Hemorrhoids thrombosis can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing situation. The symptoms include pain or burning when defecating, pain when sitting, itchiness, and bright red blood from the rectum. Everyone has hemorrhoids, hemorrhoid thrombosis is simply swollen blood vessels. There are many in-depth websites full of information about hemorrhoids - try googling it if you are looking for more information.
If you are looking for herbal solutions to hemorrhoids you know you have then read on. If you are unsure whether or not you have hemorrhoids, please seek medical help for a proper diagnosis. Hemorrhoids can easily be confused with other problems such as anal fissures.
I've never given much thought to hemorrhoids until a friend of mine got them after giving birth and asked me for help. She was very uncomfortable, so I suggested she make some herbal suppositories.
The recipes for suppositories can vary greatly, we just worked with what she and I had on hand.
1 cup of coconut oil
2 T powdered calendula buds
2 T powdered plantain leaf
2 T powdered comfrey leaf
2 T powdered yarrow leaf and flower
(I am guessing on herb amounts as small handfuls were ground and added in.)
Melt the coconut oil over medium heat - once it has liquefied add the powdered herbs and stir well. Remove from heat. As it begins to firm up keep stirring the oil so that the herbs are mixed in well. It should be a nice green color. Once the oil is mostly firm, use clean hands to form the green goop into smooth tampon shaped suppositories. Keep them stored in the freezer until ready to use.
To insert, just before going to sleep at night, lie on your side, find the right the opening for your anus and then insert gently. Your symptoms should clear up within a few days, but keep using the suppositories for a few days after that. If symptoms do not go away after several days, seek a holistically minded medical professional.
Instead of a suppository you can also do an herbal sitz bath with the above herbs. You don't want a lot of water in ratio to herbs, so a small amount of water with the herbs in a small tub should suffice. Let your booty rest in there for twenty minutes, twice a day until symptoms have gone away.
I chose the above herbs because they were what we had on hand. A variety of different herbs could be used. If you know your plant properties you can easily substitute different herbs. I was looking for soothing, demulcent herbs, vulnary herbs, astringent herbs, antiseptic herbs and anti-inflammatory herbs. Off the top of my head other herbs that could be used are slippery elm (demulcent), rose (anti-inflammatory and astringent), Geranium (antiseptic and astringent), etc.
Hemorrhoids can be caused by too much straining or bearing down (i.e. constipation or birth), sitting for too long, tight muscles or vigorous anal or vaginal sex. You probably know which one of these caused yours and you may want to take preventive care in the future.
If you frequently have swollen hemorrhoids changing your diet and increasing aerobic exercise might be appropriate. You may also find this blog post by Henriette to be helpful.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Tasty bread spread
One of our current students at the Institute of Structural Medicine (where I live and work) has dedicated his life to helping those with chronic disease. Dr. Paul Chhabra immigrated to the US over ten years ago and has spent more than twenty years in various fields of integrated health. He is an ayurvedic practioner, a physical therapist, and naturopathic physician, master herbalist, an author and more.
He has a very fascinating approach to chronic disease and he addresses nutrition, the lymph system and the fascial system. You can read more about him here as well as buy his latest book.
He is also an incredible chef. Give him twenty minutes in the kitchen and he will whip up healthy vibrant cuisines from all over the world. He left us with some bread seasoning last time he was here and we just can't get enough of it.
The following recipe is from his book, which is full of nourishing recipes.
Olive oil toast
1 1/2 teaspoons of ground black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons of dried parsley
1 1/2 teaspoons of toasted sesame seeds
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon olive oil
Sea salt to taste (optional)
As I said we're using the seasonings he left behind, so I am not sure what optional ingredients he may or may not have used, but let me tell you it's delicious.
We take a heaping tablespoon of seasonings and mix with with about two tablespoons of olive oil and stir to make a paste. We then spread it onto some sprouted bread and toast it.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Top 9 Pro-active Choices for Health
I believe very strongly in taking personal responsibility for our health. Making informed choices in our every day lives is the first key to optimal health. Here is a list of nine choices I think are incredibly important for optimal health. (A later post will address things to avoid.)
1. Pay attention
Our bodies have incredible communicating abilities. If we are aware and attuned with our natural processes we will become easily informed of small mishaps within the body before they become disasters. By paying attention to our whole being we can realize the whole healthy beings that we all are. Paying attentions also means being aware of what gives you juice in life - to when you are most fulfilled, most joyous, and then living that way as best as you are able. Not living out our dreams is a sure fire way to health challenges.
2. Nourishing Herbal Infusions
I drink a nourishing herbal infusion every day. On the rare days I am unable, I really miss this health ally. Nourishing herbal infusions are like a powerful multi-vitamin that nourish our body. Since I've started drinking them daily there have been subtle, but important shifts in my body that would be hard to explain. More easily to explain is the lack of sickness I have had since drinking these daily. If you want to learn more about these infusions check out my earlier blogs.
3. Eating Organic Real Foods
When I was 23 years old I was diagnosed with a rare auto-immune disease the doctors said would first debilitate me then then kill me very young. There's nothing like a bad prognosis to get you inspired! After my initial diagnosis it took me about six months to get rid of all symptoms. I did multiple things during that time: acupuncture, energy work, and nutrition changes. I had always eaten very healthy. Even though I was raised in a small mormon town in Utah I sought out health food stores in unlikely nooks and crannies ever since I could drive. But, even though I was eating healthy, it was often "healthy" processed food.
(I am sure by now I don't need to list the incredible benefits of eating organic whether it be for the health of your body or the health of the planet, so I will assume we are on the same page with such a given.)
I no longer buy organic in a bottle or can. Everything we eat is fresh from the earth or fresh from the butcher. This has also made for much less fuss in the kitchen. Our meals are generally protein and veggies. So, Salmon and a Salad. Steak and Winter Squash. Chicken and Artichokes. Easy to cook, easy to clean, and absolutely scrumptuous.
Eating local is one of the most powerful things you can do for the health of the planet as well as the health of yourself, family and community. They say that most people's food has been shipped an average of 1500 miles before it reaches their plate. By eating food that has been shipped from so far away we lose our ability to take responsibility for our food. We don't know how this food was farmed, if the people who farmed it were treated fairly, we can't possibly know the damage that has happened because of the oil usage in the shipping of these foods. On the other hand by visiting your local farmer's market and getting to know your farmers you'll end up with dinner on your plate that you will have a connection with. The list could go on about the benefits of local food and on and there are plenty of other articles and books on the subject.
I also eat according to my Metabolic Type. This "diet" is a way of determining how individual bodies metabolize food and creating a lifestyle that is supported by that metabolic type. I really appreciate this method as it puts the responsibility of food choices in each person rather than making a generalized statement like: "the mediterranean diet is the healthiest way to eat." I am sure it is... for Mediterraneans.
When it comes to eating Real Foods there is an easy to way to determine if it's real or not. Just ask the question, did my ancestors eat this 200 years ago? No? Then you'd probably better stay away from it now.
4. Dance, Yoga, Qi gong
There's nothing like exercise - especially the kind that feeds your soul. Dancing is a given in our household. I've done yoga for many years now and really appreciate the many aspects of this ancient art. Qi gong is something I have only done through tapes and DVDs, but even still I have to say it's incredible powerful. The days I choose to do Qi gong in the morning are the days I am vibrant and full of energy.
5. Spend time outside
Being outside reminds me of why I am on this beautiful earth. Seeing this valley and our river teeming with life makes my heart swell and is a strong reminder of why I believe humans are here - to caretake all life. Being outside in the sunshine also has the practical application of giving me essential nutrients like Vitamin D.
7. Bodywork
Call me biased, I am a bodyworker, and I also absolutely love bodywork. Whether it's Structural Medicine, Craniosacral, Reiki, or general massage - I'll take it. Often seen as a luxury, I think it's a necessity. Regular bodywork can help us to avoid injury and prevent other structural problems before they start. And, as someone who regularly works with structural issues: It's much easier to solve them 20 years ago.
8. Say thanks
Upon waking, before eating, after eating, as the deer play in the yard, as I drink clear tasty water, as a client walks away with reduced pain, as I walk by my plant friends I give thanks. I give thanks to remind myself of all the good things in life. I give thanks, simply to give back.
9. Love and relationships
There's no greater thing on earth than love, whether it be love for ourselves, our partners, friends, family, the earth and the creatures we share it with.
I'd love to hear what your pro-active health essentials are.
1. Pay attention
Our bodies have incredible communicating abilities. If we are aware and attuned with our natural processes we will become easily informed of small mishaps within the body before they become disasters. By paying attention to our whole being we can realize the whole healthy beings that we all are. Paying attentions also means being aware of what gives you juice in life - to when you are most fulfilled, most joyous, and then living that way as best as you are able. Not living out our dreams is a sure fire way to health challenges.
2. Nourishing Herbal Infusions
I drink a nourishing herbal infusion every day. On the rare days I am unable, I really miss this health ally. Nourishing herbal infusions are like a powerful multi-vitamin that nourish our body. Since I've started drinking them daily there have been subtle, but important shifts in my body that would be hard to explain. More easily to explain is the lack of sickness I have had since drinking these daily. If you want to learn more about these infusions check out my earlier blogs.
3. Eating Organic Real Foods
When I was 23 years old I was diagnosed with a rare auto-immune disease the doctors said would first debilitate me then then kill me very young. There's nothing like a bad prognosis to get you inspired! After my initial diagnosis it took me about six months to get rid of all symptoms. I did multiple things during that time: acupuncture, energy work, and nutrition changes. I had always eaten very healthy. Even though I was raised in a small mormon town in Utah I sought out health food stores in unlikely nooks and crannies ever since I could drive. But, even though I was eating healthy, it was often "healthy" processed food.
(I am sure by now I don't need to list the incredible benefits of eating organic whether it be for the health of your body or the health of the planet, so I will assume we are on the same page with such a given.)
I no longer buy organic in a bottle or can. Everything we eat is fresh from the earth or fresh from the butcher. This has also made for much less fuss in the kitchen. Our meals are generally protein and veggies. So, Salmon and a Salad. Steak and Winter Squash. Chicken and Artichokes. Easy to cook, easy to clean, and absolutely scrumptuous.
Eating local is one of the most powerful things you can do for the health of the planet as well as the health of yourself, family and community. They say that most people's food has been shipped an average of 1500 miles before it reaches their plate. By eating food that has been shipped from so far away we lose our ability to take responsibility for our food. We don't know how this food was farmed, if the people who farmed it were treated fairly, we can't possibly know the damage that has happened because of the oil usage in the shipping of these foods. On the other hand by visiting your local farmer's market and getting to know your farmers you'll end up with dinner on your plate that you will have a connection with. The list could go on about the benefits of local food and on and there are plenty of other articles and books on the subject.
I also eat according to my Metabolic Type. This "diet" is a way of determining how individual bodies metabolize food and creating a lifestyle that is supported by that metabolic type. I really appreciate this method as it puts the responsibility of food choices in each person rather than making a generalized statement like: "the mediterranean diet is the healthiest way to eat." I am sure it is... for Mediterraneans.
When it comes to eating Real Foods there is an easy to way to determine if it's real or not. Just ask the question, did my ancestors eat this 200 years ago? No? Then you'd probably better stay away from it now.
4. Dance, Yoga, Qi gong
There's nothing like exercise - especially the kind that feeds your soul. Dancing is a given in our household. I've done yoga for many years now and really appreciate the many aspects of this ancient art. Qi gong is something I have only done through tapes and DVDs, but even still I have to say it's incredible powerful. The days I choose to do Qi gong in the morning are the days I am vibrant and full of energy.
5. Spend time outside
Being outside reminds me of why I am on this beautiful earth. Seeing this valley and our river teeming with life makes my heart swell and is a strong reminder of why I believe humans are here - to caretake all life. Being outside in the sunshine also has the practical application of giving me essential nutrients like Vitamin D.
7. Bodywork
Call me biased, I am a bodyworker, and I also absolutely love bodywork. Whether it's Structural Medicine, Craniosacral, Reiki, or general massage - I'll take it. Often seen as a luxury, I think it's a necessity. Regular bodywork can help us to avoid injury and prevent other structural problems before they start. And, as someone who regularly works with structural issues: It's much easier to solve them 20 years ago.
8. Say thanks
Upon waking, before eating, after eating, as the deer play in the yard, as I drink clear tasty water, as a client walks away with reduced pain, as I walk by my plant friends I give thanks. I give thanks to remind myself of all the good things in life. I give thanks, simply to give back.
9. Love and relationships
There's no greater thing on earth than love, whether it be love for ourselves, our partners, friends, family, the earth and the creatures we share it with.
I'd love to hear what your pro-active health essentials are.
Nourishing Herbal Infusions ( Part 10 FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t like the taste…
When we find distaste for a particular beverage or food it may be for several different reasons. One reason may be that our bodies are adapting to the new tastes and sensations. I am sure we all have memories of initially disliking something and then, after some time, really finding we enjoy it. I distinctly remember the first time I had brie cheese – I thought it was a practical joke or something. Years later living in France, I just couldn’t get enough of it.
Disliking a certain taste may also be our body’s way of communicating that we don’t need this particular nourishment at this time. I think intuitively we know which is true. If you taste a particular NHI and find that every cell in your body is shaking in disgust, I would suggest trying a different herb. However, if you try a NHI and it tastes too “green” or the texture isn’t your favorite, you can try the following to help your body’s taste buds to adapt.
• Add a pinch of mint. Not much, just a few leaves or so.
• Try adding a little salt. A pinch of salt can reduce any bitterness you may be experiencing.
• Try using less herbs. You could start with a ½ ounce and slowly increase the herb material to a full ounce. Or you could make it with the full strength of herbs and dilute it with water.
• Add a little honey or stevia. I used to add a little honey to my infusions, and now I find that I love them straight.
• You can try mixing different herbs together. Nettle has a very strong taste, while oatstraw is much more mellow. Some find that by mixing the herbs they find wonderful concoctions that are pleasing to the palette as well. (Also see FAQ below, “Can I mix different herbs together.”)
Over time, as our taste buds change or as our nourishment needs change, we may find that a particular NHI that was once unpleasant is now quite pleasing. Also, we may find over time that we need less and less honey, salt, or mixing of herbs to enjoy the NHI. Instead of getting stuck in a rut, always be sure to re-visit different herbs and different preparations.
Can I use fresh herbs?
We typically use dried herbs when making infusions because drying herbs breaks down their cell wall, enabling their nutrients to be extracted into the water with greater ease.
What if I don’t drink it in time?
NHIs should be drunk in a 36-hour time period. If you find that you haven’t drank your mix there are several things you can do besides pouring it down the drain.
• You can use it as a luxurious hair rinse – my best hair days always follow a nettle rinse.
• You can use it to fertilize plants – indoors and out.
• Or simply put it in your compost pile to nourish the soil.
Kiva Rose says she prolongs the use of her infusions by adding a little slippery elm to the mix.
Can I mix different herbs together?
Of course you can. When choosing my NHI herbs I like to “sample” all the options by smelling them, really looking at them, and enjoying the whole experience. In this way I can tune in to what my body is needing, and sometimes I end up mixing several herbs in my infusion.
That being said, Susun Weed recommends trying just one herb at a time. In this way you can receive the full strength of one particular plant and really learn to recognize and appreciate the way in which your body interacts with individual plants.
Especially when starting out, trying just one herb at a time really helps you to form a relationship with that plant.
Are NHI safe for children?
Absolutely. The herbs used in NHI are chosen because of their gentleness. Rather than thinking of them as medicine we can think of them as super foods that are beneficial to all, from the baby in the womb to the wisest of elders.
Further Reading
Healing Wise, Susun Weed
Childbearing Year, Susun Weed
Breast Cancer? Breast Health!, Susun Weed
Opening Our Wild Hearts to the Healing Herbs, Gail Faith Edwards
Herbalpedial CDrom, Maureen Rogers
Healing Teas, Marie Nadine Antol
I don’t like the taste…
When we find distaste for a particular beverage or food it may be for several different reasons. One reason may be that our bodies are adapting to the new tastes and sensations. I am sure we all have memories of initially disliking something and then, after some time, really finding we enjoy it. I distinctly remember the first time I had brie cheese – I thought it was a practical joke or something. Years later living in France, I just couldn’t get enough of it.
Disliking a certain taste may also be our body’s way of communicating that we don’t need this particular nourishment at this time. I think intuitively we know which is true. If you taste a particular NHI and find that every cell in your body is shaking in disgust, I would suggest trying a different herb. However, if you try a NHI and it tastes too “green” or the texture isn’t your favorite, you can try the following to help your body’s taste buds to adapt.
• Add a pinch of mint. Not much, just a few leaves or so.
• Try adding a little salt. A pinch of salt can reduce any bitterness you may be experiencing.
• Try using less herbs. You could start with a ½ ounce and slowly increase the herb material to a full ounce. Or you could make it with the full strength of herbs and dilute it with water.
• Add a little honey or stevia. I used to add a little honey to my infusions, and now I find that I love them straight.
• You can try mixing different herbs together. Nettle has a very strong taste, while oatstraw is much more mellow. Some find that by mixing the herbs they find wonderful concoctions that are pleasing to the palette as well. (Also see FAQ below, “Can I mix different herbs together.”)
Over time, as our taste buds change or as our nourishment needs change, we may find that a particular NHI that was once unpleasant is now quite pleasing. Also, we may find over time that we need less and less honey, salt, or mixing of herbs to enjoy the NHI. Instead of getting stuck in a rut, always be sure to re-visit different herbs and different preparations.
Can I use fresh herbs?
We typically use dried herbs when making infusions because drying herbs breaks down their cell wall, enabling their nutrients to be extracted into the water with greater ease.
What if I don’t drink it in time?
NHIs should be drunk in a 36-hour time period. If you find that you haven’t drank your mix there are several things you can do besides pouring it down the drain.
• You can use it as a luxurious hair rinse – my best hair days always follow a nettle rinse.
• You can use it to fertilize plants – indoors and out.
• Or simply put it in your compost pile to nourish the soil.
Kiva Rose says she prolongs the use of her infusions by adding a little slippery elm to the mix.
Can I mix different herbs together?
Of course you can. When choosing my NHI herbs I like to “sample” all the options by smelling them, really looking at them, and enjoying the whole experience. In this way I can tune in to what my body is needing, and sometimes I end up mixing several herbs in my infusion.
That being said, Susun Weed recommends trying just one herb at a time. In this way you can receive the full strength of one particular plant and really learn to recognize and appreciate the way in which your body interacts with individual plants.
Especially when starting out, trying just one herb at a time really helps you to form a relationship with that plant.
Are NHI safe for children?
Absolutely. The herbs used in NHI are chosen because of their gentleness. Rather than thinking of them as medicine we can think of them as super foods that are beneficial to all, from the baby in the womb to the wisest of elders.
Further Reading
Healing Wise, Susun Weed
Childbearing Year, Susun Weed
Breast Cancer? Breast Health!, Susun Weed
Opening Our Wild Hearts to the Healing Herbs, Gail Faith Edwards
Herbalpedial CDrom, Maureen Rogers
Healing Teas, Marie Nadine Antol
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 9)
Comfrey is well known under its other names such as knitbone or bruisewort. It’s a champion for healing superficial scratches and cuts, bruises, broken or fractured bones, and torn tendons and ligaments. Commonly used externally for all of these ailments, the leaf can be taken internally as well for additional benefit*.
Comfrey leaf is a strong ally against osteoporosis. Its high calcium content is readily absorbed into our
systems, creating strong and flexible bones.
A comfrey nourishing herbal infusion is also powerful in healing bronchial conditions and lung congestion, and its demulcent and wound healing qualities are useful for gastric ulcers and colitis.
Parts used
Leaf
Properties
Relaxing expectorant, demulcent, alterative, astringent, vulnerary, cell proliferant, nutritive
*Special considerations The scientific community
recently determined that pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PLAs) found within comfrey can cause silent liver disease. You will find herbalists who claim that the internal use of comfrey poses absolutely no threat, while others absolutely refuse to use it internally at all. Every person who wants to use comfrey needs to come to their own conclusions on this matter.
The risks of using comfrey seem to be rare, but real. The roots have more PLAs than the leaves, the young leaves contain more PLAs than the mature leaves. With these considerations in mind, the internal use of comfrey is definitely contraindicated for pregnancy, children, alcoholics (including a history of high alcohol use), and those with liver disease.
Keep it simple
Although we now know we need to approach this herb with caution, comfrey leaf remains a powerful herb for healing our skin, ligaments, and bones as well as for strengthening our lungs.
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 8)
Linden (Tilia cordata)
Linden is a cooling and mucilaginous herb – I love to brew it up on hot, dusty days when I am feeling parched.
It’s used extensively in Europe, especially in France, for soothing sore throats and coughs. Its diaphoretic properties make it a beneficial herb for colds and flu. Sharol Tilgner reports its use has been shown to shorten the duration of infectious viral conditions.
It is a superb relaxing nervine for nervous tension, stress, and panic conditions.
Linden is used to nourish the heart and is specifically beneficial for high blood pressure associated with arteriosclerosis and nervous tension.
In France it is commonly used in lotions for itchy skin conditions.
Parts used
Flowers and leaves
Properties
Cool/moist, relaxing nervine, anti-spasmodic, relaxing diaphoretic, hypotensive, demulcent, diuretic, mild astringent
Nutrients
Flavonoids, glycosides
Keep it simple
Linden’s demulcent properties make it a valuable ally for colds, flus, and parched conditions. It’s a gentle nervine that calms the heart.
Linden is a cooling and mucilaginous herb – I love to brew it up on hot, dusty days when I am feeling parched.
It’s used extensively in Europe, especially in France, for soothing sore throats and coughs. Its diaphoretic properties make it a beneficial herb for colds and flu. Sharol Tilgner reports its use has been shown to shorten the duration of infectious viral conditions.
It is a superb relaxing nervine for nervous tension, stress, and panic conditions.
Linden is used to nourish the heart and is specifically beneficial for high blood pressure associated with arteriosclerosis and nervous tension.
In France it is commonly used in lotions for itchy skin conditions.
Parts used
Flowers and leaves
Properties
Cool/moist, relaxing nervine, anti-spasmodic, relaxing diaphoretic, hypotensive, demulcent, diuretic, mild astringent
Nutrients
Flavonoids, glycosides
Keep it simple
Linden’s demulcent properties make it a valuable ally for colds, flus, and parched conditions. It’s a gentle nervine that calms the heart.
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 7)
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
Parts used: Flowers
Properties: Nutritive, anti-cancer, alkalinizer, expectorant, anti-spasmodic
Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B3, C, and E.
Gifts: Red clover is world renowned as an anti-cancer herb. It is used by 33 different cultures as an aid against cancer. It is one ingredient in the famed Essiac Tea, and scientific studies have found 4 anti-tumor compounds in this miraculous plant. (Edwards, pg. 157) Besides being a strong ally for those dancing with cancer, red clover is a strong alterative, making it well known as a “blood purifier.” Rich in phytosterols, red clover nourishes hormones, making it an excellent choice for women going through menopause as well as those wishing to increase their fertility. It’s been used to treat whooping cough and other dry, irritable coughs – even tuberculosis. The infusion can also be used externally (as well as internally) to nourish the skin, eliminating eczema and psoriasis.
Keep it simple: Renowned for it’s anti-cancer properties, red clover is also an incredible alterative, nourishing and building our blood.
Parts used: Flowers
Properties: Nutritive, anti-cancer, alkalinizer, expectorant, anti-spasmodic
Nutrients: Calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B3, C, and E.
Gifts: Red clover is world renowned as an anti-cancer herb. It is used by 33 different cultures as an aid against cancer. It is one ingredient in the famed Essiac Tea, and scientific studies have found 4 anti-tumor compounds in this miraculous plant. (Edwards, pg. 157) Besides being a strong ally for those dancing with cancer, red clover is a strong alterative, making it well known as a “blood purifier.” Rich in phytosterols, red clover nourishes hormones, making it an excellent choice for women going through menopause as well as those wishing to increase their fertility. It’s been used to treat whooping cough and other dry, irritable coughs – even tuberculosis. The infusion can also be used externally (as well as internally) to nourish the skin, eliminating eczema and psoriasis.
Keep it simple: Renowned for it’s anti-cancer properties, red clover is also an incredible alterative, nourishing and building our blood.
Red clover is “God’s greatest herbal blessing to mankind.”
Old time herbal (Antol, pg. 186)
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 6)
Burdock (Arctium Lappa)
Parts used: Root (First year roots gathered in the fall.)
Properties: alterative, nutritive, mucilaginous, alterative, diuretic, diaphoretic, urinary tonic, demulcent, bitter, laxative, vulnerary,
Nutrients: Amino acids, calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C.
Gifts: Burdock is a strong alterative – sometimes called a blood purifier. It does this by strengthening the kidneys and liver, which in turn helps to clean up the circulatory system. Burdock is a strong ally for those dealing with skin problems such as boils, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, acne, and herpes. It’s revered as an anti-tumor herb and is one of the ingredients of the Essiac formula. Used long term it helps strengthen the immune system and nourish intestinal flora – a great ally to use after a round of antibiotics. Burdock is a cooling herb that helps us to feel grounded and stable.
Keep it simple: Burdock is a grounding herb that strengthens the immune system, kidneys, and liver. It’s especially useful for those dealing with skin problems, from blemishes to tumors.
Parts used: Root (First year roots gathered in the fall.)
Properties: alterative, nutritive, mucilaginous, alterative, diuretic, diaphoretic, urinary tonic, demulcent, bitter, laxative, vulnerary,
Nutrients: Amino acids, calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C.
Gifts: Burdock is a strong alterative – sometimes called a blood purifier. It does this by strengthening the kidneys and liver, which in turn helps to clean up the circulatory system. Burdock is a strong ally for those dealing with skin problems such as boils, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, acne, and herpes. It’s revered as an anti-tumor herb and is one of the ingredients of the Essiac formula. Used long term it helps strengthen the immune system and nourish intestinal flora – a great ally to use after a round of antibiotics. Burdock is a cooling herb that helps us to feel grounded and stable.
Keep it simple: Burdock is a grounding herb that strengthens the immune system, kidneys, and liver. It’s especially useful for those dealing with skin problems, from blemishes to tumors.
Burdock is like a cleaning woman, or garbage collector: essential to modern life, but underpaid and undervalued. She’s the old black rag-a-muffin of herbs.
Ellen Greenlaw 1988
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 5)
Oatstraw (Avena sativa)
Parts used: Whole plant (I like infusing the milky buds along with the “straw” part of the plant).
Properties: nutritive, tonic, demulcent, nervine, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressant, cooling, febrifuge, diuretic, diaphoretic, carminative
Nutrients: Calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, E, and amino acids.
Gifts: Oatstraw acts as an anti-depressant and restorative nerve tonic. This makes it ideal for those experiencing stress, exhaustion, nervous breakdowns, or grief. Regular use eases inflammation in your body – which is especially helpful for those with crohn’s disease, lupus, or other autoimmune diseases. It’s a wonderful source of calcium for those wishing to strengthen their bones, teeth, and nails. To get your daily calcium supplement add a pinch of horsetail (Equisetum arvense) in your oat straw infusion. Oatstraw has been known as a love tonic for centuries, because of its ability to nourish your nervous system and clean out the circulatory system, increasing your sensitivity to touch. Oatstraw is also a powerful restorative for those who are just plain worn out.
Keep it simple: Oatstraw is a wonderful restorative tonic especially helpful to those feeling stressed or worn out.
Parts used: Whole plant (I like infusing the milky buds along with the “straw” part of the plant).
Properties: nutritive, tonic, demulcent, nervine, anti-spasmodic, anti-depressant, cooling, febrifuge, diuretic, diaphoretic, carminative
Nutrients: Calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, E, and amino acids.
Gifts: Oatstraw acts as an anti-depressant and restorative nerve tonic. This makes it ideal for those experiencing stress, exhaustion, nervous breakdowns, or grief. Regular use eases inflammation in your body – which is especially helpful for those with crohn’s disease, lupus, or other autoimmune diseases. It’s a wonderful source of calcium for those wishing to strengthen their bones, teeth, and nails. To get your daily calcium supplement add a pinch of horsetail (Equisetum arvense) in your oat straw infusion. Oatstraw has been known as a love tonic for centuries, because of its ability to nourish your nervous system and clean out the circulatory system, increasing your sensitivity to touch. Oatstraw is also a powerful restorative for those who are just plain worn out.
Keep it simple: Oatstraw is a wonderful restorative tonic especially helpful to those feeling stressed or worn out.
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 4)
Red Raspberry is commonly considered a woman’s herb often used during pregnancy. It gently eases nausea and morning sickness. Red Raspberry has been scientifically proven to ease uterine and intestinal spasms and strengthen the
uterine wall. These actions help to ease labor pains and facilitate births. There is also evidence that regular infusions taken during the third trimester reduce the incidence of false
Drinking infusions after birth increases the colostrum found in breast milk helping to ensure a healthy start for the newborn. Susun Weed notes that although for some woman Red Raspberry leaf increases breast milk, for others the astringency of the herb may counter that.
It’s unfair to classify raspberry leaves as only beneficial to women. Not only does red raspberry tone the uterus, it has a toning effect for the male reproductive system as well. It is used for enuresis, spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation, impotence and sterility.
As a strong astringent, raspberry is helpful in cases of prolonged diarrhea and frequent urination.
Raspberry leaves have the ability to promote healthy bones, nails, teeth, and skin. It’s common to find it paired with red clover as a fertility tonic for both men and women.
Parts used
Leaves
Properties
Cool/dry, astringent, tonic, uterine tonic, hemostatic, mild alterative.
Special considerations
There are no major cautions with red raspberry, but take note of it’s astringent affects to determine if this is the right choice for you. Some may find it initially too drying.
Keep it simple
Red Raspberry is a uterine tonic especially beneficial to women during pregnancy. Its high calcium and mineral content make it beneficial to all.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Sustainability: Re-usable bags
I just love bags. I love getting funky looking bags and thrift stores and using them to carry home my wholesome food/library books/mail in from town. Re-used bags have a style with which boring brown paper bags just can't compare.This holiday season my sister sent me two super cool bags that she crocheted out of used plastic bags. I have found these bags to actually be quite magical. They seemingly hold everything - sort of like a Mary Poppins bag, and are incredibly strong. This is a great use for all of that incredibly annoying plastic. I highly applaud the various countries and grocery stores who have stopped carrying plastic bags. Until
they are gone for good though, you can read an article my sister wrote about these bags and learn to make your own here.When I was at the local co-op near Seattle I bought a few of these nifty bags for putting vegetables in. You could also easily make these yourself by buying a similar meshy fabric and making a simple bag. We used to wash out our plastic bags for fruits and veggies, but these are much more practical for keeping things together.
Blood blisters and cottonwood buds
This morning I was a little careless and gave myself a blood blister with a pair of scissors. If you've ever had a blood blister then you will know how painful these tiny little things will be. I am making a bunch of cottonwood salve today so there were a a lot of buds on the counter. Moments after I pinched myself, thus creating the blister, I picked one up and applied the bud and resins directly to the darkening area. Instantly the pain was gone and has remained so. And although blood had been forming under the surface of my skin, it's completely gone 30 minutes later. Gotta love cottonwood for first aid.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Another day of bountiful cottonwood (Populus balsamifera)
I couldn't sleep early this morning - something that rarely happens. As my mind was wandering over hills and through valleys I was suddenly hit with an idea, or rather an afterthought of sorts. With so many downed trees in the area I should definitely take advantage of this bounty and harvest the bark. The bark can be tinctured to make an anelgesic medicine, and I was also interested in drying some bark to later pound into flour.
As we were heading into town today (for an adorable 1 one-year-old's birthday party)
we noticed several trees down by the river. Apparently the beavers in the area have been hard at work.Having never harvested cottonwood cambium before we were a little baffled about which part to harvest for flour. Eventually we decided that perhaps it's too early in the season and the sap isn't running yet. I've harvested cedar cambium before while the sap is running and it's really amazing how easily it separates from the tree - which was definitely not the case today. If anyone else has experience with this please let me know.
I do have a hard time imagining that the cambium would taste good as a flour. I put some of the bark in my mouth and it tasted like strong aspirin. Hence the tincture. :) This explains why the flour was used primarily as famine or emergency food.
Update: I did some reading on cottonwood last night and it does seem that we are a little early on harvesting the cambium. May or June sounds like a better time. I also read that although some tribes ate this food very rarely, other tribes (in Montana esp.) considered it a treat. (Thanks to Nancy Turner and all the research she has done with Northwest ethnobotany.)
There was one really fresh older tree on the ground. We were able to harvest a lot more buds from the top of the tree, which is by far the most plentiful. I already had lots of buds from the other day, but I just couldn't resist. Although we had already been to the store, we went back before leaving town to buy a gallon of olive oil for a cottonwood bud infusion. I am teaching a class on oils and salves in a couple of weeks, so I know it'll come in handy.
I also wanted to make a tincture of the buds. I wanted to use a higher percentage of alcohol to extract properties from this resinous source, but only had a little tiny bit of everclear hanging around. (It's not sold in this state, so I am at the mercy of traveling friends.) So, I did one small tincture of half everclear, half vodka, and then another tincture with scotch whiskey. I'm curious as to the results. Already there is a big difference in colors. Surprisingly the everclear/vodka mix has a much darker and cloudier app
earance than the scotch whiskey (the one on the right is the everclear/vodka) which begins as an orange color. These tinctures will be used as an expectorant for nasty chest colds.I also did a tincture of the bark in scotch whiskey as well.
I have only recently started making tinctures out of scotch whiskey. In part two of the Village Herbalist on Herbmentor, Heather says she uses scotch whiskey for her tinctures for several reasons. One, scotch whiskey is made from barley, which has it's own health benefits. (As opposed to wheat, which a lot of vodka is made from these days.) Also, she said to buy the cheapest scotch whiskey available. When taking a sip you'll notice the astringent properties of this beverage. This astringency, says Heather, adds to the extracting properties of the alcohol making it act more like 60%-70& alcohol. So, seeing how everclear is hard to get, I thought I'd give it a chance. I'd love to hear other thoughts on this.
The sun is setting in the valley which has turned several shades of pink, blue and purple. The bald eagles have been busy feasting on the fallen deer in the field. We've really enjoyed watching so many up close right from our kitchen window. I am feeling very grateful to live in this beautiful bountiful valley.
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 3)
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Parts used: Young leaves – before the plant flowers
Properties: Nutritive, astringent, diuretic, and styptic
Nutrients: Calcium, Potassium, Protein, B Carotene, chlorophyll, trace minerals, iron, Vitamins A, C, D, and K – virtually all the vitamins and minerals known to be necessary for human health and growth. (Weed, CBY pg 20)
Gifts: Nettle is a beloved herb that has been used for time immemorial on several continents. It is a strong ally for strengthening the kidneys and toning the lungs, intestines, and arteries. It helps restore vibrancy to the adrenal system, transforming sluggish energy into vitality. (Because of this I often suggest nettle infusions for people who have been long time coffee drinkers and are now getting off the sauce.) Hair and skin love nettle rinses and become more full and vibrant.
According to Susun Weed, Nettle infusions are “recommended for those wanting to stabilize blood sugar, reset metabolic circuits to normalize weight, reduce fatigue and exhaustion, restore adrenal potency to lessen allergic and menopausal problems and eliminate chronic headaches.” (Weed, HW pg. 172). I love nettle for its incredible calcium content – 2,900 milligrams for each 100 grams. Unlike calcium supplements, the naturally occurring calcium found in nettle is easily absorbed by our bodies. Daily nettle infusions for two weeks will increase the quantity and quality of breast milk in lactating moms. (Weed, Healing Wise 175). NHI made from nettle are one of Susun Weed’s favorite anti-cancer remedies. Long-term use of nettle infusions is recommended to receive full benefits.
After drinking nettle infusion daily for three months in a row I felt a steady increase of energy as well as a subtle toning of my urinary system. I used to be very prone to UTI's, but with nettle as an ally, UTI's are a thing of the past.
Keep it simple: Nettle is a gentle and powerful herb that can be drunk daily for increased energy and chi. Taken over a long period of time it is beneficial to the kidneys, lungs, intestine, arteries, hair, and skin.
Where to get nettle leaf: Remember it's always best to get from a local source, either wildcrafting it yourself in an ethical manner or from a local herb farm or store. If you don't have access to either of those options here are some additional ones.
www.ancestreeherbals.com (This is a small herb farm near where I live. I usually check here first to see if they have what I need in stock. They also ship fresh herbs overnight.)
www.iwantherbs.com (This is the largest organic herbal online store and carries herbs that are very high in quality although sometimes they come from very far away.)
Works consulted:
Healing Wise, Susun Weed
Herbalpedia CD ROM
Parts used: Young leaves – before the plant flowers
Properties: Nutritive, astringent, diuretic, and styptic
Nutrients: Calcium, Potassium, Protein, B Carotene, chlorophyll, trace minerals, iron, Vitamins A, C, D, and K – virtually all the vitamins and minerals known to be necessary for human health and growth. (Weed, CBY pg 20)
Gifts: Nettle is a beloved herb that has been used for time immemorial on several continents. It is a strong ally for strengthening the kidneys and toning the lungs, intestines, and arteries. It helps restore vibrancy to the adrenal system, transforming sluggish energy into vitality. (Because of this I often suggest nettle infusions for people who have been long time coffee drinkers and are now getting off the sauce.) Hair and skin love nettle rinses and become more full and vibrant.
According to Susun Weed, Nettle infusions are “recommended for those wanting to stabilize blood sugar, reset metabolic circuits to normalize weight, reduce fatigue and exhaustion, restore adrenal potency to lessen allergic and menopausal problems and eliminate chronic headaches.” (Weed, HW pg. 172). I love nettle for its incredible calcium content – 2,900 milligrams for each 100 grams. Unlike calcium supplements, the naturally occurring calcium found in nettle is easily absorbed by our bodies. Daily nettle infusions for two weeks will increase the quantity and quality of breast milk in lactating moms. (Weed, Healing Wise 175). NHI made from nettle are one of Susun Weed’s favorite anti-cancer remedies. Long-term use of nettle infusions is recommended to receive full benefits.
After drinking nettle infusion daily for three months in a row I felt a steady increase of energy as well as a subtle toning of my urinary system. I used to be very prone to UTI's, but with nettle as an ally, UTI's are a thing of the past.
Keep it simple: Nettle is a gentle and powerful herb that can be drunk daily for increased energy and chi. Taken over a long period of time it is beneficial to the kidneys, lungs, intestine, arteries, hair, and skin.
Where to get nettle leaf: Remember it's always best to get from a local source, either wildcrafting it yourself in an ethical manner or from a local herb farm or store. If you don't have access to either of those options here are some additional ones.
www.ancestreeherbals.com (This is a small herb farm near where I live. I usually check here first to see if they have what I need in stock. They also ship fresh herbs overnight.)
www.iwantherbs.com (This is the largest organic herbal online store and carries herbs that are very high in quality although sometimes they come from very far away.)
Works consulted:
Healing Wise, Susun Weed
Herbalpedia CD ROM
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 2)
How to Make Nourishing Herbal Infusions
The preparation of NHIs is similar to that of teas; however, the plant material used is greater than in teas, and the soaking time is much longer. While teas brewed for twenty minutes or less are great tasting beverages, the extended soaking time of NHIs ensures our beverages are filled with nutrients and minerals for optimum health.
To make my NHI, I place one ounce of dried leafy herbs in my French coffee press. (You can also use a mason jar.)
I pour one quart of boiling water over the herbs, cover with the press, and let sit overnight.
In the morning I strain off the plant material and drink the infusion throughout the day. (You can see how this nettle infusion has changed color dramatically.)
Alternatively you could make the infusion in the morning to drink at night. Some people use mason jars to brew their infusions in – using a strainer to strain off the plants when ready. Whatever you brew your infusion in, be sure to cover it tight so water-soluble vitamins do no escape. After straining, refrigerate and drink within 36 hours. Typically one quart is drank each day.
Branching Out – Using a variety of materials
You can make NHIs from leafy material (stinging nettle, comfrey), roots and barks (burdock), flowers (calendula), or seeds and berries (celery seed, lamb’s quarters).
The brewing time differs when you are working with these very different plant parts. Flowers and berries tend to be more delicate, while roots and bark need a little more prodding.
The following brewing table is taken from Healing Wise, by Susun Weed.
Plant Part------ Amount Jar / Water -------- Length of Infusion
Roots/barks -------- 1 oz pint ------------------ 8 hours minimum
Leaves ---------------1 oz quart --------------- 4 hours minimum
Flowers -------------- 1 oz quart --------------- 1 hours maximum
Seeds/berries ------- 1 oz pint ---------------- 30 minutes maximum
The herbs we use for nourishing herbal infusions are just that – nourishing. These plants are high in vitamins, minerals and nutrients and do not contain bitter oils, esters, or resins that can create unwanted side effects – as well as taste very bitter. (There are circumstances when you would want to use more “medicinal” herbs in an infusion, but this article focuses on the herbs we go to specifically for nourishment.)
In part three I will post more about individual herbs you can use.
The preparation of NHIs is similar to that of teas; however, the plant material used is greater than in teas, and the soaking time is much longer. While teas brewed for twenty minutes or less are great tasting beverages, the extended soaking time of NHIs ensures our beverages are filled with nutrients and minerals for optimum health.
To make my NHI, I place one ounce of dried leafy herbs in my French coffee press. (You can also use a mason jar.)
I pour one quart of boiling water over the herbs, cover with the press, and let sit overnight.
In the morning I strain off the plant material and drink the infusion throughout the day. (You can see how this nettle infusion has changed color dramatically.)
Alternatively you could make the infusion in the morning to drink at night. Some people use mason jars to brew their infusions in – using a strainer to strain off the plants when ready. Whatever you brew your infusion in, be sure to cover it tight so water-soluble vitamins do no escape. After straining, refrigerate and drink within 36 hours. Typically one quart is drank each day.
Branching Out – Using a variety of materials
You can make NHIs from leafy material (stinging nettle, comfrey), roots and barks (burdock), flowers (calendula), or seeds and berries (celery seed, lamb’s quarters).
The brewing time differs when you are working with these very different plant parts. Flowers and berries tend to be more delicate, while roots and bark need a little more prodding.
The following brewing table is taken from Healing Wise, by Susun Weed.
Plant Part------ Amount Jar / Water -------- Length of Infusion
Roots/barks -------- 1 oz pint ------------------ 8 hours minimum
Leaves ---------------1 oz quart --------------- 4 hours minimum
Flowers -------------- 1 oz quart --------------- 1 hours maximum
Seeds/berries ------- 1 oz pint ---------------- 30 minutes maximum
The herbs we use for nourishing herbal infusions are just that – nourishing. These plants are high in vitamins, minerals and nutrients and do not contain bitter oils, esters, or resins that can create unwanted side effects – as well as taste very bitter. (There are circumstances when you would want to use more “medicinal” herbs in an infusion, but this article focuses on the herbs we go to specifically for nourishment.)
In part three I will post more about individual herbs you can use.
Nourishing Herbal Infusions (part 1)
As herbalists we are given a wide variety of tools to extract the nourishment and healing powers of plants. Depending on the plant’s constituents we can extract medicinal qualities using alcohol, vinegar, or oil. We can use whole fresh or dried herbs in our daily cooking, and we can use water – either hot or cold – to draw the vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients into a drinkable form. Each method of transforming plant properties into an assimilable and concentrated form of medicine for our bodies has a different purpose depending on the action wanted.
This post focuses on Nourishing Herbal Infusions (NHI). We use NHI as opposed to tinctures and extracts to draw out nutrients, mainly minerals and vitamins, from plants to nourish ourselves daily. In this way we can heal from the inside out – building strong bones and teeth, strengthening our cardiovascular system, and tonifying our organs for maximum health.
Drinking our daily brew of NHI is akin to taking our vitamin supplement – however, a NHI has many more benefits than pills that were manufactured and synthesized in a far away factory.
By using freshly dried whole herbs from organic and nutrient-rich soils we can insure we are getting the highest quality of nutrition available. Also, when we consume vitamins and minerals from a whole source, rather than extracted materials, we ensure that our body is able to readily assimilate these valuable nutrients. As Dr. Mercola, osteopathic physician, points out “In whole foods, there are a variety of accessory micronutrients that work synergistically with the primary one. It is very rare where the isolated nutrient will perform better than the whole food version.”
Many of the herbs we use for NHI can be found in our backyards. (In his book, From Earth to Herbalist, Gregory Tilford has great suggestions on safe and ethical harvesting methods.) If these herbs are entirely foreign to you, ordering them from a respectable herb dealer is a simple way to gain access to these herbs and start incorporating them into your daily life. It's always best to buy local. My favorite online resources for buying herbs are:
www.ancestreeherbals.com (This is a small herb farm near where I live. I usually check here first to see if they have what I need in stock. They also ship fresh herbs overnight.)
www.iwantherbs.com (This is the largest organic herbal online store and carries herbs that are very high in quality.)
Learn how to make your own nourishing herbal infusions in part 2.
This post focuses on Nourishing Herbal Infusions (NHI). We use NHI as opposed to tinctures and extracts to draw out nutrients, mainly minerals and vitamins, from plants to nourish ourselves daily. In this way we can heal from the inside out – building strong bones and teeth, strengthening our cardiovascular system, and tonifying our organs for maximum health.
Drinking our daily brew of NHI is akin to taking our vitamin supplement – however, a NHI has many more benefits than pills that were manufactured and synthesized in a far away factory.
By using freshly dried whole herbs from organic and nutrient-rich soils we can insure we are getting the highest quality of nutrition available. Also, when we consume vitamins and minerals from a whole source, rather than extracted materials, we ensure that our body is able to readily assimilate these valuable nutrients. As Dr. Mercola, osteopathic physician, points out “In whole foods, there are a variety of accessory micronutrients that work synergistically with the primary one. It is very rare where the isolated nutrient will perform better than the whole food version.”
Many of the herbs we use for NHI can be found in our backyards. (In his book, From Earth to Herbalist, Gregory Tilford has great suggestions on safe and ethical harvesting methods.) If these herbs are entirely foreign to you, ordering them from a respectable herb dealer is a simple way to gain access to these herbs and start incorporating them into your daily life. It's always best to buy local. My favorite online resources for buying herbs are:
www.ancestreeherbals.com (This is a small herb farm near where I live. I usually check here first to see if they have what I need in stock. They also ship fresh herbs overnight.)
www.iwantherbs.com (This is the largest organic herbal online store and carries herbs that are very high in quality.)
Learn how to make your own nourishing herbal infusions in part 2.
“My daily cup of NHI is my safeguard against cancer, my longevity tonic, and my beauty treatment – all in one cup.”
- Susun Weed
Green Eggs and Ham
We often eat eggs for breakfast as we are not really into grains or sugars. Lately we've been adding a special ingredient to our eggs that have revolutionized our breakfast. Dandelion pesto!In the spring and fall I make as much dandelion pesto as I can get my hands on. We eat lots and freeze the rest. High in minerals like potassium, calcium, iron and phosphorous, and high in vitamins like A, B, C, and D this is a wonderful spring tonic. Dandelion, (or pissenlit - the French word for dandelion meaning piss in bed) is a strong diuretic, but it won't rid your body of potassium like caffeine often will. When we are not adding it to eggs we often eat it as a dip with carrots or bell peppers, or spread it liberally on our meats and salmon.
To make dandelion pesto, gather or buy young leaves from your local health food store. I use a bunch, which is about the size of a silver dollar when holding them by the bottom stems. I place a little olive oil in the blender, add a few leaves, blend, add a little more leaves then oil until it's a good consistency. I then add crushed garlic and salt and blend. At this point I want it to be a little on the oily side. I take it out from the blender and add grated parmesan or romano. I think this is a pretty standard way of making pesto, just substituting the dandelion.
When the chickweed is up, we'll make pesto out of that as well.
Sustainability: Ethical Clothing
My husband wears the same clothes day in and day out. I'm not kidding - he's famous for his green wool clothing. To be honest he has a couple pairs of green wool pants, and a couple pairs of green wool sweaters, and a couple undershirts to go along with them, but you can definitely see a lack of variety.
I really do appreciate his simplicity and deep sense of responsibility to to earth and the peoples on it.
But sometimes I ask, "Can I please buy you a new sweater?"
By new, I mean, new to him. I am an avid thrift store shopper. In the small town where I live we have an incredible thrift store called the rummage room. On certain days they have $1 bag days, where, you guessed it, you can stuff anything you want in a bag for a buck.
His response is always the same. He has more than enough clothes. If I press the issue (especially during his birthday or the holidays) he responds that instead I can buy him a little child from China, that way we can give direct specifications to the one making our clothes. That usually ends the conversation. As I said, my husband feels very strongly on this matter.
This spring he has been busy braintanning deer hides that were gleaned from various places. This summer he is participating in a three week long primitive living project with Lynx Sheperd and will need a complete set of clothes for the project. I am excited about this form of clothing. I've already put in my requests: A dress, a hoodie, a tank top, skirt, pants, long sleeve shirt... that should do it. :) In this way we will have 100% local clothing.
I love making my own clothes. I've done so ever since high school. I tend to make really simple clothes, sometimes from a pattern, sometimes not. I recently made two pairs of pants that I just absolutely love.
Last summer was our wedding, and so a year ago the search for the dress began.
I knew I wanted something custom made so I scoured the web looking for someone who's style I liked. I thankfully found Lizzie Moon and Namaste Patchwork Creations. She created two beautiful dresses for me that I wear constantly. I really respect and admire the work that Lizzie does. She creates one of a kind pieces of wearable art and has recently made the switch to ethical fabrics. I check her site every week whether I am in the market for clothing or not, just to see her designs. Lizzie's clothes don't come cheap, but they are of the highest quality with exquisite attention to detail. They are definitely made to last. And in our family, it's much more doable than buying a child from China to work in the basement.
I really do appreciate his simplicity and deep sense of responsibility to to earth and the peoples on it.
But sometimes I ask, "Can I please buy you a new sweater?"
By new, I mean, new to him. I am an avid thrift store shopper. In the small town where I live we have an incredible thrift store called the rummage room. On certain days they have $1 bag days, where, you guessed it, you can stuff anything you want in a bag for a buck.
His response is always the same. He has more than enough clothes. If I press the issue (especially during his birthday or the holidays) he responds that instead I can buy him a little child from China, that way we can give direct specifications to the one making our clothes. That usually ends the conversation. As I said, my husband feels very strongly on this matter.
This spring he has been busy braintanning deer hides that were gleaned from various places. This summer he is participating in a three week long primitive living project with Lynx Sheperd and will need a complete set of clothes for the project. I am excited about this form of clothing. I've already put in my requests: A dress, a hoodie, a tank top, skirt, pants, long sleeve shirt... that should do it. :) In this way we will have 100% local clothing.
I love making my own clothes. I've done so ever since high school. I tend to make really simple clothes, sometimes from a pattern, sometimes not. I recently made two pairs of pants that I just absolutely love.
Last summer was our wedding, and so a year ago the search for the dress began.
I knew I wanted something custom made so I scoured the web looking for someone who's style I liked. I thankfully found Lizzie Moon and Namaste Patchwork Creations. She created two beautiful dresses for me that I wear constantly. I really respect and admire the work that Lizzie does. She creates one of a kind pieces of wearable art and has recently made the switch to ethical fabrics. I check her site every week whether I am in the market for clothing or not, just to see her designs. Lizzie's clothes don't come cheap, but they are of the highest quality with exquisite attention to detail. They are definitely made to last. And in our family, it's much more doable than buying a child from China to work in the basement.
What is Structural Medicine?
I will most likely be referring to Structural Medicine often, since this is one of the primary healing modalities that I use. I imagine most folks have never heard of it.Structural Medicine is a holistic healing modality that facilitates awareness of the body, mind and spirit. I typically see clients who have chronic or acute pain, or people interested in transformational change in their bodies and movement.
Structural Medicine Specialists work with the fascia or connective tissue of the
b
ody to help align people in gravity and create more freedom of movement. Connective tissue runs throughout our bodies and in multiple layers. There is fascia directly underneath our skin, encapsulating our muscles, running through our joints, even going as deep as our bones. When fascia becomes stiff, injured, or bound in some way it affects our posture, the ability for our bodies to perform movement in an efficient way, and even our emotional state.Structural Medicine is a type of customized manual therapy and shares it's roots with Hellerwork or Rolfing in that it comes from the genius of Ida Rolf. Donna Bajelis, founder of the Institute of Structural Medicine, has combined her original training of physical therapy with thirty years of private practice and structural integration to create Structural Medicine.
As Structural Medicine Specialists we have several diagnostic tools to create specific treatments for each individual who walks through the door. We use myofascial length testing to determine where the greatest myofascial restrictions are holding in a client's body, we a variety of visual techniques to asses each person needs, and we use Anatomy Trains to asses myofascial meridians as they run throughout the body.
How does this look in practical application? I often see clients who have pain, tightness, or restriction in their upper shoulders. Instead of assuming treatment in this area to relieve the pain, I ask, why is this person feeling this way? It may be because the front of their core is too restricted or too weak. This then, pulls their shoulders and head forward creating too much of a strain through their back. Treatment would then start at differentiating the superficial and core muscles, giving back muscles their original shape, creating coordination throughout the body, and then integrating as a whole through client neuromuscular re-education.
The questions do not stop at a physical level however.
Through dialogue clients are encouraged to look for the deeper causes behind their restrictions. Every person is different, and every person has the responsibility to explore these issues and take control of the mental and physical well being. I have seen clients who have the above posture because of poor self-esteem, depression, or guilt. I've also seen that posture as a result of multiple childbirths, physical trauma, and abdominal surgery.
As Structural Medicine Specialists, we know that we are a catalyst for healing, and that true healing comes from within each person and their own explorations.
My own personal goal is to help facilitate awareness of the body and mind, so that a person is able to take responsibility for their own health and well-being.
Structural Medicine has physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits - the goal being that you feel more alive.
- Donna Bajelis
Founder of ISM
Friday, March 14, 2008
Bee Pollen (Candy)
Bee pollen is a powder-like material that is produced by the anthers of flowering plants and gathered by bees. It has been called the world’s only perfect food because it contains every nutrient the human body requires.
Contains:
8 - 40% Protein, Calcium, Carotene
B-Complex Vitamins, Copper, Sodium
Vitamin C, Iron, Plant Sterols
Amino Acids, Magnesium, Simple Sugar
Essential Fatty Acids, Potassium
Enzymes, Manganese
Like other bee products, bee pollen has anti-microbial properties as well as anti-biotic, anti-viral, antiseptic, and anti-fungal properties.
Useful for combating fatigue, depression, cancer, stimulating the reproductive system for males and females and eases digestive and colon disorders. It also helps people with allergies because it strengthens the immune system.
Choosing bee pollen:
Bee pollen should not form clumps and should be stored in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated. Like other bee products you should only choose locally produced bee pollen, this is especially important for anti-allergenic properties.
Heat destroys bee pollen’s vital enzyme activity and lowers the nutrient value so it is not recommended for teas or cooking. Instead try adding granules to yogurt or cereal, or mix with cinnamon and add to applesauce.
Bee Pollen Candy is one of our favorite household treats. I originally used a recipe from Healing Teas, by Antol, but have drastically changed it over the years.
Bee Pollen Candy:
½ Cup Bee Pollen
2 Tablespoons Cocoa
2 Tablespoons Water
3 Tablespoons Raw Honey
½ Cup Rolled Oats
1 Tablespoon Vanilla
½ Cup Crunchy Peanut Butter
½ Cup Tahini
Coconut for rolling
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cardamon
Dissolve the cocoa in the water and mix with bee pollen in a medium size bowl. Add the raw honey and mix well, and then add the peanut butter, tahini, Bee Pollen, Rolled Oats, Vanilla, nutmeg and cardamon and mix thoroughly.
Using your hand (works well to moisten your hand with water) or melon baller form into small balls, roll in the coconut and store in the refrigerator or freezer.
CAUTION !
An estimated .05% of the population is said to be allergic to bee pollen. So it is wise to start with just a few granules, wait for a reaction before increasing the dosage. In class I have taught people who have had the most reactions are those people who are also allergic to bees, although this is not always the case.
Works consulted:
Healing Teas, Marie Nadine Antol
Sacred and Herbal Healing Beers, Stephen Buhner
Contains:
8 - 40% Protein, Calcium, Carotene
B-Complex Vitamins, Copper, Sodium
Vitamin C, Iron, Plant Sterols
Amino Acids, Magnesium, Simple Sugar
Essential Fatty Acids, Potassium
Enzymes, Manganese
Like other bee products, bee pollen has anti-microbial properties as well as anti-biotic, anti-viral, antiseptic, and anti-fungal properties.
Useful for combating fatigue, depression, cancer, stimulating the reproductive system for males and females and eases digestive and colon disorders. It also helps people with allergies because it strengthens the immune system.
Choosing bee pollen:
Bee pollen should not form clumps and should be stored in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated. Like other bee products you should only choose locally produced bee pollen, this is especially important for anti-allergenic properties.
Heat destroys bee pollen’s vital enzyme activity and lowers the nutrient value so it is not recommended for teas or cooking. Instead try adding granules to yogurt or cereal, or mix with cinnamon and add to applesauce.
Bee Pollen Candy is one of our favorite household treats. I originally used a recipe from Healing Teas, by Antol, but have drastically changed it over the years.
Bee Pollen Candy:
½ Cup Bee Pollen
2 Tablespoons Cocoa
2 Tablespoons Water
3 Tablespoons Raw Honey
½ Cup Rolled Oats
1 Tablespoon Vanilla
½ Cup Crunchy Peanut Butter
½ Cup Tahini
Coconut for rolling
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cardamon
Dissolve the cocoa in the water and mix with bee pollen in a medium size bowl. Add the raw honey and mix well, and then add the peanut butter, tahini, Bee Pollen, Rolled Oats, Vanilla, nutmeg and cardamon and mix thoroughly.
Using your hand (works well to moisten your hand with water) or melon baller form into small balls, roll in the coconut and store in the refrigerator or freezer.
CAUTION !
An estimated .05% of the population is said to be allergic to bee pollen. So it is wise to start with just a few granules, wait for a reaction before increasing the dosage. In class I have taught people who have had the most reactions are those people who are also allergic to bees, although this is not always the case.
Works consulted:
Healing Teas, Marie Nadine Antol
Sacred and Herbal Healing Beers, Stephen Buhner
First signs of spring: Yellow Dock (Rumex spp.)
I was out wandering the hillside yesterday looking for those signs of spring. This is an entirely different climate for me, so everything is new. I was delighted to find these little dock leaves sprouting just a few inches from the snow line. Last fall I collected a lot of seeds from these plants along our hillside. Dock seed crackers are one of our favorite treats. You can see an article I wrote about making dock seed crackers here.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Corned Beef and Roots
Last night my husband and I had one of my favorite childhood meals. Corned beef. Every year my dad would make this on St. Patrick's Day, it was a special treat. When I was an adult I realized I didn't have to wait until March 17th! I could eat it all the time. What a relief. Now, I make sure to buy beef that has been raised in a good way, and does not have added hormones or anti-biotics. Also, the veggie portion has changed a little since I was young. Now I add lots of burdock (dried or fresh) along with some dandelion root. It still has that same flavor I've always loved, but now it's just a little wilder.
Another thing I love about this meal is it's simplicity. In the morning I put the corned beef in the crock pot with all the veggies and roots. Besides burdock and dandelion root I like to put in carrots and parsnips. I cover that with water, and then turn it on high (If I want it for lunch) or low if I want it for dinner. If we have cabbage then ten minutes before serving I like to cook the cabbage in the juices of the corned beef and veggies. Any left over broth I save for stews.
As I took the picture of our meal last night I thought, well that's sure a wintry dish. And yes we are still eating roots from last fall. Hopefully soon the new growth will be on it's way and we'll be switching over to chickweed, lambquarter's, and nettle.
Cottonwood (Populus balsamifera)
When we lived in the western part of the state - close to Seattle - finding downed cottonwood branches after a windstorm was never a problem. The sweet aroma would fill the air and we would head out after the winds helped us with a little pruning. And the smell. I, and everyone I know loves that springy smell. I have found the scent of cottonwood to be somewhat intoxicating. After spending several hours making cottonwood salve in a closed room, four of us were incredibly giddy with laughter. A friend remarked, "If the government knew about this, it wou
ld be illegal." So shhhh.Life is slightly different here in the more deserty region. Cottonwood buds are a very important resource for the deer - they just love them. Every branch within reach along our river was clearly chomped on. In February there will still rose hips to be harvested, but not a cottonwood bud within reach. We were able to harvest a few buds from branches that had fallen from the snow, but nothing like what I was used to in Western Washington.
When harvesting cottonwood buds I really like the terminal buds, they seem to be juicier as well as bigger. However, in interest of the cottonwood tree, I would never harvest terminal buds from a living tree. This is especially why I like to harvest from already downed branches.
I explained this to a friend and she took me to a cottonwood harvesting heaven: Irrigation ditches. Apparently they cut down cottonwoods every year along the ditches because the trees take in so much water. There were so many buds there we could hardly believe it. After giving thanks, my husband and I collected several pounds of this resinousy goodness.
There are both male and female trees. Can you guess which branch is which?
I'll be making an oil with some of the buds in a class I am teaching next month on salves. I use a lot of cottonwood salve each year. Not just on cuts and scrapes - it's my preferred salve for practicing Structural Medicine - a type of hands-on bodywork. I will also be tincturing some as well.
In Karen Sherwood's, Plant and Ethnobotanical Studies Apprenticeship we learned the following about cottonwood:
Edibility:
Catkins are a source of Vitamin C, but are very bitter. The inner cambium of bark can be eaten by drying and pounding into flour.
Medicinal uses:
The cambium or inner bark of the cottonwood can be used as a poultice for itchy sores and for pain relief. It can be used on burn wounds as it has anti-infection properties, is analgesic, and promotes skin regeneration.
You can use a decoction of the buds for the flu, rheumatism, and ghonnorea. A tincture of the bark can be used for UTI's and a tincture of the buds for chest colds (as an expectorant).
Utilitarian uses:
The roots were used for baskets and cordage.
You can make a primitive fire using cottonwood exclusively. The roots can be use for the drill, branches for the fire board, and seeds and inner bark for tinder.
The seeds can be used for insulation and stuffing.
Resins from the buds were used for waterproofing baskets and boxes. A glue can also be used from the resinous buds. A soap substitute can be made from the bark or ashes. (Sometimes you can see soapy suds in a slower moving river that is lined with cottonwood.)
Dugout canoes were made with the cottonwood tree by natives living east of the cascades in Washington State.
If you are interested in knowing more about cottonwood's medicinal values, see Kiva Rose.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Arrow leaf balsam root (Balsamorhiza sagittata)
Our valley has slightly less snow than not, yet we have already been out harvesting a few important edibles. The first being Arrow Leaf Balsam Root. Climbing over patches of snow to reach the bare earth we looked for the sentinels of last year's growth. If you've never seen this beautiful member of the asteraceae family, then here's a great photo on your left.
Like I said, things are just popping their heads up, so we were looking for something more like this.
It doesn't look apetzing here, but this plant holds many culinary delights. The first thing we were after were the new shoots. You have to look really closely to find them.
You can eat this shoots raw, they were about an inch long when we harvested them and had a crisp resinousy taste. I really enjoyed them. We harvested several from different plants and took some home to stir fry up with some onions. I preferred them raw, they got kind of lost in the onions.
Here's some in a bowl awaiting the cast iron skillet.
We also harvested the roots using a kupenz, or digging stick. To harvest it for food you want only pencil sized roots. After digging it up you can pound the root with a stick to dislodge the hard outer shell. Then you cook it for at least 12 hours - we did ours in a crock pot. Once it's done it has a sweet nutty taste and is eaten like tough asparagus.
The roots are highly medicinal and are a bio-regional substitute for echinacea. When harvested in the fall the roots have more immune-stimulating and anti-microbial properties, while those in the spring have more of an expectorant quality. (Michael Moore, Medicinal Plants of the Pacific West) Although other herbalists claim that the immune stimulating properties are in the spring root, while the anti-microbial properties are in the fall root. (Gregory Tilford, From Earth to Herbalist) In any case, you can take the tinctures from both the spring and fall and combine them to create an anti-microbial, immune stimulating expectorant.
Since I recently moved this an area that boasts this beautiful plant this will be my first introduction and I am looking forward to getting to know it better.
I know you can also eat the seeds and the leaves can be used as poultices.
Ethical Harvesting: This plant is slow to propagate and large roots can be a couple decades old. So, only harvest in areas that are abundant with this plant, and then only take what you need. This plant is important for erosion control, so when digging the roots look for flat areas from which to harvest. Arrow leaf balsam root is an important food source for large and small mammals so tread carefully and harvest in areas that are abundant in a variety of food sources. (Tilford)
Does anyone else have arrow leaf growing near them? Has anyone tinctured the root before? Eaten it as food? I would love to hear other people's experience.
New Valley - New Blog
I've had such a good time reading all those great herbal blogs out there that I thought I would create my own. I envision this as a place to record my herbal experiences for myself as well as whoever else may be interested in those experiences with the wild earth. Topics will undoubtedly be plants, sustainability, local eating/harvesting, health, nutrition, wildcrafting, structural medicine, and life.
As I write this I hear the bald eagle's flutey voice outside my window. A deer has fallen in the field outside my home, and the carrion birds are flocking in for the feast. Later tonight my husband will skin the hide of this deer which he will braintan for clothes. This summer he will be making an entire set of clothing for his primitive living project with Lynx Shepherd and her partner Rico.
Snow still has some serious patches in this valley, although the hills beyond the front yard are starting to sport some green patches as well. After a winter of delving into herbal books, lurking around forums, and playing with dried herbs, I am eagerly awaiting the new spring growth.
My husband and I moved to this valley nine months ago. We were attracted to this sparsely populated valley for it's abundance of local community. Gardens, raw dairies, and ranches provide all of our nourishment, while local wildlife feeds our souls. This valley is alive with deer, eagles, moose, wolves, and wolverines. The beautiful Methow (pronounced Met-how) river sasheys through this high desert valley and graces us with it's presence right outside our front door.
Our vision is to live in a good way. To us, this means using only the resources available to us in this valley. To live in harmony with the seasons, to take responsibility for our actions, and to be living thriving examples to those who wish to follow. Eventually this will mean an end to this cyber world, but until then I will track our movements closer to the earth.
As I write this I hear the bald eagle's flutey voice outside my window. A deer has fallen in the field outside my home, and the carrion birds are flocking in for the feast. Later tonight my husband will skin the hide of this deer which he will braintan for clothes. This summer he will be making an entire set of clothing for his primitive living project with Lynx Shepherd and her partner Rico.
Snow still has some serious patches in this valley, although the hills beyond the front yard are starting to sport some green patches as well. After a winter of delving into herbal books, lurking around forums, and playing with dried herbs, I am eagerly awaiting the new spring growth.
My husband and I moved to this valley nine months ago. We were attracted to this sparsely populated valley for it's abundance of local community. Gardens, raw dairies, and ranches provide all of our nourishment, while local wildlife feeds our souls. This valley is alive with deer, eagles, moose, wolves, and wolverines. The beautiful Methow (pronounced Met-how) river sasheys through this high desert valley and graces us with it's presence right outside our front door.
Our vision is to live in a good way. To us, this means using only the resources available to us in this valley. To live in harmony with the seasons, to take responsibility for our actions, and to be living thriving examples to those who wish to follow. Eventually this will mean an end to this cyber world, but until then I will track our movements closer to the earth.
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