to drain on kitchen roll.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sprinkle with caster sugar.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Serve hot or cold. They will keep for 2 days in the fridge.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe from 'The Domestic Alchemist' by Pip Waller. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderflower fritters</span> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elderflower Cordial recipe</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">500g sugar</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">750ml boiling water</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">20 heads fresh Elderflowers, shaken to remove insects</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">4 lemons, the zest grated and the fruit sliced </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">25g citric acid powder (optional preservative)</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Make a syrup with the sugar and water, boil for 3-5 minutes.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add the Elderflowers, lemon zest & slices and citric acid if using and stir.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leave to steep with lid on for 2 days in a cool place.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Strain through muslin & bottle.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dilute to make delicious drinks with still or sparkling water. It can be made with hot water to encourage sweating in colds & fevers.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Keep in the fridge once opened, use within 3 months.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe from 'The Domestic Alchemist' by Pip Waller</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Elderflower cordial</span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv6Wxys-9MVYmRfGPTnP4pDv_2HbJfFRFMS2WVCQLmwFYwuMyJSf-WP-nlOPxGo1usThbCpetC3WpyTwM0gw6-R8LJg6kw78A9hvgwm3qVJh_zrbLkppHdt18vYdq7nfVgeQWR3nVbOxX1/s1600/wpDSC_9539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv6Wxys-9MVYmRfGPTnP4pDv_2HbJfFRFMS2WVCQLmwFYwuMyJSf-WP-nlOPxGo1usThbCpetC3WpyTwM0gw6-R8LJg6kw78A9hvgwm3qVJh_zrbLkppHdt18vYdq7nfVgeQWR3nVbOxX1/s320/wpDSC_9539.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Elderflower cordial in bottles</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elderflower champagne recipe</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">10 large Elderflower heads</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 lemon</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">750g golden sugar</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 tablespoons white wine vinegar</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">4.5 litres water</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Trim the Elderflowers from their stems and shake to dislodge any insects. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Zest the lemon and squeeze the juice. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Put the Elderflowers, lemon zest & juice, sugar & vinegar in earthenware or plastic container such as a brewing barrel, don't use a metal container.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cover with a cloth and leave to steep for 48 hours.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Strain into strong sterilised screw-top bottles or swing-top bottles. Don't use corks or plastic bottles as they may explode.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Keep bottles in a cool dark place for up to 3 weeks. Open bottles won't keep and will lose their fizz so drink them up quickly once open. </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Recipe adapted from 'A year with James Wong' by James Wong.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Elderflower champagne</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Elderflower wine recipe</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Equipment:</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Large plastic bucket or ceramic casserole dish</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Demijohn, bung & airlock which have been sterilised</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Plastic funnel</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cotton muslin or tea-towel big enough to cover the bucket/dish with an overlap</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">String to go round bucket/dish to tie cloth on</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Siphon tube</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ingredients:</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">4.5 litres water</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 litres Elderflowers</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">juice of 3 lemons</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">900g granulated sugar</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 rounded teaspoon wine yeast</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Put the Elderflowers in the bucket/dish.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Boil half the water and pour it over the flowers.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add the lemon juice.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cover the bucket with muslin or tea-towel tied with string.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leave for 3 days shaking or stirring several times a day.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Boil the remaining water with the sugar.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add to the infused flowers and stir.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leave to cool till lukewarm/hand-hot then add the yeast.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leave for 1 hour.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stir and strain the mixture through muslin into the demijohn using a funnel.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Fit the bung and airlock with some water with 1/2 a dissolved Campden tablet in it.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leave in a warm place.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It should start fermenting within 24 hours, if it doesn't give it a shake. If it still doesn't start add another teaspoon of yeast.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Once it has stopped fermenting for a couple of weeks siphon into a clean demijohn or bottles.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe from 'The Domestic Alchemist' by Pip Waller.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU9OxfkNXgS0kzkl10NmIrp-c4kFCVy_1tBM7PYMPz4haYL81ubYlTsFDPfhddUc6oNghi04VpSFnTqs-i-Lwp3yJNWEMxoZUUgJaLnsKbQkV-oeEh6NDAoSl4HYur8xfHZXRY-emqOnct/s1600/wpDSC_9645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU9OxfkNXgS0kzkl10NmIrp-c4kFCVy_1tBM7PYMPz4haYL81ubYlTsFDPfhddUc6oNghi04VpSFnTqs-i-Lwp3yJNWEMxoZUUgJaLnsKbQkV-oeEh6NDAoSl4HYur8xfHZXRY-emqOnct/s320/wpDSC_9645.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Wild Rose</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Wild Rose in the woods</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5AuRI2IVGbt9AwAN3JpLeiYbmJMxF0A3H2QU9_OjPg4qWBKt6stCAbvJzzqbmeuEECXKwwmIgkKrq1Mo3rXJoNRN0W4-Ysgfa5bnfzGp93BLS0zxAqDflARw7lRwbZ4FrfQuNveeCOgRp/s1600/wpDSC_9572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5AuRI2IVGbt9AwAN3JpLeiYbmJMxF0A3H2QU9_OjPg4qWBKt6stCAbvJzzqbmeuEECXKwwmIgkKrq1Mo3rXJoNRN0W4-Ysgfa5bnfzGp93BLS0zxAqDflARw7lRwbZ4FrfQuNveeCOgRp/s320/wpDSC_9572.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Rose is associated with Venus, the Moon and the Goddess. Energetically Rose has the quality of unconditional love and opening the heart. In herbal medicine Rose is healing and supportive for emotional pain, grief, anxiety & depression. Rose is uplifting and calming for the nervous system and can help to relieve insomnia and heart palpitations. Rose can help with anger and frustration and give courage to defend your boundaries. Rose combines well with Hawthorn when the heart needs physical strengthening. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rose has an affinity for the female reproductive system. It can be useful for heavy or irregular periods, painful periods, uterine fibroids & infertility. Rose can enhance sexual desire. It has a balancing action which is helpful for premenstrual tension and menopausal anxiety. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rose is cooling and astringent and can help reduce heat in the body, clear toxins and bring down fevers. Rose is mildly diuretic so can help eliminate toxins through the urinary systems. An infusion can help relieve cold & flu symptoms, sore throat & runny nose. The astringency of Rose can help diarrhoea, colitis and gastritis. An infusion of Rose petals can be used to bathe sore eyes, as a rinse for mouth ulcers and sore gums. Rose in a lotion or cream can be helpful for radiation burns such as after radiotherapy treatment. Rosewater is helpful for skin generally, especially dry & sensitive skin.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I gathered Rose petals and leaves from Wild Rose bushes on the local common and in the woods, leaving the centres of the flowers to form Rosehips for foraging in the Autumn. Back home I have used the petals to make several remedies: I made Rose petal glycerite by filling a jar with petals then pouring on vegetable glycerine. I made Rose petal elixir by filling a jar with petals then half-filling the jar with honey and filling the rest with brandy, giving the contents a good podge with a chopstick to release air bubbles and mix everything together. This will be steeped for 2-4 weeks then strained into bottles and used when relaxation, love or courage are needed. I made Rose petal and leaf vinegar by putting leaves & petals in a jar and filling it with Cider Vinegar. This will be left in the dark for 2 weeks then strained and bottled. This can be used to calm sunburned or irritated skin, heal small wounds and stop excessive sweating. I made Rose petal tincture by filling a jar with petals then filling it to the top with vodka. This can be used in the same way as Rose elixir. These will all be kept for a few weeks to steep and topped up and stirred as needed, then decanted into bottles for use. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rose petal remedies</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKCqH4pAaH2UasMB54qP_Sn34dBWijVOSL4sNDFyWbRU92_WEOoIx0eA18xBt-Po9UDZH1o2WAGgrY_9Bz2gb2UJ9_kBqtvzFbijsDMPflpIGOH9FIJROz7LYKISOhyyvxOZkl26z8dvUI/s1600/wpDSC_9578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKCqH4pAaH2UasMB54qP_Sn34dBWijVOSL4sNDFyWbRU92_WEOoIx0eA18xBt-Po9UDZH1o2WAGgrY_9Bz2gb2UJ9_kBqtvzFbijsDMPflpIGOH9FIJROz7LYKISOhyyvxOZkl26z8dvUI/s320/wpDSC_9578.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Honeysuckle in flower</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Honeysuckle keeps on blooming throughout the summer. It has an intoxicating scent that is particularly strong after dark. It twines round other plants and can create permanent twists to create natural spirals in the wood which make beautiful wands and walking sticks. The old name for Honeysuckle was Woodbine, which reflects the twining habit. It is associated with lovers due to this intertwining habit. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Honeysuckle contains salicylic acid. In a tea or syrup it can help to cool & soothe headaches, fevers, bronchial complaints and some tumours. It is used to help cool menopausal hot flashes, sunburn and other heat sensitive skin issues. It is helpful for cramps, spasms and paralysis especially in the respiratory system for asthma, croup and bronchitis. It is highly rated for sore -throat relief. It has strong antiseptic qualities and is effective against many micro-organisms. It is helpful for urinary tract infections.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I picked parts of the flowers which came loose when lightly tugged. These were put in a jar which was filled with clear runny honey to make Honeysuckle honey. The jar needs to be checked every few days and the flowers pushed down into the honey to keep them covered or they will go brown. After about 2 weeks strain & bottle. Take 1 teaspoon as needed for sore throats, 3 times a day. </span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Honeysuckle honey</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">References:</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Practical Herbs' Henriette Kress.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Sacred Plant Initiations' Carole Guyett. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'The Herbalist's Bible' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Wild Drugs' Zoe Hawes </span></span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-8100874088867650352015-06-08T21:49:00.000+01:002015-06-08T22:07:24.249+01:00Planting, picking & processing<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am getting into the rhythm of the herbwife role through growing, harvesting and making things from herbs to store and use for common health conditions for myself, family and friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A couple of weeks ago I made a trip to the National Herb Centre near Banbury <a href="http://www.herbcentre.co.uk/">http://www.herbcentre.co.uk</a>/ to buy herb plants to add to the herbs already growing in pots in the patio outside my house and in our allotment. This is a wonderful specialist garden centre for all kinds of herbs, far more varieties than normal garden centres. The weekend after they were all planted out in the allotment, I filled up the existing herb bed and started a new herb bed in a previously unused patch of soil as well as putting some of the new plants in odd corners where there was a bit of space. I look forward to seeing them grow as the year progresses. The plants that are already there are going strong, many are coming into flower as the spring reaches its peak. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mZrbkzQQlCz0usbeOr8LPxFg8NHJJN9DOfu31B_cOn58JBpL8-6use3E12yQ9_BN1D9CRnL7M3BEVceOr7-mm5lCh-GV0rC48LUbpeXR9Z3S0J8AMtlTW_VoEV5lKI8XAHmapiUxnKuY/s1600/wpDSC_9382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6mZrbkzQQlCz0usbeOr8LPxFg8NHJJN9DOfu31B_cOn58JBpL8-6use3E12yQ9_BN1D9CRnL7M3BEVceOr7-mm5lCh-GV0rC48LUbpeXR9Z3S0J8AMtlTW_VoEV5lKI8XAHmapiUxnKuY/s320/wpDSC_9382.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Allotment table covered in plants to find room for</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> New herb bed</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4K03UNlgu6ruaT0zxc8tqhLN2InuwD2kFoLZIDApjYIuairG8fBghO22zhnHP_UudZQbnosfbW7xnJGqO0zdIgUy0PqmfnR2hS6p4Q1a_fNsdxYOq-HSQytj-Y51kc720MOlhF8oD7xZb/s1600/wpDSC_9393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4K03UNlgu6ruaT0zxc8tqhLN2InuwD2kFoLZIDApjYIuairG8fBghO22zhnHP_UudZQbnosfbW7xnJGqO0zdIgUy0PqmfnR2hS6p4Q1a_fNsdxYOq-HSQytj-Y51kc720MOlhF8oD7xZb/s320/wpDSC_9393.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Raspberry plants setting fruit</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbYRl9oPdoytA97hlb69g1McS0-8IEzc75YImfroT8kAc8gruJGZl0jVaLBUoeWLHjzc8fS8DB-eIfdr15CZ9UB_UpjkxBMHHjOl-YHb8sK0zBbNoJv9EjlkJORL4OpaEQQJsTP79nD2V/s1600/wpDSC_9385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdbYRl9oPdoytA97hlb69g1McS0-8IEzc75YImfroT8kAc8gruJGZl0jVaLBUoeWLHjzc8fS8DB-eIfdr15CZ9UB_UpjkxBMHHjOl-YHb8sK0zBbNoJv9EjlkJORL4OpaEQQJsTP79nD2V/s320/wpDSC_9385.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Valerian</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Mullein</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Thyme</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I picked some Greater Plantain leaves to go with some Ribwort Plantain </span>I had picked previously. The leaves and flower heads were blended with a hand blender and some vodka to make a tincture, to use for coughs, bronchitis, earache, tinnitus, sinusitis, toothache, irritable bowel & haemorrhoids in doses of half to one teaspoon three times a day. I used the Plantain double-infused oil made at last month's Springfield Herb Sanctuary workshop to make a salve with beeswax, the oil was measured in millilitres, then the beeswax was weighed out in grams to 1/8 of the amount in millilitres. The oil & wax was heated in a small pan in a larger pan of gently simmering water then poured into jars and left to set. The salve can be used for cuts, scrapes, bruises & insect bites. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ribwort Plantain & Greater Plantain</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Measuring oil & beeswax for making a salve</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Plantain salve</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I also made Hawthorn leaf double-infused oil and then made up a salve of Lesser Celandine double-infused oil with a little Hawthorn leaf oil, to use for haemorrhoids. I used soya wax to make up the salve as I had run out of beeswax, I had to add more soya wax to a total of 1/4 proportion of grams to millilitres of oil as the salve did not set at 1/8 proportion. Lesser Celandine, also known as Pilewort, is traditionally used for haemorrhoids. I added some Hawthorn leaf oil for its astringency which should help stop bleeding from haemorrhoids, this is an experimental use based on the properties of the plant, it is not a traditional use. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Lesser Celandine oil & salve</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I also strained and bottled lots of tinctures & vinegars that had been macerating for a few weeks in a dark cupboard, using a sieve, a jelly bag, a large measuring jug, a funnel and some clean bottles. I poured the fluid out and squeezed out as much as I could from the left over plant material through the jelly bag. I picked bottles to decant the strained tinctures & vinegars into depending on the volume produced after straining. The tinctures & vinegars I decanted were: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Immune-boosting vinegar containing chopped fresh Turmeric root, chopped Garlic cloves, chopped root Ginger, chopped Chilli peppers & some Rosehips, 1 teaspoon to be taken in hot water whenever feeling that an infection is starting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Dock root tincture for sluggish bowels, constipation, anaemia & poor absorption of nutrients, skin problems, liver congestion & general tiredness to use in doses of half a teaspoon once or twice daily.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Dandelion root & leaf tincture to be taken as half a teaspoon twice daily for general health maintenance, half to one teaspoon in water three times daily for digestive problems, recuperation from illness, sluggish liver, arthritis, gout, eczema & psoriasis, 10 drops in water frequently for acute skin conditions, 10 drops in water every hour until feeling better from overindulgence in food or drink.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Ground Ivy tincture 1-15 drops to be taken 1-3 times a day for sore throats, earache, ear congestion, tinnitus, sinusitis, diarrhoea, kidney problems, urinary tract infections & heavy metal poisoning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Cleavers tincture for lymph congestion or swelling such as tonsillitis or glandular fever.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Hawthorn leaf tincture (see last week's post).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Straining & bottling Immune-boosting Vinegar</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Bottled tinctures & vinegars</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also picked some Horsetail tips and have been using these in infusions with hot water with some dried Couch Grass roots for a urine infection, which both these plants are traditionally helpful for. There are various plants that can be used for these but these were the ones I had on hand fresh or dried. This is as it would have been for the herbwives of the past who used what they had growing and what they had preserved from the plants in their gardens and foraged from the wild. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">References:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Practical Herbs 2' Henriette Kress.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Wild Drugs' Zoe Hawes. </span></span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-26624443681763620992015-05-31T19:23:00.001+01:002015-10-09T22:28:06.671+01:00Hawthorn the hedgerow healer<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">May is the month of Hawthorn blossom so this post is all about Hawthorn which is my herbal ally for the year. I have put together some photos of Hawthorn trees and collated research I have done into the historical and modern uses of Hawthorn as a medicinal plant and the many herbal preparations that can be made with Hawthorn. It illustrates the great benefits to be had from working with our native plants for healing and wholeness.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The trees in my woods have been a bit late to come into flower this year due to the cool & unsettled conditions since late April. But they are finally blossoming in their full glory. Here are some pictures of these beautiful trees and their flowers taken over the last few weeks in the woods .</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn leaves & buds</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Hawthorn buds close-up</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> The first Hawthorn flowers coming out</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn & bluebells in full bloom</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn arch over the path</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn covered in blossom</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn sprig in flower</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn flowers close up</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn blossom & last year's Haws</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">There are two native species of Hawthorn in Britain, Crataegus monogyna the common Hawthorn and Crataegus laevigata the Midland Hawthorn, which can be used interchangeably for medicinal purposes. It is the most common species in our hedges and spinneys. The Anglo-Saxon word for Hawthorn was Haege, our word hedge comes from this. It has a variety of popular names reflecting the time of year it blooms, the colour of the blossom and its widespread use as a hedging plant. The popular names include May Tree, Quickthorn & Whitethorn. There is much folklore associated with Hawthorn. It was traditionally gathered on Ascension Day and preserved to keep the house from lightning, storms & other calamities. It was associated with Christ's crown of thorns and reputed to be able to ward off evil due to this. The famous Glastonbury holy thorn which blooms at Christmas is associated with Joseph of Arimathea, the legend has it that he thrust his staff of Hawthorn wood in the ground at Glastonbury and it took root and sprouted. The children's rhyme 'Here we go gathering nuts in May' was originally ' Here we go gathering knots of May' from a Germanic word for bud, so this is rhyme is really about gathering blossom not nuts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In the old herbals cited by the great 17th Century herbalist John Parkinson, as quoted in 'the Herbalist's Bible' by Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal, Hawthorn was recommended for a variety of conditions. Drying and powdering the berries and steeping them in wine was cited as an excellent treatment for kidney stones. It was also recommended for treating water retention due to its astringent and drying qualities. Distilled wine in which the flowers had been steeped was said to be a sovereign remedy for pleurisy. Distilled water of the flowers was also recommended for diarrhoea, a tea made from flowers and leaves could be also be used for this purpose. Hawthorn was also recognised as a drawing agent for splinters and thorns. Parkinson states cloths steeped in distilled Hawthorn flower water applied to where thorns & splinters have entered the skin will draw them forth. Using a Hawthorn thorn to lance a boil will help it heal. Mrs Grieve says a decoction of flowers or berries is useful to cure sore throats due to their astringency. Penelope Ody states it was also traditionally used for heavy menstrual bleeding.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In modern times Hawthorn has become renowned as a herb for the heart. This usage was pioneered by a Dr Green in Ireland in the late 19th Century. He used a tincture of Hawthorn berries for the treatment of heart disease. He kept this a secret but his daughter revealed this following his death in 1894. An article by a Dr Jennings was published in the New York
Medical Journal in 1896 in which he discussed the action of Hawthorn to
regulate cardiac function and the central nervous system see <a href="http://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/journals/elth1909/01-crataegus.html">http://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/journals/elth1909/01-crataegus.html</a> for reference. It is now well recognised that Hawthorn protects and strengthens the heart muscle and blood supply and the circulatory system generally. It is useful for preventing heart disease and strokes used as a tonic as well as treating heart & circulatory disorders. Hawthorn is amphoteric, it will relax or stimulate the heart to normalise its function according to need. It is helpful for both high and low blood pressure. It improves metabolic processes in the heart and has anti-inflammatory effects. It is also helpful for peripheral circulation problems such as Raynaud's and varicose veins. It is also calming for the nervous system including anxiety, stress, grief and insomnia. <a href="http://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/journals/elth1909/01-crataegus.html"><br /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Matthew Wood, author of the 'Earthwise Herbal' provides a good account of the actions of Hawthorn. He states that research has found that Hawthorn contains flavonoids, particularly rutin, which is believed to act on the capillaries to reduce wear & tear, removing congestion and increasing blood flow. It reduces unhealthy cholesterol and increases healthy cholesterols. It normalises blood pressure and increases blood circulation to the heart. It is a cardiac tonic which reduces the risk of heart attack and relieves angina symptoms and cardiac arrhythmias. It has a beneficial effect on the muscles of the heart so is helpful in degenerative conditions. It also has a tonic effect on blood vessels such as arteries. It is also helpful in reducing restlessness, irritability, anxiety and attention deficit problems. He also states that Hawthorn has also recently been recognised as a remedy for autoimmune disease by reducing irritation of the skin, mucous membranes & blood vessels. It is helpful for respiratory conditions such as allergies, colds, bronchitis, asthma & sinusitis. It is also helpful for skin irritation, particularly red, dry, irritated skin on the hands & arms. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Susan Weed states that Hawthorn along with other rose family plants can be used to relieve menopausal symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, menstrual cramps, mood swings & hormonal surges and to nourish the nerves and heart during the change. Henriette Kress states that Hawthorn, particularly the flowers & leaf accelerate collagen generation which strengthens connective tissue, so it is helpful for rheumatoid arthritis and injuries to tendons & ligaments. She also states it is helpful for tinnitus, Meniere's disease and other inner ear problems combined with Gingko.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">In traditional Chinese medicine Chinese Hawthorn Cratageus pinnatifidia is used for sluggish digestion, particularly of meat. Hawthorn berries also used to be used in Europe with meat to
make it more digestible. It is thought that this is due to action on
the cells of the gut, assisting them to absorb lipids more
effectively. Penelope Ody states in China Hawthorn berries are used as a digestive and circulatory stimulant. They are mainly taken for symptoms of 'food stagnation' including abdominal bloating, indigestion & flatulence. They are also used to relieve stagnation of the blood particularly after childbirth and for period pain. Partially charred berries are used in Chinese medicine for diarrhoea. It is a Sour food, with yin cooling qualities which causes contraction, to prevent or reverse leakage of fluids & energy and to dry and firm up tissues. It counteracts the effects of rich, greasy food and helps break down fats & protein.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Wood states the berries are the part that was used traditionally, particularly tinctured in brandy. The recommended dose is 20 drops of tincture first thing in the morning and before bed, taken long term. Penelope Ody states that the flowers have also been found to be effective as a heart tonic and research has found that the flowers actually have more constituents which affect cardiac function than the berries. The flowers can be taken as an infusion for poor circulation and as a tonic for heart problems, they can be combined with Yarrow for hypertension. They can be used as a tincture for heart & circulatory disorders. The berries can be used in a decoction, 30g of berries to 500ml water boiled for 15 minutes, for diarrhoea. The juice from the fresh berries can be used as a cardiac tonic and for diarrhoea & as a digestive tonic. The berries can be used to make a tonic wine. Kress states that the flowers and leaves act more quickly than the berries, but the effects of the berries last longer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Bartram states tea should be prepared with 1-2 teaspoons dried leaves & flowers for each cup of boiling water, infused for 5-10 minutes, taken 3 times a day for insomnia or for the heart under stress. He states the berries can be decocted with 1-2 heaped tablespoons to each cup of water, simmered gently for 2 minutes. He states the dose of tincture is 15-30 drops. Susan Weed puts fresh leaves or flower buds or fresh or dried haws in alcohol, glycerine or vinegar for 6 weeks, then uses 30 drops of tincture, 2 teaspoon of glycerite or one or more tablespoons of vinegar daily, or tea made from dried infused leaves. Hoffman states that Hawthorn berries can be used externally in lotions, compresses or poultices for inflammation and pain in local blood vessels such as phlebitis & varicose veins. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hawthorn is generally regarded as non-toxic. It is regarded as a tonic herb which is safe to use on a long-term basis. It takes time to work as its effects are gradual by toning tissue and regulating function. It may increase the action of some heart medications and decrease their side-effects <b>so anyone taking medication for heart or circulatory conditions should check with their doctor before taking Hawthorn</b>. It can cause palpitations and low pulse rate & blood pressure, use should be stopped if problems such as palpitations or feeling faint, dizzy or weak occur. There is a good discussion of using Hawthorn for heart disease and things to consider if on medication in 'Practical Herbs 2' by Henriette Kress. In Chinese medicine sour foods such as Hawthorn should be used sparingly by those who are prone to dampness, heaviness of mind or body, constipation and diseases of tendons & ligaments.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I have been making various Hawthorn preparations with the leaves & flowers I have gathered this month with recipe ideas from 'Practical Herbs 2' by Henriette Kress, 'Letting in the Wild Edges' by Glennie Kindred and 'The Domestic Alchemist' by Pip Waller. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I made Hawthorn flower essence in the woods on a sunny day when the flowers were first coming out. I placed a bowl of spring water in the limbs of a Hawthorn tree and put a few of the flowers in the water. I asked the tree to infuse the water with her essence and sat beneath the tree to meditate for a while. I left it to infuse overnight then returned to the tree the following morning and removed the flowers with a sprig of Hawthorn, strained the liquid through a piece of clean muslin and a funnel into a jug. The liquid was poured into bottles to half fill them, then topped up with brandy to make the mother essence. Some of this was offered back to the tree in thanks. 7 drops of the mother essence can be diluted in a 30ml dark dropper bottle half filled with spring water & half with brandy, to use 4 drops at a time to work with the energy of the plant at a subtle level. Hawthorn has the ability to release blocked energy and open the heart to giving and receiving. It releases stress and helps to let go and trust.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Hawthorn flower essence</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Later in the month I harvested a bag of leaves & flowers trees in my woods. I picked clusters of leaves and flowers together from the tips of branches I could reach easily . I
asked the trees if I could pick leaves & flowers for my remedies and tested it was ok to pick them by tugging
gently, some came away very easily, those that did not I left. I
thanked the trees and sang to them as I was picking. I offered some of the flower essence I made earlier in the month in return. I took the bag home and separated the leaves and flowers into two bowls to make up separate remedies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Harvested Hawthorn leaves & flowers</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Hawthorn leaves & flowers after being separated</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">The young leaves are edible and are traditionally known as 'bread & cheese' for eating raw in salads or sandwiches. I used the fresh leaves and flowers to make up a variety of herbal preparations as detailed below. I also dried some of the leaves &
flowers on the lowest setting in my dehydrator, to keep as dried herbs
for teas or herbal baths. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hawthorn Flower Syrup</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">325ml water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">600g white sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">7 tablespoons rosewater</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">50ml lemon juice</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2 good handfuls of freshly picked Hawthorn flowers</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Boil the water & sugar briskly for 3 minutes. Mix the rosewater & lemon juice with the syrup. Pour the syrup over the flowers in a bowl and leave to stand for 1-2 hours, until cool. Strain through clean muslin or a jelly bag and bottle in sterilised bottles. This makes about 900ml of syrup. It should keep for about a year until opened, then up to a month in the fridge once opened. The syrup preserves the heart-strengthening & uplifting qualities of Hawthorn flowers. It can be taken neat or diluted with water. Recipe from 'The Domestic Alchemist' by Pip Waller.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Hawthorn flower syrup</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn flower syrup</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hawthorn tincture </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A classic use for Hawthorn is to make separate tinctures of leaves, flowers and berries and combine them. To make tinctures of the leaves & flowers fill a clean jar with leaves &/or flowers and fill with vodka. Poke the contents with a chopstick to release any air bubbles. Leave for 2-4 weeks, strain and bottle. Dosage 15-30 drops 3 times a day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn leaf & flower tinctures</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hawthorn Elixir </span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I made Hawthorn leaf & flower Elixir by filling clean jars with leaves & flowers, filling 2/3 full with brandy, then fill the remaining 1/3 jar with runny organic honey, then giving the mix a good 'podge' with a chopstick. This will be left to steep for 2-4 weeks in a dark cupboard, then strained. 1-2 teaspoons to be taken as needed.</span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn flower & leaf Elixir</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hawthorn honey </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I also made herbal Hawthorn leaf and flower honeys by filling empty honey jars with the leaves and flowers respectively then filling with runny honey and poking with a chopstick to release air bubbles. Honey draws out the goodness from plants and combines them with the benefits of honey. Herbal honeys should be left to infuse for 4-6 weeks. They can be taken by the spoonful, added to hot drinks or taken with food such as yoghurt or fruit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn herbal honeys</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hawthorn vinegar </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I also made Hawthorn leaf and flower vinegar. Making herbal vinegars is another way of extracting and preserving the goodness of plants and combining them with the many benefits of cider vinegar. I filled jars with Hawthorn leaves and flowers respectively then poured in apple cider vinegar to fill the jars, then 'podged' the contents with a chopstick to release air bubbles. The vinegar will be left to steep for about a month then strained and rebottled. Herbal vinegar can be used in salad dressings or drunk in hot water with honey.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn herbal vinegars</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Hawthorn oil & salve</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I used some of dried Hawthorn leaves to make a double-infused oil. I put 4 handfuls of dried leaves in a small saucepan then covered them with olive oil. This pan was placed inside a slightly larger pan with about an inch of water in the bottom and simmered on a low heat for 2 hours. The first lot of leaves was removed and another 4 handfuls of leaves was added to the oil which was heated in the water bath for another 2 hours. The oil was then strained through muslin and poured into a clean jar. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Some of the oil was then used to make a salve by adding soya wax. I used 15g of soya wax to 60ml of oil. This was heated in the same way as the oil, until the wax melted then poured immediately into jars and left to cool and set. There are no documented uses of Hawthorn Leaf oil or salve I have been able to find but based on the properties of Hawthorn discussed in the literature the oil should be useful for splinters & boils and the salve should be helpful for problems with peripheral circulation such as phlebitis, varicose veins. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Hawthorn leaf double-infused oil</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Making Hawthorn salve</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Hawthorn leaf infused oil and salve</span> </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">I hope this will inspire you to try your hand at making and using Hawthorn in home-made herbal remedies and to experience its healing blessings for yourself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">References</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'A Modern Herbal' Maud Grieve.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Bartram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine' Thomas Bartram.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Healing with Whole Foods, Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition' Paul Pitchford.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'New Menopausal Years The Wise Woman Way' Susan S Weed. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Practical Herbs 2' Henriette Kress. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Concise Herbal Encyclopedia' Donald Law. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Domestic Alchemist' Pip Waller. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Earthwise Herbal' Matthew Wood.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Herbal Drugstore' Linda B White & Steven Foster. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Herbalist's Bible' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Herb Society's Complete Medicinal Herbal' Penelope Ody.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The New Holistic Herbal' David Hoffmann. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Wild Drugs' Zoe Hawes. </span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-21908789470635345452015-05-20T21:53:00.001+01:002015-05-20T22:07:27.536+01:00Harvesting the fruits of Spring & cooking with Dandelion flowersThings have really taken off in a big way over the past month, plants are growing at a phenomenal rate, the outside world is turning green and gold. I visited Springfield Herb Sanctuary for a workshop day on 9th May. We had a tour round the herb plots to see the growing herbs, some of which have grown massively since just a month previously. The meadow adjoining the Herb Sanctuary was full of Ribwort Plantain and Dandelions. We harvested some Plantain leaves to make a double-infused oil which will be great for skin inflammation as an oil or made into a salve. I picked some Dandelion flower-heads to take home to dry, to use in an infused oil which should be good for sore muscles. I also picked some medicinal Comfrey leaves to take home to dry to make into infused oil for a wound salve. Future workshop dates and details can be found at <a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">View over the meadow</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Solomon's Seal</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic8UtX-ucORNw5aY4AVx1FkTnyV-28aHXhGSZa2SXbGK9u2m09cPn5KJF3VXzdp6X89LQ8ydJ-D2CwTkPCxaGZBSNkjeXXt_O3KYG_0t1UuwFhjZtQZVkOVCQTzugHFnU1I9yWw6aL1pJE/s1600/wpDSC_9284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic8UtX-ucORNw5aY4AVx1FkTnyV-28aHXhGSZa2SXbGK9u2m09cPn5KJF3VXzdp6X89LQ8ydJ-D2CwTkPCxaGZBSNkjeXXt_O3KYG_0t1UuwFhjZtQZVkOVCQTzugHFnU1I9yWw6aL1pJE/s320/wpDSC_9284.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Elecampane</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Hops</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Comfrey</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Ribwort Plantain</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Dandelion flowers</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMgKUVCP9QN-7oXInKeIcNnut-5FYq2N8uBMZL3_-oCldjg6R4lX_VNw3Gz8Aqk-EyVS0yrFtbUU_Ia7J_mLURr1xqARr9FqRYjE8sYyDa9dhn-YrGm5Wmza7FEq8m-BqVDzF3SQhJXQ1/s1600/wpDSC_9311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMgKUVCP9QN-7oXInKeIcNnut-5FYq2N8uBMZL3_-oCldjg6R4lX_VNw3Gz8Aqk-EyVS0yrFtbUU_Ia7J_mLURr1xqARr9FqRYjE8sYyDa9dhn-YrGm5Wmza7FEq8m-BqVDzF3SQhJXQ1/s320/wpDSC_9311.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Baskets of Dandelion flowers & Ground Ivy</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">For more photos see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153326190842938.1073741893.657002937&type=1&l=99624989ce">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153326190842938.1073741893.657002937&type=1&l=99624989ce</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Last weekend I bought some herb plants to plant up in pots for the patio at the back of my house. The patio is sheltered and gets lots of sun which aromatic Mediterranean herbs such as Rosemary love. Most of the herb plants available at the garden centre I visited were herbs mainly used for culinary use such as Chives, Mint, Oregano & Thyme, though I did manage to find some St John's Wort plants which have been added to the medicinal herb bed at the allotment. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I harvested a big bag of Nettles as they
are beginning to develop flowers and the leaves will be too tough and
irritant to use after they have flowered. I put some of the Nettles in a big jar with some egg shells and cider
vinegar to make a mineral-rich vinegar to be left to steep for 3-6 weeks
then strained for use in liver-stimulating salad dressings, see recipes
at <a href="http://herbalacademyofne.com/2014/03/stinging-nettle-recipes/">http://herbalacademyofne.com/2014/03/stinging-nettle-recipes/</a> I also put some Nettles in a jar with vodka to make a
tincture which will be left to steep for about a month then strained
through a jelly bag. This can be used internally as an iron tonic and
to promote urine flow or externally to help stop bleeding and to soothe
burns & other skin problems. The remaining Nettles have been loaded
into the dehydrator to dry for teas & infusions for external use
and to add to food in powdered form. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I
picked a selection of fresh leaves & flowers to use in salad,
including Wild Garlic, Sweet Cicely, Salad Burnet, Ground Elder, Sorrel
which are all growing in the allotment at the moment. I also picked a
bag of Dandelion flower heads to catch the goodness of the flower petals
before they all turn into Dandelion clock seed-heads. I made
Dandelion flower cookies, pakoras and burgers with the flower-heads I
harvested, which are tasty and nutritious ways to get the benefit of
these sun-like flowers. Recipes and pictures below. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifAy51PZnnGZ30MpedcV4ql76jiFLWs7laT0pLEvOOCCfAHH7YS6pr3SGcdt73-P4iD7DwIfoZF1eudez_KbabKzSeksudz9x4Xgv1HoqRqL_C_tdK0FxMLBF_gLU-Imw2plt-fyn8pnAE/s1600/wpDSC_9330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifAy51PZnnGZ30MpedcV4ql76jiFLWs7laT0pLEvOOCCfAHH7YS6pr3SGcdt73-P4iD7DwIfoZF1eudez_KbabKzSeksudz9x4Xgv1HoqRqL_C_tdK0FxMLBF_gLU-Imw2plt-fyn8pnAE/s320/wpDSC_9330.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Patio herb pots</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> The allotment in May</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVt3YRlUFG49fBNxMepeEpNpB_TEJO0SHtCI34UWd27sR2Ao1TI_UCS3oOe1wc43SGL8KSRW5Bc2CGeFMrViDHVl6Gcng8T50rdXZKjJ1AcYjYzSfE-5CG5oeP04rWNAuBM3felUDHZ3m/s1600/wpDSC_9332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVt3YRlUFG49fBNxMepeEpNpB_TEJO0SHtCI34UWd27sR2Ao1TI_UCS3oOe1wc43SGL8KSRW5Bc2CGeFMrViDHVl6Gcng8T50rdXZKjJ1AcYjYzSfE-5CG5oeP04rWNAuBM3felUDHZ3m/s320/wpDSC_9332.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span> <span style="font-size: x-small;">St John's Wort plants</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmr3XalfftGJkz7qPljthuRGchf8I2xv7DrX4M3hULlFYdk1ZHmpndWGYOYvCgSAR44PeUXLEQ6TRIbAbi8R1BfUtU7ug4TaotoEII8gh_9GjH4gC1hIjvRKuoPDS7XgQaahNToTvklQRQ/s1600/wpDSC_9340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmr3XalfftGJkz7qPljthuRGchf8I2xv7DrX4M3hULlFYdk1ZHmpndWGYOYvCgSAR44PeUXLEQ6TRIbAbi8R1BfUtU7ug4TaotoEII8gh_9GjH4gC1hIjvRKuoPDS7XgQaahNToTvklQRQ/s320/wpDSC_9340.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Nettles beginning to develop flowers</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sweet Cicely</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wild Garlic in flower</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Nettle leaf Vinegar</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Nettle leaf Tincture</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<u><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dandelion flower recipes</span></span></u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Some of the recipes call for just the Dandelion flower petals without the green parts of the flower heads. The easiest way to prepare these is to hold the washed flower tip with the fingers of one hand and pinch the green flower base hard with the other and twist to release the flower petals from their attachment, the required volume of flower petals can then be put into a bowl for use in recipes. </span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Prepared Dandelion flower petals</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dandelion Flower Cookies</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 cup oil - I used sunflower which has a nice mild flavour</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 cup honey</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 eggs</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 teaspoon vanilla essence</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 cup plain flour</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 cup oats</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 cup Dandelion flower petals</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pre-heat oven to 375C.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Blend oil & honey, beat in the eggs & vanilla essence.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stir in the flour, oats & Dandelion flowers.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Drop tablespoons of batter onto at lightly oiled baking tray.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bake for about 15 minutes, until browned and cooked through.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe from <a href="http://www.splendidtable.org/recipes/dandelion-flower-cookies">http://www.splendidtable.org/recipes/dandelion-flower-cookies</a> </span> </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisuYCZMVGmJ3p5mOopeFFDXw3AsuliS-wFj19u6W5vpqGKFnv9VXLLgmuBXuZsbvCUTAY52wmib8AztclPQlcQyStgBj6VmwXx-9CPbxO4m9Z0K_wjtxZN12Weq3yYVMJEuwg96vXN-hnM/s1600/wpDSC_9345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisuYCZMVGmJ3p5mOopeFFDXw3AsuliS-wFj19u6W5vpqGKFnv9VXLLgmuBXuZsbvCUTAY52wmib8AztclPQlcQyStgBj6VmwXx-9CPbxO4m9Z0K_wjtxZN12Weq3yYVMJEuwg96vXN-hnM/s320/wpDSC_9345.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dandelion flower cookies</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dandelion pakoras</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2-3 handfuls of Dandelion flowers with stems</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sunflower oil</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">150g gram (chickpea) flour</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 heaped teaspoons ground cumin</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 heaped teapoons ground coriander</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 teaspoon turmeric</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 teaspoon baking powder</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">cold water</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mix all the dry ingredients in a bowl.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Slowly add water to the dry ingredients whilst stirring until the batter reaches the consistency of thick custard.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pull the flower heads off their stalks and add to the batter, including the green parts.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chop the stalks into 1/2 inch segments and add to the batter.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stir the flowers & stalks into the batter until evenly coated.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a small pan over a medium heat.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">When the oil is hot add dollops of batter with a tablespoon, fry for about a minute or so until browned.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Remove cooked pakoras and put on a plate covered with kitchen towel to absorb excess oil.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sprinkle salt on the cooked pakoras for serving.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Serve hot or cold.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe from <a href="http://www.eatherenow.org/dandelion-blossom-pakoras/">http://www.eatherenow.org/dandelion-blossom-pakoras/</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dandelion flower pakoras</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dandelion flower burgers</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 cup packed Dandelion flower petals, green parts removed (as above)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 cup plain flour & extra flour for coating burgers</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 eggs</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/4 cup milk</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 cup finely chopped onions</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 garlic clove finely minced </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/4 teaspoon salt</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/4 teaspoon dried basil</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/4 teaspoon dried oregano</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ground black pepper to taste</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sunflower oil </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mix all the ingredients, add more milk if needed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Divide the mix into 4 to make round patties, toss in flour to coat.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pan fry in a little oil, turn until browned on both sides.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Serve with desired accompaniments.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe adapted from <a href="http://www.eattheweeds.com/dandelions-hear-them-roar/">http://www.eattheweeds.com/dandelions-hear-them-roar/</a> There are loads of other recipes using Dandelions on the same page</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dandelion flower burgers with potato wedges, spring green salad & plum chutney</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bon Appetit!</span> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">References</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred</span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-15001870723546558782015-05-12T21:56:00.001+01:002015-05-12T22:30:15.236+01:00Celebrating Spring in the Wild WoodsI recently spent a week at the wonderful Wildways on the Borle <a href="http://wildwaysontheborle.co.uk/">http://wildwaysontheborle.co.uk/</a> to celebrate the ancient Celtic spring festival of Beltane with White Horse Camps <a href="http://whitehorsecamps.co.uk/">http://whitehorsecamps.co.uk/ </a>The woods were burgeoning with spring growth, full of verdant green and delicate spring flowers in shades of white, blue & yellow. I spent some of the time working in the camp kitchen. We supplemented the food bought for the camp with fresh greens from the kitchen garden and from the woods - Fennel, Nettles, Wild Garlic, Dandelion leaves, Sorrel, Cleavers, Lemon Balm, Mint and others. These were added to salads, soups and dips and were much appreciated by everyone sharing the camp meals.<br />
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During the camp we explored and celebrated our connection with plants, nature and the wild woods in various ways. The well-known pagan historian Ronald Hutton gave an entertaining and informative talk about the traditions of Robin Hood and Maid Marian and their roots in history. Ronald's partner Ana Adnam led a session called Fifty Shades of Green in which we all talked about herbs we feel a particular connection with at this time of year. Then in pairs we stroked each other with sprigs of Fennel, Lemon Balm, Mint or Sage, feeling the gentle touch of the foliage on our skin and smelling the aromatic scents with our noses. <br />
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For the heart of the camp we spent several days divided into smaller groups to do deeper work. A group of men competed in challenges of skill, strength and wisdom to select someone to represent them as Robin Hood. A group of women spent time living in the woods, eating wild food and learning skills such as archery, selecting someone to represent them as Maid Marian. A mixed group spent time connecting with various totem plant and animal species in the woods through shamanic journeying. Then we each created a mask to help us manifest our spirits to speak at a council of the Wild Woods. The spirits of the Wild Woods shared their different ways of seeing the world and invited us as humans to share these ways and to learn to live in harmony with the wild. This was a deep and powerful process.<br />
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The three groups rejoined to weave our energies together by dancing round a tree as a living Maypole. On Beltane eve we kindled the Beltane fire and divided it into two fires to step through to empower ourselves for the summer to come. This is a tradition practised by our ancestors who drove their animals through the Beltane fires to bless them prior to their journey to the summer pastures. On May Day we did circle dancing in a meadow of wild flowers connecting with each other and the place through the meditative movement of the dance. By drawing on the traditions of the past and spending time working together in a beautiful wild place we empowered ourselves to become stronger, wiser and wilder human beings.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Wildways at Beltane</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">For more photos see https://www.facebook.com/media<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153320593512938.1073741891.657002937&type=1&l=4a9bfa3775">/set/?set=a.10153320593512938.1073741891.657002937&type=1&l=4a9bfa3775</a></span></div>
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Following the camp I have spent time in our own woods near where we live for the first outdoor picnic and first night spent of the year, as the days become longer and warmer. Members of our local druid grove came to celebrate Beltane in the woods. We did a simple ceremony meditating in silence then making sounds with drums, voices & other instruments, feeling the energy of life rising through our bodies and rippling out through the woods. I picked and cooked Nettle tops, Bramble shoots and Cleavers on the fire dish and tossed these with chopped boiled eggs in a little oil, herb vinegar, salt & pepper to make a dish to share for our Beltane Feast, plus an infusion of Nettles and Bramble Leaves.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrOguY5AT2WJyCCUmfGHoW-mRIEUoY6J0lhcjG1-hku7YK6K_5zwp5r9ykExaAQXHJRQ8TLokIPUpBZEinlPXi_7vziIBrnwAK-xhBLd9Ixe37vc39kODasAMjFdzAgz4Bm_wsYeigVPc_/s1600/wpDSC_9223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrOguY5AT2WJyCCUmfGHoW-mRIEUoY6J0lhcjG1-hku7YK6K_5zwp5r9ykExaAQXHJRQ8TLokIPUpBZEinlPXi_7vziIBrnwAK-xhBLd9Ixe37vc39kODasAMjFdzAgz4Bm_wsYeigVPc_/s320/wpDSC_9223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The woods in May</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_m8W8BX-_mTpB3uTfkOl7lyObrVkuJeSVxHn4W2QzcsQywAGEi5DlDr28kuwRKbC0NZZynaY28EPtSQGtqHFMNb31lNkz1_uGolZQ_pN6fVaKzpl9i4nyjV08xWj6zUnpb5b356hHrQhV/s1600/wpDSC_9318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_m8W8BX-_mTpB3uTfkOl7lyObrVkuJeSVxHn4W2QzcsQywAGEi5DlDr28kuwRKbC0NZZynaY28EPtSQGtqHFMNb31lNkz1_uGolZQ_pN6fVaKzpl9i4nyjV08xWj6zUnpb5b356hHrQhV/s320/wpDSC_9318.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Fire Dish with kettle & Nettle & Bramble Leaf infusion</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13odcXY0-mgsgxjG3ym6LuHAspFehEJV8IGzXR5devcsPQeBq_WQuDM2KULvbDRv-CRpKHhMHC5HFin5TjJtxPesTjSbLwLdKmN5n16vvipCK7aQIffzwukamLaz_FEfnbBUVUFFN0CHg/s1600/wpDSC_9321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13odcXY0-mgsgxjG3ym6LuHAspFehEJV8IGzXR5devcsPQeBq_WQuDM2KULvbDRv-CRpKHhMHC5HFin5TjJtxPesTjSbLwLdKmN5n16vvipCK7aQIffzwukamLaz_FEfnbBUVUFFN0CHg/s320/wpDSC_9321.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Nettles, Bramble shoots & Cleavers with boiled eggs</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">For more photos see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153322102162938.1073741892.657002937&type=1&l=b43f1d4ceb">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153322102162938.1073741892.657002937&type=1&l=b43f1d4ceb</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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The light and warmth are bringing forth clusters of blossom on our Crab
Apple and Bullace (Wild Plum) trees. I made Crab Apple flower essence
by placing a bowl of water collected from a local spring in the branches
of a Crab Apple tree and floating some flowers on the surface of the
water and asked the tree to bless the water with its essence. I left
the water to infuse in sunlight for several hours then poured it into a
sterilised bottle using a funnel and muslin, half-filling the bottle
then filling the other half with brandy to make a mother tincture. This
is for invoking self worth, valuing our own abundance and counting our
blessings. It can be used on the skin or in the bath to cleanse the
skin and wounds. It can also be taken in water to help lift a hangover.
</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsx6vuhKv-9-uPKnuKVBvHbstvRzZ0viIS8NRbfagUxnkjymW3X7s8CzazMV0ftyv4b1CqYmahiKYiwQWGv0OlJGo8C3df_MvkPRTm2-RJgOTBsOlsmLZN1Ae3KULyzQ7KOwfafI9kZHFP/s1600/wpDSC_9192.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsx6vuhKv-9-uPKnuKVBvHbstvRzZ0viIS8NRbfagUxnkjymW3X7s8CzazMV0ftyv4b1CqYmahiKYiwQWGv0OlJGo8C3df_MvkPRTm2-RJgOTBsOlsmLZN1Ae3KULyzQ7KOwfafI9kZHFP/s320/wpDSC_9192.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bullace Tree in bloom</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpLLddEv5C3JJNokFApcoWg12dDaVLiDr8rXzPr4lQaoLx7l3kJO5VZdWWQhURxN9o1TsVlxiGmSwRlXwJIOyvab_WKHYerK41v3NrLFKRd4lrNHzYCfjvLN79UlgfEYbj674SWZb6oa-/s1600/wpDSC_9201.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPpLLddEv5C3JJNokFApcoWg12dDaVLiDr8rXzPr4lQaoLx7l3kJO5VZdWWQhURxN9o1TsVlxiGmSwRlXwJIOyvab_WKHYerK41v3NrLFKRd4lrNHzYCfjvLN79UlgfEYbj674SWZb6oa-/s320/wpDSC_9201.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Crab Apple blossom</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8AKkwVX2_XKSsX3tqnNA9spwUZv8v3X8gGnTusm4NXu5rPZ4cnqdNlnTRyyXGCKqOg_2sEegHh5LlBuD5lbAY0xsfzufwiGbZkypeGbWYn1sI5hL-FW7I_Xtsw4gZbJz0bF3CKjdehtS/s1600/wpDSC_9198.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8AKkwVX2_XKSsX3tqnNA9spwUZv8v3X8gGnTusm4NXu5rPZ4cnqdNlnTRyyXGCKqOg_2sEegHh5LlBuD5lbAY0xsfzufwiGbZkypeGbWYn1sI5hL-FW7I_Xtsw4gZbJz0bF3CKjdehtS/s320/wpDSC_9198.JPG" width="320" /></a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Crab Apple Flower Essence</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
I also picked Ground Ivy which is in flower at the moment, to take fresh
or dried in teas & infusions or as a tincture. The tincture can be
taken to improve appetite and digestion, cleanse the blood, tone mucous
membranes and relieve ear congestion and tinnitus. Infusions can be
drunk or used externally as an eyewash for irritated eyes. The infused
herb is useful to encourage expectoration in chesty coughs and for
urinary problems such as cystitis. It is particularly useful for
hayfever and sinusitis. The fresh herb can be used as a poultice for
bruising. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZNEksqi9HYXAJly_WDe4wKN2KTL37rxyllDWiESIOzzAAZJj9z9V9ithxo8olc2SQrq1V0OX6tOjG_JKuWUMxDAlqydYuoGgwYmcFMsI6Xl-n7IM0WobgKlflQMg0UsZa-ambUt-Eu7FH/s1600/wpDSC_9188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZNEksqi9HYXAJly_WDe4wKN2KTL37rxyllDWiESIOzzAAZJj9z9V9ithxo8olc2SQrq1V0OX6tOjG_JKuWUMxDAlqydYuoGgwYmcFMsI6Xl-n7IM0WobgKlflQMg0UsZa-ambUt-Eu7FH/s320/wpDSC_9188.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ground Ivy</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1sF2PvXbArj9K555XyOGpH6eVVjdB2jemCR2PEn-hxpewdlgqzTlXTpE8c2UEgEnw-Vn2qq6Kaa022TqoVk3sAfDeYvzlCPF0oxgrXlrnTaNy9yAK90L2LjSqYtGzsx97JhNzkcN1wgje/s1600/wpDSC_9254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1sF2PvXbArj9K555XyOGpH6eVVjdB2jemCR2PEn-hxpewdlgqzTlXTpE8c2UEgEnw-Vn2qq6Kaa022TqoVk3sAfDeYvzlCPF0oxgrXlrnTaNy9yAK90L2LjSqYtGzsx97JhNzkcN1wgje/s320/wpDSC_9254.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ground Ivy tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5OBeEmcbran_dteeE5YU_Gb7j6Ulgpn6mjtE1h-hN7i1g5mOp3KMaoc3el75I4ZhdoA31SEpJ-U50NWmDMAcmp-qp-Rboi1RMXpJcygrydpT1oiBA_dEsL90VJC06_J9LDdCMUoyHqpAn/s1600/wpDSC_9255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5OBeEmcbran_dteeE5YU_Gb7j6Ulgpn6mjtE1h-hN7i1g5mOp3KMaoc3el75I4ZhdoA31SEpJ-U50NWmDMAcmp-qp-Rboi1RMXpJcygrydpT1oiBA_dEsL90VJC06_J9LDdCMUoyHqpAn/s320/wpDSC_9255.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Drying Ground Ivy in dehydrator</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzHSRHONqm6BhBhH6CaWbyWTL9fJ2CEIHQcl9kKyIi5TF90nyla8uB0Rivnj2RXOX92iVo9xoO8pAbWvYXACctSDMJ0WTP_NIjLKVX7ki0ZlvhEXjO12tQp3eHT1Q2G9-eTpxJKiD8esS/s1600/wpDSC_9257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzHSRHONqm6BhBhH6CaWbyWTL9fJ2CEIHQcl9kKyIi5TF90nyla8uB0Rivnj2RXOX92iVo9xoO8pAbWvYXACctSDMJ0WTP_NIjLKVX7ki0ZlvhEXjO12tQp3eHT1Q2G9-eTpxJKiD8esS/s320/wpDSC_9257.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ground Ivy infusion</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
References</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
'Practical Herbs 2' Henriette Kress</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
'Wild Drugs' by Zoe Hawes.</div>
Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-30356189312393815382015-04-23T20:01:00.000+01:002015-04-24T10:02:19.598+01:00The gifts of Spring - beauty, food & medicineI spent Saturday 11th April at Springfield Herb Sanctuary on a work day. I helped dig over a bed which will be used for planting herb plants. I kept the Dandelions and Docks I dug up to take home to turn into Dandelion tincture and Dock tincture. I also had a walk round with Sarah, my herbwife mentor, seeing all the herbs that are coming up in her herb beds at the sanctuary. This is really helpful for learning to identify plants at different stages of growth, which is one of the things I am learning as an apprentice herbwife. Sarah very kindly let me dig up a young Tansy plant to take home to plant in my own herb bed for future use. For future events at the Sanctuary see <a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html</a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">At Springfield Herb Sanctuary</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTKKCytX6JB_hPSKiONf4BhNeA1zlMaKs1hRk7ioU0sFggOfDYxwrNjtuAFudO70o8MKa6GMY3YZISgwwcKQZWsl1ao-zUfThQl2dZ7ClB6wl5R18c4zZK2cWqdDQu2beBSSh8e9cFQiY/s1600/wpDSC_9085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTKKCytX6JB_hPSKiONf4BhNeA1zlMaKs1hRk7ioU0sFggOfDYxwrNjtuAFudO70o8MKa6GMY3YZISgwwcKQZWsl1ao-zUfThQl2dZ7ClB6wl5R18c4zZK2cWqdDQu2beBSSh8e9cFQiY/s1600/wpDSC_9085.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> View from the Sanctuary over the Cotswolds</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk5g3ZeFRu2F02kM08d4IIeJyjA6VyTOBCKulkCehrAdU1n9w4DM58kqn2g1rbA4pmEMHLuX4mqULS5BNySphweK3e3w_skIBJer2EBLk6V16eAVB0pZXKjIeyY2gGhnrSX0k2PGmASMOn/s1600/wpDSC_9082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk5g3ZeFRu2F02kM08d4IIeJyjA6VyTOBCKulkCehrAdU1n9w4DM58kqn2g1rbA4pmEMHLuX4mqULS5BNySphweK3e3w_skIBJer2EBLk6V16eAVB0pZXKjIeyY2gGhnrSX0k2PGmASMOn/s1600/wpDSC_9082.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The herb beds I helped to dig</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjln8uADwQCwrdEkUGQOQkFa1Weyw-sUpGRoXwpywXD3hLk91SLYh5sTW2KbybtvB8A4rCdjBamGjluTlei_1c3CjOCWlFTmS4yiWGAvIxrqgpPzVB8bHnVRD7Rgzs0J2UfmxNOHMwXUUDF/s1600/wpDSC_9065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjln8uADwQCwrdEkUGQOQkFa1Weyw-sUpGRoXwpywXD3hLk91SLYh5sTW2KbybtvB8A4rCdjBamGjluTlei_1c3CjOCWlFTmS4yiWGAvIxrqgpPzVB8bHnVRD7Rgzs0J2UfmxNOHMwXUUDF/s1600/wpDSC_9065.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Elecampane coming up</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhznjuFBaRk1fIKG-WD1Y9x4S3nMZH-oNJswRuIiTbLjAOs3La0kUCH1X-GKX7Co9-6WadjmYHLQuN5wNhUCyL3kctDUQhvdcRaXe9B2ccbeRB0y-B1K5JHkwsG4T-s2hLv-3bi9rN74R/s1600/wpDSC_9075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmhznjuFBaRk1fIKG-WD1Y9x4S3nMZH-oNJswRuIiTbLjAOs3La0kUCH1X-GKX7Co9-6WadjmYHLQuN5wNhUCyL3kctDUQhvdcRaXe9B2ccbeRB0y-B1K5JHkwsG4T-s2hLv-3bi9rN74R/s1600/wpDSC_9075.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Lady's Mantle </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZjFy7s0cUzockxsG0moZVFwIkmDXm8hbgdzBrcttw4EQjNsjgnHbJmKX0UskWgpbfRZ7d6Jg-fZQ-_qEHw4igW9UVWJ4rNeO1K3ufROAESjNGgpatcZEOgUnBlxUpqGhyphenhyphen7B03gin74d0/s1600/wpDSC_9072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFZjFy7s0cUzockxsG0moZVFwIkmDXm8hbgdzBrcttw4EQjNsjgnHbJmKX0UskWgpbfRZ7d6Jg-fZQ-_qEHw4igW9UVWJ4rNeO1K3ufROAESjNGgpatcZEOgUnBlxUpqGhyphenhyphen7B03gin74d0/s1600/wpDSC_9072.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Solomon's Seal</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">For more photos see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153255717357938.1073741890.657002937&type=1&l=6c20633d26">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153255717357938.1073741890.657002937&type=1&l=6c20633d26</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Back home in the kitchen I put Dandelion roots & leaves into a jar and filled the jar with vodka to make a another batch of tincture. I have been taking 2 half teaspoons a day since decanting the first batch, it definitely seems to be helping with my digestion. I washed and chopped up the Dock roots into a separate jar to make tincture, which should be helpful for poor absorption, anaemia, skin problems, sluggish bowels, constipation & liver congestion. Any dock with yellow roots can be used as this indicates the presence of the medicinal compounds.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Last weekend I harvested a big bag of Nettles and a bag full of Cleavers at the allotment, plus a few Wild Garlic leaves. Some of the Nettles were used for Nettle Aloo (see recipe on previous post) as part of a dinner for friends, accompanied by raita made with natural yoghurt and finely chopped Wild Garlic leaves. I also made Nettle Pasties (see recipe below) to take to the woods for a New Moon picnic. My husband got in the act and made Nettle Soup with onion, potato, celery and nettles, with some Miso added at the end to make a nice rich dark nourishing broth. The Cleavers were roughly chopped and put in a jar with vodka to make Cleavers tincture, which should be useful for lymph congestion or swollen glands such as Tonsilitis.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also paid a visit to the woods and picked Hawthorn leaves to make a tincture with brandy, which can be combined with tinctures of the flowers and berries as they appear, to get the maximum benefit. Hawthorn is renowned as a tonic for the heart and circulatory system. My husband dug up a patch of Lesser Celandine, also known as Pilewort, after the nodules on the roots which look like haemorrhoids. This is an example of a traditional plant signature in which physical features of plants were thought to indicate what sort of conditions the plant would be beneficial for. And indeed Pilewort is a remedy for piles, both as dried herb used to make an infusion for internal use and to make an ointment from fresh herb by making a double-infused oil and adding beeswax, to use externally.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe for Nettle Pasties - makes 2 large pasties or 4 small pasties</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pastry:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">8oz plain flour</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pinch of salt</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">4oz butter</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">3-4 tablespoons of cold water</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Sift the flour & salt into a bowl, add the butter chopped into lumps and stir to coat the butter in flour.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">-
Sprinkle the water over the mix and stir with a round-bladed knife till
the mixture sticks together in large lumps, if it is a bit dry add a
bit more water.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Collect the dough together into a ball.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Knead it lightly on a lightly floured surface to make a smooth dough.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Wrap the dough in cling-film and leave in the fridge to rest for 30 minutes.</span></span></span><br />
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Filling:<br />
Large colander of washed nettle tops with stalks removed<br />
Medium onion finely chopped<br />
2 large garlic cloves very finely chopped<br />
1 medium mushroom finely chopped<br />
Wedge of blue cheese crumbled<br />
2 beaten eggs<br />
Salt & pepper to taste<br />
- Saute the onion to soften it, add the garlic & mushroom.<br />
- Steam the nettle tops in a little water for a few minutes till well wilted.<br />
- Squeeze out the liquid with a wooden spoon, drain the liquid into a jug to use in stock for soup.<br />
- Mix the vegetables with the cheese & eggs, add seasoning.<br />
- Roll out & cut the pastry to make rounds.<br />
- Put filling in the middle of pastry rounds and top with another round, press the edges together all the way round to seal.<br />
- Use any left over pastry to make pastry decorations, stick on with a little water.<br />
- Bake in a medium oven for about 25 minutes.<br />
- Eat hot or cold, they are perfect for taking out for a picnic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVx1Mr_QlhQMvT6VEUAeS0QYAzAuljPnEPGvSfLqJk9FL76ZbhXog37Y7fpitRMXsxJsyQBXE5RIoRRxfD0pfvfsVRnp4lMHZjKArwkyXr0soAeyiA8pLX6I3zqV4CPnjgW4oubK_99Ke/s1600/wpDSC_9092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglVx1Mr_QlhQMvT6VEUAeS0QYAzAuljPnEPGvSfLqJk9FL76ZbhXog37Y7fpitRMXsxJsyQBXE5RIoRRxfD0pfvfsVRnp4lMHZjKArwkyXr0soAeyiA8pLX6I3zqV4CPnjgW4oubK_99Ke/s1600/wpDSC_9092.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Nettle Pastie</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dock roots being prepared for tincture </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dock Root Tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cleavers Tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn Leaf Tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lesser Celandine/Pilewort</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Making Pilewort Double-infused Oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">References</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Wild Drugs' Zoe Hawes </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span><br />
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-43441251418318784792015-04-07T23:05:00.003+01:002015-04-09T08:21:25.762+01:00Food and medicine from the Wild Woods<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">On Sunday I went on the excellent Spring Foraging day course with Woodland Ways in Leicestershire <a href="http://www.woodland-ways.co.uk/buy-online-spring-forage-2.html">http://www.woodland-ways.co.uk/buy-online-spring-forage-2.html</a> It was a real treat of a day. Our very knowledgeable instructor Adam took us on a walk through the woods, pointing out lots of plants with uses for food, medicine and practical tasks along the way. He took care to make us aware of any potential risks of toxicity or confusion with similar looking poisonous plants, to help give us confidence in what we can pick and use safely. He also briefed us on the legalities of foraging and showed us a selection of excellent reference books for identifying and using wild plants.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We picked supplies from the woodland larder as we walked along to incorporate into our lunch which was cooked back at the well constructed and equipped base-camp. We filleted the breast meat from a brace of Pheasants, having been shown how to by Adam, this was surprisingly easy to do. The breasts were pan-fried in a dash of oil. We cooked up the Nettles, Bramble shoots and Hogweed shoots we had collected by boiling for a minute then tossing in butter and lemon juice. We also had mashed potatoes with the addition of chopped Wild Garlic leaves and a salad of fresh leaves including Rosebay Willowherb, Dandelion and Hairy Bittercress. The meal was absolutely delicious. I left the day feeling inspired to get out into the woods to forage for wild food.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Bramble shoots</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bramble shoots picked for lunch</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Basket of Nettle tops</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Hogweed shoots</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrIuijJ6Z11gW2zANmvDB2awH-TOQNYgcOTu11mVFOeyyQV7ofeagzax7ctzlhxx5aKiVzvVKrXTFC7By3PAHheGnYdmR_hD9TeYjigFZJgQ3_wZmPfDRfe8VoEb1a-nH-lAnsC2pit6tE/s1600/wpDSC_8865.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrIuijJ6Z11gW2zANmvDB2awH-TOQNYgcOTu11mVFOeyyQV7ofeagzax7ctzlhxx5aKiVzvVKrXTFC7By3PAHheGnYdmR_hD9TeYjigFZJgQ3_wZmPfDRfe8VoEb1a-nH-lAnsC2pit6tE/s1600/wpDSC_8865.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Rosebay Willowherb</span> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Wild Garlic leaves & roots</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd3puX53Y6Y1bzRJo0CDAA-mMCXiiAdeiQMxKzarlgq3MKS1n2a62rZ-Vx-q9xD-gApx_22LlY9OT6MD0QKtxqAipA9UCuLcd3VMKeXq6FaoXVHp8ioiiNcRCSioSmtab8uUlkPDGw0eVL/s1600/wpDSC_8945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd3puX53Y6Y1bzRJo0CDAA-mMCXiiAdeiQMxKzarlgq3MKS1n2a62rZ-Vx-q9xD-gApx_22LlY9OT6MD0QKtxqAipA9UCuLcd3VMKeXq6FaoXVHp8ioiiNcRCSioSmtab8uUlkPDGw0eVL/s1600/wpDSC_8945.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cooking the greens over an open fire</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_R3-a912OID-o5gLfmqeOeWgYipMeFc6CUZSY5GquSl0RId2coSYm6y0YSHxMn-FT2pQQAafPMEigfcGD9oniQMHzIoBJk_E135cjoAL8skbPJ2mSsdFF92s8krgd1dIMSWPFFYFjoLZp/s1600/wpDSC_8947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_R3-a912OID-o5gLfmqeOeWgYipMeFc6CUZSY5GquSl0RId2coSYm6y0YSHxMn-FT2pQQAafPMEigfcGD9oniQMHzIoBJk_E135cjoAL8skbPJ2mSsdFF92s8krgd1dIMSWPFFYFjoLZp/s1600/wpDSC_8947.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pan-fried Pheasant breasts, Mashed potato & Wild Garlic, Spring Greens</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmle77fD4LPttEycBzy6fWF4qCRVrNUehoaBlmYFq-81x90TzlaSK9ujnvwdc9LONTC0pWWpf2Dg02ym5WK17IzJWQjlmC1RzfhJTJzPXinX2WixiHpxRm5CVlUZGCF70CGsfqpZ2i-ph/s1600/wpDSC_8949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmle77fD4LPttEycBzy6fWF4qCRVrNUehoaBlmYFq-81x90TzlaSK9ujnvwdc9LONTC0pWWpf2Dg02ym5WK17IzJWQjlmC1RzfhJTJzPXinX2WixiHpxRm5CVlUZGCF70CGsfqpZ2i-ph/s1600/wpDSC_8949.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">My lunch - nom, nom, nom</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">For more photos from the day see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153240409342938.1073741889.657002937&type=1&l=a18a1bfb5d">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153240409342938.1073741889.657002937&type=1&l=a18a1bfb5d</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Back home I made a Spring Green Pie with Nettles & other spring leaves picked in the allotment. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><u><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Spring Green Pie Recipe</span></span></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pastry:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">8oz plain flour</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pinch of salt</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">4oz butter</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">3-4 tablespoons of cold water</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Sift the flour & salt into a bowl, add the butter chopped into lumps and stir to coat the butter in flour.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Sprinkle the water over the mix and stir with a round-bladed knife till the mixture sticks together in large lumps, if it is a bit dry add a bit more water.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Collect the dough together into a ball.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Knead it lightly on a lightly floured surface to make a smooth dough.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Wrap the dough in cling-film and leave in the fridge to rest for 30 minutes before rolling it out.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface to an even thickness about 2-3 inches larger than the pie dish you will be using.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Line the pie dish with the pastry, keep some back to make a top for the pie.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- If you have some left-over pastry make some pastry shapes to decorate the pie top with.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Filling:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">A colander full of washed & processed Spring leaves such as Nettles, Cleavers, Dandelion, Wild Garlic, Ground Elder, Sorrel</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">A medium onion finely chopped</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 large Garlic cloves very finely chopped </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 beaten eggs</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">100g grated strong cheddar</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Salt & Pepper to taste</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Steam the Spring leaves for a few minutes.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- When the leaves have softened strain the liquid (keep it for stock or sauces) and squeeze the leaves with the back of a wooden spoon to leave a spinach like consistency.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Roughly chop up the cooked greens.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Add to a bowl and mix with the chopped onion & garlic, beaten egg, grated cheese and seasoning.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Pour the mix into the lined pie dish and cover with the pastry top. Brush the top with beaten egg and add any decorations, stick them on with beaten egg and brush the tops with egg to make a nice glaze.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Bake in a medium oven (about gas mark 6) for about 25 minutes.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Serve hot or cold.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pastry recipe from the 'Good Housekeeping Cookery Book', filling recipe from 'Letting in the Wild Edges' by Glennie Kindred. </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7F3i09gOBhYOZckqtdvEQ7YzcSqTk3f3kTu5zW8hWry6kLzrepTmgYvY2o6YvUeQ41UKj_yP-57LYo5rGuOJM-Vg8gVLWvhSR_qauBrV0HyQ8ctuilg4GszJj97XUHoNM6NDjb-m32T1/s1600/wpDSC_8860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7F3i09gOBhYOZckqtdvEQ7YzcSqTk3f3kTu5zW8hWry6kLzrepTmgYvY2o6YvUeQ41UKj_yP-57LYo5rGuOJM-Vg8gVLWvhSR_qauBrV0HyQ8ctuilg4GszJj97XUHoNM6NDjb-m32T1/s1600/wpDSC_8860.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Spring Green Pie with decorations</span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdQ7sfuVkrjd2XyLLlzIyJFIBdixseQ7mdSTb-7Hwiy5k7ofG-GoT79xlSphLK3jMbaVVeuFQ7Wv8vlzscuffz7U5Yr9FbwxoZIljQHwvKxpELTJuJ8y_QD3MtCU9DJ2gouYAqantS24P/s1600/wpDSC_8863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdQ7sfuVkrjd2XyLLlzIyJFIBdixseQ7mdSTb-7Hwiy5k7ofG-GoT79xlSphLK3jMbaVVeuFQ7Wv8vlzscuffz7U5Yr9FbwxoZIljQHwvKxpELTJuJ8y_QD3MtCU9DJ2gouYAqantS24P/s1600/wpDSC_8863.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Slice of Spring Green Pie</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> also made Bramble Vinegar with Bramble roots & shoots harvested in the woods & home-made Crab Apple Cider Vinegar made from last Autumn's Crab Apples using the recipe in my Herbwife Apprenticeship mentor Sarah Head's blog at <a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/2008/04/developing-relationships.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/2008/04/developing-relationships.html</a> This is a traditional remedy for diarrhoea and for relieving the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It can be used in salad dressings or in boiling water with honey as a soothing drink.</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEY6b0NIZ4WTzSeBpQvKOE7eUtTQBiuwT4qc-wcKfvZoJSCviwrHAgI6BkHLeY5yMMLp6FHbmwDpaaT0syl_IoSlQJJp8Z1EYIxF-rKRUarDJ1z8wRf-Eede1iwWBUlD6DtGdb-ZBWUTzV/s1600/wpDSC_9045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEY6b0NIZ4WTzSeBpQvKOE7eUtTQBiuwT4qc-wcKfvZoJSCviwrHAgI6BkHLeY5yMMLp6FHbmwDpaaT0syl_IoSlQJJp8Z1EYIxF-rKRUarDJ1z8wRf-Eede1iwWBUlD6DtGdb-ZBWUTzV/s1600/wpDSC_9045.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bramble roots</span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhddJ3QFS1zFjdyhqlZap7JAz2MqsMWMoB3nwr9ZPWJyDiocTQDy9GuIpLBxew3vxXH1-R0iEPgybo4ZvKEU-W1oBu58KaMBRrEgLJcHrH49VYZgqQg3ATSS7Z7NRLfd_THFNAqlnyIu7em/s1600/wpDSC_9044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhddJ3QFS1zFjdyhqlZap7JAz2MqsMWMoB3nwr9ZPWJyDiocTQDy9GuIpLBxew3vxXH1-R0iEPgybo4ZvKEU-W1oBu58KaMBRrEgLJcHrH49VYZgqQg3ATSS7Z7NRLfd_THFNAqlnyIu7em/s1600/wpDSC_9044.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Bramble shoots</span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-58SD4G7d05RRHIIr1b3XSx50AqLCT82DyWx_cNr7m_fjiJGRMdf2IQH3yl0GHHUlpa8PToSrLM4q2-nnGcAICQVcY9UvjSxejzyV0jmofIsdJ9Qu3hvwKqvdx-2ah0WEGSuPGvjoPo46/s1600/wpDSC_9047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-58SD4G7d05RRHIIr1b3XSx50AqLCT82DyWx_cNr7m_fjiJGRMdf2IQH3yl0GHHUlpa8PToSrLM4q2-nnGcAICQVcY9UvjSxejzyV0jmofIsdJ9Qu3hvwKqvdx-2ah0WEGSuPGvjoPo46/s1600/wpDSC_9047.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Bramble Vinegar</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I also made Chestnut Bud flower essence with Horse Chestnut buds I cut in the woods during the foraging course as these were at the perfect stage for picking to make this flower essence. I followed the instructions at <a href="http://www.herbs2000.com/h_menu/bfr_chestnut_bud.htm">http://www.herbs2000.com/h_menu/bfr_chestnut_bud.htm</a> to make a Mother Tincture, then made a Stock bottle by putting 2 drops of this into a 30ml bottle of brandy, then a treatment bottle by putting 2 drops of the Stock into a 30ml bottle of spring water. This is a subtle energy remedy for difficulties in learning lessons from experience, making the same mistakes repeatedly in life.</span> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgyDtVTOkU7EaFbuPEB5uuTjEE88sRiKjsJjMPfMmJcEDWZWHmEJaG3IhgpsF5yiCkm1coooroha_z_lJgwDg6L7LjQsB46qugywRbNbVZhU0BHABY0W0qoOjx3nF35xo1lbHQ5pYOfsC/s1600/wpDSC_8954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWgyDtVTOkU7EaFbuPEB5uuTjEE88sRiKjsJjMPfMmJcEDWZWHmEJaG3IhgpsF5yiCkm1coooroha_z_lJgwDg6L7LjQsB46qugywRbNbVZhU0BHABY0W0qoOjx3nF35xo1lbHQ5pYOfsC/s1600/wpDSC_8954.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Horse Chestnut buds opening</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Horse Chestnut buds being simmered in Spring water</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chestnut Bud Mother Essence, Stock bottle & Treatment bottle</span></span></span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-20658569331559452962015-03-31T22:48:00.000+01:002015-04-01T21:41:19.335+01:00Helpful herbs for the digestive system and Spring Tonics<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><u>Digestive system troubles & herbs which help relieve these</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">This month I have been set the task of researching the digestive system with particular reference to elimination, constipation & diarrhoea and herbs that are helpful for these conditions. The diagram below shows the different parts of the digestive system and their functions, which are essential to good health. The digestive system has four activities - ingestion, digestion, absorption and elimination, which removes unwanted matter such as indigestible food, metabolic waste products and toxins from our bodies. The condition of our bowels has a fundamental effect on the rest of the body.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Digestive System diagram </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.womens-health-advice.com/digestive-system.html">http://www.womens-health-advice.com/digestive-system.html</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Constipation</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Constipation is not a disease but is a symptom of an underlying problem. The key symptoms of constipation are lack of bowel movements for more than 24-48 hours, low abdominal pain or gripes and difficulty passing stools. It is common during pregnancy, old age and while travelling. Causes of constipation include sluggish digestion, lack of exercise, suppressing the urge, food allergy, gut flora imbalance and overgrowth of Candida in the bowel, nutritional deficiencies, excess refined foods, insufficient dietary fibre, low fluid intake and tension due to stress. Constipation can be related to conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and bowel obstruction. Many medications have a constipating effect including codeine, tranquillisers & iron supplements. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Linseed, Fenugreek or Psyllium seeds help bulk out bowel contents and move them along, soak 1-2 teaspoons of seeds in a cup of hot water for 2 hours, add lemon or honey if desired and drink at bed time. It is important to drink plenty of water as well when taking these. Mucilaginous herbs such as Marshmallow and Plantain can be used for a gentle laxative action by absorbing water and bulking out stools, which is useful if stools are dry. This action is in contrast to Senna and similar remedies for constipation such Alder Buckthorn bark, Rhubarb Root and Yellow Dock Root which contain anthraquinones which have a stimulant action on the muscles of the bowel, which can be necessary to retrain the bowel muscles in cases of chronic constipation which may occur particularly with older people. Adding Ginger or Fennel is useful to relieve colic which might be caused by using these remedies. Syrup of Figs is a traditional remedy for constipation, recipes can be found in 'Grow your own drugs' by James Wong and 'Kitchen Medicine' by Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Bitter liver herbs stimulate digestion and ease bowel movements. Decoctions of Liquorice, Dandelion root and Burdock root are effective for mild constipation. Yellow Dock root decoction or tincture is helpful for mild constipation and stimulates the digestion. Rosehip tea is also a mild laxative, strain to remove the irritating hairs. Raw or cooked Elderberries have a potent laxative effect. Blackthorn leaves & flowers can also help constipation. However it is important to find and treat underlying causes of
constipation, rather than relying on laxatives which can make the
problem worse in the long run. For stress-related constipation take Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Dill, Hops, Vervain or Cramp Bark, which is a smooth muscle relaxant. Garlic, Burdock or Marigold are helpful for an imbalance of gut flora. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Doses of herbal remedies for constipation in older people may generally need to be lower due to slow metabolism. Constipation in children needs to be treated with gentle laxatives such as Psyllium seeds and other gentle remedies such as Chamomile rather than stimulating purgative herbs such as Senna or Rhubarb Root. Flavouring agents such as Chamomile, honey, Peppermint or Liquorice may help make herbal remedies more palatable for children to take. Violet Syrup is particularly recommended for constipation in children - see recipe in last week's blog post.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Diarrhoea</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Diarrhoea is caused by the body attempting to rid itself of poisons or irritants, inflammation or infection in the gut. Key symptoms are loose frequent stools and abdominal cramps or griping pain. It is usually short-lived, lasting only a day or two. Intolerances to gluten-containing and dairy foods can cause diarrhoea. Red meat and raw food can aggravate it so these are best avoided till fully recovered. It can be caused or exacerbated by stress. It is important not to stop the process but to address the underlying causes. Herbal remedies try to assist the process while soothing the bowel and reducing inflammation. It is vital to drink plenty of fluid to replace water and electrolytes lost through diarrhoea to prevent dehydration. James Wong gives a recipe for a Herbal Rehydration Tea in 'Grow your own drugs' and there is a recipe for a Lemon Sherbet Rehydration Remedy in 'The Domestic Alchemist' by Pip Waller. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Diarrhoea can be relieved by using astringent herbs such as Agrimony or Blackthorn which are especially suitable for children. Other astringent herbs which can help relieve diarrhoea include Blackberry leaf, Black Tea, Cinnamon, Goldenrod leaves, Ground Ivy, Hawthorn, Lady's Mantle, Meadowsweet, Mullein, Oak Bark, Raspberry Leaf, Rose petals, Shepherd's Purse, Speedwell, Strawberry Leaf, White Deadnettle, Wood Avens and Yarrow which dry up secretions and tone the gut lining. Mucilaginous herbs such as Slippery Elm, Marshmallow and Plantain help relieve diarrhoea by reducing irritation of the gut lining and act as pre-biotics to encourage helpful gut flora. Anti-spasmodic herbs such as Peppermint, Catmint, Ginger, Dill and Chamomile relieve pain from cramps. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">For diarrhoea caused by infection use anti-microbial herbs such as Thyme, Chamomile, Cinnamon, Garlic & Ginger. Cooked Carrots have been found to have an anti-bacterial effect in the gut. The anti-bacterial properties of raw honey can help treat diarrhoea. There is a recipe for Meadowsweet Anti-diarrhoea Honey in 'The Domestic Alchemist' by Pip Waller. Chamomile, Hops, Meadowsweet, Self-heal and Yarrow relieve inflammation. Chamomile, Hops, Dill and Lemon Balm help reduce stress-related diarrhoea. Rosebay Willowherb enhances enzyme production in the stomach and
pancreas so is helpful for preventing & remedying diarrhoea caused
by dietary changes. An infusion of Coriander seed is a safe remedy for diarrhoea in children. Grated Apple is a simple remedy for childhood diarrhoea and grated Apple and Ginger are good for settling the stomach after a bout of diarrhoea. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Signs of possible serious bowel disease that need medical investigation are:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Constipation that is persistent, develops suddenly or with pain.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Diarrhoea that is sudden & painful or continues for longer than a week or is recurrent or is accompanied by fever or where there is blood, mucus or pus in the stools.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Any unusual change in bowel habits. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Recent travel to a foreign country or contact with someone else who has travelled to a foreign country.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Recently drinking water from a stream, river or lake.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Persistent diarrhoea in children. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">- Extreme acute abdominal pain.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><u>Herbal Terminology</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">This month's herbal terms are:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Spring Tonic</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Herbs which were traditionally used as spring tonics are often liver stimulants, to strengthen the liver after eating poor food during the winter, which help to cleanse and tone the whole body. Our modern processed, chemical laden diet puts pressure on our livers all year round, so we can benefit from a spring tonic at any time of the year. At this time of year spring tonic herbs such as Dandelion, Chickweed, Chives, Cleavers and Nettles are thriving. They help cleanse the blood, strengthen the liver and gently detox the body. It is good to eat them every day from now until they become too tough in the early summer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Mucilaginous</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Herbs containing viscous sap that soothes inflammation. Mucilage is a sugary, gel-like substance that draws in water to form a viscous fluid. When taken orally it coats internal mucous membranes, protecting them from irritation and inflammation. Herbs containing mucilage are cooling and soothing in their action. Mucilaginous plants include Mallows, Violets, Plantain seeds, Linseed and boiled Onions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Diaphoretic </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Herbs that induce perspiration, enabling toxic wastes to be eliminated via sweat. Diaphoretic Herbs are widely used in feverish conditions to reduce a high temperature. Herbs with a diaphoretic effect include Catnip, Cayenne, Elderflowers, Garlic, Ginger, Peppermint, Rosemary, Thyme, Vervain and Yarrow.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><u>References</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Bartram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine' Thomas Bartram.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Grow your own drugs' James Wong. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Holistic Anatomy' Pip Waller.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Kitchen Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Letting in the Wild Edges' Glennie Kindred. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Practical Herbs 1 & 2' Henriette Kress.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Complete Book of Herbs' Lesley Bremness. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Complete Herbal Tutor' Anne McIntyre.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Domestic Alchemist' Pip Waller. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Herbal Drugstore' Linda B White & Steven Foster. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Herbalist's Bible' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The Herb Society's Complete Medicinal Herbal' Penelope Ody. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'The New Holistic Herbal' David Hoffmann.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">'Wild Drugs' Zoe Hawes </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><u>Recipes</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">This month one of my tasks was to design my own spring tonic. With some ideas from Sarah Head's blog post on Spring Tonics <a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/2009/03/spring-tonics.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/2009/03/spring-tonics.html</a> 'Herbal Remedies' by Christopher Hedley & Non Shaw, 'Kitchen Medicine', 'Hedgerow Medicine' and 'The Herbalist's Bible' by Julie Bruton-Seal and Matthew Seal I put together a recipe for a Spring Tonic as follows.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Spring Tonic </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">4 sprigs of fresh Rosemary</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">2 sprigs of fresh Sage</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">3 sprigs of fresh Marjoram</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A handful of fresh Nettle tops, washed </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A few dried Mugwort tops</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A few slices of fresh Ginger root</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">An aril of Mace</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">About 1/3 of a Nutmeg grated</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A stick of Cinnamon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">A screw-top bottle of Red wine</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pour out about 1/4 pint of red wine & reserve this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Poke the ingredients through the neck of the bottle into the wine using a chopstick.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pour some of the reserved wine back in to bring the liquid back up to the top of the bottle neck.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Put the screw-top back on and put the bottle in a warm cupboard to steep for 3 weeks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Strain through muslin into a clean sterilised bottle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Have a tablespoon or small shot glass when in need of a tonic, such as after illness.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ingredients for Spring Tonic</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Spring Tonic ingredients steeping</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Chickweed Salve </span><br />
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</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I made Chickweed Salve from the Chickweed oil I infused a couple of weeks ago - see previous blog post of details of making Chickweed Oil. Some gunge had settled to the bottom of the jar, I carefully poured off the clear oil and filtered this through muslin. I measured the oil which came to 100ml and added 1/8 of this quantity as beeswax, in this case 12.5 grams, with an accurate electronic scale to measure this. I heated the oil and beeswax in a pan over a larger pan of gently simmering water and stirred with a chopstick until the beeswax had all melted. I poured the liquid into jars and left to set. This salve should be useful for irritated skin conditions, particularly eczema.</span> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgep8Vo7UaJcDNq3g-6cEp3cmTK9Acst7babGlyz0bC8K9YVemtoucao_6Q5KXhjxiSmWzQuzBBVEb3bNJwm0Btsr0FC32LMvVuaJXno0OC0_3h-umm7QiDjVGwpTAq96Mt60UkIq-6OzRv/s1600/wpDSC_8851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgep8Vo7UaJcDNq3g-6cEp3cmTK9Acst7babGlyz0bC8K9YVemtoucao_6Q5KXhjxiSmWzQuzBBVEb3bNJwm0Btsr0FC32LMvVuaJXno0OC0_3h-umm7QiDjVGwpTAq96Mt60UkIq-6OzRv/s1600/wpDSC_8851.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Chickweed oil & beeswax </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLa610pokOrsPH4WMBnuNQyyk9jhrH9rulIu4oXF9F5Ah6aJk-1kPssO_Ie2EWINfTYK3aiNWHYHZWDxWlW27QuZV6YT3i7Px_TKCS_8Ok8vJQZwL3tArmQFIVaU8xgRIFQ3rT3st2isyI/s1600/wpDSC_8858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLa610pokOrsPH4WMBnuNQyyk9jhrH9rulIu4oXF9F5Ah6aJk-1kPssO_Ie2EWINfTYK3aiNWHYHZWDxWlW27QuZV6YT3i7Px_TKCS_8Ok8vJQZwL3tArmQFIVaU8xgRIFQ3rT3st2isyI/s1600/wpDSC_8858.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Chickweed salve freshly poured into jars</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhmV0GjBtkW_fPyE8B1m9uj2ZZSmbWLN-nP4tO3uMyZIJW4EIJAOWgCbvpsGtCYEABexY8ZzF5W430RNF_HhIUp6Pnld6a9BIm9zUyB2JY9ZiRiWmomrBtVHukovAjpUE-g4Jx3CcklWn/s1600/wpDSC_8859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhmV0GjBtkW_fPyE8B1m9uj2ZZSmbWLN-nP4tO3uMyZIJW4EIJAOWgCbvpsGtCYEABexY8ZzF5W430RNF_HhIUp6Pnld6a9BIm9zUyB2JY9ZiRiWmomrBtVHukovAjpUE-g4Jx3CcklWn/s1600/wpDSC_8859.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Chickweed Salve ready for use</span></span><br />
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-29684850879176824802015-03-23T20:58:00.000+00:002015-03-23T21:19:39.002+00:00A magical Spring Equinox and recipes using spring plants<style type="text/css">p { margin-bottom: 0.25cm; line-height: 120%; }a:link { }</style>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Last weekend I attended the first workshop of the
year at Springfield Herb Sanctuary, which focused on identifying
plants as they are beginning to grow. We tried Nettle tea and
Couch Grass root tea, both of which are good for the urinary system
amongst many other benefits. I picked some Chickweed, Dandelion
tops & roots from weeding, Burdock burs to plant and some violets to take
home with me. The workshops at the Sanctuary are open to anyone
interested, you don't have to be an apprentice to attend, information
on the workshops for the year including the weekend Herb Festival in
September can be found here
<a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html</a></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf72kEzDC9hFzhskEXwBvoMhTi8v-L8AXOf3qvYi3V0EOhC6qPpAkLEwl5n6U_HI0ekx8kGyJSccF-_n3J-Q-byd8x1sLZ8672MVrPtuxMQY6a2RdbVmRlmpbvOWCeJv2cVXUBZVCZD9-h/s1600/wpDSC_8676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf72kEzDC9hFzhskEXwBvoMhTi8v-L8AXOf3qvYi3V0EOhC6qPpAkLEwl5n6U_HI0ekx8kGyJSccF-_n3J-Q-byd8x1sLZ8672MVrPtuxMQY6a2RdbVmRlmpbvOWCeJv2cVXUBZVCZD9-h/s1600/wpDSC_8676.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Daffodils and one of the springs which gives the Sanctuary its name</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4E7PyJB3BRTBhcbODTnPnbTNS74T8FyinEEGYHGfMFcTMnV9o7TdrMTrRR_RekaHjyIVDDQeRipijUpCrJYHT0iauiTHoFdsJSEtQ87DI2q2Ml1-BdvFKFNThnXZmwRjw0svwx_pDGJNs/s1600/wpDSC_8653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4E7PyJB3BRTBhcbODTnPnbTNS74T8FyinEEGYHGfMFcTMnV9o7TdrMTrRR_RekaHjyIVDDQeRipijUpCrJYHT0iauiTHoFdsJSEtQ87DI2q2Ml1-BdvFKFNThnXZmwRjw0svwx_pDGJNs/s1600/wpDSC_8653.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Twisted Hazel at Springfield Sanctuary</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwyAajLJXCKeg4Fk-OrB2jeevrrmkfjw9l2UD8X8iRhcILzj9Ay_O-nPqHey5MVTmMp1oVJPHoPGuEwelyFkYMUPQdUXmxxbfKtR4mGLRZYqRXiUTVrdWsE3kLLBPsb7uGlyoey8q90JU/s1600/wpDSC_8674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwyAajLJXCKeg4Fk-OrB2jeevrrmkfjw9l2UD8X8iRhcILzj9Ay_O-nPqHey5MVTmMp1oVJPHoPGuEwelyFkYMUPQdUXmxxbfKtR4mGLRZYqRXiUTVrdWsE3kLLBPsb7uGlyoey8q90JU/s1600/wpDSC_8674.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Chickweed</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELHeh9RviZ9uVLKCdSZXVP8jKfyyBtH-P55QjfaExKbjV8-7yTJtxDZD1phEmHLMmx49YcHmXVH2Q_pRkg_1Wkfo8RTiBP972bZo2edkdQ0NxjgEoTHCyXN6Zc8WsnVTQ_A90xtlfsk9C/s1600/wpDSC_8675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELHeh9RviZ9uVLKCdSZXVP8jKfyyBtH-P55QjfaExKbjV8-7yTJtxDZD1phEmHLMmx49YcHmXVH2Q_pRkg_1Wkfo8RTiBP972bZo2edkdQ0NxjgEoTHCyXN6Zc8WsnVTQ_A90xtlfsk9C/s1600/wpDSC_8675.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Violets</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Last Sunday I washed & chopped the
Dandelion roots & leaves I had gathered when weeding at the
Sanctuary and put them into a jar with vodka to make a tincture for
general health maintenance, acute skin eruptions, digestive problems,
recuperation from chronic illness, sluggish liver, gout, eczema &
psoriasis and for overindulgence in food & drink (uses from
'Hedgerow Medicine' by Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal). I also made
Violet syrup, which is useful for constipation & coughs,
particularly for children. The infusion was a bright green colour but magically turned pink when heated with sugar and lemon juice. I made infused oil with some of the Chickweed from
the sanctuary, which should be useful for skin problems particularly eczema. I also decanted the Cramp Bark tincture & Hawthorn Bark tincture started
previously. I picked
more Nettles in the woods to make a second batch of Nettle tonic
(recipe on previous post) and decanted the first batch, it was hard
messy work wringing out the fluid from the jelly bag, but I tried to
get every drop I could as it is full of herbal goodness.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYusZ3SDHzWAQubHzHEYZYrHx1ZFs5-qoxfhxhF_hMDmIkLwzuePqIZg0tTG4Emwv6vDFUZ0Z1wONH-yYKJMX827RIlXzgieK2ypPThyu9G5i4k6PDYjdkvvbRhjAfJalUMkmI5WnVFz0/s1600/wpDSC_8682.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYusZ3SDHzWAQubHzHEYZYrHx1ZFs5-qoxfhxhF_hMDmIkLwzuePqIZg0tTG4Emwv6vDFUZ0Z1wONH-yYKJMX827RIlXzgieK2ypPThyu9G5i4k6PDYjdkvvbRhjAfJalUMkmI5WnVFz0/s1600/wpDSC_8682.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Dandelion tincture</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><u>Recipe for Violet Syrup</u> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Fill a clean jar with violet flowers & leaves, cover with boiling water.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Leave to steep overnight with lid on.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Strain out the leaves & flowers.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Measure the amount of water left.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Put the water in a pan and add 150g of sugar for every 200ml of liquid</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Add juice from half a lemon.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Bring to the boil and simmer for a few minutes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Pour into sterilised bottles.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Keep in the fridge.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- 1-2 teaspoons at night for constipation or coughs, particularly for children. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Based on recipe in 'Wild Drugs' by Zoe Hawes. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAivxnJ6tRXWUTKGs1_vB8Rl5CcbFRh9OTHrUaH-NKe_I7SfsdCbG56CpZG5lZGqur-meQo-HKUGu5PEHGmMCQz4D6StlawRATJSOCrY4zPeBzSld-K3IsJ5g6WAfzfJrfofvCSieHrXaz/s1600/wpDSC_8683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAivxnJ6tRXWUTKGs1_vB8Rl5CcbFRh9OTHrUaH-NKe_I7SfsdCbG56CpZG5lZGqur-meQo-HKUGu5PEHGmMCQz4D6StlawRATJSOCrY4zPeBzSld-K3IsJ5g6WAfzfJrfofvCSieHrXaz/s1600/wpDSC_8683.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Violet Syrup</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><u>Recipe for Chickweed Oil</u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Gather chickweed and leave to wilt overnight to reduce moisture content.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Put half the amount of chickweed you have in a bowl or pan inside a larger pan, cover with sunflower oil.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Heat the oil with gently simmering water in the larger pan underneath the small pan for 2 hours.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Strain the oil and return to the pan with the second batch of chickweed, heat for 2 hours.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Strain the oil through muslin into sterilised jars.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYbXDvKZKqoZgTWiRIloJAJjqStPoRb4pVtr9-Qar6jhaS49bldieSImD5C73PEb4GxNgqhCrIEVOZXxVRhH7m71BpM0-LtWYtikGm1FNfI-a1Qg283q78w2aRyieuJjQfMceeIGxqT6d/s1600/wpDSC_8707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYbXDvKZKqoZgTWiRIloJAJjqStPoRb4pVtr9-Qar6jhaS49bldieSImD5C73PEb4GxNgqhCrIEVOZXxVRhH7m71BpM0-LtWYtikGm1FNfI-a1Qg283q78w2aRyieuJjQfMceeIGxqT6d/s1600/wpDSC_8707.JPG" height="320" width="211" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chickweed Oil</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This weekend started with the magical occurence of a solar eclipse on the Spring Equinox. We watched it at our allotment. There was an eerie dimming of the light as the moon gradually moved over the face of the sun and the temperature dropped several degrees during the eclipse, at maximum eclipse our breath was steaming in the cooler air. As the moon moved on the light brightened and it became a glorious warm spring day, it truly felt that spring had arrived. I picked nettles and other greens in between keeping an eye on the sky. Later in the day I went back to plant rose bushes, an Apothecary's Rose and a William Shakespeare Rose, which are both highly regarded for medicinal purposes. I transplanted Lungwort which I found under brambles in a vacant allotment and scattered some Burdock seeds up towards the wild end of the allotment in the hope that they will come up so I have Burdock to harvest in the future.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Smile in the sky as the moon partially covered the sun</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lungwort</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> newly planted Rose bush and Lungwort</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Back home over the weekend we had friends staying so I tried out my Nettle Soup on them, which was well received. I also tried putting Nettles in with scrambled eggs and made Nettle Aloo using Nettles rather than spinach which were both very tasty. My husband made a Sourdough loaf and mixed some Nettles in with the dough which came out well. As the Spring is well and truly upon us it was high time to start planting some seeds. We went to visit Smiths Nurseries on the outskirts of Coventry <a href="http://www.smithsnurseries.co.uk/">http://www.smithsnurseries.co.uk/</a> which has an excellent selection of herb and wildflower seeds. I started off some herb seeds in a seed tray and a few in pots for the kitchen window sill, in a nice little container I was given as a present which includes a useful box just the right size for keeping packets of seeds in. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Herb pots for the kitchen windowsill</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>R<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">ecipe for Nettle Aloo</span></u><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> - side dish for 4</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">500g potatoes - chopped into medium size chunks</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A large onion - finely chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 tablespoons olive oil</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2 large cloves garlic - very finely chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/2 a red or green chilli - very finely chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2cm lump of root ginger - very finely chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon of black mustard seeds</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1/2 teaspoon of turmeric</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Colander of washed Nettles with stalks removed</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Juice of half a lemon</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Salt & black pepper to taste </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Boil potato chunks in salted water until tender. Drain & set aside.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan. Add the onion & cook until soft & just starting to brown.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Add the garlic, chilli, ginger, mustard seeds & turmeric, cook briefly stirring so the onion & spices don't burn.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Add the cooked potatoes and a medium wineglass of water. Bring to the boil and simmer for about 5 minutes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Turn up the heat and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated and the potatoes have absorbed the spices.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Add the Nettles & season with salt & black pepper to taste.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Cook for a couple of minutes till the Nettles have wilted and are bright green. Check the seasoning and add the lemon juice.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">- Serve as a side dish with curry, rice, yoghurt & chutney. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Adapted from a recipe for spicy spinach & potatoes in 'Tender volume 1' by Nigel Slater </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Nettle Aloo</span></span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-88359262168817406432015-03-16T19:24:00.000+00:002015-05-31T19:35:11.913+01:00A refreshing retreat in Wales & making the most of spring leavesI have been 'off air' for a bit as we had a week away at a retreat centre in mid-Wales. It provided a much needed space away from the busyness of daily life, I purposefully did not use the internet whilst on retreat, to give my mind a chance to relax. I took the opportunity to read a couple of new herbal books I recently bought. Firstly 'The Book of Herbal Wisdom' by Matthew Wood, which draws on European, Native American and Chinese approaches to working with medicinal herbs, with in-depth information on 40 herbs and how they work to help the body and mind heal themselves. Secondly 'The Herbalist's Bible' by Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal, about the definitive herbal compiled by 17th Century herbalist John Parkinson, with Parkinson's original text on the medicinal uses of a selection of plants and a commentary on their use today, including recipes to try out. <br />
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I didn't do a lot of practical herbal stuff whilst at the retreat centre, though I did use some rosemary from a glorious rosemary bush in the garden by the kitchen for herb tea and with roast potatoes. I also made some salads with foraged wild ingredients such as nettles, cleavers & dandelions and herbs from the garden such as fennel tops, parsley & lemon balm. On the last weekend there was a work party to plant trees and build a fence to protect a new hedge that has been planted along the edge of the retreat centre's land. We planted a mixture of hedgerow trees including my herbal ally Hawthorn. We also planted 5 young fruit trees in a corner of the land which is becoming a small orchard. I look forward to going back in years to come to see how they grow. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Buddha statue in early morning light</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Rosemary bush</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Tree planting</span></div>
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Since returning home from the retreat I have been trying to catch up with my apprenticeship tasks. This month we have been asked to use Nettles for tea, to devise our own Nettle soup recipe and to make an iron-rich Nettle tonic for someone we know who has anaemia. I picked a nice batch of nettles in the allotment and foraged other plants that are coming up in the allotment to add to salads & soups including Cleavers, Ground Elder, Ramsons & Salad Burnet. I decanted my first batch of Restorative Nettle tonic (recipe on previous post) and started a second batch with nettles foraged on a visit to the woods. </div>
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I also decanted and bottled the Cramp Bark tincture and Hawthorn bark tincture I started 3 weeks ago, to add to my growing store-cupboard of remedies. The Cramp Bark tincture will be useful for cramp (it does what it says on the bottle!) and the Hawthorn bark tincture should be useful for diarrhoea according to the little I have been able to find out about medicinal uses of Hawthorn bark. It is astringent and has also been used for Malaria and other fevers.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ramsons aka Wild Garlic </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Young Ground Elder leaves</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Salad Burnet</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Nettle Soup recipe - for 4</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 medium onion chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">400g parsnip chopped into small chunks</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">400g potato chopped into chunks</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">100g celery chopped including leaves</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 large cloves garlic finely chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Colander full of fresh Nettles washed</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">4 teaspoons olive oil</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 litre vegetable stock</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Saute onions in oil, add root veg & celery & sweat for a while while preparing Nettles, add Nettles, stock & flavourings, bring to boil & simmer till veg tender.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I had some left after the first serving so boosted it for a second meal by adding 4 large button mushrooms chopped into chunks, another colander of Nettles and a small amount of other fresh leaves including ground elder, Ramsons & Sorrel, added some more stock and salt & pepper, brought to boil & simmered till heated through. I grated parmesan on the top for serving, this was very tasty.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Nettle Soup</span></span></span></div>
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Egg, potato & spring leaf salad recipe - for 1</div>
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2 hard-boiled eggs - roughly chopped</div>
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300g boiled potatoes - chopped into chunks</div>
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Small pan of washed Nettle tops - blanched in boiling water for 2 minutes </div>
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Mixed spring leaves as available - I used Cleavers, Ground Elder, Salad Burnet, Ramsons, Lambs Lettuce & Sorrel</div>
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Mayonnaise to cover eggs, potatoes & spring leaves</div>
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Salt & Pepper to taste</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Egg, potato & spring leaf salad</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Next time I will be posting about visting Springfield Herb Sanctuary, identifying emerging plants and picking herbs to make into remedies. So watch this space.</span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-77351413623638999112015-02-28T09:54:00.001+00:002015-02-28T10:09:52.615+00:00More signs of Spring and healing herbs for skin<u>Spring greens</u><br />
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On Friday I visited the allotment to see what is coming up and to harvest some fresh Nettles to make Nettle Pesto for dinner. The uncultivated edges and wild end of the allotment have wild herbs that can be harvested such as Nettles and Cleavers, they will be useful to me and picking them will keep them from spreading where they are not wanted. I have a designated bed to grow herbs in, this already has some herbs growing in it such as Sage and Mullein, but there is plenty of room to grow useful herbs that we don't already have growing in the allotment or the woods.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Allotment gateway</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Young Nettles coming up by the hedge</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Cleavers starting to come up</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> My herb bed</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Sage in the herb bed</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Mullein rosette</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">There are more allotment pictures at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153142542277938.1073741879.657002937&type=1&l=5903da2b70">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153142542277938.1073741879.657002937&type=1&l=5903da2b70 </a></span></div>
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I used the Nettles I harvested to make Nettle Pesto for dinner.<br />
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<u>Recipe for Nettle Pesto</u><br />
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Wash a couple of big handfuls of spring Nettle tops, pick out dead leaves and roughly cut with scissors, discard the stalks. Cook in boiling water for about 2 minutes. Drain and add some freshly grated Parmesan, 2 finely chopped garlic cloves, a handful of pine nuts and about 80ml of olive oil. Add salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste. Blend in a blender or with a hand blender until smooth then spoon over pasta or gnocchi for a simple delicious nutritious meal.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Nettle Pesto with Gnocchetti</span></div>
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<u>Healing herbs for skin</u><br />
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This month I have been tasked to research the function of blood and skin, in particular to look at why people develop acne and eczema and herbs that could be used to help control and alleviate these.<br />
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The blood transports oxygen,nutrients and hormones and removes waste products all round the body. The skin works with the circulatory system to maintain body temperature by dilating or opening blood vessels and via sweating. The skin is one of our main organs of elimination. It is responsible for the excretion of about a quarter of the body's waste products. The skin relies on nutrients brought to it by blood vessels. Healthy skin needs a well-balanced diet including protein, essential fatty acids and anti-oxidants from fresh fruit & vegetables. Nutritional deficiencies, toxins and allergies can cause and exacerbate skin conditions such as acne and eczema.<br />
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Acne is an inflammation of the sebaceous glands in the skin with inflamed pustules, infected cysts and scarring in severe cases. It particularly affects teenagers, due to excess hormones which cause overactive sebaceous glands which make the skin oily. This blocks hair follicles, causing inflammation and infection. The body's ability to metabolise fats & carbohydrates is also a major factor. Metabolic problems or an excess of these foods in the diet can cause or exacerbate acne so it is recommended to cut out or reduce foods containing dairy products, gluten, sugar & fat. Nutritional deficiencies, toxicity, food allergies and stress are also factors in acne. <br />
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Eczema is a common skin condition. The term covers a range of skin conditions. The symptoms are red inflamed skin patches, itchiness, oozing serum from raw patches and bleeding in severe cases. From a holistic point of view it is an indication of deeper imbalances, both physical and psychological. It is a systemic problem, not just an external irritation. Allergic reactions to foods such as dairy products or external irritants such as dust mites and chemicals are often involved. Problems with other eliminative pathways such as the bowels and kidneys can lead to problems with immune reactions in the skin. The health of the skin can also be affected by dietary deficiencies, poor digestion and stress. For a detailed account of factors to consider with eczema and holistic approaches to treating the condition see this excellent post by my herbal mentor Sarah Head <a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/a-holistic-approach-to-managing-eczema.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/a-holistic-approach-to-managing-eczema.html</a><br />
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Herbal treatment for these conditions needs to address the internal factors underlying the problem, not just the external irritation. Antihistamine herbs such as Chamomile, Yarrow, Feverfew, Nettle or Lemon Balm can soothe allergic reactions. Cleansing herbs such as Burdock, Red Clover, Cleavers, Nettle, Dandelion and Milk Thistle help to support the liver in detoxification which reduces skin inflammation. Burdock root can be very effective in long-standing skin conditions, it enhances fat digestion and strengthens the liver and kidneys which purify the blood. Dandelion roots help the body dispose of unwanted skin bacteria and also stimulates digestion. Dandelion leaves are full of vitamins and minerals which help maintain healthy skin. Nettle is particularly useful if eczema is associated with poor circulation and is also specifically recommended for children's eczema and nervous eczema as a tea drunk 3 times a day. Liquorice has potent anti-inflammatory properties, it acts in a similar way to steroids but without the negative side effects.<br />
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Various herbs can be used to make an infusion (made as a tea then left
to cool and strained) to rinse the skin when suffering from acne such as
Chamomile, which is purifying, Yarrow which helps eliminate toxins,
Catnip which is antiseptic, Lavender which is calming and anti-septic
and Thyme which is a strong anti-microbial. Spots can be dabbed with
neat lemon juice to kill germs, soothe inflammation and improve
circulation. Rosewater made with rose essential oil is very soothing and has a natural antiseptic action. Witch Hazel extract is useful for cleaning affected skin. Lukewarm Yarrow tea can be used as a wash for acne, it also helps
dissolve scars. Anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory herbs such as
Echinacea and Turmeric help to clear the skin. Garlic has antibacterial & antiseptic action, rub the affected area with a cut clove. <br />
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Oils or creams of herbs such as Chamomile, Evening Primrose Oil, Marigold, Chickweed, Comfrey, Lavender, Viola or Aloe Vera gel can soothe inflammation. There are various oils that can be used as carrier oils - see <a href="http://www.herbhedgerow.co.uk/20-best-oils-for-treating-eczema/">http://www.herbhedgerow.co.uk/20-best-oils-for-treating-eczema/</a> for oils that are good for eczema. Some recipes for creams and gels can be found in 'Grow your own drugs' by James Wong. A poultice or compress of Mallow calms irritated skin. Freshly crushed plantain leaf is soothing for acne. Chickweed is particularly known for easing irritation and healing lesions, applied as expressed juice or as an ointment or cream or as an infused oil added to bath water. Comfrey soothes the skin and speeds healing by promoting skin cell growth. Cucumber oil or salve is soothing for aggressive red eczema. Oats soothe and moisten skin, a sock containing oatmeal can be put in bathwater and used as a sponge on itchy areas, this can be combined with Chickweed or Chamomile. Chamomile flowerheads can be added straight to bathwater to soothe eczema.<br />
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References<br />
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'Grow Your Own Drugs' James Wong. <br />
'Holistic Anatomy' Pip Waller.<br />
'Practical Herbs 1 & 2' Henriette Kress. <br />
'The Complete Book of Herbs' Lesley Bremness.<br />
'The Complete Herbal Tutor' Anne McIntyre.<br />
'The Herbal Drugstore' Linda B White and Steven Foster. <br />
'The Herb Society's Complete Medicinal Herbal' Penelope Ody <br />
'The New Holistic Herbal' David Hoffmann.Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-56261415639999888662015-02-23T22:32:00.001+00:002015-02-24T08:24:47.341+00:00Spotting signs of Spring and Spring tonics<span style="font-size: small;">On Sunday I paid a flying visit to the woods to look for signs of spring growth starting to come up from the woodland floor. I foraged a bagful of fresh young nettle shoots and a small handful of cleavers to take home to make various nourishing things with. I also spent a few moments communing with my herbal ally, Hawthorn. I held 2 thick branches in my hands and put my forehead against the trunk. I had a feeling of being held in the arms of a woman, who I will call Hawthorn Lady, it felt peaceful and comforting. I cut a few small branches to strip bark for tincture and offered some Hawthorn Berry tincture in water as a gift in return.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn Lady</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Young plants coming up - not sure what yet</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKsG8uLLHNt7uBAtsfmaKcsxTJfgqv3ruGKt2X0Z21APbF-dc16Lcrohbey8bFD7wJozwWTWzOXnQ_QuX4T0HChjqyYpAdRsKRi6jz7UJs1rdQik54W6FyWD66P8EuRbV9vKdMCdjvRkX/s1600/wpDSC_8224.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXKsG8uLLHNt7uBAtsfmaKcsxTJfgqv3ruGKt2X0Z21APbF-dc16Lcrohbey8bFD7wJozwWTWzOXnQ_QuX4T0HChjqyYpAdRsKRi6jz7UJs1rdQik54W6FyWD66P8EuRbV9vKdMCdjvRkX/s1600/wpDSC_8224.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Figwort </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> A young Stinging Nettle</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A young Hedge Woundwort</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Very small Cleavers </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Herb Robert coming into leaf</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hazel catkins</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Once back home I processed what I had foraged. I washed the nettles to rinse off soil and picked out dead leaves, bits of grass and other unwanted matter. I wore gloves for this to avoid getting stung while doing it. A handful of nettles plus the small amount of cleavers I had picked went into a cafetiere with just boiled water to infuse for tea. Some of the nettles went into a jar with apricots, Seville orange peel and red wine to make a restorative tonic. The remaining nettles went into soup. I scraped the bark off the hawthorn twigs and put the scraped bark into a jar covered in vodka to make a tincture, this is an experiment as there is very little documented use of hawthorn bark in the herbal literature. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Hawthorn Bark Tincture</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOic1nGgq0ck8FoOQm2c2cRSpcbAZThjKXRRZ1kwyVuqruPiCZnW74CxPb3jDmV8L8Q2sslnmTLwgQl1KEryRFG4yfqbYfbgDomJVegIH1bAAv6khOS9Tw0Dn2Ihv0hu15Y_-OIdBifhbn/s1600/wpDSC_8262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOic1nGgq0ck8FoOQm2c2cRSpcbAZThjKXRRZ1kwyVuqruPiCZnW74CxPb3jDmV8L8Q2sslnmTLwgQl1KEryRFG4yfqbYfbgDomJVegIH1bAAv6khOS9Tw0Dn2Ihv0hu15Y_-OIdBifhbn/s1600/wpDSC_8262.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">The nettles I collected in the woods</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Nettles are very nutritious, full of vitamins and minerals. Spring is the time to eat them when the tops are fresh. They are a spring tonic, some of the first fresh greens available. They are a tonic for the blood, as they are high in iron in chlorophyll, in a form that is easily absorbed. They stimulate the kidneys and help clear the blood of toxins. They have an anti-histamine effect which can help hayfever and other allergies. They enhance immunity and help protect us from infections. They reduce blood sugar levels and stimulate circulation, which is helpful for diabetics. They are helpful in treating gout and arthritis. Nettle roots are used to treat enlarged prostate. So when you see nettles in the future put on some gloves and gather up a fantastic source of nourishment and support for good health.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Cleavers, often known as Goose-grass, is another great spring tonic plant. Spring is the best time to eat it before it gets too tough and hairy. Cleavers cleanses the lymphatic system, so is helpful for swollen glands, adenoid problems, tonsillitis and earache. Cleavers is also known for helping to shrink tumours. Cleavers is helpful for urinary irritation and infection such as cystitis. As cleavers cleanse the body internally this helps clear and nourish the skin. It is most effective used fresh. So keep an eye out for cleavers and pick some when you find it for an internal spring clean.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">There is lots more information about both these plants in 'Hedgerow Medicine: Harvest and Make Your Own Herbal Remedies' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal. </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitrvpcRaDeowbihZs-7gx2-twiXD1SQ75Zv_Ipy1QnAXfXwRXmmBAqCXADwc28hCj8QsYPc4TaKaKGVVBdFcv6fO0cB6PC2gU2e-gO1CyB8oQ5vMEcCfc0rOlXLIrz4jgzZGvcTixofqt_/s1600/wpDSC_8270.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitrvpcRaDeowbihZs-7gx2-twiXD1SQ75Zv_Ipy1QnAXfXwRXmmBAqCXADwc28hCj8QsYPc4TaKaKGVVBdFcv6fO0cB6PC2gU2e-gO1CyB8oQ5vMEcCfc0rOlXLIrz4jgzZGvcTixofqt_/s1600/wpDSC_8270.JPG" height="320" width="212" /></a> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Nettle & Cleavers infusion</span></span></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe for Restorative Nettle Tonic</span></span></span></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Half fill a jar with fresh nettle shoots.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Fill most of the rest of the jar with chopped dried stoned apricots.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Add the peel of 2 Seville oranges.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Fill the jar with red wine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Poke the contents with a chopstick to make sure there are no air bubbles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Leave in a dark place for 2 weeks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Strain through a muslin bag, squeeze out as much liquid as possible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Decant into sterilised glass bottles & keep in the fridge.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">- Take 2 teaspoons once or twice a day when you need a pick-me-up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Recipe from 'A Year with James Wong: Grow Your Own Drugs' James Wong. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Restorative Nettle Tonic</span></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Recipe for Nourishing Nettle Soup</span></span></span></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- 1 Medium onion - chopped.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- 3 Cloves of garlic - finely chopped.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Saute in about 25g of butter.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Add 8 carrots, 3 parsnips & 2 sticks of celery chopped with leaves.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Sweat in pan on low heat with lid on.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Wash nettle tops and pick out dead leaves etc, roughly cut up with scissors.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Add nettle tops to vegetables.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Add a chopped orange with pips removed.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Add about 1 litre of vegetable stock, to cover vegetables.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Bring to boil, then simmer till vegetables very soft.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Blend in liquidiser or with hand blender.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Add 150ml double cream and stir in.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Season with freshly grated nutmeg and salt & pepper to taste.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Serve with fresh bread and butter.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">My own recipe, adapted from a recipe of Sarah Head's at <a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/what-can-you-do-with-young-nettles.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/2013/04/what-can-you-do-with-young-nettles.html</a> and </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">a recipe in 'Grow Your Own Drugs' James Wong</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Nourishing Nettle Soup</span></span></span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-65138332732179564432015-02-15T21:28:00.000+00:002015-02-15T22:37:13.646+00:00Herbal help for the digestive system and working to protect the land from frackingThis weekend I was involved in the Warrior's Wyrd, a planning day for the Warrior's Call, Pagans United Against Fracking. I am a core member of the Warrior's Call which was created in 2013 to answer the need of our land and water for protection from fracking and other highly polluting gas and oil extraction techniques such as coal-bed methane and underground coal gasification which have been used on a large scale elsewhere in the world, particularly in the USA and Australia and which the UK Government and drilling companies are trying to develop here in Britain. See <a href="http://frack-off.org.uk/fracking-hell/">http://frack-off.org.uk/fracking-hell/</a> for information about this. As a pagan I felt I had to answer the call to protect our land and water. I have sworn an oath to work magically and practically to protection Albion from fracking.<br />
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The Warrior's Call works to raise awareness in the pagan community about the threat of fracking, to encourage and empower pagans to become involved in community campaigning and front-line resistance to fracking, bringing our spirituality and our magic to help defend the land and assist those who are working to protect it. We work with the Warrior's Sigil, a magical sigil which protects and empowers us. There is lots of information on our website <a href="http://www.warriorscall.org/about">http://www.warriorscall.org/about</a> and on our Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sacredshieldwall">https://www.facebook.com/sacredshieldwall</a> and Facebook Group <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/734808363226544/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/734808363226544/</a> <br />
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Members of the Warrior's Call have taken the lead in setting up community campaigns, protection camps and awareness-raising events in areas threatened by extreme gas extraction developments such as Cheshire, South Wales, Somerset and Sussex. In my part of the country I set up and co-ordinate Gasfield-free Coventry to raise awareness and campaign against extreme gas extraction in Coventry & Warwickshire <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1430260997217973/">https://www.facebook.com/groups/1430260997217973/</a> Since the group was formed in the spring of 2014 a proposal for Underground Coal Gasification which covered 40 square miles of Warwickshire countryside has been withdrawn due to opposition by the local council. Which shows we can make a difference if we stand up to do our bit to protect the land and people where we live.<br />
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The Warrior's Wyrd Day was a gathering of core Warrior's Call organisers and others who were interested in getting involved in planning our activities for 2015. We kicked off the day discussing why it is difficult to involve pagans and people generally in activism and how to raise awareness of the threat of fracking and what pagans can do about it in their local communities. In the afternoon we focused on planning the Morrighan Encampment, a national pagan anti-fracking camp to be held in the late summer of 2015 at which there will be lots of workshops on campaigning and front-line action as well as ritual and entertainments. We also discussed other plans for the year including developing an Action Pack for pagan anti-fracking activists, awareness raising at Summer Solstice celebrations round the country and doing presentations and stalls at pagan camps over the summer. It was a tiring but very productive day.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Warrior's Call banner with the Warrior's Sigil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> The altar with Sigil Chalice and Oak piece from an oak felled at a drilling site</span> <span style="font-size: x-small;">in Sussex</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> The Warrior's Call Display</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Me presenting Warrior's Call event plans to the group</span></div>
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I have also been active on the herbalism front. For this month I was set the task of researching the meaning of the terms astringent and carminative. </div>
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Astringents are herbs that contract blood vessels and mucous membranes to reduce secretions, they help stop internal and external bleeding, catarrhal discharges etc. The action is due to tannins in the herbs. Astringent herbs include agrimony, elecampane, ground ivy, meadowsweet, mullein, oak bark, plantain, raspberry, red sage, rhubarb root, rosemary, wild cherry, witch hazel and yarrow.</div>
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Carminatives are anti-flatulence herbs. They help to expel wind from the stomach and intestines. They contain volatile oils which help to tone mucous surfaces in the digestive tract and increase peristaltic action. They relieve wind and bloating, improve digestion and absorption and reduce inflammation and dysbiosis, when pathogenic yeasts and bacteria get out of balance with healthy intestinal flora. Carminative herbs include angelica, aniseed, caraway, cardamon, cayenne, cinnamom, chamomile, coriander, dill, fennel, garlic, ginger, juniper, mustard, peppermint, sage and thyme. </div>
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A herbal remedy using some of these herbs is the digestive elixir I made at a workshop with Sarah Head my herbwife mentor in January <a href="http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html">http://kitchenherbwife.blogspot.co.uk/p/springfield-sanctuary-workshop-dates.html</a> I decanted the elixir this week and have found it be helpful in soothing bloating, wind and digestive discomfort I had been experiencing.</div>
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<u>Digestive Elixir recipe</u></div>
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Peel from 1/2 a fresh orange or 3-4 pieces of dried orange peel.</div>
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Tablespoon of fennel seeds.</div>
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Tablespoon of cardamon pod.</div>
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Crush seeds & pods with pestle & mortar or with the end of a rolling pin.</div>
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2-3" chunk of ginger peeled & grated.</div>
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Put the ingredients in a jar and half fill with honey, then fill the rest of the jar with brandy. </div>
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Leave in a cool place for 4-6 weeks.</div>
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Strain through a sieve then through muslin or a tea-towel into a clean bottle.</div>
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Take a half teaspoon neat after a meal. This gets sluggish digestion moving and calms wind and bloating.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Digestive Elixir</span></div>
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References:</div>
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'Bartram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine' Thomas Bartram.</div>
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'The New Holistic Herbal' David Hoffmann.</div>
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'The Complete Herbal Tutor' Anne MacIntyre.</div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-51735072412861582052015-02-08T21:00:00.001+00:002015-02-09T08:32:33.185+00:00A winter wander and cooking with carrotsToday I went out to explore more of my patch, the bits of Stivichall Common I hadn't yet explored and a wander around the War Memorial park in search of useful trees and plants. I didn't find much although did come across a fine Rosa Rugosa I had previously missed. I didn't find any horse chestnut trees, which is a tree I need to find this month in order to harvest buds for chestnut bud flower essence. However I did meet a man who saw me wandering around with my clipboard and camera who asked me what I was looking for, who gave me a tip where to find some horse chestnut trees locally as he used to pick the conkers when he was little. So it just shows it is worth chatting to the people you meet around your patch, they may well know where to find what you are seeking.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Surveying my patch</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Rosa Rugosa</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Hazel catkins</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Twisty hawthorn trunk</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Ivy berries</span></div>
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Yesterday I made a soup and a cake to take to my local Grove's Imbolc celebration. I had brought back lots of carrots and parsnips which were left over from Imbolc Camp so I wanted to make things using them. I made carrot & parsnip soup and carrot cake. The carrot cake recipe came from Nigel Slater <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2005/apr/17/foodanddrink.recipes">http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2005/apr/17/foodanddrink.recipes</a> the soup recipe I created myself, with some ideas from Nigel Slater's tender <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6788489-tender">https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6788489-tender</a> a great book about growing and cooking vegetables, which gives ideas about what goes well with each vegetable as well as specific recipes.</div>
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<u>Carrot & parsnip soup recipe - for 4</u></div>
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125g onion - chopped</div>
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2 large cloves garlic - finely chopped</div>
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400g carrots - chopped</div>
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400g parsnips - chopped</div>
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100g celery - chopped</div>
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4 teaspoons sunflower oil</div>
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2 teaspoons ground cumin</div>
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2 teaspoons English mustard </div>
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bay leaf</div>
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pinch of nutmeg</div>
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pinch of caraway seeds </div>
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Vegetable stock powder</div>
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1 litre water</div>
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salt & pepper to taste</div>
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Heat oil, toast the cumin</div>
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Add onion and saute till soft</div>
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Add the carrots, parsnips, celery & garlic, sweat until softening</div>
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Add stock powder, seasonings & water, bring to boil & cook till soft</div>
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Remove the bayleaf and check & adjust seasoning</div>
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Blend in blender or with hand blender, if you don't have one use a potato masher</div>
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Serve with fresh bread </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Carrot & parsnip soup</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Carrot cake</span></div>
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Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-21918146315299459372015-02-03T20:10:00.002+00:002015-02-05T22:12:58.687+00:00Celebrating the beginning of SpringOver the last few days I have been celebrating Imbolc, the Celtic festival of the beginnings of Spring, at the wonderful Wildways in Shropshire <a href="http://wildwaysontheborle.co.uk/">http://wildwaysontheborle.co.uk/</a> with White Horse Camps <a href="http://whitehorsecamps.moonfruit.com/#">http://whitehorsecamps.moonfruit.com/#</a> a community of like-minded druid folk.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The lawn at Wildways</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Snowdrops at Wildways</span></div>
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Imbolc is the very beginning of Spring, when the returning light begins to call forth new growth from the earth. The first flowers of the year, the snowdrops, poke their delicate heads from the frosty ground to delight us with their gentle beauty. The forest floor is beginning to turn green as the ground-level plants need to get in their growth before the trees come into leaf and shade out the plants beneath them. Catkins on hazel trees are starting to come into flower in sunny spots. Birds are singing and claiming their territories in preparation for nesting. The sheep are beginning to lamb starting in the sheltered south and progressing up the country as a tide of new life.<br />
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Imbolc is the festival of the Celtic Goddess and Christian saint Brigid. She is particularly associated with poetry, smithcraft and healing. At the camp we honoured her by sharing poetry and song in our camp Eistedfodd. We crafted images from clay and carved wands from wood. I had taken a piece of hawthorn from my woods to carve into a wand, to act as an aid to focus energy in ritual and magical work. We experienced the healing peace of meditation and ritual infused with the presence of Brigid standing round a candle-lit sacred pool hearing the voices of priestesses singing and reciting words of beauty and deep power. I dedicated my intent to learn the ways of the herbwife at Brigid's sacred fire.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The three-fold aspect of Brigid</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> The hawthorn wand I carved</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">During the camp I drew a card from the Druid Animal Oracle </span> </span><a href="http://www.philipcarr-gomm.com/phill_books/druid-animal-oracle/">http://www.philipcarr-gomm.com/phill_books/druid-animal-oracle/</a> The card I drew was the Bee, which has the meaning of community, celebration and organisation. This was very appropriate for the occasion of celebrating with my druid community. Words from the Animal Oracle book that particularly spoke to me are "The bee tells us we can live together in harmony, however impossible this may sometimes seem. By being at one with the natural world, by paying homage to the sun, by centering our lives around Spirit or the Goddess, we can work together in community". The bee also brings the gift of honey, a wonderful substance filled with healing power used in many herbal remedies. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Bee from the Druid Animal Oracle</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I hope all who read this also find inspiration and healing as the returning light brings forth new life.</span> </span></div>
Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5165561420941167398.post-4521636186628731012015-01-25T18:27:00.005+00:002015-01-25T21:36:18.277+00:00Herbal Theory and Practice - Skin, herbs for bruises and some herbal terms<br />
As an apprentice herbwife I need to learn theory about the human body, conditions which affect it and the actions of herbs in order to understand what to use and why it works. This month I have been set the task of researching the structure and function of skin, how bruises form and herbs that can help bruises. I was also asked to research the meaning of some terms describing the actions of herbs and a herb that uses these actions.<br />
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<u>The skin </u><br />
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The skin is the largest organ of the human body, it is also known as the integumentary system. The skin consists of the outer layer the Epidermis; the Dermis which contains structures such as capillary blood vessels, hair follicles, sebaceous glands which secrete protective oils, sweat glands, sensory nerve endings and elastic fibres; this is underlaid by Subcutaneous tissue including fat and blood vessels.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">From <a href="http://bicaramohdaziz.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/skin.html">http://bicaramohdaziz.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/skin.html</a></span></div>
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The skin has very important functions. It is a protective boundary to our bodies, providing mechanical protection from injury & chemicals, protection from damaging ultra-violet light and protection from external micro-organisms. It keeps essential water and nutrients inside. Small molecules can be absorbed through the skin and pass into the body. A way to demonstrate this is to rub a clove of garlic on the sole of your foot, half an hour later you can smell it on your breath. The skin is one of our main organs of elimination, this is a very important part of its function to herbalists. We regulate our temperature through blood vessels in the skin and through sweating. The skin is a huge sensory organ, with many receptors for touch and other kinds of physical stimulation, which is essential to our proper development and our well-being.<br />
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<u>Bruises & herbal remedies for bruises</u><br />
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Bruises are purple marks under the skin caused by capillary haemorrhage from an external injury or from an internal cause such as steroid therapy or haemophilia. Surgery can cause extensive bruising. Bruises cause localised pain & swelling and can take up to 2 weeks to heal. Bruising can be very extensive and cause stiffness and pain in muscles and around joints. Older people can be particularly prone to bruising due to capillary fragility. Habitual bruising without injury can be a sign of a serious illness such as Leukaemia, so it is advisable to get a check-up by a doctor if this is the case. The herbal approach to bruising aims to promote regeneration of circulation and to remove damaged blood & tissue quickly.<br />
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<u>Elder bark bruise salve</u><br />
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One of my tasks this month was to harvest some elder bark by cutting elder twigs and stripping off the bark to make a salve for bruises. The bark was used to make a double-infused oil by dividing the bark into 2 equally sized piles. The first pile was put in a saucepan and covered with sunflower oil and heated inside another pan with gently boiling water for 2 hours. The first lot of bark was strained out and the second lot of bark was put into the same oil to infuse for another 2 hours. The infused oil was then strained through a sieve lined with a piece of muslin and then added back to the pan with beeswax (1/8 beeswax to oil eg 25g beeswax to 200ml oil), until the beeswax all melted. The oil was then poured into small jars, when cool it solidified into a salve to apply externally to bruises. This is not a traditional use of elder bark, although there are references to using elder leaves for bruises. Using elder bark was suggested by my herbal mentor Sarah Head. My husband Barry bruised his hand recently, the bruise disappeared within 2 days so it definitely works.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elder bark</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elder bark being infused in oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Elder bark bruise salve</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Barry's bruise<u></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Other herbs for bruises</u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> There are many other herbs that can be used in remedies for bruises. </span><br />
The main herbs used for bruises are:<br />
- Arnica - the best herb for bruises is Arnica, used as a compress of arnica
tincture or as an ointment. NB arnica should not be used on open
wounds.<br />
- Calendula (Marigold) - a major herb for use on wounds of all kinds including bruises, can be applied as a compress, gel, cream or salve.<br />
- Comfrey - has a long history of use for wounds and injuries, it can be applied as a poultice with vinegar or as an ointment for bruises and other skin & musculo-skeletal conditions.<br />
- Daisy - crushed daisies can be used as emergency first aid for bruises and sprains when out and about and in an ointment to help speed healing of bruises. <br />
- St John's Wort infused oil is very good for injuries including bruises, but avoid exposure to the sun after use as it can cause skin to react to sunlight. <br />
- Witch Hazel - apply distilled witch hazel to bruises to stop swelling.<br />
- Yarrow - works to tone blood vessels, especially smaller blood vessels, it helps break up congealed blood. It can be used to make an ointment for bruises.<br />
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Other herbs which can be used for bruises are:<br />
- Agrimony - ointment is soothing and healing for bruises.<br />
- Burdock - a hot burdock leaf poultice will draw blood to the area.<br />
- Catnip - a hot compress of catnip leave can help bruises & other injuries. <br />
- Cayenne pepper - can speed healing and reduce pain applied in an ointment. <br />
- Chickweed - can be used in a poultice for bruises and other skin problems.<br />
- Chives - leaves or juice from crushed plants can be applied to bruises, plus eaten to help speed healing.<br />
- Echinacea - tea or tincture can be used to help heal bruises.<br />
- Ground Ivy - a poultice of the fresh herb can be used to speed healing of bruises. <br />
- Herb Robert - can be used to make a cream to soothe a variety of skin conditions including bruises. There is a recipe in 'A year with James Wong'.<br />
- Marshmallow root - can be used for a poultice or compress for bruises & other injuries. <br />
- Mugwort - can be used to make moxa sticks to apply heat to old bruises & other injuries.<br />
- Mullein - can be used in poultices for bruises, small wounds & painful joints. <br />
- Peppermint - a bath with peppermint infusion enhances peripheral blood supply so can help with bruises and muscle & joint aches. <br />
- Plantain - Poultices and ointments made with crushed leaves are useful for bruises & small wounds.<br />
- Rose petal vinegar helps with bruises and other skin conditions.<br />
- Speedwell - used externally can be helpful for bruises & wounds.<br />
- Parsley - leaves can be crushed and applied to bruises, which helps speed the disappearance of black & blue marks. <br />
- Wheat Grass - can be used as a poultice or the juice used as a compress for bruises.<br />
- White deadnettle can be used as a fresh leaf poultice for bruises.<br />
- Wood betony (Betony) can be used to make an ointment for bruises & other conditions.<br />
<br />
<u>Other things that can help bruises</u><br />
<br />
A cold compress can help reduce swelling. Use an ice pack or a bag of ice-cubes or frozen vegetables if you don't have an ice pack, for 10 minutes 3-4 times per day the first day of the injury. Green and black tea contain tannins that help shrink swollen tissue and narrow blood vessels. A simple home remedy for bruises is to moisten a tea bag and put it on your bruise, this is particularly useful for black eyes. Potato slices are an old home remedy for bruises including black eyes. James Wong recommends a compress of vinegar combined with anti-inflammatory and healing plants such as sage & yarrow for bruises. He gives a recipe for this in 'a Year with James Wong'. For people who are prone to bruising without obvious external causes foods containing Vitamin C, Vitamin K and bioflavonoids can help. An infusion of Horsechestnut & Yarrow drunk for a while will help strengthen blood vessels.<br />
<br />
<u>Herbal Terminology</u><br />
<br />
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Anti-tussive</div>
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To reduce cough
severity, ease expectoration and clear the lungs.<br />
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Astringent</div>
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Herbs that
contract blood vessels and certain body tissues (mucous membranes)
with the effect of reducing secretion and excretion. They are used
for debility, internal and external bleeding, catarrhal discharges,
etc, their action is due to the tannins they contain.</div>
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Bitter</div>
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Bitters are
stimulants to the autonomic nervous system. They stimulate 'bitter' taste buds in the mouth that initiate secretions of a hormone into the blood stream increasing production of
stomach and pancreatic juices. Bitters increase acid production and are given
about half an hour before meals. Bitters increase the appetite,
assist assimilation, and are indicated for loss of the
sense of taste. They reduce fermentation in the intestines and are of
value in hypoglycaemia and diabetes mellitus. </div>
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Expectorant</div>
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Herbs that
increase bronchial mucous secretion by promoting liquefaction of
sticky mucus and its expulsion from the body. Their secondary action
is that of a vaso-constrictor which, in the case of a stuffy nose,
relieves by reducing the blood supply to the inflamed lining of the
nasal passage. They improve the outlook for respiratory troubles.</div>
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Definitions taken from 'Bartram's
Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine' Thomas Bartram.</div>
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I was asked how these words help us to understand the actions of one herb. I identified Wild Cherry Bark as a herb that has all these properties. It has a powerful sedative action on the cough reflex so helps with the treatment of irritating coughs. particularly when these affect sleep. It is particularly useful for dry, unproductive coughs. It softens up bronchial mucus making it easier to expectorate. It can also help with sluggish digestion due to its action as a bitter. It is also a useful astringent for diarrhea, also for indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome. It is useful as an eyewash for eye inflammation. There is lots more detail at <a href="http://www.mdidea.com/products/new/new09605.html">http://www.mdidea.com/products/new/new09605.html</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<u>References</u><br />
<br />
'A year with James Wong: Grow your own drugs' James Wong. <br />
'Bartram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine' Thomas Bartram.<br />
'Healing with Whole Foods, Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition' Paul Pitchford. <br />
'Hedgerow Medicine' Julie Bruton-Seal & Matthew Seal.<br />
'Holistic Anatomy An Integrative Guide to the Human Body' Pip Waller.<br />
'Practical Herbs 1 & 2' Henriette Kress.<br />
'The Complete Book of Herbs' Lesley Bremness.<br />
'The Complete Herbal Tutor' Anne McIntyre.<br />
'The Herbal Drugstore, the best natural alternatives to over-the-counter and precription medicines' Dr Linda B White and Steven Foster. <br />
'The Herb Society's Complete Medicinal Herbal' Penelope Ody.<br />
'The New Holistic Herbal' David Hoffmann.<br />
'Wild drugs, a forager's guide to healing plants' Zoe Hawes. Anne Pattersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10277003824058891097noreply@blogger.com10