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BUGLEWEED-Running on Empty, the Hyper Vigilant Heart

1/30/2023

0 Comments

 
Picture
BUGLEWEED
Lycopus virginicus
Family:  Lamiaceae
Running on Empty, the Hyper Vigilant Heart
​

The composition of a gray, rainy summer day in Missouri’s flood plain wetlands draws the eye across an array of murky landscapes:  from saturated marsh land in remnant river channels, home to bitterns, frogs and muskrats, migratory ducks and shorebirds; to where rivers meander and turn in upon themselves forming self-contained oxbow lakes, habitats for snakes, crayfish, and turtles; to partly submerged rain-soaked trees, sullen and silent, standing in darkened riverside swamps; to the bottomland forests latticed with dripping vines, canopied over by cottonwood trees that rise tall above shrubs of pawpaw, spicebush, and wahoo; to softly-mudded prairie and meadowlands, their colorful floral abundance ghost-like in the gloom; and finally, to the seeps and bubbling springs discharging water onto an already inundated flood plain.
The cloudbursts continue: the pace of creeks and streams increases; ponds and lakes overwhelm their edges; and the rivers share their water with the plains.  The aroma of water-swollen alluvial soil hangs like a mist over the land, and Missouri’s moisture-loving wetland plants rise from the mud to face the rain.
From watery reservoirs came life’s curious.  Originally, life was contained underwater.  Living billions of years in underwater colonies, the first photosynthetic organisms, cyanobacteria, utilized sunlight for food and released oxygen as waste.  Water began to fill with breathable oxygen; bubbling up into the air, oxygen began accumulating in the atmosphere.  Over time, the availability of oxygen created opportunity for ever greater diversity of life.   
It was, however, freshwater photosynthetic green algae that spawned the first ancestors of land plants.  When any of their small, wet environments fell dry, the algae, finding itself land locked, struck a bargain to continue to survive.  From certain of the soil’s bacteria, algae took genetic instruction in how to cope with the demands of a terrestrial environment. . . and the plant portal from fresh water to land opened.
​
As a transitional ecosystem, the flood plain wetlands can be seen as an evolutionary step directing plant life from fresh water toward higher, drier parts of earth.  Its various vegetal characteristics result from a cresting and falling water table that, influenced by weather, geology, soil composition, and ground cover, ultimately determines what the wetland plant life can achieve in the form of overall productivity, diversity, aesthetic appeal, and contribution to life on earth. Comparable to rain forests and coral reefs, flood plain wetlands are considered one of the most important types of ecosystems.  A storehouse of nutrients; a place of refuge and fecund home to innumerable species of life, many of which are endangered; and, as part of the main, having a natural impulse to govern flooding, thereby controlling erosion, water supply and water quality, the gifts of flood plain wetlands easily exceed their borders.
Its primeval energy and protean nature give this ecosystem a place of prominence in life’s determined progression.   Human intervention in its ancient business, in the form of poorly regulated agricultural, urban, industrial, and deforestation practices, makes tenuous the life-giving hand that such wild land ordinarily capably extends.  
​
When flooding occurs, the wetlands control excess water through processes of storage and filtration.  The profuse vegetation found on healthy flood plain wetlands can trap and slowly release back to land the excess water, preventing soil erosion as well as erosive damage downstream.  At the same time, the vegetation is capable of filtering nutrients, sediments, and pollutants brought by agricultural, urban, and industrial run-off.  Utilizing the nutrients but allowing the sediments and pollutants to slowly settle out, thick mats of ground cover and wide nets of roots can cleanse the water.
When, however, land upstream has been environmentally mishandled, unleashing, during periods of heavy rain, prohibitive amounts of flood water, the wetlands are unable to regulate the overflow.  The velocity and weight of unchecked, rushing flood water erodes the land, uprooting and killing plants; the unusually large amounts of alluvial sediment deposited upon the soil by unassailable volumes of water block sunlight and prevent photosynthesis.  When flood water can’t be managed, the wetlands begin to inch away from self-preservation, their contribution to life on earth diminishing with each reckless environmental transgression.
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Missouri’s flood plain wetlands deliver a tumult of well-adapted, hardy, and prosperous plant life, speaking to evolutionary energy and eccentricities that have earned its individuals a remarkable degree of success on land often appearing desultorily degraded and muddy with despair, as well as, in some instances, earning them honorable placement in our pharmacopeia as remedies for many human ailments.  Almost half our state’s total plant species are associated with wetlands.  Rich in wildflowers alone, some with common names as evocative as Blue Bottle Gentian, Queen-of-the-Prairie, Yellow Stargrass, Paintbrush, Shooting Star, Lizardtail, Water Pepper, Pickerelweed, and Copper Iris, the wetlands are not only visually stimulating but are busily sound scored by the disparate, compelling notes of droning insects, croaking frogs, singing birds, and waterfowl quacking and honking.  Covering a total of 643,000 wildly alive acres, Missouri flood plain wetlands represent, from riverbanks to uplands, nature’s strength, vibrancy, purpose, and intelligent design.
Onto this scene gallops the energetic and resilient Bugleweed, presenting itself, much like other members of the family of mint from which it descends, with great vigor and prolificacy having the singular ability to survive in even the most degraded parts of the wetlands. This rainy day, we search our flood plain wetlands for this wildflower, botanically named Lycopus virginicus.  Locating the tall, rangy plant, almost indistinguishable in the misty gloom, we realize, upon close inspection, its striking markings.  From its slender, three-foot-tall, square-shaped stem, pairs of oppositely arranged dark green, burgundy, or deep purple leaves fan out gracefully, with serrated edge, to three inches in length.  Likened to the image of a wolf’s paw, it is from the leaves the plant acquires its botanical name:  lykos (wolf) + pous (paw) = Lycopus.
Further, and almost imperceptibly in the gray of the day, tiny whorls of white flowers hug tight the plant’s stem where the leaf pairs branch.  Shaped like little trumpets (or bugles), it is from these flowers the plant’s fruit is born and its common name derives.
Running along riverbanks, leaning heavily in marshes and swamps, ringing the ponds and lakes, casting great swaths of itself over the prairies and meadowlands, established in dampened ditches and thickets, and finding purchase even at the base of gravelly slopes of cliff bluffs, with speed and alacrity, Bugleweed briskly and robustly grows across all of the Missouri flood plains. Its swift reproduction results from its energy-saving method of propagation.  Rather than generate seed, a host plant puts out extensive runners (stems) that stretch horizontally across the land.  Dotted with nodes that yield roots and vertical branches, the runners create a network of new Bugleweed plants that remain connected to the mother plant until they establish themselves through photosynthesis and begin putting out runners of their own.  In short order, Bugleweed weaves itself into the whole of the tapestry of the wetlands, making it a formidable competitor for ground space.  
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Resting at the base of the front of the neck is a butterfly-shaped hormone gland called the thyroid.  Just beneath the Adam’s apple, with its “wings” wrapped one around each side of the windpipe, the thyroid sits prepared to release hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine).  The goal of these hormones is to direct the pace at which the body’s cells work.  In other words, they govern the speed of metabolism.
In the brain, attentive to numerous metabolic signals, the hypothalamus gland will, when the body’s levels of T3 and T4 become insufficient to meet metabolic demands, issue thyroid releasing hormone, which activates the pituitary gland to secrete thyroid stimulating hormone, that in turn, informs the thyroid gland to deliver more T3 and T4.  Once the delivery of these hormones meets the body’s needs, the hypothalamus stops issuance of thyroid releasing hormone, the chain reaction is halted, and metabolic homeostasis is preserved through the elegance of a finely tuned feedback loop.
Healthy regulation by thyroid hormones allows metabolic processes to move at the right pace:  the slowing down or increase of heart rate; the raising or lowering of body temperature; the timing of food’s movement through the digestive system; the quickness with which the body burns calories; and the activity level of muscles, reproductive tissue, and the peripheral and central nervous systems. Masterfully juggling breathing, body thermodynamics, digestion, weight, energy expenditure, muscle strength and control, menstrual cycles and attempts at pregnancy, nerve function, cognition, mood, and sleep, the thyroid balances us, matching function to goal.   
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In Graves’ disease, a condition of autoimmunity has developed.  The immune system produces antibodies that seek out the thyroid stimulating it to release thyroid hormones, irrespective of the body’s need for them.  Levels of T3 and T4 rise to excess, forcing metabolism into a hyper state and creating a condition of hyperthyroidism.  Shortness of breath, high blood pressure, intolerance of heat, moist skin, excessive sweating, persistent hunger, increased frequency of bowel movements, weight loss, fatigue, muscle weakness, menstrual imbalance, difficulty ovulating, hand tremors, memory loss, nervousness, irritability, anxiety, depression, and insomnia are symptomatic of an overactive thyroid. 
The heart, particularly, is affected by the hyperthyroidism of Graves’ disease.  Driven hard by an overstimulated thyroid, the heart begins to outpace itself, becoming acutely alert, overly sensitive, agitated, distracted, overtaxed, and exhausted. Running on empty, the heart, in this hyper vigilant state, begins to dysregulate in the form of tachycardia, palpitation, and dysrhythmia.  
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What better herb to catch up with a racing heart than the spirited Bugleweed?  Onto this scene of cardiac stampede it gallops, running after the speeding heart, reining it in, and turning it back toward healthy homeostasis.  Having already an affinity for the heart, the herb’s most direct indication for use becomes the heart displaying a “want of energy with quickened velocity”.
Bugleweed’s ability to help restore the heart in Graves’ disease hyperthyroidism results from its sedative action as well as from its ability to block the effects of thyroid stimulating hormone on the thyroid’s receptors; to inhibit conversion of T4 to T3 (the more active thyroid hormone); and its ability to obstruct the effects of Graves’ disease antibodies.
The Eclectic physicians found Bugleweed’s ability to sedate to be “most pronounced and most frequently indicated where the vascular action is tumultuous, the velocity of the pulse rapid, with evident want of cardiac power.  It controls excessive vascular excitement, general irritability, and diminishes exalted organic action.  It is best adapted to irritability and irregularity of the heart.” 
Historical acknowledgement of Bugleweed’s benefits for an overextended, exhausted, and erratic heart led naturally to its use in cases of hyperthyroidism.  Today, preliminary studies have yielded up those constituents in the herb that are involved in helping relieve the thyroid of undue and improper stimulation and consequent overproduction of T3.
Able to wrest the heart from the grip of hyper vigilance, Bugleweed not only helps discourage some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism but has found its way into general formulas for heart health. 
Herbs that combine well with Bugleweed in a condition of hyperthyroidism include Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis, which is not only a calming herb for the heart but has been found to have thyroid blocking benefit) and Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca, which is specific to cardiac anxiety in the form of tachycardia, palpitation, dysrhythmia, and high blood pressure).
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Should you put on a pair of boots and begin to slog your way through the Missouri flood plain wetlands to find this herb, you won’t have far to look.  And if the day is sunny and warm, several small creatures will cross your path as you descend upon one of its wild groupings, for feeding on the Bugleweed will be aphids, grasshoppers, katydids, and caterpillars of the hermit sphinx moth, along with the tiny flies of the genus Neolasioptera developing inside galls on the stems and leaves. After the same nectar, beetles will be climbing toward the flowers where many kinds of bees, wasps, and flies swarm in the comfort of the afternoon.
Bugleweed’s place in the flood plain wetlands rests assured.  Sending its progeny running in all directions, it becomes an ever-widening feast for those dependent upon it as a source of food, as well as becomes an expansive tract of vegetation holding great areas of soil tight against erosion.
On this sunny, warm day, if you observe just long enough, one of Bugleweed’s rarer pollinators may light gently upon the flowers.  Don’t take a breath, don’t move, and the butterfly may linger with you.
 
Dosing Suggestions:
Believed best taken in liquid extract form.
The German Commission E suggests a dose of 1 to 2 ml ( ~ 1 to 3 dropperfuls) three times per day.  If combining Bugleweed with Lemon Balm and Motherwort, herbalist Hein Zylstra suggests adding Nettle to the combination and creating a liquid extract of equal parts to be taken in a 5 ml (1-tsp) dose three times per day.
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Safety Considerations:
For mild hyperthyroidism.  Avoid use with moderate to severe hyperthyroidism. 
Avoid use with herbs Ashwagandha and Bladderwrack.
Avoid use if taking hyperthyroid medication; have hypothyroidism or any other endocrine disorders; are using contraceptives or fertility drugs; are pregnant or lactating.
Should not be taken in high amounts.
Should not be stopped suddenly creating a rebound effect that increases thyroid stimulating hormone and hyperthyroid symptoms.
Appropriately, if under medical supervision and using any prescription medicine, please discuss possibility of the use of Bugleweed, as well as any other herbs you wish to use in tandem with it, with your physician(s).
Sources available upon request.
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White Oak Bark

6/29/2022

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White Oak Bark (Quercus alba)
Family:  Fagaceae
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​When asked to recall something special from our childhood, it’s not uncommon to name a favorite climbing tree, one that grew just outside our bedroom window; or in the woods at street’s end where we gleefully shed the day’s routines to engage a wilderness of inviting boughs; or a tree that grew beside the creek that spilled along the farthest reaches of our known childhood territory, and leaning from its branches, thumb and forefinger circling one eye as if a pirate.at sea with a spyglass, we sought knowledge of a larger world.
That favorite tree, whose branches became a stairway to a new and private world, was one in which we became overseer of buds, leaves, flowers, and fruit, their birthing, and their dying; and overseer of all the insects, birds, and squirrels that dwelled and died in the tree’s knotholes and nested branches.  It was a world where we could oversee the land below besides, as it stretched beyond the familiar neighborhood far away into the realm of our imagination.
Thus, was born an intimacy upon the strong shoulders of a tree, an intimacy that would remain alive and strong in the soul of our memory even into the last of our days.
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A tree having good girth and overall solidity is more receptive to the grappling of children’s heels digging into its trunk; massive branches can better withstand being stepped upon and swung from.  When growing in open space without obstruction, where it can root, unfold, and rise to its greatest potential, the white oak tree becomes a remarkable example of a tree made for climbing: from its stocky 4- to 8-foot-wide trunk there grow large, wide-angle branches with a spread equal to or greater than the tree’s height. The lowest branches, parallel and quite close to the ground with a wide lateral extension, are the steps a child takes to his world aloft.
Under full sun, with a tap root deep in moist, well-drained soil, and with absence of abuse of the land in which it’s rooted, a white oak tree reaches an impressive 100 to 150 feet in height with the potential to live 600 or more years. 
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The oak family (Fagaceae) is ecologically striking because of its abundant biomass.  With extraordinary species diversity in America (and 600 species worldwide), Quercus has become one of the most widespread and species-rich tree genera in the northern hemisphere, giving plentifully of breath, beauty, durability, and medicinal wisdom.
In Missouri, the white oak tree is the signal species for a subset of native oaks called the white oak group (represented by over cup, swamp chestnut, chinquapin, dwarf chestnut, and post).  In the wilds of our state, these individual oaks, depending upon habitat need, can be found on slopes and ridges of high, hilly land or deep in valleys and ravines or along streams and rivers and in the recesses of coves.  Having embraced our many diverse habitats, the white oak group successfully distinguishes itself across our state on sandy plains and savannas; in woodlands and forests; on rises and in vales; in the sediment of river delta and the swampy wash of bottomland. And, if tended well and kept from provocation, the white oak tree, governor of the body of Missouri white oaks, can be seen residing majestically for years on our suburban lawns and in our city parks. 
Beyond this, as host to king of the castle or captain of the seas, it succeeds in the fertile depths of a child’s imagination, as well as on the high-rising uplands of his heart. 
Particularly sensitive to disturbance of its immediate environment, resistant to transplanting unless very young, the white oak tree exudes a stillness that makes us, as adults, want to be quietly respectful in its presence.  Captured by the architectural sweep of its shape and size, with tender hands pressed against the constancy of its wood, we’re moved to think upon great and powerful archetypal things such as goodness, nobility, high-mindedness, and wisdom.  Of things of lasting value.  Of things superior and permanent in a vastly inferior and impermanent world.
Its rise is that of a cathedral.  Entering the magnitude of its space, we transcend, allowing the particulars of our lives to fall away in the face of something grander. 
And so, we have climbed those massive limbs and been held aloft.
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The ability of the white oak tree to induce within us a state of its essence is derived from the tree’s literal physical strength, which can elevate and power an individual tree over the course of centuries.  
The white oak tree’s properties of resistance to water damage and disease, the high degree of hardness of its wood conferred by such properties, have driven various woodworking industries to utilize the tree in the creation of mine timber, railroad ties, ships, and beer and wine barrels, products having the most need of sturdy, water-resistant, healthy wood.
If from a tiny acorn, the mighty oak grows, then it’s from tiny tannins that the white oak tree is helped to achieve its considerable durability and length of life. Microscopic, complex, polyphenolic compound molecules that contribute to the quality of wood, tannins are in rich supply in this tree.
​The successful growth of the white oak tree relies upon continuous transformation of new wood (sapwood) growing just beneath its bark into dead wood (heartwood) at its center.  Though dead, heartwood, if the other layers of the tree remain intact, is the reliable supporting pillar that allows the white oak tree to stand and spread high and wide for centuries. Participants in the making of the tree’s long life, the tannins are laid down during this transformation process, concentrating to a great degree in the heartwood.  There, securing to and precipitating out protein from the wood’s cell walls, tannins forge cross-linked, locked-tight, insoluble complexes, effectively building a protective water-proof shield.  Defensive against disease, as well, tannins fasten to and precipitate out protein from exudate (substances that ooze from the pores of diseased tissue) caused by microbial pathogens. Arresting the exudate by forming a film of clotted protein that walls off the microbial cells from fluid intake and outflow, the precipitate shrinks the disease-producing microbes toward obsolescence, helping prevent infection from advancing.
The mechanisms used by tannins are, therefore, those of binding (securing, fastening to), precipitating out (making insoluble), aggregating (drawing together; forming a complex), and drying up (reducing exudate; shrinking) for the purpose of establishing a stable barrier that assists in protection and healing.  In other words, tannins both astringe and help prevent the growth of pathogenic organisms and the diseases they cause.
Found not only in heartwood, tannins that are used medicinally are taken from the tree’s inner bark.  Their ascribed biological activities are most evident when we use a white oak bark aqueous or ethanol extract to shore up lax tissue, dry up leaking fluid, and relieve inflammation, thereby creating a safe space for our healing to occur through the properties of dry astringency and antisepsis.  As a result, the applications of this herb are myriad.
Externally:
Use a white oak bark decoction as a compress to stop bleeding, absorb seepage, and reduce inflammation, such actions helping to form new tissue where skin is wounded.  Use gently on lesser cuts and slight burns that are at risk of infection; avoid use on more grievous, extensive injury with broken skin and raw skin exposure.
A compress of the decoction may be applied to bruises, as well as to varicose veins.
The decoction may be used in a sitz bath to help heal hemorrhoids or introduced directly into bath water to ease itching, irritated skin. 
To tighten gums, firm up teeth in their sockets, and strengthen tooth enamel; for tooth decay and bleeding gums; for infections in the mouth or a sore throat, rinse and gargle with the decoction, holding it in the mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out.  Note:  for these applications, it’s advisable to brush and floss thoroughly beforehand.
For cleansing and removal of excess scalp and hair oil, to clarify the scalp and hair, to make hair shine;  to soothe a dry, itchy, flaky scalp; to smooth coarse hair (particularly gray hair); to strengthen hair and its follicles, use the decoction as a scalp rinse.
Internally:
White Oak Bark may be used when tissue is relaxed with too much fluid such as in conditions of profuse dampness from fever or exhaustive night sweats;  overstretched, porous veins flaccid with pooling blood; excess menstrual flow swelling the uterine lining; or irritated, inflamed tissue presenting infectious discharge.  Whether obstinate, intermittent fever accompanied by copious perspiration; veins weeping with age; menstrual cycles of heavy bleeding and long duration; wet, catarrh-soaked lungs; intestinal mucosal ulcerations; chronic diarrhea; irritated bladder with bloody efflux; or the discharge of sexually-transmitted bacterial infections, the effect of tannins is to wall off a space from offending forces that can further weaken and/or infect, counter immoderate flow of perspiration, blood, or exudate, and create a space high and dry that accommodates resolution. 
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Not considered agents of cure in and of themselves but rather responsible for the temporary treatment of symptoms, the wisdom of tannins’ actions is to stretch and enhance the reach of the body’s immunology.  Raised up from weakness, dispelled of fluid surfeit and/or further infection, tissues begin to build back toward proper support of the body’s functions, now facilitated by the ableness of the body to complete the healing process. 
In other words, the tannins in white oak bark become steps toward a higher level of healing, the force of their actions holding us on the rise.
Dosing Suggestions:
(Important to note is the critical caveat attached to the use of white oak bark.  Owing to the strength of its tannins in their ability to astringe tissue, the use of white oak bark in any form requires strict limitation).
To make a decoction of white oak bark, use a tsp of the bark for every 8 ounces of water:  bring the water to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and introduce the bark.  Cover and let simmer 20 to 30 minutes.
Apart from infrequent use of white oak bark decoction in the bath or as only an occasional scalp and hair rinse, daily application of it topically may be safest within a one - to two-week range of time.
Internally, use is best within two to three days.  Suggested dose of a decoction is one to two cups a day; for a liquid extract, one to two dropperfuls twice daily.
Safety Considerations:
Should skin irritation or gastrointestinal upset develop while using white oak bark, discontinue its use.
Use internally only between meals, as white oak bark may disturb digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Existing liver and kidney conditions prohibit the use of this herb.  Some sources indicate that overuse of white oak bark may even create such conditions.
Avoid white oak bark while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Appropriately, if under medical supervision and using prescription medicine, please discuss possibility of the use of white oak bark, as well as herbs you wish to use in tandem with it, with your physician(s).
Sources available upon request.
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Herbal Tea as a Nurturing Health Ritual

5/25/2022

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Herbal teas, or tisanes, are often confused with the teas which are prepared from the cured leaves of the tea plant, Camellia sinensis. This tea contains caffeine and is often distinguished as green, white, or black tea. 

Herbal teas are single or combinations of dried or fresh plant material. They are the seeds, leaves, barks, and roots of edible and medicinal plants. Unlike Camellia sinensis, they most often do not contain caffeine. 

Herbal tea can have an amazing impact on your health and well-being. This post walks you through the benefits of drinking herbal tea, and gives you tips on how to brew a delicious and nutrient packed cup of herbal tea. Making an herbal tea is the simplest way to use herbs as medicine. We hope to encourage a health bolstering alternative to the plastic bottles and cans of our toxic beverage culture. 

First off, herbal tea is primarily water. Incorporating herbal tea into your diet can help to hydrate the body. Proper hydration helps to regulate body temperature, keeps joints lubricated, prevents infections, delivers nutrients to cells, and keeps organs functioning properly. Being well-hydrated also improves sleep quality, cognition, and mood. 

Herbs are also full of vitamins and minerals. Many have medicinal effect on our physical and mental health. Some of our favorite nutrient dense herbs are Alfalfa Leaf, Nettle Leaf, Bilberries, Rose Hips, and Dandelion Root. 

Red Clover can help detoxify the body and promote clear skin.  Lemon balm is said to provide comfort in depression. Passion flower is sedative and Oats feel like a hug from your mom. Ginger and Fennel have a delicious, spicy flavor and calm an upset stomach. Slippery Elm soothes a sore throat and Mullein is an expectorant. Damiana is touted as an aphrodisiac and Kava Kava relaxes and aids social anxiety almost like a glass of wine. Raspberry Leaf has benefit specifically for women's health and has a pleasant, mild flavor. There are so many herbs to experience.

​Start simple and try brewing a cup of a single herb so you can get to know the flavor and effect. Try one of the Mints, Chamomile, Lemon Verbena, Tulsi, Lemongrass, Sage, Dandelion Root, or Elder Berries, these herbs have delicious flavor and are great herbs to start with. 

Brewing Tea: 
In our experience herbal preparations are simple once you make them a few times. There are some important factors to consider if you want to make a perfect cup of tea, but don't get too caught up in the details. 

Factors for the Perfect Cup of Herbal Tea
Your water needs to be hot.
You need to cover your tea while it steeps.
You need to let it steep for the proper amount of time. 

Use the basic guidelines and proportions listed below for brewing a perfect cup of tea every time. 
Basic steps for making your own herbal tea:
Decoction
Tea from tough parts of plants like roots, bark, dried seeds, dried berries: 
Use 1 tsp. herb for every cup water, 
1.) Simmer herbs for 20-25 minutes or for an even stronger cup of tea cover and let sit (infuse) several hours or overnight. 

2.) Strain the tea through a mesh strainer, cheesecloth or colander

3.) Pour into a container of storage or mug: stainless steel, ceramic and glass are preferable. Glass mason jars are a great option for storage
Sweeten your tea if you’d like with the sweetener of your choice. After you get used to drinking tea regularly you may find that you don’t even need a sweetener in your tea. 

Infusion
Tea from tender parts of plants like leaves and flowers:
Use 1 heaping tsp. for every cup water.
1.) Pour boiling water over the herbs measured into a mug, pot or jar

2.) Place a lid on the pot, mug or jar and let steep 15 - 20 minutes or overnight.

3.) Strain the tea through a mesh strainer, cheesecloth or colander

4.) Pour into a container of storage or mug: stainless steel, ceramic and glass are preferable. Glass mason jars are a great option for storage
Sweeten your tea if you’d like with the sweetener of your choice. 

Tea from powdered herb (any part of the plant):
½ tsp powder mixed in a mug with small amount of boiling water first to smooth out all lumps.
Next add water to fill cup, stir again and tea is ready to drink as soon as it’s cool enough. No need to infuse any longer. Stir as you drink to ingest the powder or let powder settle to bottom and avoid it.

​Solar Infusion
In the summer our favorite method of brewing Herbal Tea is by Solar Infusion or Sun tea. 
Use 1 tsp. herb for every cup water. 
1 ) Place herb in a clear glass jar and over with a lid. 

2) Set in Sun for 2-6 hours
I like to visit it every so often throughout the day to make sure the jar is still in full sun. 
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3.) Strain the tea through a mesh strainer, cheesecloth or colander

4.) Pour into a container of storage or mug: stainless steel, ceramic and glass are preferable. Glass mason jars are a great option for storage
Sweeten your tea if you’d like with the sweetener of your choice. 

​​A pot of tea can be refrigerated for about five days after the herbs are strained out.
The tea may then be enjoyed chilled, at room temperature or gently warmed up
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Incorporating herbal tea into your day can add nutrients to your diet, help to keep you hydrated, and even add medicinal benefit according to what you may need personally to help foster vibrant health and well being. 

​Cheers! 


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Lion's Mane Mushroom

3/29/2022

2 Comments

 

LION’S MANE MUSHROOM(Hericium erinaceus)
Family:  Hericiaceae

                      MAKING FRUITFUL CONNECTIONS


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​In a North American old-growth forest, on temperate and relatively dry Fall days, around noon as temperatures are rising and humidity levels dropping, the Lion’s Mane mushroom sporulates, producing small white spores that are released in the billions into the soft breezes.  Wind-born, they will seek purchase on the dead wood of trees:  a fallen branch or felled tree, a stump, even a tree still standing but wounded or dying.  (Should an upright wounded or dying tree become a Lion’s Mane host, the mushroom tends not to grow near ground level but higher up the trunk.  If foraging, look skyward among the standing trees).
Undiminished by hand of man and unmarred by calamitous natural disaster, an old-growth forest’s generations build one upon the other, over time tightening the habitat into a high-functioning ecosystem.  Underground, an ever-expanding network of mushroom root systems, the reason for the forest’s achievement, stabilizes and enriches the soil, drawing together the forest’s inhabitants in a communication of resources (nutritional and informational) for their growth, protection, and survival
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Aboveground, cycling visibly into their maturity and then into their dying and death, the deadwood trees, their broken limbs and fallen bodies scattered upon the forest floor, appear to have reached their end.  Looking like no more than coarse, broken, woody debris, in their silent repose they’re active still in turning the forest’s wheel of life by helping prevent erosion, retain water, provide soil with large quantities of organic and mineral input, and by becoming habitat for plants, animals, and fungi.  In company with certain of these deadwood trees is the Lion’s Mane mushroom whose need for them helps breathe back into them an ableness to keep giving to the forest’s broadening success. ​

On territory as virgin and wealthy as an old-growth forest, Lion’s Mane is in the enviable position of fully executing its purpose in life as well as maintaining its lineage. Although, viewed from the standpoint of forestry management, what clutters the forest floor requires clearing (a means to prevent pest infestation, a need for fuel, or for purpose of beautification), as long as deadwood remains undisturbed, the Lion’s Mane mushroom is assured host specificity and the forest’s survival is made certain.  Following trails of deciduous, hardwood, broadleaf trees such as oak, maple, walnut, sycamore, beech, and birch, Lion’s Mane finds the dead and beleaguered among them, securing its future.
Once on its host and under suitable conditions, a Lion’s Mane spore germinates into a mycelium, the root system of the mushroom, the long, slender, filamentous strands of which snake down into the host.  There, the strands (hyphae) release enzymes that break down the deadwood into soluble nutrients, amplifying the wood as a nutritive resource and enlarging its capacity to nourish not only the mycelium but surrounding plants and trees, for growing past its host and entering into the forest’s subterranean world, the mycelial strands stretch and network with the roots of other organisms where an exchange of nutrients occurs.  Lion’s Mane is a saprophytic fungus, one that lives on dead or dying organic matter and revitalizes it for the living. The spore’s chosen deadwood, seemingly at the end of life, vigorously re-enters it.
The mycelial network of Lion’s Mane, strung wide beneath the forest floor,  creates a stable architecture for the forest’s generations.  Without continuing presence of deadwood and saprophytic fungi such as Lion’s Mane, the quality of an old-growth forest’s land and vegetation will decline, and there, seed, without promise to germinate, grow, and survive, will find no place.
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A fruiting body, the part of the Lion’s Mane mushroom that is visible on the surface of the deadwood, doesn’t form unless two compatible mycelia join.  Such united mycelia birth a distinctively formidable-looking mushroom, one bearing no resemblance to a Disney toadstool. Referred to also as Bearded Tooth, Old Man’s Beard, Pom-Pom Blanc, Sheep’s Head, Pig’s Head, Monkey’s Head, and Tree Hedgehog, the Lion’s Mane fruiting body is a two- to fifteen-inch-wide, irregularly-shaped bulbous protrusion. Covering it completely is a three- to ten-inch-long mass of downward-cascading white teeth. Growing up to two inches in length, the teeth suggest spines, tendrils, icicles, needles – or the mane of a lion.  Considered a member of the tooth fungus group, it is from each one of these teeth that Lion’s Mane releases its spores.
And so it goes . . .

Foraging in Missouri for the wild, untamed Lion’s Mane is not without challenge.  The mushroom is solitary.  The chance of finding it is even less if one treks the forest only looking down at fallen logs.  Remembering to look up, the forager may be rewarded by the sight of one on the trunk of a still-standing tree, hopefully well within reach.  Worth the effort, Lion’s Mane, when harvested still white in color, is a nutritious and appetizing addition to the diet.  Although it may be eaten raw, baking, roasting, frying, or sautéing it delivers a more palatable version.  It’s rich in protein with a mild flavor pleasantly reminiscent of scallops, crab, or lobster.  Its meaty texture satisfies the substitute-seeking vegan.  Opening to other flavors, the mushroom becomes congenial companion to many different foods.  Consider pairing it with apples and lemons; onions, garlic, and ginger; cashews and pine nuts; pesto; beef and poultry; even a crisp, dry, white wine. Sauté it in butter and olive oil, flavor it with spices, and add it to a fresh garden salad of dark leafy greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and radishes.  Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds and a creamy vinaigrette.
Experiment.
Many websites describe how to locate and identify Lion’s Mane in the wild, how to clean it properly in advance of cooking, and the different ways to create it as entrée or side.
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Aging creates change, not just in how we navigate a steep flight of stairs or digest a large Thanksgiving dinner, but in how we process information and conduct an independent life.  The brain, along with our muscles, joints, and reserve of digestive enzymes, is on a downward trajectory, but not necessarily with disease and debility the end result.  The changes aging brings to the brain, rather than  drastic, can be subtle, indicative only of a slight slowing in processing speed.
In the central nervous system, the success of the brain’s behavior is largely owed to a healthy number of healthy-functioning neurons (nerve cells).  Outgrowths of these neurons (dendrites and axons), in lightning speed, reach for, process, store, and send information. Connecting in response to stimuli, networks of neurons structurally and functionally reorganize the brain to accommodate the learning of new things and resilient adaptation to change.  Such flexibility, or plasticity, keeping us engaged in the world, is greater when neurons are protected from disease, damage, and the downward tug of aging.  Lighting the brain like a bloom of fireworks, the electrical snap of large numbers of healthy, active neurons widens our frontiers of challenge and dominion.  For along those slender, finely-branching outgrowths of neurons, mastery of our one life and the world around it is conducted.
Subject of research, certain mushrooms have gained popularity in pill, tea, or liquid extract form as medicinal applications.  One of these, the Lion’s Mane mushroom is best known as having an affinity for the central nervous system (particularly the aging central nervous system), including in instances of anxiety and depression, cognitive decline, neurodegenerative disease such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, stroke and other traumatic brain injuries, Multiple Sclerosis, and nerve damage.  Although not necessarily does the brain have to be severely compromised to benefit from Lion’s Mane, for the mushroom helps uphold our focus, comprehension, memory, and recall during times of stress, distraction, and overwork.  And when used prophylactically, Lion’s Mane helps maintain a healthy, happy population of neurons.
Certain compounds in Lion’s Mane promote the biosynthesis and expression of Nerve Growth Factor.  In the brain, Nerve Growth Factor supports growth, differentiation, repair, regeneration, and overall protection of neurons, steps necessary in opposing central nervous system deterioration.  Easily crossing the blood/brain barrier due to their low molecular weight, the erinacine compounds from Lion’s Mane mycelium and the hericenone compounds from its fruiting body, helping to increase the brain’s level of Nerve Growth Factor, stimulate production of dendrite and axon outgrowths, those growth projections from neurons that, in the beginning, created our intricately-functioning neuronal architecture and that otherwise, throughout life, are the ability of our neurons to address their environmental demands, keeping us plugged in.
The mature central nervous system is not without its challenges, not the least of which is age-related reduction in the brain’s level of Nerve Growth Factor.  Revitalizing the brain through care of its neurons, increasing their connections  and communicative power, the application of Lion’s Mane is to help enrich and stimulate the ground upon which our higher functions grow, as well as offer support when that ground is compromised.
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Seemingly as numerous as its cascading teeth, the Lion’s Mane mushroom is the source of many health-giving properties.  Ingested, the strength of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulating chemicals is borne out through a range of support.  Its reach in the body is thorough, for it is reported to be:
antibiotic
anticarcinogenic (anti-cancer)
antidiabetic
antifatigue
antihypertensive (anti-high blood pressure)
antihyperlipidemic (anti-high levels of fat in the blood)
ant senescent (anti-aging)
cardioprotective (protective of the heart)
hepatoprotective (protective of the liver)
nephroprotective (protective of the kidneys)
and neuroprotective (protective of the central nervous system).
Biodiversity is key to understanding Lion’s Mane as an application.  Its many nutrient and medicinal compounds address diverse instances of compromised human health, offering nourishment and remedy to help generate us anew.  And with improved health, we’re open once again to advancing through life.
Spanning the dark spaces beneath and beyond their hosts, the mycelial networks of Lion’s Mane, and mushrooms like it, are the silent, unseen underworld that create a livable environment on earth.  Along their persistent threads, dead and dying wood help roll forward the wheel of evolution. Death is linked back to life with an energy that grows more powerful as it branches and diversifies. High achievement marks the old-growth forests.  Our disturbance of such citadels of knowledge and experience is always to our detriment and comes in the form of those who would log the trees, turn up the soil, and lay down asphalt or concrete, disrupting the underground networks, breaking the chains, and laying waste, not only to the source of the world’s diversity, but to hope for the planet’s and our existence.
Go lightly through the forest on your next visit, for in each step’s imprint, there are myriad networks of mycelium, countless galaxies of star stuff, the elements that make life, hundreds of miles of glittering connection and re-connection that forge ever-enlightened existence.
All that under one shoe.
If we take from the forest the edible Lion’s Mane mushroom, we own the responsibility of measuring its use with focused care, for what the mushroom gave the forest, it now gives you.
 
Dosing Suggestions:
Used as a functional food (as the main meal or an addition to it) or as a nutraceutical (pill, tea, or liquid extract), Lion’s Mane mushroom seems to deliver its bioactive compounds in relative safety.  Lacking studies of potential side effects in humans, animal studies indicate the mushroom and its extracts are well tolerated even at high doses.  Lion’s Mane, when eaten, is probably best enjoyed and utilized combined with other highly nutritious foods.  If using Lion’s Mane in nutraceutical form, follow the package directions.
 
STL Herbs and Aromatic’s Lion’s Mane Mushroom liquid extract is now available.  Of extraordinary benefit by itself, that benefit may be complemented by the use of apoptogenic, nervine, and nootropic herbs, furthering the promising effects Lion’s Mane has in supporting varying conditions of disorder and disease.  Some examples:
For anti-aging, combine the mushroom with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, American or Asian Ginseng, Eleuthero, Tulsi, Reishi, Rhodiola, Schizandra.

For anxiety, combine the mushroom with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha and Tulsi; with nervine herbs such as Blue Vervain, Hawthorn, Linden,  Oatstraw, Motherwort, Passion flower, Scullcap.

For depression, combine the mushroom with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Tulsi, Rhodiola; with nervines such as Lemon Balm and St. John’s Wort.

For brain function, combine the mushroom with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, American or Asian Ginseng, Eleuthero, Tulsi,  Rhodiola, Schizandra.

For cancer, combine the mushroom with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, American or Asian Ginseng, Eleuthero, Holy Basil, Reishi, Rhodiola, Schizandra.

For diabetes, combine the mushroom with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, American or Asian Ginseng, Eleuthero, Tulsi.

For fatigue, combine the mushroom with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, American or Asian Ginseng, Eleuthero, Tulsi, Rhodiola, Schizandra

For immunity, combine the mushroom with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, American or Asian Ginseng, Tulsi, Reishi, Rhodiola, Schizandra.

Adaptogens are extremely versatile and diverse in their range of support.
Nootropics are herbs that “enhance memory, slow or prevent the onset of age- or dementia-related cognitive decline, reduce oxidative or ischemic damage to the brain, and improve mood.”
Consider combining the mushroom with any or all of the following herbs: Bacopa, Ginkgo, Gotu Kola, Lavender, and Rosemary.


STL Herbs and Aromatics offers several liquid extract combinations that you may wish to pair with the mushroom:
Maria's Tonic Liquid Extract Combination (the Essiac formula)
Blood Sugar Balance
Blood Pressure Support
Liver Detox
Kidney and Bladder Support
Brain Support
Nervine Tonic
Immune Support
Inflammation Response
 
Safety Considerations:
An allergy to mushrooms is prohibitive.
Appropriately, if under medical supervision and using prescription medicine, please discuss possibility of the use of Lion’s Mane mushroom, as well as herbs you wish to use in tandem with it, with your physician(s).
 
Sources available upon request
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Blue Vervain

2/2/2022

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BLUE VERVAIN
(Verbena hastata)
Family:  Verbenaceae
Blue Vervain has a cousin known as European Vervain (Verbena officinalis).  In ancient times on ancient lands, magick, the sacred, and ritual were associated with European Vervain, creating use for it in ceremonies of  initiation, divination, consecration, cleansing, protection, and sacrifice.  And so, it was gathered by some under the Dog Star on moonless nights; put in wine to contact the dead; arched above the Fire of Beltane for the safety of livestock and at Summer Solstice, cast upon the growing fields; sprinkled in homes against lightning, thieves, and demons; and taken by soldiers into battle.  It graced altars to Venus and Diana; was dedicated to Isis, goddess of birth; and girdled the necks of those led to sacrifice.
Heavy upon European Vervain was laid supernatural power, sacredness, and high accord.  This is not to say it wasn’t used medicinally; European Vervain and Blue Vervain both have well-known remedial applications and are, for the most part, interchangeable in their medicinal uses.  Although Blue Vervain has also found implementation in arcane practices, it seems to lack the richly symbolic history of European Vervain as crafted by pagans, witches, and priests who, faraway in the remote mists of time, celebrated it as a tool to control the unpredictabilities of their worlds.
Found in the United States, Blue Vervain grows robustly over most of it.  Here, the record of its use begins with the Native Americans, widens through those who later came to settle, and, as testament to its virtues, still stands today. Blue Vervain may or may not have supernatural power yet is nonetheless capable of granting its user the good fortune of relief from a great number of complaints, some of a notably modern description.
​

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Opening the door on a full-sun Summer’s day in Missouri’s river-crossed wild areas, one feels the waves of wet heat rolling lazy and heavy upon the river waters, easing out over bottomlands and beyond.  Where the rivers cut deep into the land, where their edges are shored up by a bramble of roots tying together generations of soil deposits, a profound fertility exists.  Following trails of spring water, streams, and creeks to these riverbanks are flowers:  wild and heady in their various presentations of form, size, and color, blossoming through the haze, tall and erect even as Summer bears down hard upon them.  These wildflowers flourish along the edges of moving water, or, for that matter, wherever land is moist, the successful quenching of their thirst a measure of the beauty of their blooms.  Stepping through wet meadow, marsh, or slough; traversing watery bottomland or probing a riverbank, one draws near to the flowers, whose colors are made vivid by close proximity:  Rose Turtlehead, Blue Cardinal, Bur Marigold, and Swamp Milkweed rise up from the mud and muck, some as high as 6 to 8 feet, signaling their ripeness through blooms in shades of rose, blue, violet, purple, yellow, and pink.  The land is pleased; the sky and water are pleased; beetles, flies, bumblebees, and songbirds are pleased; the cottontail rabbit is pleased; larvae, caterpillars, moths, and butterflies – all are pleased for these are the gifts of the flowers, unto themselves, their land, and its inhabitants:  leaves, nectar, pollen, and seeds used to feed and recycle their habitat, preserving its continuity and marking it as equal to sacred space.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with these flowers in the time of efflorescence and attraction is Blue Vervain, known also as Swamp Vervain, tall as 6 feet and bearing, on each of its pencil-thin spikes, a ring of tiny blue-purple flowers.  
The competency these wildflowers bring to the life cycle on their fertile wetlands is noted in their generosity born of need and their strength won through long survival.  They expertly extend their power to support life beyond their own, securing their place in the natural scheme of things, such as those things exist on the worn riverbanks, muddy bottomlands, and softly sinking swamps of Missouri.
​
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The leaves and flowers of Blue Vervain bring to the teacup or tincture bottle qualities reminiscent of the plant’s capacity in the wild for generosity and strength. Through the herb’s multiple applications, its giving nature is realized; and because it can address a mosaic of symptoms particular to complex chronic conditions as if it were a whole formula, its force as a simple medicine becomes known.
The symptoms that attract Blue Vervain spring forth from general tension due to nervous weakness and from poor performance of the liver and kidneys as a result of toxic buildup.  When left untreated, tension and toxicity can reach chronic levels producing an array of symptoms that Blue Vervain has the competency to manage.  Its nervine/relaxant quality (eases nervous tension) is the template for many of its applications as well as its role as a diaphoretic (induces sweating and stimulates detoxification).
In acute cases of viral or bacterial respiratory infection (for example, cold, flu, pneumonia, tonsillitis, sinusitis), where skin is hot and dry and there’s fever but no chills, Blue Vervain, through diaphoresis, effectively steers the fever away from becoming too high by relaxing and dilating blood vessels close to the skin’s surface and easing the skin’s pores open to the flow of sweat and fever heat. Importantly, fever is then regulated and, because skin is a pathway of elimination, toxic debris from the infection is carried off by the sweat.  An expectorant and antispasmodic as well, Blue Vervain can be applied to the congestion and spasmodic coughing that can accompany respiratory infection.
Yet, it’s in chronic conditions that Blue Vervain is more often used, particularly those resulting from nervous tension.  Flowing like water into our systems and organs, nerves, when tensed adversely by long periods of stress, can contribute to constriction and pain as well as imbalance and compromised function in many areas of the body.  Those whose health and vitality are constrained by extended stress and unattended nervous tension, who are over-driven and tight-necked, are subject to a constellation of symptoms from which may emerge one or more of the following:
restlessness, irritability, anger, anxiety, depression, insomnia, exhaustion;
drug addiction;
nerve pain, spasms, tics, seizures, dizziness, tinnitus, headache, migraine;
indigestion, IBS;
spasmodic dysmenorrhea (painful, cramping menstruation);
and/or asthmatic breathing with tightness of the chest.
 
Among its myriad qualities, Blue Vervain not only aids in relaxing tension, but is considered to be:
an analgesic (relieves pain), anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic;
a bitter (improves digestion) and hepatic (promotes function of the liver);
a hormone balancer (helps with menstrual irregularities, PMS, and endometriosis) and uterine stimulant (helps with stalled labor);
a diuretic (improves eliminatory flow from the kidneys, assisting with urinary tract infections, stones [limited use only], and gout);
a lymphatic (moves the lymph) and detoxicant (detoxifies through sweating and through support of the liver and kidneys);
an antimicrobial (has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects);
and an astringent (causes contraction of tissues and may help with chronic gingivitis).
 
Especially when used as an anxiolytic (to defend against the unpredictabilities of our world), Blue Vervain’s cooling, relaxing, and healing effects upon the nerves help calm worry and fear, offering even an uplift of spirit.  As has been written, one “may have a reaction [to Blue Vervain] that manifests as a full body sigh of relief.”
Overall, Blue Vervain is a restorative tonic. As one herbalist writes, it is “a low intensity, wide spectrum treatment of chronic weakness and deficiency [and] excels at multi-faceted management of complex chronic conditions.”  As a gentle restructuring remedial, Blue Vervain reaches into our places of frailty and lack, resolving long-standing tension and toxicity and the symptoms they produce, thus restoring our vitality.  Its best use is daily for long periods of time, which yields little to no provocation of side effects.
Well-qualified on its own, it’s certainly not ill-advised to combine Blue Vervain with other herbs that complement its actions.
​
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Champion of its natural habitat, certifier of blooming continuity, Blue Vervain, when applied to ourselves, casts its growing seeds over our depleted fields and raises us to both health and hope.  Surely, this is a kind of magic.
 ​


Dosing Suggestions: 
Although a very bitter tea, one cup of a weak infusion may be used up to three times a day for its nervine/relaxant benefit.  Otherwise, as  a liquid extract, one to two dropperfuls up to four time a day.  One cup of infusion, as needed, is good use of Blue Vervain as a means to induce sweating during fever.
Safety Considerations: 
Because it’s a uterine stimulant, Blue Vervain is contraindicated in pregnancy.  Avoid use if iron-deficient (Blue Vervain reduces the absorption of iron).  Avoid use if taking blood-thinning medication (Blue Vervain is a source of vitamin K which helps thicken blood).  Avoid use if taking blood pressure medication (Blue Vervain has a relaxing effect on blood vessels).  Avoid use if undergoing hormone therapy (Blue Vervain regulates estrogen and progesterone receptor binding). Extremely large doses are emetic (causing nausea and vomiting).
Side effects tend to be rare but can include gastrointestinal upset and possible development of a rash.
Appropriately, if under medical supervision and using prescription medicine, please discuss possibility of the use of this herbal medicinal with your physician(s).
​
Sources:
Peter Holmes, The Energetics of Western Herbs, Volume I, Fourth Edition, Snow Lotus Press, Inc, 2007
https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=veha2
https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_veha2.pdf
https://www.americanmeadows.com/perennials/unique-perennials/blue-vervain-verbena-hastata
https://www.ecelecticschoolofherbalmedicine.com/blue-vervain/
https://www.herbrally.com/monographs/blue-vervain
https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=z370
https://www.euphoricherbals.com/blogs/news/benefits-of-blue-vervain-a-versatile-native-herb
https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/natural-health-guide/benefits/vervain
http://www.afrikanheritage.com/blue-vervain/
https://www.sweetwillowwellness.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-blue-vervain/
https://sweettntmagazine.com/vervain-blue-verbena-23-common-uses-benefits/
​
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Yerba Mate

11/15/2021

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​                  YERBA MATE

                                          (Ilex paraguariensis)
                                                                      said to give
                “the strength of coffee, the health benefits of tea, and the joy of chocolate”


We are in the hills and mountains of the Atlantic Rainforest in east central South America: northeastern to southern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, northern Argentina, and parts of Uruguay. Below, the Parana River courses through a basin of sedimentary rock. Written on the river’s currents is the timelessness of rain and sand, as heavy storms and frequent rainfalls have, for millions of years, driven sediment down the mountains and hills into the river, strengthening the basin and mineralizing the land. Dense populations of plants and animals, through nutrients released from their decomposition, have continuously envigorated the forest’s soil.

Over eons, heat, humidity, rain, sediment, and decay have assisted in bringing an exceptionally geologically sound area of the South American continent to peak rainforest fruition. Rock solid and intensely fertile, the Atlantic Rainforest has created, with vast imagination, a populous and profusely diverse biome. From the banks of the river to the heights of the forest grows a wildly exotic flora and fauna thick with plants, birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals.

Standing in the forest, amidst its wide-ranging colors shimmering and subtle, where wing is on the rise and blooms stretch, where the hawk’s cry pierces the song of the bird, and monkeys swing high above the jaguar, deep in the chatter and buzz and noiseless slither, the industry and drive of life is greatly upon us. The predator moves with precision against its prey, and everywhere is the scent of damp, death, and procreation.

It is here, reaching 50 to 100 feet up from the forest floor and living for as long as 100 years, near water and under cover of forest canopy, in shade gently filtered by sunlight, the Ilex paraguariensis tree grows. We have found the source of Yerba Mate.

The Ilex paraguariensis tree is in the Holly family (Aquifoliaceae) of shrubs and trees. Its leathery leaves, glossy green with bright red berries, are reminiscent of Christmas Holly; yet rather than a holiday decoration, these leaves are the origin of a long-consumed, ritual-sustaining, health-supporting beverage that once was known only by indigenous South American tribes. Used to support health, tone energy, and draw together community members, a reverence of this rainforest tree was born. Over the centuries, through foreign exploration, intervention, and subsequent trading, Yerba Mate’s availability widened beyond the Atlantic Rainforest, crossed the seas, and in the not too distant past, extended to the shelves of North America’s herb shops.

Regrettably, the Yerba Mate tree, in the wild, is today an endangered species as much of the Atlantic Rainforest has been destroyed. Fragments are left of what was once a widespread, flourishing ecosystem that gave sustenance not only to its inhabitants; but by absorbing great quantities of carbon dioxide, regularly adding to the water cycle, and nurturing a considerable portion of the world’s wildlife, gave sustenance to the planet.

Some gathering of Yerba Mate is directly from the wild where few cultivation practices are employed and harvesting is manually done. In the remaining forests, interplanting trees and removing dead ones assist in densifying the tree’s population. However, to meet the world’s expanding demand for Yerba Mate, and turn a profit, plantations have been created by first stripping and destroying portions of the rainforest, then utilizing modern cultivation techniques to rapidly create a marketable yield. Rather, the intention to steward and harvest the tree in the wild as well as regenerate the soil in deforested areas is the ideal, for as a tree uniquely attached to its source, the survival of Yerba Mate is best achieved where it always has been, on its undisturbed native land. On long-lived land remarkably stable, stimulating, and nourishing, in a rainforest thrumming with variety and vigor, the success of all is the strength of the forest, and the forest’s strength is to be found in the one.

Yerba Mate leaves are made into tea, and that tea gives strength.

Harvested, held to an open fire, then air-dried, the resulting leaves are green with a mild smokey flavor. A drink may be made with hot or cold water, and the Yerba Mate may be combined with other herbs for taste or for additional medicinal value. Yerba Mate may be consumed in liquid extract form, as well.

The chemical composition of the leaf describes the story of Yerba Mate’s gifts toward good health, supplying us the reasons for its centuries’ old popular consumption. Not only is Yerba Mate bountiful in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, but studies reveal its plant compounds help improve immunity and reduce the possibility of developing neurological and cardiovascular diseases and cancer; help promote diuresis, control appetite, and burn fat; enable proper digestion and cleansing and movement of the bowels; support better weight management and more secure control of diabetes; and perhaps most notably and noticeably, Yerba Mate offers exhilarating relief from fatigue.

Yerba Mate forwards to us its large capacity for nourishment, its encouragement of efficient metabolic function and extensive support against cellular damage, inflammation, and chronic disease, as well as its ability to shake us from our doldrums, elevating our spirit and quickening the power of our body and mind. All this born of a rootedness in one of our planet’s most magnificent examples of life in the extreme, the Atlantic Rainforest. All this in a cup of tea or a dropperful.

Dosing Suggestions: Two cups of tea or 1 to 2 dropperfuls daily. Yerba Mate contains stimulating xanthines, including caffeine. Interestingly, as a tonic herb, the stimulation Yerba Mate gives is smooth and even; however, because energy levels are raised, best to dose early in the day.

The longer Yerba Mate leaves steep in hot water, the more bitter will be the brew. Consider adding Peppermint leaf or Lemongrass to enhance flavor: add lemon juice or honey to remove any bitterness and milk to reduce the temperature.

To make a cold brew, place a tablespoon of Yerba Mate leaves in an 8-ounce glass jar, fill with water, cover, and place in the refrigerator overnight. Strain in the morning. Add orange, lemon, lime, or pineapple juice. Stir well.

The high antioxidant values in Yerba Mate are higher than those in Green Tea. Combining Yerba Mate with Green Tea and Rooibos creates an incredibly high potency antioxidant drink. To sweeten, add honey.

In a study, Yerba Mate, in combination with Guarana and Damiana, helped prolong gastric emptying, making subjects feel fuller longer and reducing their weight.

​Safety Considerations: Excessive consumption of Yerba Mate (in the form of hot tea) has been reported to increase the risk of certain cancers. No increased risk has been associated with the warm or cold tea. Yerba Mate may potentiate monoamine oxidase inhibitor medication. Appropriately, if pregnant or lactating, or under medical supervision and using prescription medicine, please discuss possibility of the use of this herbal medicinal with your physician(s
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Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yerba_mate
https://rain-tree.com/yerbamate.htm https://www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbalgram/issues/129/table-ofcontents/hg129-herbprofile-yerba/
http://guayaki.com/restoring-the-ecology-and-culture-of-the-atlanticforest-with-yerba-mate/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-andpharmaceutical-science/ilex-paraguariensis
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2018/6849317/
​https://www.targui.com/en/discover/history/ilex-paraguariensis-all-you-needto-know-about-
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Skunk Cabbage Root

9/15/2021

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​SKUNK CABBAGE
(Ictodes foetidus)
 
With the common name Skunk Cabbage, who would conceive of this plant holding stature in an ancient botanical family (Araceae) known for some of the most striking plant forms found in new and old-world tropical regions.  Side by side with such exotically named specimens as Dragon Lily, Flamingo Flower, Devil’s Tongue, and Golden Pothos, Skunk Cabbage takes its position in this family of plants, within the genus Arum, as one of its few species to dwell in a less than tropical climate such as that of the northeastern United States.
Its range sweeps eastward from northern Ontario and Minnesota across chilly latitudes to the eastern edge of Canada and the United States dropping south only as far as Tennessee and North Carolina.  Known as eastern Skunk Cabbage, it’s found in old, undisturbed wetlands.  Marshes, swamps, bogs, and the banks of streams and rivers are its home for the ability to keep its roots always wet is the key to its survival. 
One of the strengths of this plant lies in its substantial foot-long, 3 to 6-inch-wide root, or rhizome.  Expanding and contracting, the rhizome protectively pulls the blooming plant down closer to ground surface, snugly securing it in the wet soil, and with its extensive attached system of long rootlets, assures an upward climb of adequate water to the plant.
It is in late winter, early spring, that Skunk Cabbage begins its 1 to 3-foot aboveground journey.  Breaking through soil likely still hardened by freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, a thick, colorfully hooded stalk with tiny petal-less flowers at its tip starts its surge skyward.  A process of thermogenesis allows the plant to create heat inside the hood and around the flowers contributing to rapid growth and adding many degrees of warmth to the surrounding air, enough to melt away the remains of winter around its base and at the same time attract early pollinators to its comforting warmth and to its odor made more diffuse by the remarkable degree of heat.
Later in spring, as the flowered stalk dies back, a leaf bud near the base of the plant shoots up and out toward a maximum height of 2 feet, unfurling broad leaves one or more feet wide and as far as 3 to 4 feet outward.
Above ground, the eastern Skunk Cabbage is a watery, fluid plant, its parts spongy and soft.  It grows rapidly and dies soon, gone from the wetland scene before summer’s end.  Having dissolved gently back into the watery earth and into its obstinate, long-enduring root system, there Skunk Cabbage will brood in the long darkness of cool mud, in its memory of eons of existence, and in its heroic resolve to rise again.  An individual plant can live up to 1,000 years.
Out in wetlands among blooming Skunk Cabbage, softly bruise any part of the plant to know of its fetid odor likened to rotting meat as well as skunk and onion.  It draws pollinators attracted to carrion.  And if you should perhaps not like to be reminded of cabbage, avoid the ocean of cabbage-like green leaves surrounding Skunk Cabbage in the wild.  But know of its value to its environment.  In wetlands, plants would find it difficult to root and sustain themselves were it not for the support given such soil by Skunk Cabbage’s incredibly stabilizing root system.
The expanding, contracting action of the root of Skunk Cabbage powers its reach through cold, heavy mud as well as its strenuous pull of moisture upward.  Here we can liken Skunk Cabbage’s behavior in the wild to that of its behavior in our lungs during respiratory affliction.
The thoroughly dried, and not malodorous, root made into a safely medicinal liquid extract provides an exerting expectorant action in lungs troubled by lingering, thick, deep-seated mucus.  Decongesting and strongly anti-spasmodic as well as comfortingly supportive of the nervous system, Skunk Cabbage root stabilizes affected lungs by helping remove old, stuck mucus, relieve irritation and cough, relax airways, and ease breathing.  Of particular application is Skunk Cabbage root’s use in conditions of asthma.  The strength of asthma’s discomfort is met by the strength of this root. 
And so it is, that a plant with the off-putting name of Skunk Cabbage holds its own among some of the finest respiratory herbal medicinals in use just as it holds sway among the members of its family of ancient botanicals.
 
Dosing suggestions:
It has been suggested to dose with a dropperful of the liquid extract two to four times per day between meals.  The dose may be put in water.
Safety considerations: 
It has been claimed that large doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in the form of stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea as well as headache and dizziness. Appropriately, if under medical supervision, please discuss possibility of the use of this medicinal with your physician(s).
Sources:
https://www.northernappalaciasschool.com/post/ode-to-skunk-cabbage-lessons-from-the-swamp
https://www.natureinstitute.org/article/craig-holdrege/skunk-cabbage
https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=syfo
https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/bigelow/ictodes.html
https://urbanecologycenter.org/blog/native-plant-eastern-skunk-cabbage.html
https://www.rxlist.com/skunk_cabbage/supplements.htm
http://nanps.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/
http://greenmanramblings.blogspot.com/2010/03/skunk-cabbage-new-england-bear-medicine.html


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Summer in the Garden - Making Passion Flower Herbal Extract  by Ingrid Petres

7/12/2021

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Summer is bursting at her juicy seams. This is a busy season for the gardener. Preserving, saving seeds and making medicine with our herbal allies is one of my favorite parts of the cycle of the year. As I save seeds from my Calendula flowers for next year’s garden I participate in the life cycle of my plant allies. Year after year as I tend a garden my love and respect for Mother Earth and her creatures deepens. I also love playing an active role in creating the food and medicine that nourishes and heals my body and my family. It is true empowerment. 

Tending a garden through the seasons bolsters our immune system and nourishes us on so many levels. We are fortified by the sun’s vitamin D. Our nervous systems are soothed by breathing in the aromatherapy of nature’s flowering. Spending time in the garden pulling weeds and tending our herbal allies provides exercise to tone our muscles. Relishing the crunch of home grown snap peas and romaine lettuce provides vitamins and minerals for our bodies. Harvesting and drying Tulsi for herbal tea we will enjoy one chilly November day is a meditative practice that speaks to our souls. 

​As I mentioned in my last post my daughter religiously takes Passion flower extract before bed. The Passion flower vines in my garden are teeming with the buzz of fat bumble bees right now. It is the perfect time for making extract with this gorgeous native plant. Below is a link to an informative YouTube video Maria and I made on how to make Passion flower extract from fresh Passion flower. We are happy to be able to share our first attempt at video and hope to get more savvy at it with time! 💞
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Tending A Sacred Garden by Ingrid Petres

5/31/2021

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​Norman looked like a round egg. In my memory he wore lederhosen, although I’m pretty sure that part is my imagination. This kindly old childhood neighbor exuded a warm sunshine like his garden. His mysterious and sacred garden was equipped with a coy pond, Buddha statue and sun dial. It was a magical place that I would sneak into and pretend to pray to the Buddha. My family was not religious in any way but I was always pursuing the sacred. My mom tells stories of hearing me sing to the Red Bud tree in my yard. I remember climbing its branches and loved its heart shaped leaves that seemed to whisper a soothing that nourished me. There is something so healing in a garden.

It is becoming increasingly obvious that the manner we are brought up in Western society is not sustainable for the future of our planet. Our Earth is sick. We cannot run from the destruction we are causing. It is and will continue to affect our species health if we do not change our habits.  ​
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The Pandemic and the mass extinction across all species point undeniably to the truth that we are in fact not separate. It points to our unity as a species, our unity with the creatures of Earth, and our unity with the Earth itself. We have reached a pivotal point in our evolution where a shift in consciousness and a change of our way of life is inevitable if we want to develop further, or even survive. Before the industrial revolution, our species cross culturally had a different epistemology. They believed everything: Earth, the plants, the animals, all had spirits or souls. We need to regain this epistemology. 
 
I believe that our hope for balance lies in rekindling a connection with the Earth and Her Creatures. I believe a shift in consciousness back to a more shamanistic way of interacting with the world around us is how to recalibrate to a healthy balanced world. 
 
One way to deepen our connect with nature is to tend a garden and foster a relationship with a few plant allies. As an herbalist and facilitator of shamanic consciousness my goal is to encourage you to open to the possibility of healing by developing true relationship with plant allies. Nature is as invested in the precarious state of our planet as we are. I believe our plant brothers and sisters have so much healing potential and want to help us. 
 
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Anthropologists teach us that primitive people enjoyed the same kinds of instincts about plants as wild animals do to this day. These instincts are hard wired into our heredity. Regaining our ability to communicate with nature seems like fairy tale talk but the science of its reality is being empirically proven.  “We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created the problems,” according to Einstein. Enculturation has us cut off from our own senses. Modern psychology has proven that the more we envision a positive outcome the more likely it will happen. Suspend your disbelief and plant a few seeds of a brighter future. I encourage you to grow a plant or two and get to know it yourself. Smell its flowers. Read about how it was used historically. Dry its leaves, steep them and drink their medicine. Foster a relationship with these spirits and learn first-hand the medicine they have to offer.
 
Below I’ll talk about a few of the plants I’ve gotten to know. I have chosen these herbal allies for their calming and anti-depressant properties so needed during these turbulent times. I urge you to create your own garden full of plant allies and get to know them yourself. My relationship with these plants has grown more intimate in the many years I’ve been tending a garden and yours will too. 
 
Let’s open the gate to a Sacred Garden...
Valerian  
Valerian officinalis
I can smell the blooms of my valerian plant houses away from mine. She stands easily eight feet tall. Her motherly presence is so calming. I can barely resist putting my nose in her blossoming. Her roots are used in herbal medicine for their sedative effect. 
 
I have worked in herb shops my entire adult life. I distinctly remember being a newbie and weighing up Valerian for a customer. Everyone snickered and said “EEEWW”. Although Valerian’s flowers smell heavenly, the dried roots of this plant live up to their reputation as smelling like dirty feet. This year was the second year I’ve had her in my garden and the first year she flowered. The heavenly aroma of her blooms is intensely soothing. Simply enjoying her floral aromatherapy in my garden has quickly become my favorite way of "taking" her medicine. I am not a fan of Valerian Root tea, but I often use Valerian Herbal Extract. I am an anxious person and her and sedating action is powerful for me. Her effect is found to be stimulating for some.
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Passion Flower
Passiflora incarnata
This vining plant is native to Missouri and has mesmerizing purple flowers that often lull pollen seeking bees to sleep. My eight-year-old daughter returned to co-sleeping recently with the pandemic and the anxiety of the world this past year. We got her a new loft bed to encourage her to sleep on her own. She was excited but when the big night came, she didn’t want to. After an hour of crying and resistance I gave her a dropper of Passion Flower Extract I had made from my plant last year and I didn’t hear another word. She fell right to sleep. Now every night she takes her “sleepy” extract. I harvest the first 12- 16 inches of the vine when its flowering for drying as a tea, or I use it fresh to make extract. Knowing that I grew, tended and made medicine from my garden is one of the most satisfying things. I add loving intention into the medicine making process and I know the medicine carries potent healing energy.
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Lemon Balm 
Melissa officinalis
This sunny lemon scented herb is in the mint family. It grows like a weed once its established. Her leaves make a delicious infusion that is one of the best herbal remedies for depression and anxiety. She was even said to “heal a broken heart”. In the summer I make sun tea with fresh lemon balm for a solar infused ambrosia. Just cut the top 6 inches of several plants, give them a rinse and pack them into a glass jar. Fill the jar with water and leave in a sunny spot to infuse for several hours. Strain and store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Lemon Balm infusion is often used for stress during pregnancy and for postpartum depression as it is a gentle, safe herb.  This lovely herb has anti viral properties and can be used internally as a Tea or Herbal Extract for viruses and colds. It is also famous for topical application specific to the herpes virus. ​
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Tulsi 
Ocimum basilicum
Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, opens the heart, promotes devotion, clarity and provokes a meditative state of mind. Also known as Holy Basil, the herb has antiviral properties and can help break a low-grade fever. The infusion of her dried or fresh leaves is a favorite of my daughter who likes to add a dollop of honey to the brew. I grow a temperate variety of Tulsi which is extremely easy to grow in our area and may be a bit weedy in a garden like mint. She is a cousin of sweet basil and grows well in a pot. I often take the Herbal Extract before yoga and meditation to facilitate a calm, sattvic state. In India Holy Basil is revered as a representation of the Goddess and is tended as such. 

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There is a certain connection to our Mother Earth that needs reintegrating. All pre industrial cultures interacted with the natural world in a more intimate way. I believe we have lost our way. These times are a call to action. You are the heroine of this journey. We each need to become the care takers of our mother Earth and find friends in her creatures. Journey back to the garden with me. 
 
~  Ingrid

Maria and I have potted up several of these herbal allies to share with you. They are available at the shop for a limited time. 

​all photos and artwork are my own.
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Natural Skincare 101 by Maria Roderick

4/17/2021

3 Comments

 

Natural Skincare 101- DIY Homemade Skincare Products



For a good portion of my life, I have struggled with keeping my skin in balance.  In adolescence I was embarrassed by acne spots, occasional cystic acne and had dry flaking skin in other spots. I stripped my skin with harsh cleaners and chemical loaded treatments to deal with problem spots and oil-free moisturizers – thinking oils were bad for my skin. I thought that once I was in my 20s my acne and skin issues would be behind me. Unfortunately, that was not the case.  That is when I began learning about Essential oils, plant oils, natural clays, herbs, and all their benefits for the skin. I began making my own skincare products and using natural clay masks to heal, moisturize, cleanse, and balance my skin.  Now I am well into my 40s, I still experience hormone related breakouts and deal with age related skin concerns such as wrinkles and sun damage, but I am well equipped to treat my skins needs.
Herbs and essential oils have skin-beneficial properties that you can utilizes for your skincare needs at home. These properties come in the form of flavonoids, tannins, mucilage, antioxidants, resins, acids, proteins, and volatile oils. Depending on the plant, they can originate in flower petals, leaves, bark, roots, or stems. 
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In this post you will discover the benefits of simple, limited ingredient skin care products, and how to make and apply them at home. Incorporating natural yet effective products into your routine is an easy and attainable practice for healthy skin. For each product I have included recipes and suggestions for various skin types and conditions. You may simply use these recipes or customize your recipe using the ingredients listed according to their properties and your needs. I encourage you to get creative and try your hand at blending up your own recipes I am sure your results will be amazing! Always seek out organic, cold pressed ingredients for face and body applications. These recipes have about a 1 year shelf life but should provide about a 6 month supply of daily application. 

Skincare for All Skin Types
Perfect for all skin types, a skincare regime using natural chemical free ingredients packed with antioxidants and vitamins can benefit various skincare needs. After use, your skin is balanced, nurtured and radiant. Your skin will feel soft and smooth to the touch. Also, your skin is primed for makeup during the day, and sleep at bedtime.  

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​First let us learn about some ingredients, their actions, and benefits for the skin. Choosing the right ingredients for your personal Skincare needs is key for great results.
 Essential oils are concentrated plant essences. They are typically extracted by steam distillation. They are concentrated and generally too strong to use directly (neat) on the skin. The ‘oil’ in the world essential oil refers to volatile plant oil that can evaporate into the air.
CARROT ESSENTIAL OIL daucus carota - cell regenerative, Wound Healing, Good For Mature Skin, Eczema, broken capillaries, scar tissue. antiaging. Avoid during pregnancy.
CEDARWOOD (ATLAS) ESSENTIAL OIL cedrus atlantica- Acne, oily skin, Astringent action Causing contraction of the tissues, binding. Influences, the vital contractility of cell walls, condenses the tissues, making them denser and firmer, and arrests discharges, good for Psoriasis, softening to skin. Potentially irritating at high levels.
CHAMOMILE (German & Roman) ESSENTIAL OIL - Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Good for Acne, Eczema, Psoriasis, dry & itchy skin, wound healing, broken capillaries. Avoid during early pregnancy for Roman Chamomile only.
CYPRESS ESSENTIAL OIL Cupressus sempervirens- Antiseptic, Astringent: Contracts, tightens and binds tissues, reducing secretions or discharges, stops bleeding, Acne, oily skin, wound healer, broken capillaries. Avoid during pregnancy.
FRANKINCENSE ESSENTIAL OIL Boswellia carteri- Astringent: Contracts, tightens and binds tissues, reducing secretions or discharges., Regenerating, Wound Healing, Acne, ant inflammatory, mature skin, wrinkles, helping formation of scar tissue, Eczema, blackheads, soothes dry itchy skin, Encouraging growth of skin cells. Avoid during pregnancy.
GERANIUM ESSENTIAL OIL pelargonium graveolens - Antibacterial, Astringent, Antiseptic, Balancing, Fungicide, stops bleeding, Wound Healing Good for Dry or Oily skin, Combination Skin, Acne, Eczema, Hormone related Skin issues, Itchy Skin,
HELICHRYSUM ESSENTIAL OIL helichrysum italicum - Anti-inflammatory, Regenerating, Rejuvenating, helping formation of scar tissue, Encouraging growth of skin cells, Wound Healing, Good for Acne, Eczema, chronic dermatitis, burns, bruising, broken capillaries.
LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL lavendula angustifolia - Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Balancing, wound Healing, Good for dry or Oily skin, Combination skin, Acne, Eczema, Sunburn, Cystic acne, Regenerating, Helping formation of scar tissue. Encouraging growth of skin cells
MYRRH ESSENTIAL OIL commiphora myrrha - Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Astringent, Balancing, Regenerating, Good for Wound Healing, Acne, Dry, Chapped Skin, Oily, Skin, anti-aging, broken capillaries, Eczema Avoid during pregnancy.
PALMAROSA ESSENTIAL OIL Cymbopogon martini - Antibacterial, Anti-Fungal, Antiseptic, Cell regenerating, Good for Wound Healing, Acne, Dry Skin Mature Skin, Eczema, Wrinkles, broken Capillaries, Helping formation of scar tissue. Encouraging growth of skin cells.
PATCHOULI ESSENTIAL OIL pogostemon cablin - Anti-inflammatory, Anti-bacterial, Antifungal, Astringent, Contracts, tightens and binds tissues, reducing secretions or discharges, Good for aging, sagging skin, itchy, inflamed skin, Acne, Chapped skin, Eczema, Wrinkles, Scars, Oily and congested skin.
ROSE ABSOLUTE rosa damascena- Antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Contracts, tightens and binds tissues, reducing secretions or discharges, Regenerating, Good for broken capillaries, oily skin, mature skin, sensitive skin, Helping formation of scar tissue. Encouraging growth of skin cells.
ROSEMARY (VERBENONE) ESSENTIAL OIL Rosmarinus officinalis ct verbenone – Antibacterial, Cell regenerative, Stimulating Good for Acne, scars, aging skin, Avoid during pregnancy or with epilepsy.
TEA TREE ESSENTIAL OIL melaleuca alternifolia - Antibacterial, Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Good for Acne, Oily skin, cystic acne Possible skin irritant.
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​Vegetable and nut oils also known as Carrier oils are used to dilute essential oils and “carry” them to your skin. That is because essential oils are potent and can cause irritation when applied directly to your skin. Most carrier oils are unscented or lightly scented and do not interfere with an essential oil's therapeutic properties each are good sources of vitamins, essential fatty acids and proteins which aid the skin in maintaining health, elasticity and tone.
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​​ALMOND OIL (SWEET) Light texture, all skin types, Itching, Dry skin, Inflammation, Burns, Thread veins, Chapped, Irritated skin
APRICOT KERNEL OIL Light texture, all skin types, Dry & aging skin, prematurely aging skin, Sensitive skin, Inflammation, easily absorbed for facial applications
AVOCADO OIL Heavy texture, usually mixed with other oils, all skin Types especially dry and dehydrated, Penetrating, Regenerative, highly therapeutic contains protein, amino acids, high levels of vitamins A, D and E. Mature & aging skin, Dry skin, Eczema, Improves elastin, Damaged skin, Wrinkles, natural sun protection, Eczema.
JOJOBA OIL (Pronounced ho-ho-ba) Light texture; Anti-inflammatory, Mimics sebum, unclogs pores, Eczema, Psoriasis, all skin types, Acne, Dry skin Inflammation, easily absorbed.
ROSA MOSQUETA OIL (ROSE HIP SEED) Usually added to other carriers at rate of 10-20%, Dry, scaly, dull skin, Psoriasis, Hyperpigmentation, beneficial in tissue regeneration, Scars, Aging, mature, prematurely aged skin, Wounds, Burns (including sunburn), Facial wrinkles, "crow’s feet", Stretch marks.
SESAME OIL Medium texture, all skin types, Psoriasis, Eczema, Natural Sun Protection, Softening, Dry skin, sensitive skin, antiaging
TAMANU OIL Medium texture, Promotes formation of new tissues, Acne, Acne scars, Sunburn, Dry skin, eczema, Antioxidant, Antiaging.
 

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​A Hydrosol is the water left behind after extracting an essential oil from a plant through water/steam distillation. Hydrosols contain the water-soluble constituents of the plant and retain small amounts of essential oil. Hydrosols have similar properties to essential oils but are much less concentrated and gentler on the skin.

LAVENDER HYDROSOL – Anti-Inflammatory, reduces swelling and inflammation, Good for Acne, Eczema, Itchy skin, aging skin, sunburn, Helping formation of scar tissue. Encouraging growth of skin cells, Wound Healing
​LEMON BALM HYDROSOL- Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, antifungal, Acne, Oily skin, Eczema
ROSE HYDROSOL- Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Contracts, tightens, and binds tissues, reducing secretions or discharges, Regenerating Helping formation of scar tissue, Encouraging growth of skin cells Sensitive skin, Acne, Mature skin, Combination skin,
ROSEMARY (VERBENONE) HYDROSOL – Stimulating, scars, antiaging, Acne.
SAGE HYDROSOL Astringent Causing contraction of the tissues, binding. Influences, the vital contractility of cell walls, condenses the tissues, making them denser and firmer, and arrests discharges. Acne
YARROW HYDROSOL - Anti-inflammatory, reduces swelling and inflammation, Acne, Eczema, Regenerating, Wound Healing, aging skin, Encouraging growth of skin cells.

Other Useful ingredients
ALOE VERA GEL Aloe barbadensis Promotes healing and skin cell renewal, natural anti-inflammatory & moisturizer.
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR - Restores the natural acid balance and neutralizes the alkalinity of soap for skin. Acts as an astringent on the skin causing contraction of the tissues, binding. Influences, the vital contractility of cell walls, condenses the tissues, making them denser and firmer, and arrests discharges.
CLAY is one of earth's oldest known skin cleansers. Its high mineral content, drawing powers and corrective properties make it useful for treating problem skin as well as superior deep cleaning. Excellent for blackheads and clogged pores.
HONEY General skin care and to help with more serious conditions such as eczema, Bacteria cannot live in honey, Natural preservative properties, naturally acid-balanced, neutral on the skin, hydrating
​UNSCENTED LIQUID SOAP BASE Gentle and effective with proven mildness
Free of sulfates, preservatives, and consists of the most simple, natural, biodegradable ingredients.


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​​Always use clean sterilized bottles and jars to mix and store your facial care products. Glass containers are preferable and a simple label stating what the product is and when you created it affixed to the bottle is always helpful. Small funnels and measuring cups with a spout are helpful when transferring ingredients from one bottle to another.
 
Step 1: Cleanse
This is a gentle cleanser leaves your skin soft, smooth, clean, and nourished. You just need liquid Unscented liquid soap base, essential oils, and carrier oils. The best part is you can customize the essential oils and carrier oil in this recipe according to your skin type. This face wash does not contain any harsh ingredients, so it is perfect for all skin types.

Blemishes and Oily skin: 8 drops Tea Tree essential oil, 4 drops Cedarwood essential Oil, 4 drops Lavender essential oil, 4 drops Geranium essential oil, 2 teaspoons Jojoba oil
Anti-Aging/ scars: 5 drops Frankincense Essential Oil, 5 drops Carrot essential oil, 10 drops Palmarosa essential oil,1 teaspoon Rosa Mosqueta oil, 1 teaspoon Seasme oil
Combination skin: 5 drops Geranium essential oil,10 drops Lavender essential oil, 5 drops Myrrh essential oil, 2 teaspoons Almond oil
Dry skin: 5 drops Myrrh essential oil, 5 drops Chamomile essential oil, 5 drops Lavender essential oil, 5 drops Palmarosa essential oil 1 teaspoons Apricot oil, 1 teaspoon Avocado oil
Sensitive skin: 8 drops Chamomile essential oil, 10 drops Lavender essential oil, 2 drops Rose absolute, 1 teaspoons Sesame oil
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FACIAL CLEANSER
In an 8 oz bottle:
1) 1 to 2 teaspoons Vegetable/Nut Oil or Infused Oil of your choice
2) Add 20 drops (maximum) Essential Oils of your choice, choose one or more but use only 20 drops total of essential oil, shake essential oil and vegetable oil together first
3) Fill rest of bottle with Unscented Liquid soap base, shake well

​Step 2: Tone
A facial toner is a quick, absorbing liquid that helps to remove excess dirt, traces of oil and makeup, correct and balance the pH of your skin, and control acne, minimizing the look of pores and preparing the skin to receive the serums and moisturizers to come. Your Homemade Facial Toner can be customized to your skin type with Hydrosol, giving you that natural glow you have been looking for! Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) helps to regulate the pH balance of the skin, can be used for all skin types, is antibacterial and has anti-inflammatory properties. For oily and acne-prone skin, ACV helps to treat acne and reduce redness. For dry and normal skin, ACV helps to exfoliate skin and reduce wrinkles.
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For normal to dry skin: Mix 1/3-part vinegar to 2/3-part Hydrosol of your choice.
For oily and acne-prone skin: mix 1/2-part vinegar and 1/2 Hydrosol.
Blemishes and Oily skin: 2 Tablespoons Lemon Balm hydrosol, 1 Tablespoon Sage Hydrosol, 1 Tablespoon Yarrow Hydrosol, 4 Tablespoons Apple cider Vinegar
Anti-Aging/ scars: 3 Tablespoons Rose Hydrosol, 2 Tablespoons Rosemary Hydrosol, 3 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
Combination skin: 5 Tablespoons Lavender Hydrosol, 3 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
Dry skin/ Sensitive skin: 3 Tablespoons Lavender Hydrosol, 2 Tablespoons Rose Hydrosol, 3 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
 
TONER OR AFTERSHAVE 2 oz Recipe
In a 2 oz Glass bottle
  1. For normal to dry skin, mix 1/3-part vinegar (3 tbsp) to 2/3-part Hydrosol (5 tbsp).
  2. For oily and acne-prone skin, mix 1/2-part vinegar (4 tbsp) and 1/2-part Hydrosol (4 tbsp).
  3. Shake well and use morning and night after washing face, thoroughly moisten a cotton round. Gently wipe over cleansed face, neck, and chest, avoiding eye area.
Step 3: Serum 
A facial Serum is concentrated, balancing, targeted skincare treatment that soothes and nourishes skin providing fast absorbing, concentrated ingredients to create beautiful, glowing skin. Apply your Homemade Serum after cleansing but before moisturizing. The most common benefits include hydration, increased nourishment, brightening of the skin, and acne prevention. They also help in strengthening skin cells. Serums help balance and rejuvenate.
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Blemishes and Oily skin: 10 drops Chamomile essential oil, 10 drops Myrrh essential oil, 5 drops Geranium essential oil, 1 oz Jojoba oil
Anti-Aging/ scars: 2 teaspoons Rosa Mosqueta Oil, 2 teaspoons Avocado oil, 1 teaspoon Tamanu oil, 5 drops Frankincense essential oil, 5 drops Carrot essential oil, 5 drops Lavender essential oil, 5 drops Helchrysum essential oil, 2 drops Rose or Geranium
Dry skin/ Sensitive skin: 5 drops Myrrh Essential oil,5 drops Palmarosa essential oil, 10 drops Chamomile essential oil, 2 teaspoons Avocado oil, 3 teaspoons Apricot oil
Combination skin: 10 drops Frankincense essential oil, 8 drops Lavender essential oil, 5 drops Geranium Essential oil 3 teaspoons Almond Oil, 3 teaspoons Jojoba Oil 
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Facial Serum 1 oz Recipe
  1. In a 1 oz glass dropper bottle, add all essential oils equal to 25 drops
    2. Fill the bottle with Carrier oil or combination carrier oils of your choice  
   3. Use your Facial Serum morning and night. Apply a few drops a gentle massage into the entire face     and neck after you wash your face but before you apply moisturizer.

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​Step 4: Moisturize
Facial Oil as moisturizer maybe a new concept for you but let me just say oil is NOT the bad guy. In fact, our skin needs oil and absorbs it better and faster than a cream or lotion. Using a facial oil helps keep moisture in the skin while protecting it from the environmental damage. Finding the right carrier oil that works for you is the key. You can add essential oils according to your skin type for a customized blend. Every face (neck and chest, too) needs a moisturizer on a daily basis. Moisturizers’ primary function is to help keep all the nourishing oils from your serum on your skin.

Blemishes and Oily skin:  10 drops Chamomile essential oil, 5 drops Cypress essential oil, 5 drops Tea Tree essential oil, 3 drops Geranium essential oil, Jojoba oil
Anti-Aging/ scars:  15 drops Frankincense essential oil, 5drops drops Helichrysum essential oil, 2 drops Rose absolute, Apricot oil
Dry skin/ Sensitive skin: 15 drops Palmarosa essential oil, 10 drops Chamomile essential oil, Apricot oil
Combination skin: 10 drops Frankincense essential oil, 15 drops Lavender essential oil, Jojoba Oil
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2oz Facial Oil Moisturizer
Instructions in a 2 oz glass dropper bottle
  1. Add up to 25 drops of essential oils of your choice to glass dropper bottle.
  2. Fill glass dropper bottle with carrier oils of your choice.
  3. Screw dropper top on. Shake well.
  4. Use morning and night after each facial wash, or as needed. I find about 4-6 drops is enough to moisturize my skin.


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​FACIAL Mask
I find that giving myself a weekly Facial mask helps to deep clean my skin and is a refreshing and relaxing time to devote to myself for a little extra bit of self-care. The basic recipe is simply combining your choice of Clay mixed with your choice of liquids. Your choices of liquids can include items like, lemon Juice, Hydrosols, Aloe Gel, Herbal Tea, leave on for about 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Basic recipe for Facial Mask
2 teaspoons Clay powder of your choice
2 teaspoons liquid of your choice
Mix together in a small clean dish or in your hand.
 
Blemishes and Oily skin:  Bentonite Clay or Green Clay, Rosemary Hydrosol, Aloe Gel, Lemon Balm Hydrosol, Lavender Hydrosol, Sage Hydrosol
Anti-Aging/ scars:  Pink Clay, Rose Hydrosol, Lavender Hydrosol
Dry skin/ Sensitive skin: Pink Clay or Rhassoul Clay, Lavender Hydrosol
Combination skin: Green Clay, Rosemary Hydrosol, Aloe gel
Honey Treatment: Apply a generous amount of Honey with your hands. Repeatedly place your hands on your face and pull away. The pulling away action is key. As you continue to repeat this action the honey becomes drier and tackier and helps to draw impurities out of the skin. 
Once you start making and using your own Homemade Skincare products your skin will look and feel amazing.  Your heart can feel good about taking the initiative to make your own Natural Chemical free skincare products. These products are all paraben, sulfate, phthalate free. They are also free from petrochemicals, fillers, formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, propellants, or synthetic fragrance oils. All of ingredients are non-toxic. That is something to feel good about all while nourishing your skin!
 
REFERENCES:
Battaglia, Salvatore. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. Virginia, Queensland: The Perfect Potion. 1995.
Catty, Suzanne. Hydrosols, The Next Aromatherapy. Rochester, Vermont: Healing Arts Press. 2001.
Davis, Patricia. Aromatherapy an A - Z. Saffron Walden: The C. W. Daniel Company Ltd. 1998.
Hampton, Aubrey. What’s in Your Cosmetics?. Tucson, Arizona: Odonian Press. 1995.
Meadows, Julia. Natural Bodycare. New York: Sterling Publishing Co. Inc. 1998.
Rose, Jeanne. Jeanne Rose's Herbal Body Book. New York: The Berkley Publishing Group. 1976.
Rose, Jeanne. Jeanne Rose’s Kitchen Cosmetics. Berkeley, California: North Atlantic Books. 1990.
Sheppard-Hanger, Sylla. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual, Vol. 1, Vol. 2. Tampa: Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy. 1997.
Price, Shirley. The Aromatherapy Workbook. San Francisco: Thorsons. 1993.
 
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    Maria and Ingrid are Co Owners of STL Herbs and Aromatics.  They have been working in the field of Herbal and Aromatic Medicine for over twenty years. This blog is intended to inform and empower people to begin utilizing plant medicine for personal health and well being.

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    ​The products and statements made about specific products on this web site have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided on this web site or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this web site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new vitamins, supplements, diet, or exercise program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Any testimonials on this web site are based on individual results and do not constitute a guarantee that you will achieve the same results. 

STL Herbs and Aromatics 

STL Herbs and Aromatics provides the finest quality Pure, Therapeutic Essential Oils and Herbal products available. Our mission is to assist others to live a healthy lifestyle by encouraging  individuals to utilize herbal and aromatic remedies for creating vibrant health.
​
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Maplewood MO 63143
Phone (314) 282-0980
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      • Summer Mist Aromatherapy Spray to Repel Pests
      • SMUDGE SPRAY
    • Art Cards >
      • Across the bay Card
      • Alchemical Vessel
      • Earth Goddess
      • Lunalily Card
      • Mermaiden Card
      • Emerge Card
      • Nature Therapy card
    • Balms and Creams >
      • Amber Body Cream
      • AROMATIC BALM
      • Avocado Shea Hand Cream
      • BELLY BALM
      • Calendula Rose Cream
      • Candy Kiss Lip Balm
      • CHAGA BALM
      • COMFREY BALM
      • Creamsicle Lip Balm
      • Healing LIP BALM
      • Jojoba Unscented Moisturizer
      • Marshmallow Lip Balm
      • Native Balm
      • Rosa Mosqueta Ginseng balm
      • Sun Proof Lotion
    • Bar Soap
    • Bath Bombs & Salts >
      • Detox Bath Salts
      • Mermaid Bath Bomb
      • Roses Bath Bomb
    • Bitters >
      • BITTER THIEVES
      • BLACKWOOD BITTERS
      • Digestive BITTERS
    • Candles
    • Carrier Oils >
      • Almond Oil
      • APRICOT KERNEL OIL
      • Avocado oil Organic
      • CASTOR Oil
      • COCONUT (FRACTIONATED) Oil
      • JOJOBA Oil
      • NEEM Oil
      • POMEGRANATE OIL
      • ROSA MOSQUETA (ROSE HIP SEED)
      • SESAME Oil
      • Tamanu Oil
      • VITAMIN E
    • Dried Herbs >
      • Acacia Gum pwd
      • Alfalfa Leaf cut
      • ALFALFA LEAF powder
      • ANISE SEED whole
      • ARNICA FLOWER wh
      • ARROWROOT powder
      • ASAFOETIDA powder
      • ASHWAGANDA ROOT cut
      • Astragalus Root Cut
      • BACOPA HERB powder
      • Barberry Root Cut
      • BASIL LEAF (SWEET) cut
      • Beet Root Powder
      • BENZOIN GUM POWDER
      • BILBERRY whole
      • BLACKBERRY LEAF cut
      • BLACK Cohosh Root cut
      • BLACK PEPPER whole
      • BLACK WALNUT HULL cut
      • BLESSED THISTLE HERB cut
      • BLUE BUTTERFLY PEA FLOWER powder
      • Blue Vervain Herb Cut
      • Burdock Root Cut
      • CALAMUS ROOT cut
      • Calendula Flower whole
      • CALIFORNIA POPPY HERB cut
      • CARAWAY SEED whole
      • CASCARA SAGRADA BARK (AGED) cut
      • CATNIP LEAF & FLOWER cut
      • CATUABA BARK pwd
      • CAYENNE (40,000-70,000 HU) pwdr
      • CELERY SEED wh
      • CHAGA MUSHROOM PWD
      • Chamomile Flower wh
      • CHASTE TREE BERRY (VITEX) wh
      • CHICKWEED HERB cut
      • CHICORY ROOT (Roasted granules)
      • CHINESE SCULLCAP ROOT (Baikal, Huang Qin) cut
      • CINCHONA BARK cut
      • CINNAMON BARK granules
      • CINNAMON BARK powder
      • Cleavers Herb Cut
      • CLOVE BUD whole
      • Codonopsis Root Cut
      • COLTSFOOT LEAF cut
      • Comfrey Leaf cut
      • COMFREY ROOT cut
      • CORIANDER SEED pwdr
      • CORDYCEPS MUSHROOM pwd
      • CUMIN SEED pwdr
      • Damiana Leaf cut
      • Dandelion Root cut
      • DANDELION ROOT (Roasted granules)
      • DONG QUAI ROOT cut or sliced
      • ECHINACEA LEAF & FLOWER cut
      • ECHINACEA ROOT cut
      • ELDER BERRY whole
      • ELDER FLOWER wh
      • ELECAMPANE ROOT cut
      • Eleuthero Root Cut
      • EUCALYPTUS LEAF cut
      • EYEBRIGHT HERB powder
      • FENNEL SEED wh
      • FENUGREEK SEED wh
      • FEVERFEW HERB cut
      • FO-TI (HE SHOU WU) ROOT cut
      • FRANKINCENSE GUM powder
      • GENTIAN ROOT cut
      • GINGER ROOT cut
      • GINKGO LEAF cut or wh
      • GINSENG ROOT (USA) whole
      • GINSENG ROOT (USA) powder
      • GOLDENSEAL ROOT powder
      • GOTU KOLA HERB cut
      • GUARANA SEED pwdr
      • HAWTHORN BERRY whole/ cut
      • HAWTHORN LEAF & FLOWER cut
      • HIBISCUS FLOWER whole
      • HOPS FLOWER wh
      • HORSE CHESTNUT SEED cut
      • HORSETAIL HERB cut
      • HYDRANGEA ROOT cut
      • HYSSOP HERB cut
      • IRISH MOSS (Sea Moss) cut
      • Irish Moss Powder
      • JASMINE FLOWER whole
      • JUNIPER BERRY whole
      • KAVA KAVA ROOT cut
      • Kola Nut powder
      • LADY’S MANTLE HERB cut
      • LAPACHO BARK (Pau D'Arco) cut
      • LAVENDER FLOWER wh
      • LEMON BALM herb cut
      • LEMONGRASS cut
      • LEMON VERBENA LEAF cut
      • LICORICE ROOT cut
      • LINDEN FLOWER & LEAF cut
      • LOBELIA HERB cut
      • MACA ROOT powder
      • MARJORAM LEAF cut
      • MARSHMALLOW LEAF cut
      • MARSHMALLOW ROOT cut
      • MILK THISTLE SEED powder
      • MOTHERWORT HERB cut
      • MUGWORT HERB cut
      • MUIRA PUAMA ROOT/BARK cut
      • MULLEIN FLOWER wh
      • MULLEIN LEAF cut
      • MYRRH GUM powder resin
      • NEEM LEAF cut
      • Nettle Leaf Cut
      • NUTMEG PoWDer
      • Oatstraw Herb cut
      • OLIVE LEAF cut/ Whole
      • ORANGE PEEL cut
      • OREGANO LEAF cut
      • ORRIS ROOT (Natural) pwdr
      • PARSLEY FLAKES cut
      • PASSION FLOWER HERB cut
      • PENNYROYAL HERB cut
      • PEPPERMINT LEAF cut
      • PLANTAIN LEAF cut
      • PRICKLY ASH BARK cut
      • PYGEUM BARK powder
      • RASPBERRY LEAF cut
      • RED CLOVER BLOSSOM wh
      • RHODIOLA ROOT cut
      • RHUBARB ROOT pwdr
      • ROOIBOS TEA cut
      • ROSE HIP (SEEDLESS) cut
      • ROSE PETAL (RED) wh
      • Rose Bud & Petal powder
      • Rosemary Leaf Whole
      • RUE HERB cut
      • SAGE LEAF cut
      • SAGE LEAF (WHITE) whole
      • ST. JOHN'S WORT HERB & FLOWER cut
      • SANDALWOOD BARK (YELLOW) pwd
      • SARSAPARILLA ROOT cut
      • SASSAFRAS BARK OF ROOT cut
      • SAW PALMETTO BERRY cut
      • SCHIZANDRA BERRY (WU WEI ZI) wh
      • SCULLCAP HERB cut
      • Senna Leaf cut
      • SHEEP SORREL HERB cut
      • SLIPPERY ELM BARK (INNER) cut
      • SLIPPERY ELM BARK (INNER) pwdr
      • SPEARMINT LEAF cut
      • SPIRULINA (BLUE GREEN ALGEA) pwdr
      • SQUAW VINE HERB cut
      • SUMA ROOT POWDER
      • THYME LEAF cut
      • TULSI (HOLY BASIL) LEAF cut
      • TURMERIC ROOT pwdr
      • UVA URSI LEAF whole
      • VALERIAN ROOT cut
      • WHITE OAK BARK cut
      • WHITE WILLOW BARK cut
      • WILD YAM ROOT cut
      • Wintergreen Leaf cut
      • WITCH HAZEL BARK cut
      • WITCH HAZEL LEAF cut
      • WORMWOOD HERB cut
      • YARROW LEAF and Flower cut
      • YELLOW DOCK ROOT cut
      • YERBA MATE LEAF, GREEN cut
      • YUCCA ROOT cut
    • Dried Herbal Blend >
      • ANCESTOR HERBAL BLEND
      • COFFEE SUBSTITUTE
      • DETOXIFYING LIVER TONIC
      • DIGESTIVE SUPPORT dried herb BLEND
      • Happy Heart Tonic
      • Immunity Chai
      • Maria's Tonic Dry
      • MILK FLOW HERBAL BLEND
      • PREGNANCY SUPPORT BLEND
      • SINUS/Respiratory SUPPORT HERBAL blend
      • SITZ BATH HERB BLEND
      • Brewing bag
    • Essential Oils >
      • AMBER BLEND
      • BASIL (ct. Linalol)
      • BENZOIN ABSOLUTE
      • Bergamot Essential Oil
      • BIRCH (SWEET)
      • Black Pepper essential oil
      • Cajeput Essential Oil
      • CARDAMON
      • CARROT
      • Catnip Essential Oil
      • Cedarwood, Atlas essential oil
      • Cedarwood, Red Essential Oil
      • CHAMOMILE (GERMAN)
      • Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil
      • Chamomile (Roman) Essential Oil
      • Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil
      • CITRONELLA Essential oil
      • CLARY SAGE Essential Oil
      • Clove Essential Oil
      • CYPRESS Essential Oil
      • ELEMI Essential Oil
      • Eucalyptus essential oil
      • EUCALYPTUS (RADIATA) essential oil
      • FENNEL (SWEET) essential oil
      • FIR (SILVER) Essential Oil
      • Frankincense Essential Oil
      • Geranium Essential Oil
      • GINGER Essential Oil
      • GRAPEFRUIT Essential Oil
      • HELICHRYSUM Essential Oil
      • JASMINE ABSOLUTE (GRANDIFLORUM)
      • Juniper Essential Oil
      • LAUREL (BAY LAUREL) Essential Oil
      • LAVANDIN (GROSSO) Essential Oil
      • Lavender Essential Oil
      • Lemon Essential Oil
      • Lemongrass Essential Oil
      • LIME essential oil
      • MANDARIN (RED)
      • Marjoram Essential Oil
      • MUGWORT Essential Oil
      • Myrrh Essential Oil
      • MYRTLE (RED) Essential Oil
      • Nutmeg essential oil
      • OAK MOSS ABSOLUTE
      • Orange Essential Oil
      • Oregano Essential Oil
      • Palmarosa Essential Oil
      • PALO SANTO
      • Patchouli Essential Oil
      • Peppermint Essential Oil
      • PINE Essential Oil
      • Rose Absolute
      • Rosemary ct Cineole Essential Oil
      • ROSEMARY (ct. Verbenone) Essential Oil
      • SAGE (SPANISH) Essential oil
      • SANDALWOOD Essential Oil
      • SPEARMINT Essential Oil
      • TANGERINE Essential oil
      • Tea Tree Essential Oil
      • THYME (ct. Linalol) Essential Oil
      • TONKA ABSOLUTE BLENDED (20% IN ALCOHOL)
      • TULSI (HOLY BASIL) Essential Oil
      • TURMERIC Essential Oil
      • Vanille Blend
      • VETIVERT Essential Oil
      • YARROW Essential oil
      • YLANG YLANG Essential Oil
    • Essential oil Herbal Blends >
      • ANTI CELLULITE TONING TREATMENT
      • Beard Oil
      • CLEARING FACE MIST
      • GODIVA PERFUME
      • HEALTHY VEIN TREATMENT
      • Heart and Sky
      • Jewelweed Spray
      • JOY HEALING PERFUME
      • NATIVE MOON BLEND
      • Old Fashioned Scalp Tonic
      • Oregano Oil Blend
      • PAIN RELIEF BLEND
      • PROTECTION Roll on
      • Restoration Blend
      • SCAR CONCENTRATE
      • STRESS LESS Aromatherapy Roll on
      • TEA TREE BLEND
      • Wild Yam Blend
    • Essential Oil Mixtures >
      • Citrus Cheer Mixture
      • Dream Time Mixture
      • EXOTIC EAST MIXTURE
      • Forest Mixture
      • FRANKINCENSE AND MYRRH Mixture
      • Happiness Essential Oil
      • Head Relief Essential Oil Mixture
      • Immune Essential Oil Mixture
      • KYPHI MIXTURE
      • Native Mixture
      • Pumpkin Spice Essential Oil Mixture
      • Sinus Essential Oil Mixture
      • SWEET RELIEF MIXTURE
      • ROWAN VASE WHITE CERAMIC DIFFUSER
    • Gift Card
    • Herbal Extracts >
      • ALFALFA HERB EXTRACT
      • Ashwaganda Root Liquid Extract
      • Astragalus Root Extract
      • BACOPA EXTRACT
      • Barberry Root Extract
      • Bilberry Liquid Herbal Extracts
      • BLACK COHOSH ROOT EXTRACT
      • BLACK HAW BARK EXTRACT
      • BLACK WALNUT HULL (GREEN) EXTRACT
      • BLADDERWRACK EXTRACT
      • BLESSED THISTLE HERB EXTRACT
      • BLUE VERVAIN HERB EXTRACT
      • BOSWELLIA (FRANKINCENSE) Tincture
      • BUCHU LEAF EXTRACT
      • Burdock Liquid Herbal Extract
      • CALENDULA FLOWER EXTRACT
      • California Poppy extract
      • CAT'S CLAW (INNER) BARK EXTRACT
      • CATUABA BARK EXTRACT
      • CAYENNE PEPPER EXTRACT
      • celery seed liquid extract
      • CHASTE TREE BERRY (VITEX) EXTRACT
      • CHICKWEED HERB EXTRACT
      • CHINESE SKULLCAP ROOT (Baikal, Huang Qin) EXTRACT
      • CINNAMON Bark EXTRACT
      • Cleavers Herb Extract
      • CLOVE BUD EXTRACT
      • COMFREY ROOT EXTRACT
      • Cordyceps Mushroom Extract
      • CORN SILK EXTRACT
      • DAMIANA LEAF EXTRACT
      • Dandelion Root extract
      • DONG QUAI ROOT EXTRACT
      • Echinacea Liquid Herbal Extract
      • Elder Berry Glycerin Extract
      • ELECAMPANE ROOT EXTRACT
      • ELEUTHERO ROOT (SIBERIAN GINSENG) EXTRACT
      • FENNEL SEED EXTRACT
      • FENUGREEK SEED EXTRACT
      • FEVERFEW HERB EXTRACT
      • FO-TI ROOT (HE SHOU WU) EXTRACT
      • GARLIC EXTRACT
      • Ginger Root Extract
      • Gingko Liquid Herbal Extract
      • GINSENG ROOT (AMERICAN) EXTRACT
      • GINSEND (WHITE) EXTRACT
      • Goldenseal Liquid Herbal Extract
      • GOTU KOLA HERB EXTRACT
      • GUARANA SEED EXTRACT
      • HAWTHORN LEAF, FLOWER & BERRY EXTRACT
      • HOPS FLOWER EXTRACT
      • HORSE CHESTNUT SEED EXTRACT
      • HORSETAIL HERB EXTRACT
      • JEWELWEED HERB EXTRACT
      • JUNIPER BERRY TINCTURE
      • Kola Nut Extract
      • Lapacho Bark Extract
      • Lemon Balm Liquid Herbal extract
      • LICORICE ROOT EXTRACT
      • LINDEN FLOWER & LEAF EXTRACT
      • MACA ROOT Liquid Extract
      • MARSHMALLOW ROOT EXTRACT
      • Milk Thistle Seed Extract
      • MOTHERWORT HERB EXTRACT
      • MUIRA PUAMA ROOT EXTRACT
      • MULLEIN LEAF & FLOWER EXTRACT
      • Nettle Leaf Liquid Herbal Extract
      • OATSTRAW EXTRACT
      • OLIVE LEAF EXTRACT
      • OREGON GRAPE ROOT EXTRACT
      • OREGANO LEAF EXTRACT
      • PARSLEY LEAF & ROOT EXTRACT
      • Passion Flower Liquid Herbal Extract
      • PEPPERMINT LEAF EXTRACT
      • PLANTAIN LEAF EXTRACT
      • Pleurisy Root Liquid Extract
      • PYGEUM BARK EXTRACT
      • Rasperry leaf liquid extract
      • Red Clover Liquid Herbal Extract
      • Red Reishi Mushroom extract
      • RED ROOT EXTRACT
      • RHODIOLA ROOT EXTRACT
      • Rhubarb root liquid extract
      • ROSE HIP EXTRACT
      • ROSEMARY LEAF EXTRACT
      • SAGE LEAF EXTRACT
      • ST. JOHN'S WORT FLOWERING TOPS EXTRACT
      • Sarsaparilla Root Extract
      • Saw Palmetto Berry Extract
      • SCHIZANDRA BERRY (WU WEI ZI) EXTRACT
      • SCULLCAP LEAF & FLOWER EXTRACT
      • SHEPHERD'S PURSE HERB EXTRACT
      • SKUNK CABBAGE ROOT EXTRACT
      • SLIPPERY ELM BARK (INNER) EXTRACT
      • SQUAW VINE HERB EXTRACT
      • STONE ROOT EXTRACT
      • SUMA ROOT EXTRACT
      • SWEET ANNIE LEAF & FLOWER EXTRACT
      • THYME LEAF EXTRACT
      • TULSI (HOLY BASIL) HERB EXTRACT
      • Turkey Tail Mushroom Liquid EXTRACT
      • Turmeric Liquid Herbal Extract
      • USNEA LICHEN EXTRACT
      • UVA URSI LEAF EXTRACT
      • VALERIAN ROOT EXTRACT
      • VIOLET LEAF liquid extract
      • WHITE WILLOW BARK EXTRACT
      • WITCH HAZEL BARK GLYCERIN EXTRACT (ALCOHOL-FREE)
      • WORMWOOD EXTRACT
      • YELLOW DOCK ROOT EXTRACT
      • YERBA MATE EXTRACT
    • Herbal Extract Combinations >
      • ADRENAL SUPPORT EXTRACT
      • ANTIOXIDANT EXTRACT
      • BABY BLUES EXTRACT
      • Blood Pressure Support
      • BLOOD SUGAR BALANCE EXTRACT
      • BRAIN SUPPORT EXTRACT
      • CALCIUM & MINERAL RICH EXTRACT
      • Echinacea Goldenseal Liquid Herbal Extract
      • FEMALE LIBIDO EXTRACT
      • Fire Cider Immune Elixir
      • For Her Tonic
      • HEAD RELIEF EXTRACT
      • His Tonic extract combo
      • IMMUNE SUPPORT EXTRACT
      • INFLAMMATION RESPONSE EXTRACT
      • KIDNEY/ BLADDER SUPPORT EXTRACT
      • LIVER DETOX EXTRACT
      • Love Potion
      • MALE ENHANCEMENT EXTRACT
      • Maria's Tonic Herbal Extract Combination
      • NERVINE TONIC EXTRACT
      • Night time Liquid Herbal extract
      • Respiratory Support extract combo
      • Thyroid Control extract Combo
      • VISION SUPPORT EXTRACT
      • WEIGHT CONTROL EXTRACT
    • Herbal Vinegars >
      • Rosemary Herbal Vinegar
      • Tarragon Herbal Vinegar
    • Hydrosols >
      • Clary Sage Hydrosol
      • Lavender Hydrosol
      • Lemon Balm Hydrosol
      • Palo Santo Hydrosol
      • Peppermint Hydrosol
      • Rose Hydrosol
      • Rosemary Hydrosol
      • SAGE Hydrosol
      • Spearmint Hydrosol
      • Spice Bush Hydrosol
      • Sweet Annie Hydrosol
      • Tulsi Hydrosol
      • White Sage Hydrosol
      • Yarrow Hydrosol
    • Incense >
      • Autumn Moon incense
      • Blue Sage Smudge Wand
      • Champa Incense
      • Citronella Incense Sticks
      • Dream Incense
      • Evergreen Incense
      • Frankincense and Myrrh Incense
      • Kama Incense
      • Kyphi Incense
      • Lavender Rose
      • Palo Santo Incense
      • SACRED FOREST
      • Sage Incense
    • Infused Oils >
      • Arnica Infused Oil
      • Calendula Infused Oil
      • GARLIC-MULLEIN EAR DROPS
      • MULLEIN flower infused oil
      • NATIVE MOON OIL
      • Comfrey Infused Oil
      • ST. JOHN’S WORT Infused Oil
    • Kits >
      • Easter Bath Treats Basket
      • Essential Oil Sampler Kit
      • Herbal Cold & Flu Kit
      • Kitchari Kit
      • Roses Gift Set
      • Skincare Kit
    • Liquid Soap for Hair and Body >
      • Balance Liquid Soap
      • BLONDE ENHANCING SHAMPOO
      • Citrus Mint Liquid Hand Soap
      • Jewelweed Liquid Soap
      • Lavender Liquid Soap
      • Liquid Soap Unscented for Hair and Body
      • Pet Shampoo
      • Soften Liquid Soap for hair and body
      • SOOTHE SOAP & SHAMPOO
      • Tea Tree Liquid Soap
    • Miscellaneous Product >
      • ALOE GEL
      • AROMATHERAPY DIFFUSER LIGHT WOOD LIGHTHOUSE
      • BENZOIN GUM POWDER
      • Blue Sage Smudge Wand
      • BEESWAX
      • BREEZY WHITE PORTABLE DIFFUSER
      • CAR DIFFUSER
      • Car DIFFUSER REFILL PADS
      • Cedar Smudge Stick
      • CEDARWOOD ALL PURPOSE SOAP CLEANER
      • CHARCOAL (ACTIVATED) POWDER
      • CLAY (BENTONITE) pwdr
      • CLAY (GREEN ) powder
      • CLAY (PINK) powder
      • ELDER BERRY COUGH SYRUP
      • Fire Cider Immune Elixir
      • GLYCERIN, VEGETABLE
      • MENTHOL CRYSTALS
      • Mini Majesto Essential Oil Diffuser
      • Palo Santo smudge stick
      • Piccolo Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser
      • ROWAN VASE WHITE CERAMIC DIFFUSER
      • Shea Butter
      • STAINLESS STEEL TEA STRAINER WITH TEAPOT HANDLE
      • Sun Soapstone Diffuser Lamp
      • Tea Strainer
      • Vegetable Glycerin
      • White Sage Smudge
      • Wool Flannel
    • Red Sage Health Products
    • Skin and Hair Care >
      • Belly Balm
      • BLONDE ENHANCING SHAMPOO
      • BOTANICAL EMOLLIENT FOR SKIN & HAIR
      • Calendula Rose Cream
      • CLAY (GREEN ) powder
      • CLAY (WHITE KAOLIN COSMETIC) powder
      • CLEARING FACE MIST
      • FRANKINCENSE AND MYRRH SKIN TONIC
      • Hair gel
      • Hair Spray
      • HEALTHY VEIN TREATMENT
      • Herbal Cleansing Powder
      • Regenerating Tonic
      • CLAY (RHASSOUL) powder
      • Rosewater & Glycerin
      • Sun Proof Lotion
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