The recipe for herbal infused oils is simple and fun. There are several methods which can take anywhere from 1-7 days to complete. Which one you choose will depend on your style and preference. I am a believer that your intention when making herbal oils, along with the quality of your herbs, will give you excellent finished results no matter which method you choose.
Read moreHerbal Energetics
I recall the first herbalism class I attended, my teacher began to speak about having a relationship with our herbs. She would say, “Talk to the plants, let the plants talk to you. Develop a friendship with the plants.” I thought she was nuts!
Read moreNatural Remedies for Diverticulitis
Diverticulosis happens when pouches, or diverticula, form in the wall of the colon. If these pouches become infected or inflamed, it is called diverticulitis and it can be very painful. Most of us have diverticulosis, the small pouches that form, but they usually cause no problems for most people. As we age they can become more of an issue with...
Read moreNettles as a Daily Tonic
Nettles are known widely throughout the world and have native cousins in the woods of North America. It grows around septic systems, outhouses, and manure piles demonstrating its utility in dealing with protein waste products. It is one of those plants highest in protein and helps all protein pathways in the body. As an Herbalist I remember hearing “When in doubt, give them nettles.”
Read moreCollecting, Drying, and Storing Medicinal Herbs
As an herbalist, there is nothing more peaceful and soul stirring than the time we spend collecting and harvesting our medicinal herbs. Some of us grow them in our gardens where we are able to commune with them on a daily basis and others enjoy foraging in the wild for our medicinal plant partners. Whichever way you choose to gather your medicinal herbs, it is important to know how to properly dry and store them for future use.
Read moreMullein - A Traditional Herbal Remedy
You may have seen the tall flower stalks and soft furry leaves of the plant called mullein when you have been outdoors in Northern Arizona. This plant invites you to touch its delightfully soft leaves. Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) has been a favorite remedy used by traditional herbalists and Native American cultures for centuries.
Read morePrickly Pear for First Aid
Prickly Pear (Opuntia engelmannii) is a cactus that grows abundantly in almost every area of the American Southwest and there are healing properties in the flowers as well as the pads. When I am out hiking or camping I make sure to locate these plants wherever I go in case of an emergency but the best is when they grow in your own backyard.
Read moreDesperate to Help My Daughter
She was seven years old, a beautiful little girl with the most contagious smile and angelic giggle. She was mischievous; I had to follow her around the house cleaning her crayon artwork off the walls on a daily basis. She was a cuddle bug; hugs were in large supply and she would climb right in my lap like she had all the right in the world to be there at whatever moment she chose. Then she woke one morning and the bright and happy little girl was changed.
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