OSusun S. Weed May, 2013

herbal smoking mixtures

 
Let’s work with the mint family, by making an herbal smoking mix. Any dried mint-family plants you have on hand can be used make a great healing smoke, especially if mixed with some mullein, and perhaps a few other herbs. Smoking can be good for the health of your lungs and your being.

Careful application of hot smoke and burning herbs, near the body (smudges), on the body (moxibustion), and through inhalation (smoking) are healing techniques that have been used for thousands of years in myriad cultures around the world. If you choose not to smoke these herbs, you may still wish to try them out as smudges.

herbal Smoking Mix Number One: Combine one large handful cut and sifted commercial mullein leaf and one to three teaspoonfuls of any mint-family plant. Mix well and smoke in a pipe or roll in paper. A relaxing smoke that is good for the lungs.

Bergamot (Monarda varieties): rich in oregano oil, an powerful lung antiseptic

Catnip (Nepeta cataria): roll your own catnip cigarettes to relieve menstrual cramps fast fast fast.

Horehound (Marrubium vulgare): bitter taste, powerful effect on the lungs.

Hyssop (Hyssopus off.): powerful penetrating healer of lung tissues.

Lemon balm (Melissa off.): liberally added to mixes to help fight viral infections.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca): alters perception when smoked.

Oregano, rosemary, thyme, and sage: antioxidant, anti-infection; aromatic tastes; deep healing

Oswego tea (Monarda didyma): minty taste; harvest late summer when in flower.

Pennyroyal (Hedeoma pulegioides): just a pinch lifts the mood and brings a smile.

Peppermint (Mentha piperata): nice taste; nice to the lungs.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus off.): as smoke or smudge, improves memory, wards off dementia, counters asthma, and pleases the fairies.

Medicine people and post-menopausal women are the ones most likely to smoke. Fire activates the spirit of the plants and this may prove overpowering for young or untrained people. Each Medicine person makes their own smoking mix, imbued with the spirits of the plants that are their allies.

herbal Smoking Mix Number Two: Combine one handful each finely chopped uva ursi leaves, cornsilk, and mullein, plus one to two tablespoons of powdered or ground thyme or sage. This is a fair substitute for those wanting to smoke less tobacco; it is more bracing than relaxing.

Fire use sets humans apart. We alone have fire, the dangerous friend, as an ally. Burning herbs is a shamanic action. Inhaling the smoke from burning herbs confers both physical and spiritual healing. The smoke directly affects the lung tissues, opening them and relieving spasms. And smoke carries prayers.

herbal Smoking Mix Number Three: Combine one handful each finely cut coltsfoot, mullein, motherwort, nettle, hops, and cronewort. Smoke at the dark and the full of the moon to increase your visionary powers.

Some plants have spirits so strong that smoking them alters our perceptions. Happy High Herbs, A Guide to Natural Highs and Addiction Solutions, by Ray Thorpe of Australia, includes these common psychoactive smoking herbs: scotch bloom flowers, California poppy, Mexican poppy, damiana, hops, wild lettuce, lion’s tail, madagascar periwinkle, motherwort, mugwort, nettle!!, passionflower, and Salvia divinorum. Some of these plants are poisonous internally.

Please treat all plants, especially these, with respect and care when you make use of them.

Tags: herbal smoking mixtures, herbs

• Herbal

Tytus Lionheart May, 2013

This month’s herb is a special one, for its species holds two powerful herbs in occultism. Juniperus communis, or Common Juniper and Juniperus Virginiana, otherwise known as Cedar wood (Cedar for short). So as a special treat I will be posting occult correspondences for both these popular magickal and medicinal herbs. First up:

Folk name: Common Juniper

Parts used: leaves, berries, wood, essential oil

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Gender: Both, this herb has feminine and masculine energies

Goddess/God: Inanna also called Ishtar

Medicinal uses: The cones or “berries” yield brown dye and the antiseptic, diuretic, and detoxifying Juniper oil, used to treat cystitis, acne, eczema, cellulite, and rheumatism.

Folklore: The ripe cones or “berries” flavor gin, Chartreuse, pates, and game. Native Americans boiled the “berries” to treat colds and burned the needles as incense. Juniper was widely used as incense in Summer, Babylon and Egypt for spiritual purposes and to honor both Goddesses and Gods. It is sacred specifically to Inanna who was later called Ishtar. Centuries later in Europe, branches of Juniper were smoldered and carried around fields and farms to release their protective energies, guarding both livestock and crops.

Magickal effects: Protection, Purification, Healing

Magickal uses: In traditional aromatherapy Juniper essential oil is used to detox the body, as a parasiticide (parasite destroyer) and antiseptic. Notice how this medicinal property coincides with Juniper’s magickal use of purifying homes and fields. Juniper can be used for protective rituals designed to ward off negativity as well as to purge such negative energies from a person or place. You can inhale Juniper essential oil (or dried herbal sachet) while visualizing it’s energies guarding you from negativity and danger. You can also use this technique for internal purification, inhale the fragrance and visualize thusly. Juniper can be used as parts of health-maintaining rituals, regularly smell the scent while visualizing yourself eating correctly, exercising and thinking positively. * Burning it as incense before taking part in health-maintenance activities can aid in attaining the full benefits of those healthy exercises. Juniper can be used in the making of “besomes”, or magickal brooms, it can add purifying and protective energies to such a magickal tool.

Next we have:

Cedar wood (Juniperus Virginiana)

Folk name: Tree of the Lord, Red Cedar

Parts used: dried wood, essential oil

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Gender: Both

Goddess/God: All; Cedar has long been used as a sacred incense to honor a variety of deities.

Medicinal uses: Eastern Red Cedar wood (juniperus virginiana) yields an essential oil used for it’s medicinal properties and insecticidal (insect killing) properties. The cedar of Lebanon has a fragrant resin that has been used since anent times: in incense, cosmetics, for embalming, and to treat leprosy and parasites. Today this oil (or actually the Atlas Cedar subspecies of this herb) are used for its pest repelling properties and is favored amongst aroma therapists to treat chronic anxiety, cystitis, skin problems, and bronchial issues. Cedar oil may inhibit the division of tumor cells.

Folklore: In ancient times, cedar from Lebanon was highly prized. In fact, the name Lebanon is derived from the Akkadian word “lubbunu”, meaning incense. It was the most popular and widely used incense in Mesopotamian regions and by pre-contact Native Americans. The extravagant use of Lebanon Cedar in the building of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and Solomon’s Temple nearly caused the tree’s extinction.

Magickal effects: Spirituality, self-control, visions

Magickal uses: Cedar wood chests are ideal for storing magical supplies (except herbs and essential oils). Atlas Cedar Wood (cedar atlantica) and Red Cedar Wood (juniperus virginiana) are the two main cedar wood oils available. They share very similar properties and so can be used with equal effectiveness in magical aromatherapy as well as in other magical rites that call for such ingredients. The fragrance of both wood and oil promotes spirituality, simply inhale the sweet antiseptic and calming scent before religious or spiritual rituals to deepen connection with deity or spirit. Cedar’s scent is ideal in it’s spiritual qualities for bringing ourselves into balance. This is a technique I (Tytus Lionheart) use often as I suffer from anxiety, stress, and high-blood pressure: Smell the aroma and visualize yourself as poised, calm and in control of your own life. I keep a small container of cedar to use for this very purpose, it honestly calms my tension and brings my mind, body and spirit into balance; Highly recommended (with usual medical treatment from your doctor) for those suffering from these ailments.

**WARNING: Pregnant women should NOT use cedar wood oil**

Sources for herb of the month: Juniper 9/2012

• · “Smithsonian Handbooks: HERBS” by Lesley Bremness
• · “Magical Aromatherapy” by Scott Cunningham
• · “Pagan Magical Properties of Herbs” by DragonOak on http://www.squidoo.com/PaganHerb

Tags: cedar wood, common juniper, herbs

• Herbal

Louise Harmon May, 2013

Western Coltsfoot Petasites palmatus

Several weeks ago I enjoyed a day off work by becoming re-acquainted with a lovely state park not far from my house. The day was pleasantly warm and sunny for March. As I wandered alongside the Lewis River, I was startled by the appearance of Western Coltsfoot, right there next to the path.

Western Coltsfoot belongs to the Asteraceae or sunflower family and is one of our earliest blooming native plants here in the Pacific Northwest. The plant sends up stalks of white to pink flowers before the leaves make their debut, earning its colloquial name, “son before the father”.  The leaves are basil shaped with five to seven lobes, green and hairless on top with a soft, white wooly underside.

It is the way the young, small leaves are folded, vaguely resembling a horse’s hoof, which gave rise to the plant’s common name. As the plant matures, the leaves can become quite large. In fact, its name, Petasites is derived from the Greek word for a large, brimmed hat; palmatus means palm (palm of the hand).

Western Coltsfoot is usually found in moist to wet forests, in clearings, along roadways or in other disturbed areas. When I first met this plant several years ago while hiking with my herbal study group, our instructor pointed out a stand of Western Coltsfoot growing along the stony edge of a small stream. He no sooner remarked how the plants prefer growing in disturbed areas when a small landslide shifted the rocks along the edge of the stream. This image has left an unforgettable reminder of Western Coltfoot’s preferred habitat.

Historically, the large leaves of Western Coltsfoot were used by indigenous people to cover berries in steaming baskets [Pojar]. Medicinally, the leaves were used to treat respiratory problems such as bronchial congestion and coughs and is an excellent expectorant.

Perhaps you have heard of Coltsfoot, but know it by a different botanical name, Tussilago farfara. This Coltsfoot, also a member of the Asteraceae family, is usually found in the eastern portion of the North America. It also has a flower stalk preceding its leaves, but its flowers are yellow. Tussilago farfara is used to treat respiratory conditions, as well.

Coltsfoot leaves are used in making infusions, tinctures, syrups and lozenges. Susun Weed has an excellent tutorial showing how the flowers of Tussilago farfara can be used to make an infused honey to treat coughs: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRZDRdOvn2E

In his book, Stalking the Healthful Herbs, Euell Gibbons noted that in the past Coltsfoot was so esteemed for its medicinal properties that it came to symbolize all herbal medicines. When much of the population in France was illiterate, a Coltsfoot leaf would be painted on the door of apothecaries to let folks know that herbal medicines were sold there.

Today, Coltsfoot is not used as extensively as it was years ago due to concern for potential liver damage from PLAs-pyrrolizidine alkaloids. PLAs are found in a number of plants, including Comfrey. Some herbalist believe it is best to avoid using plants containing PLAs for internal use (this is not an issue when these plants are used externally). Other herbalists believe that when plants containing PLAs are used with care and respect, as in the manner they were traditionally utilized, there is little concern for harm.

When our class harvested Petasites palmatus leaves to make tincture and cough syrup, we waited until June-July when the leaves had grown quite huge. At this time in the plant’s life cycle, the amount of PLAs in the leaves is much less than when the leaves are young and small. PLAs help deter pests from consuming young plants, allowing them to mature. One large leaf was sufficient to make approximately eight ounces of tincture.

If you decide to include Coltsfoot in your herbal repertoire, as with all plant medicines, do your research to understand its proper use, dosage, as well as contraindications. Coltsfoot should only be used for acute respiratory conditions, and not for chronic issues or for a prolonged period (no longer than four to six weeks). Also avoid using with individuals who have conditions affecting the liver, such as cirrhosis and avoid use during pregnancy.

This information is offered for educational purposes and is not intended to take the place of personalized medical care from a trained healthcare professional. The reader assumes all risk when utilizing the above information.

Copyright© 2013 Louise Harmon

All Rights Reserved

References:

-Drum, Ryan. Petasites spp (Butterbur) Wild Cultivation:

 http://www.ryandrum.com/petasites.htm  Accessed 19 April 2013

-Gibbons, E. (1973). Stalking the Healthful Herbs. New York. David McKay Company.

-Goldstar, R. (2001). Family

-Pojar, J., Mackinnon, A. (2004). Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast. Auburn, WA: Lone

Pine Publishing

-Wikipedia: Western Coltsfoot: http://www.oregonwild.org/about/blog/wildflower-of-the-week-5/?searchterm=western%20coltsfoot  Accessed 16 April 2013

Tags: Asteraceae, coltsfoot, herbs

• Herbal

Louise Harmon April, 2013

Dry, Draw and Shrink-The Magic of Astringents

Recently during a hike to check out the awakening green of Oak Bottom Wildlife Refuge with a few like-minded plant-lovers, our discussion turned to the subject of astringents. Stopping at a young Oak (Quercus garryana), our leader shared how a decoction of Oak bark could be used as an oral rinse for treating mouth infections and bleeding gums. He then asked if anyone could describe how astringents worked. Although I was able to give an adequate explanation of what astringents do, our leader summed up their actions quite succinctly: “dry, draw and shrink”.

The word astringent is derived from the Latin word, adstringere which means “to bind fast”. Foods which are astringent cause your mouth to pucker. Imagine how your mouth feels when eating a really tart apple. So, why are astringent herbs beneficial to use? Well, the same action which causes your mouth to pucker and feel dry when eating a tart apple also helps to decrease excess secretions, control bleeding, draw out toxins, shrink and tone swollen body tissues. More simply stated, astringents absorb excess fluid, contract and constrict tissue- dry, draw and shrink.

Plant-based astringents contain tannins-substances found in larger quantities in the bark but also in the leaves, buds, fruit, fruitpods and roots of most plants.  Tannins help to protect plants from micro-organisms such as bacteria and fungi as well as from predators. The word tannin is derived from the old German word for oak tree-a reference to the use of tannins made from oak to process hides into leather (“tan” hides). Tannins are present in many foods including teas, coffee, wine, and most berries. Tannins help bind proteins on wounds, forming a protective coating helping the skin to heal.

One of my favorite astringent plant allies is Oregon Grape (Mahonia spp). Oregon Grape contains berberine, a constituent also found in Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis) and Goldenthread (Coptis chinensis) which gives the stems, bark and roots of these plants their yellow colour. Oregon Grape’s astringent properties make it a powerful anti-fungal, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory when used both topically for skin and eye conditions as well as internally for treating conditions such as acute diarrhea. It grows quite well here in the Pacific Northwest, making it a great substitute for formulas which use endangered Goldenseal.

Since ancient times, Rose (Rosa spp) has been valued not only for its incredible fragrance but for its culinary and medicinal properties, as well. Yes, those wonderfully fragrant roses are also astringent.  Rosewater makes a great facial toner and can help to stop superficial bleeding from cuts and scrapes.  A rose petal infusion can be helpful for acute diarrhea, sore throats and symptoms of colds and flu. Rose hips, the seed pod which appears after the rose has finished blooming and the petals have dropped off, are rich in Vitamin C and can be made into a decoction, a jam or added to soups.

A word of caution here about using modern roses- almost all rose bushes sold today have been treated with fungicides which remain within the plant throughout much of its lifetime. If you want to grow roses to use in cooking or for making medicine, it may be prudent to find a nursery which sells organically-grown rose bushes. Look for heirloom varieties, avoiding some of the more fancy cultivars as these often lack fragrance. Of course, wild roses will not have these concerns, but if you wildcraft, please do so responsibly.

The more I learn about herbal medicine the more respect I have for Yarrow (Achillea milleifolium). Yarrow is anti-inflammatory and anodyne (relieves pain). Topically, it disinfects superficial wounds and staunches bleeding.  A hot Yarrow infusion taken for symptoms of cold or flu helps induce sweating and eliminate toxins. My mentor shared his experience with Yarrow when he had a nosebleed start while out on a hike in the woods. He wadded up a small amount of Yarrow leaf and inserted into his nostril which successfully stopped the bleeding. Please be very careful should you decide to try this. Care must be taken to avoid pushing the plant matter too far up into your nostril which could compromise your breathing.

Blackberries are produced by many plants of the Rubus genus in the Rosaceae (Rose) family. Considered an invasive, thorny nuisance by some, Blackberries are high in anti-oxidants, fiber, and yes, tannins. The root has been long used in tea or tincture form to treat diarrhea, hemorrhoids and other intestinal disorders and as a gargle to relieve sore throat, inflamed gums and thrush. The berries are also astringent (and delicious!) Although blackberries seem to grow everywhere, remember to use good harvesting practices and avoid picking berries growing near roads, highways, railroad tracks or areas which have been obviously treated with herbicides (dead giveaway: a strip of  bright orange foliage).

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is a deciduous shrub found in the northeastern portion of North America. The leaves and bark were used by indigenous people to treat a variety of conditions, including external use for bruising, sore muscles, inflammation and swelling. Witch Hazel’s cooling, astringent and antiseptic properties are excellent for treating rashes, sunburn, acne, insect bites and hemorrhoids; Witch Hazel compresses can help ease the pain and congestion of varicose veins.  Although some sources suggest that an infusion of the leaves is helpful for internal gastrointestinal bleeding, other sources advise against internal use due to Witch Hazel’s high tannin content. If you should decide to use Witch Hazel internally, I strongly urge you to do some research and consult an experienced herbalist first. NEVER consume commercially prepared Witch Hazel products made with isopropyl alcohol! These are for external use only and are toxic if taken internally.

So, the next time you are struggling to remember the properties of your favorite astringent herbs, just remember, “dry, draw and shrink”.

This information is offered for educational purposes and is not intended to take the place of personalized medical care from a trained healthcare professional. The reader assumes all risk when utilizing the above information.

Copyright© 2013 Louise Harmon

All Rights Reserved

References:

-Astringents. Bear Medicine herbal: http://bearmedicineherbals.com/terms-of-the-trade-3-astringent.html

-Astringent. Henriette’s herbal: http://www.henriettesherbal.com/archives/best/1996/astringents.html

-Medicinal Uses for Blackberries. Living Strong: http://www.livestrong.com/article/article/96500-medicinal-uses-blackberries/#ixzz2Noabge8L

-Rose; Yarrow. Annie’s Remedy: http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb

-Rosewater. Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rose_water

-Tannins. Cornell University: http://www.ansci.cornell.edu/plants/toxicagents/tannin.html

-Tannins. Herbs 2000: http://www.herbs2000.com/h_menu/tannins.htm

-Witch Hazel. Medicinal Herb Info:http://medicinalherbinfo.org/herbs/WitchHazel.html

Tags: astringents, dry

• Herbal

Louise Harmon March, 2013

What’s in a Name?

Have you ever wondered just why herbalists refer to plants by both common and Latin names? When I was first learning about the properties of plant medicine, I was often frustrated by references to the long, difficult-to-pronounce Latin names. After all, why not simply say, “Chickweed” or “Dock”?
Plants, like trees, animals, birds, fish and everything else in our environment were named by the local people who interacted with them. Sometimes the same name was given to plants that may seem similar but have very different properties. The Hemlock tree (Tsuga) was given its common name due to a similarity in the smell of its crushed foliage with that of Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatum). However, an important distinction is that while Tsuga is not poisonous, Conium maculatum is quite lethal.
Red Root is another great example. In some areas, Red root refers to Ceanothus americanus, a member of the Buckthorn family-a wonderful lymphogogue used to treat conditions such as sinusitis, tonsillitis, mononucleosis.  Ceanothus americanus is considered a fairly ‘safe’ botanical medicine. Now compare this to another plant sometimes also referred to as Red Root: Sanguinaria canadensis, a member of the Papaveraceae or poppy family. Although more commonly referred to as Blood Root, this plant is administered as a drop-dose medicinal, can be quite toxic in larger doses and should only be used by experienced practitioners.
I became more aware of the disparity of using common plant names when I was discussing herbal medicine with one of my coworkers. She grew up in the southeastern part of the United States and referred to Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus) as “Blood Root”. Not knowing she was referring to R. crispus, I was alarmed that this budding herbalist was making a potentially toxic medicine using Sanguinaria canadensis. It was only after some in-depth discussion that we realized we were discussing two entirely different plants.
Usage of common plant names can also present potential problems when you refer to herbals written during earlier periods in history or in different geographical locations. Common plant names just do not translate well across continents or historical times.  However, Latin binomial names are consistent throughout the world.
So, just how did plants become endowed with those challenging Latin names? We have Swedish botanist Carl Nilsson Linnæus to thank. Born in 1707, Linnaeus, known as the “father of modern taxonomy” laid the foundations for the modern naming of plants and animals by grouping species according to shared physical characteristics, beginning with his work Species Plantarum in 1753.   Using a two-part or binomial name consisting of the genus name followed by the species name or epithet, Linnaeus developed a system of classifying organisms which would eventually become universally accepted in the scientific world.  Linnaean taxonomy classifies nature by a hierarchy, starting with the broad Kingdoms (plant, animal). These are further divided into , then into Orders, Genera and finally, into Species. Plants are sometimes further classified into Varieties.
You can think of binomial Latin names in much the same way as we refer to ourselves. For example, if your last name is “Smith” this would be your genus name and your first name, “Mary”, your species name: Smith mary.  Your children, John and Beth would be species of the genus Smith:  Smith john and Smith beth.
As botanists discover new information, older taxonomic references are changed to better reflect this new knowledge. Although botanists embrace these changes, the older botanical names and references often continue to be used in books and plant catalogues which can cause confusion.  For example, plants in the Parsley family, including Angelica (Angelica archangelica) and Wild Carrot (Daucus carota) were considered members of the Umbelliferae family, a reference to their umbrella-like flowers. However, contemporary botanists now refer to plants in the Parsley family as belonging to the Apiaceae family.
Taxonomic names are italicized, with the first letter of the genus name capitalized, but the species name written in all lower case letters.  Sometimes, in place of the species name you may see the abbreviation, “spp”. This simply means there are many species with similar properties. In our example above with the Smiths, reference to Mary, John and Beth would be written as Smith spp (spp is not italicized).
You may see the word, officinalis or officinale in place of the species name, as in Valeriana officinalis (Valerian).  Plants which were used for medical purposes were given this distinction.
Sometimes the genus name is abbreviated once it has been identified. For example, in an article discussing Oregon Grape, after initially identifying the plant as Mahonia aquifolium, it may be then referred to as M. aquifolium.

I can hear some decidedly unhappy sighing right about now. S-I-G-H….Latin…how am I ever going to pronounce these unpronounceable names? Simple.  In the words of one of my beloved mentors, “just say it as you think it should be pronounced, with conviction and confidence.” If you really look at the name, taking it one syllable at a time, it is not that difficult. After all, just how many folks today will know exactly how Latin is supposed to be pronounced to correct you?
If you begin getting into the habit of writing the taxonomic name after the common name (at the very least when you first mention the plant you are referring to) you will be able to learn them rather quickly. Another method is to write the taxonomic name on one side of an index card with the common name on the other and periodically, test your knowledge. I’ve also learned that whenever I discuss herbs with anyone, I always say both the common name and the taxonomic name at the beginning of our discussion to avoid any confusion.
OK now, repeat after me: Hypericum perforatum, Avena sativa, Althea officinalis.
This information is offered for educational purposes and is not intended to take the place of personalized medical care from a trained healthcare professional. The reader assumes all risk when utilizing the above information.

Copyright© 2013 Louise Harmon
All Rights Reserved

References:
Elpel, Thomas. (2008). Botany in a Day. Pony, MT: HOPS Press
Tilgner, Sharol. (1999). Materia Medica: http://www.herbaltransitions.com/BotanCom.html
Pojar, J., Mackinnon, A. (2004). Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast. Auburn, WA: Lone Pine Publishing
Wikipedia: Binomial System:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Binomial_system
Accessed 16 February 2013

Wikipedia: Carl Linnaeus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carl_Linnaeus
Accessed 14 February 2013

Wikipedia: Tsuga: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsuga
Accessed 18 February 2013

Tags: herbs, meaning, names, naming

• Herbal

Christine March, 2013

Happy Ostara!

This Sabbat heralds in Spring and we can shake off that cabin fever everyone’s been suffering from.  This month’s column will focus on early spring herbs.

How to Make a Plantain, Violet Salve

Plantain: Its gentle astringency makes it wonderful for blisters, insect bites, rashes and hemorrhoids

Lavender Leaves: Is a wonderful remedy for breast inflammation, mastitis, cancer and cysts.

Step 1: Gather approximately 2 cups violet leaves and flowers and plantain leaves (either the narrow or wide leafed varieties).

Step 2: Try to clean off the leaves as much as possible without washing them. If they must be washed, do so, but be sure that the leaves are thoroughly wilted and absent of all moisture before adding the oil. Putting the oven on the lowest possible heat, arrange the herbs on a tray, preferably with the oven door open, and allow the leaves to wilt until you are sure no moisture remains. You are not diminishing the healing power of the herbs but rather, just removing more of the water content.

Step 3: Put the wilted leaves into a clean, very dry glass mason jar, or similar container, and fill to the top if possible. Then add the oil of choice (olive, grape seed, sweet almond, sunflower and safflower all work well) until you have filled the jar. Stir with a long spoon or chopstick until all bubbles have risen to the surface. Add a bit of Rosemary Oil Extract to prevent oil rancidity and further protect the oils. Just remember that water causes mold, so the drier your herbs and containers are, the more protected your oil is. Place some wax paper over the top of the container and then cap with a canning lid. Be aware that the oils may ‘weep’ while it steeps, so you may want to put a cup saucer under the jar.

Step 4: Place jar in a cool, dark place. Occasionally turn the jar upside down and then right side up to move the oil through the herbs and to try to keep all parts of the herbs covered with oil. Feel free to open it up and check on the herbs. If you see leaves poking through where there is some mold growth, remove the leaves and discard. If mold grows throughout the oil, you’ll have to toss the whole batch, as there is no saving the oil, even if it is heated. Steep 2-6 weeks.

Step 5: After 2-6 weeks, strain out the herbs using a cheesecloth and pour the infused oil into a clean, dry jar for storage. A dark glass container is best. You can keep this in the refrigerator for better storage or just store in a cool, dark place.

Violet and Plantain herbal Salve:

• 1 cup infused oil
• 1 ounce natural beeswax or beeswax beads, grated
• 1 teaspoon vitamin E (to preserve the salve and prevent rancidity)
• 1 teaspoon rosemary oil extract, optional (to further antioxidant protection)
• 20 drops tea tree oil (to add antifungal and antiseptic strength)
• 10 drops lavender essential oil (to offer topical pain relief)

In a double boiler or a saucepan on lowest possible heat, melt the beeswax into the oil. Add the additional vitamin E and rosemary oil extract, if using, and gently stir the oil with a wooden or stainless steel spoon. Remove from heat and add the essential oils. Pour immediately into a cleaned, very dry glass or aluminum container. You can also put this salve in lip balm pots to create a healing travel balm. If looking for a hard salve, test the consistency by putting a spoonful of the melted oils & beeswax into the freezer. If it is not hard enough, add a bit more beeswax until you reach the desired consistency.

Herbs for Early Spring Gardens

Lemon Balm: Lemon Balm is part of the mint family. This herb can take the crazy days of early spring weather. Plant this one into a container then plunge into the ground or it will escape and grow everywhere.  You can generally get two harvests during the year.

Dill: This herb grows lightning fast in cool spring soil. Dill will reseed itself once you trim it back. Plant now and at weekly intervals so you’ll have it throughout the season.

Cilantro: I grow quite a bit of cilantro.  Grow early you can get a couple harvests from this plant.  Be sure to sow directly into the ground.  It can tolerate even a light coating of snow.

Borage: Plant borage seeds now! It will grow quite large, so make sure wherever you plant it, it will live there forever!  You can use the leaves in salads when they’re tiny, and eat the flowers

Basil: It may surprise you that basil does really well if started as seeds indoors (right about now) and then transplanted outside when the threat of frost has passed.

It also grows well indoors. Start seeds inside and keep them in a sunny until they become large enough to transplant outdoors..

Tags: gardens, plantians, salves, violets

• Herbal

Lavender Moon March, 2013

Clary Sage essential oil

         [salvia sclarea]

correspondences of Clary sage;

Planet~ mercury

Element~ air

Other uses~ acne, dandruff, hair loss, oily skin, oily hair, wrinkles, high blood pressure, muscle pain and aches, asthma, cramp, leucorrhoea, depression, flatulence, migraine.

Rituals~ euphoria, calm, dreams.

Blends with~ bergamot, camomile, cypress, geranium, citrus oils, juniper, lavender, neroli, orange, rose, patchouli, sandalwood, frankincense, ylang ylang.

Any Precautions? Do not use before driving; it is a sedative, avoid alcohol; it can cause nausea, can cause headaches in large doses, avoid in pregnancy.

Violet essential oil

[Viola Odorata]

Used in perfumery and now Violet water and syrups are used in chocolate making…they taste like the rose chocolates, although they are an acquired taste.

correspondences of Violet;

Planet~ Venus

Element~ water

Colour~ dark green. The absolute is more yellowy-green.

Other uses~ acne, eczema, refines the pores, thread veins, wounds, fibrosis, poor circulation, rheumatism, bronchitis, catarrh, mouth and throat infections, dizziness, headaches, insomnia, nervous exhaustion.

Rituals~ protection, lust, love, luck, wishes, peace, healing.

Blends with~ tuberose, clary sage, boronia, tarragon, cumin, hop, basil, hyacinth, other floral oils.

Parts used~ a concrete; raw material; leaves and flowers.

Any Precautions? May cause irritation to some individuals.

Jasmine essential oil

[Jasminum officinale]

Used in alcoholic and soft drinks, soaps, toiletries, cosmetics, perfumes. In China they are symbolic of women.

correspondences of Jasmine;

Planet~ moon

Element~ water

Colour~ orange-brown looking.

Other uses~ dry, greasy, irritated, sensitive skin, muscular sprains, spasm, catarrh, coughs, hoarseness, laryngitis, dysmenorrhoea, frigidity, labour pains, uterine disorders, depression, nervous exhaustion, and stress related conditions, PMS, stretch marks, anorexia, vaginal infections.

Rituals~ love, peace, spirituality, sex, sleep, psychic dreams.

Blends with~ rose, sandalwood, lavender, rosewood, clary sage, all citrus oils.

Parts used~ steam distillation of the absolute; flowers.

Any Precautions? Can irritate some people, do not use in pregnancy; although it can be used in labour, non-toxic.

Chamomile essential oil

[chamaemelum nobile + matricaria recutica]

correspondences of Chamomile;

Planet~ Venus

Element~ water

Colour~ pale.

Other uses~ acne, allergies, boils, burns, cuts, chilblains, dermatitis, earache, eczema, hair care, inflammations, insect bites, rashes, sensitive skin, teething pain, toothache, wounds, arthritis, inflamed joints, muscular pains, neuralgia, rheumatism, sprains, dyspepsia, colic, indigestion, nausea, dysmenorrhoea, menopausal problems, menorrhagia, headaches, insomnia, nervous tension, migraine, stress related issues.

Rituals~ sleep, peace, meditation.

Blends with~ geranium, lavender, patchouli, rose, benzoic, neroli, bergamot,  marjoram,  lemon, ylang ylang, jasmine, clary sage, labdanum.

Parts used~ steam distillation.

Any Precautions? Can cause dermatitis in some individuals, avoid in the early months of pregnancy.

Lime essential oil

[Citrus aurantifolia]

correspondences of lime;

Planet~ sun

Element~ fire

Colour~ pale yellow/green.

Other uses~ fever, infection, colds, sore throats, acne, anaemia, brittle nails, boils, chilblains, corns, cuts, greasy skin, herpes, insect bites, spots, varicose veins, warts, arthritis, high blood pressure, obesity, nosebleeds, poor circulation, throat infections, dyspepsia.

Rituals~ purification, physical energy, love, healing, protection.

Blends with~ neroli, citronella, lavender, lavandin, rosemary, clary sage, other citrus oils.

Parts used~ cold expression/steam distillation.

Any Precautions? Can be phototoxic, non-irritant, non-sensitising.

Citronella essential oil

[Cymbopogon nardus]

correspondences of Citronella;

Planet~

Element~

Colour~ colourless-pale yellow.

Other uses~ excessive perspiration, oily skin, colds, flu, minor infections, fatigue, headaches, migraine, neuralgia.

Rituals~

Blends with~ geranium, lemon, bergamot, orange, cedar wood, pine.

Parts used~ steam distillation.

Any Precautions? Avoid during pregnancy, may cause dermatitis in some individuals.

Tags: chamomile, citronella, clary sage, lime, oils, violet

• Herbal

OSusun S. Weed February, 2013

THE WISE WOMAN TRADITION EMPOWERS WOMEN

The Wise Woman Tradition is the oldest known healing tradition on our planet. It offers a unique view of health that is woman-centered and deeply empowering to women. This is in stark contrast to orthodox – and most alternative – healing traditions, which are based on male viewpoints which disempower women.

The medicine I learned in school was based on a linear, scientific, male worldview whose truth I did not question. When this medicine failed me, as a woman and a mother, I sought alternatives. Herbs helped me take care of myself and my family, simply and safely, but I questioned the assumptions behind what I was taught. It was clear to me that alternative health care disempowers women as much, or more than, orthodox medicine does. They both actively assume that the norm on which assessment of health is to be based is masculine in gender.

Assuming that a healthy male is the definition of health may not seem like much of a problem, unless you are a woman. This core assumption has hurt, and continues to hurt, women in a multitude of direct and indirect ways, from the deeply personal to the widely political. This assumption leads to attempts to “correct” – with drugs and surgery – physical and emotional states that are normal (and healthy) for women, but not for men.

Consider: Healthy women were given DES (a hormone) simply because they were pregnant – their offspring are cancer-prone.

Millions of menopausal women have been (and are still) treated with hormones in an effort to replace what is “lost.” Does this improve their health~ No. Use of hormone replacement increases the risk of stroke, heart disease, and breast cancer.

Menstruating women need some quiet time alone. Instead they are offered pink Prozac to help them overcome their “depression.”

Women are advised to have their uterus (and increasingly their ovaries, too) removed since they are “not needed after menopause … just places that can harbor cancer.” It is well known that a woman’s sexual response is unlikely to be as strong, and may even be lost, when she loses these vital organs. A century ago, a woman who challenged male authority could be diagnosed as “hysterical” and her uterus (“hyster”) removed (often without anesthesia or disinfectants).

There is more to medicine than the male perspective. I speak for the woman-centered tradition. It offers men and women a new way to think about and create health in all stages of their lives. It empowers women to take charge of their health and their lives, to honor and respect themselves, and the earth. I call it the Wise Woman Tradition.

The Wise Woman Tradition empowers women by:

~ Focusing on simple remedies that are easily accessible
~ Sharing information freely
~ Offering compassionate listening
~ Renaming her weaknesses as strengths
~ Reminding her that her body is the body of the earth, is the body of the goddess, is the sacred ground of being.

The Wise Woman Tradition empowers women to:

~ View themselves as healthy, even when they have problems
~ Create their own healthy norms
~ Honor their natural cycles and changes (puberty, menses, pregnancy, menopause)
~ Define themselves from a woman-centered viewpoint
~ Connect with other women for personal and planetary healing

Much of modern medicine seems complicated and difficult to understand. Many alternative remedies are also complicated, some are unduly expensive, others require special training and initiations. This disempowers women. The Wise Woman Tradition, by focusing on simple remedies that are easily accessible, and by sharing information freely, allows women to feel competent and powerful in taking care of their own health.

The Wise Woman Tradition heals by nourishing the wholeness of each unique individual. Nourishing has three primary aspects: simple ceremony, nourishing foods, and compassionate listening. When women are heard, when we listen to each other, then we feel validated and empowered. Harking back to the consciousness-raising sessions of the 1970′s, and informed by Native American teachings of the talking stick, compassionate listening reshapes women’s stories so they can reshape their lives.

One of the great gifts of the Wise Woman Tradition is the renaming of our weaknesses as strengths. When we allow ourselves to be depressed, outraged, yearning, grief-stricken, confused, fearful, bitchy, and more; when we allow all that we are to be part of us, then we can finally find and celebrate our wholeness/health/holiness.

The Wise Woman Tradition empowers women by reminding us that we are sacred, that our bodies are sacred. As women, we are the earth. Each one of us lives in the body of the earth. Each one of us comes from this sacred ground of being. And not only are we empowered to honor ourselves, we are empowered to demand that respect from all others.

When women accept orthodoxy’s image of them as constantly in need of help, they accept a powerless position. When women accept the Wise Woman Tradition’s assertion that they are already perfect, already vibrantly healthy, even when they have problems, they assume a position of power. When women create their own healthy norms, they create a place of power in which they can stand, no matter how fast and furious the changes.

When women believe that their natural cycles and changes (puberty, menses, pregnancy, menopause) are somehow sick or wrong, they open themselves to medical experiments. When women learn that the Wise Woman Tradition honors these states above all others, they find a source of deep wisdom and great power flowing into their lives.

When women define themselves from a male-centered viewpoint, they always loose. When they define themselves from a woman-centered viewpoint, they always win. The Wise Woman Tradition offers this power to women, from the Ancient Grandmother’s heart to yours.

Tags: empowerment, power, woman, women

• Articles , Herbal

Louise Harmon February, 2013

herbal Inventory Time

This time of year with winter’s cooler temperatures and abundant rainfall, there is little opportunity to engage my herbal interests outdoors. However, it is a good time to take stock of what is in “ye olde herb cupboard” and begin planning what I will need to replenish or add for the coming year.

I am a rather basic herbalist. My personal philosophy about using plant medicine is simple: use what is indigenous to your location.  Occasionally, I will become curious and add something exotic, usually in a pot on the patio, but not very often. Although I have tried to abide by the teachings of several of my mentors who all agreed that for most issues, an herbalist really only needs to have ten herbs in her medicinary, somehow, I always seem to have a few more.

So, which herbs do I have in my herbal cupboard?

My tried and true standby herbs, the ones that I would never want to be without, are:

1. Oregon Grape root
2. Skullcap
3. Valerian
4. Hawthorne
5. St. Johns Wort
6. Feverfew
7. Comfrey
8. Calendula
9. Lavender
10. Peppermint
11. Echinacea
12. Elderberry
13. Thyme

Most of my ‘basic 13’ herb choices are reflective of my own personal needs, such as Hawthorne tincture to keep my blood pressure in check, Skullcap and Valerian, for relief of painful chronic neck and back tightness, plus Feverfew and St. John’s Wort, for migraine headaches.

Many of my herbs are in single-herb tincture form, as I prefer using tinctures to making infusions-just a personal choice. Tinctures absorb into the body more quickly than teas, usually require small doses of a dropperful (or less) and are always ready to use.  A well-made tincture generally has a shelf life of at least five years, sometimes longer, depending on the plant used, how it is prepared and how the tincture is stored. Tinctures are best stored in a cool, dark place, tightly capped. To help preserve the quality of homemade tinctures, always use a small dosing bottle (2 to 4 ounce dropper bottle) to prevent exposing your larger stock bottle to air and possible contaminates through repeated opening.  Preserving medicinal plants as single-herb tinctures allows me the flexibility to later combine different tinctures to formulate specific blends, such as my migraine Headache Remedy..

Although tinctures have many characteristics which make them a desirable addition to the herbalist’s repertoire, by no means am I implying that infusions or tisanes do not have an honorable place, as well.  We often refer to these as “tea”, but truly, tea refers to the beverage made from the leaves of the plant, Camellia sinesis, an evergreen plant which grows in tropical and subtropical climates.   A tisane is a non-caffeinated beverage made by infusing or decocting plant materials. Beside their nourishing and healing properties, tisanes or herbal infusions can provide valuable comfort in their warmth as well as from the ceremony in which you prepare them. For instance, the process of preparing your infusion coupled with using a special tea pot and cup reserved for your favorite tisanes transforms the mere act of drinking a beverage into ritual-a therapeutic process which can, for a brief period of time, remove you from the everyday demands and stresses of life.

I keep dried herbs used in making infusions in glass Mason jars, labeled as to what they are, where they came from and when I obtained them. Many dried herbs if stored in a cool, dry, dark place will last about one year; however, some do have a shorter shelf life.  If your dried herbs still have a rich aroma and energetically “feel alive”, they can be used longer. Any herb which looks and smells “dead” should be discarded into the compost.

Some herbs I infuse into oils, such as St. Johns Wort, Comfrey and Lavender, for use alone or for combining into salves.  Thyme-infused honey is a staple on my shelf for treating scratchy throats and coughs and I would never be without Elderberry elixir, to be taken at the first sign of a cold or flu.

In addition to my basic 13 herbs, there are a few more which have found their way into my kitchen, often used more for their nourishing or culinary qualities.

I usually have dried Nettle, Red Clover flowers and Dandelion root to add to nourishing infusions which I find especially helpful as we transition from winter to spring. Died Nettle is also a basic ingredient in the many variations of Gomasio which I use to season everything including soups, stir-fries and salads.  Other herbs, such as Rosemary, Oregano a lovely Bay leaf tree, reside in large pots on our patio which I use fresh. Sweet Woodruff happily meanders through the garden and is added to May Wine for Beltane.  Its rich vanilla scent is so uplifting!

There are some of the more ‘traditional’ herbs often found in an herbalist’s medicinary that are never in mine, such as Chamomile. Although Chamomile has a very long and respected history of healing use with sedative, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, it has never been one that has ‘spoken’ to me, so, I choose not to use it.

Many of the spices in my kitchen are not only used in cooking but are often used to treat a variety of ailments, too.

Cinnamon when added to a cup of hot water is a wonderful remedy for nausea and vomiting associated with winter flus and viruses. Fennel seeds are great for a gassy tummy. Adding Fennel seeds or my other favorite, Caraway seeds, when cooking gas-forming foods such as cabbage, does help to significantly reduce or eliminate the problem. There is usually a very good reason why traditional recipes choose to include certain herbs and spices.

Setting aside a dedicated time each year to go through all of my herbs keeps my medicinary fresh and well-stocked. Not only do I retire old, outdated herbs to the compost but by assessing just where my quantities are six months before most plants are ready for harvest for medicine-making helps me to plan  my summer garden for what I will need in the coming year.

This information is offered for educational purposes and is not intended to take the place of personalized medical care from a trained healthcare professional. The reader assumes all risk when utilizing the above information.

Copyright© 2013 Louise Harmon

All Rights Reserved

Reference:

Wikipedia.Tea. Retrieved from

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea

Wikipedia.Tisane.Retrieved from

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tisane

Tags: herbal inventory, herbs

• Herbal

Lavender Moon February, 2013

Tea Tree essential oil

[Melaleuca alternifolia]

Tea tree is an oil you can use without a carrier, but it does have a very strong smell.

correspondences of Tea tree;

Planet~ Moon/Mercury

Element~ Earth/air

Colours~ white- pale yellow

Other uses~ Abscess, acne, asthma, athlete’s foot, blisters, burns, bronchitis, catering, cold sores, coughs, dandruff, herpes, insect bites, oily skin, rashes [nappy rash], spots, veruccae, warts, infected wounds, sinusitis, tuberculosis, whooping cough, thrush, vaginitis, cystitis, pruritis, colds, fever, flu, things you can catch-like Chickenpox. Lice and mites. Sunburn.

Rituals~ Cleansing, Protection, stability, safety, healing.

Blends with~ Clary sage, Clove, Geranium, Lavender, Marjoram, Nutmeg, Oak moss, Pine, Ravensara, Rosemary.

Parts used~ steam or water distillation from leaves and twigs.

Any Precautions? Possible sensitisation in some individuals. Be careful if you have sensitive skin; use less of it.

This month’s blends [extra things to do with Tea Tree oil]

Tea tree after shaving gel

Aloe Vera gel x1 plastic tablespoon

Tea tree oil x4 drops

Apply to the recently shaved area.

Easy chapped lips lip balm

Add some Petroleum jelly to an old lip balm jar or tin. Then add 3 drops of Tea Tree oil.

Tea tree flu and coughing water

Add 8 drops of Tea tree oil, 5 drops Eucalyptus oil and 3 drops Peppermint oil to a plastic bowl of slightly boiled water; not too hot!

Cover your head area, and shoulder area with a towel, bend your body down to breathe in the oils.

Dandruff-free easy shampoo and hair oil

*Add 7 drops of Tea tree oil to your shampoo, shake it and then use it.

Dermatitis easy shower gel

Do the same as above* [only with shower gel instead of shampoo]

Ear infection oil

Tea tree oil x 5 drops

Olive oil x 5ml

Add to the area behind the ears, at the front of the ears; where the bones stop- [you should feel a dip on both sides], and the ear lobes.

Try getting some sleep, if possible later in the day-let the oil sink into the skin before getting it on your pillow case- you could place a towel onto the pillowcase if worried.

Head lice

Add to conditioner~

Sweet Marjoram essential oil x6 drops

Tea Tree essential oil x4 drops

Mix together by shaking the bottle. Place a dollop of the conditioner onto the hair and comb through with a nit comb, catching the nits on a piece of tissue.

If you don’t want all of your conditioner to smell this way; you can add some conditioner to a plastic cup, add the oils and blend with a plastic spoon.

Thanks for reading,

Blessed be.

Tags: Tea Trea oil

• Herbal