tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28604436140035244062024-03-05T23:45:16.992-06:00Hill Country HerbalistA venue to discover and learn about native and naturalized plants and their benefits through ingestion or application to the body.Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-44911796183145585262018-01-01T17:01:00.000-06:002018-01-01T20:05:38.138-06:00Hello 2018! Nice To See You!<div class="x_p1">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2cRPqJPwB94/WkqoaPkyhbI/AAAAAAAACNA/wcAG9lMqkussk75V76xN7PHrc5Rz_YbNwCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1757844666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2cRPqJPwB94/WkqoaPkyhbI/AAAAAAAACNA/wcAG9lMqkussk75V76xN7PHrc5Rz_YbNwCHMYCw/s200/blogger-image-1757844666.jpg" width="139" /></a><span class="x_s1">Some of you might have noticed a decrease in posts on social media in 2017. That's because 2017 was a year of great change and challenges. I couldn't tell you how many times I began to upload a post on HCH page just to delete it and walk away. I don't know why it was hard for me to share, I guess because it was less about herbs and plants and more about transition and change. In hindsight, I wish I would have posted them, but now I have this opportunity to share my year with you...all in one post. </span></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<span class="x_s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<span class="x_s1"></span><span class="x_s1">I have to be honest, I am not sad to see 2017 behind me. I am grateful for the blessings 2017 bestowed upon us; good health, family and friends, to name a few....and I find myself sincerely grateful to start a new year and chapter of our lives. Here's a bit of a recap....</span></div>
<div class="x_p2">
<span class="x_s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<i>January/February</i></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<span class="x_s1">Our 2017 started with news of my </span><span class="x_s1">uncle's passing in late January. He was the eldest out of all the siblings on my dad's side of the family. My dad is the second to the eldest. They grew up listening to Bob Dylan and driving and admiring classic cars. They were bro's before bro's was even a term.<span class="x_Apple-converted-space"> Needless to say, this was very hard on the family and was very hard for my dad. Even though this was very hard on my dad, I just know it was even harder for his two sons, his wife and my grandmother. I love my family. At 88 years of age, my grandmother was going to have to find out of his passing. This was not an easy time. You see, she herself had fallen ill and was diagnosed with pneumonia in January. She had fallen ill just a couple weeks before my uncle's passing. Although she was making a solid, yet slow, recovery...the family feared the news would take a toll on her progress. </span></span></div>
<div class="x_p2">
<span class="x_s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<span class="x_s1">When she learned of the news of her first born passing, we all held our breath and hoped she would remain strong in her recovery. Words cannot describe the emotions and deep feelings a mother has when losing a child. She had lost her first child and son to the heavens above. Still recovering from pneumonia, she was unable to travel and attend his funeral and services. About one week later, she passed into the white light. Her passing was peaceful. She now joined my uncle and my grandfather in the heavens above, which I know makes her happy. </span></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="x_p1">
My parents and Ryan and I traveled together and attended two funerals, in short order, at the beginning of 2017. Traveling out of town for both services was a bit surreal. I have to tell you though, when it's time, you do what you need to do and that's what we did. <span class="x_s1">Hearts heavy yet full of beautiful memories, the four of us traveled and shared a residence inn bringing us closer together. I think we even had the same room both times. It's all a blur. Hugs, memories, plants, and pictures brought this dynamic and expansive family of aunts, uncles, siblings, cousins, friends, and neighbors together. Cold truth and warm memories serve as a reminder we are lovingly alive and still have one another, yet acquiesce to the fact we are all immortal. </span></div>
<div class="x_p2">
<span class="x_s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<span class="x_s1"><i>February/March</i><span class="x_Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IyDgtoOB1mY/WkqtWXX6SDI/AAAAAAAACNU/QesH0GS0yWYcPZI1wSIPV_q8mLE8NhyDQCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-358509790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IyDgtoOB1mY/WkqtWXX6SDI/AAAAAAAACNU/QesH0GS0yWYcPZI1wSIPV_q8mLE8NhyDQCHMYCw/s200/blogger-image-358509790.jpg" width="150" /></a><span class="x_s1">Ryan and I decided after nearly 14 years of living in our hill country home, it was time to explore a new path. We decided it was time to place our beloved home on the market. With incredible love and pride we began sprucing up the 5 acre property to sell. At first, we completed certain projects halfway thinking we'd stay and enjoy the benefits of our labor. But, we knew we were slowly saying goodbye to our home in the most loving and honoring way we could. Making our home as beautiful as we could was our last gift to the land and trees we've loved since our late 20's. She deserved it after all. She was our sanctuary. A place we'd create into Hill Country Herbalist, IVITA botanicals, and where we gardened profusely and envisioned the future each and every day.<span class="x_Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></div>
<div class="x_p2">
<span class="x_s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="x_p1">
<span class="x_s1"><i>April/May</i></span></div>
<b></b><b></b><i></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kM8Mk0uNVtk/WkrInjQl0WI/AAAAAAAACNk/dVFoMJ-EP2ci0-joJ4bLtgx1r1YfHa6FgCHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1596897513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kM8Mk0uNVtk/WkrInjQl0WI/AAAAAAAACNk/dVFoMJ-EP2ci0-joJ4bLtgx1r1YfHa6FgCHMYCw/s200/blogger-image-1596897513.jpg" width="150" /></a>In April, we casually met with a realtor to see what they thought about listing our house. They were very excited about the property. When we left the meeting, we felt pretty good about deciding to list it and Ryan and I were still in the consideration stage. That same day, the realtor called and said they had a potential buyer and could they see the property. It was not even 30 minutes since they had left that they wanted to return with a potential buyer. Briar (dog), Basil (cat) and I headed to the garden so they could show the house and land. We sat there quietly among the roses, fig trees, Echinacea, grapes, and herbs....I remember thinking the garden was heaven and anyone would be a fool not to just love these plants. Plant energy is so beautiful and special. That same week we had an offer and a contract to review. This was all going too fast. I hadn't even come to terms we were actually listing. The house was not listed and we did not have a contract with a realtor. It was word of mouth and just that fast. Well, that offer fell through. Even though it fell through, that one week was a week of incredible highs and lows and just a real heady whirlwind. But, it was a wake up call. We realized we were definitely ready to sell. We just needed the perfect buyer. <br />
<br />
<i>May/June</i><br />
The house went on the market in the beginning of May. The house was shown several times a day and several times a week. Each time there was a showing, all the fur kids and I would either camp at my neighbors house or I'd take them to my office at work. It was an adventure and it was exciting. The house had a contract in a couple weeks and we were asked to sell it before the end of June. That gave us just a month and a half to pack our belongings of 14 years - that was not an easy thing to do. Luckily, we had a little fixer upper we could move into while we explored our next journey. For 5 weeks straight, all I did was pack. Pack in the morning, the evening, the night and all weekend long until we were finished. It was the hardest thing I had to do emotionally. I was so connected to the land and trees and plants and my home. But, I did it. On the last day, I touched each tree that had given so much to me spiritually. I honored each tree and felt the vibrations and blessed each tree with love. I love those trees. <br />
<br />
<i>July and now</i><br />
The fixer upper we moved into was already furnished. All of our belongings are in storage and we are using the vintage dishes and furniture we had in the house. I remember that last week of June, just before the final closing of the house we sold, we were moving into the fixer upper. The only furniture we did bring was our bed and bedroom dresser. The roof was being fixed at the fixer upper due to it leaking each time it rained. The same day we moved the fur kids and the bed it rained several inches. I got a call from Ryan and in a very stressful tone he told me it was raining in the house! The roofers had left without placing the weather proof material on the house. A huge mistake on their part. We had every pot, pan, bowl and ice chest in the 1920's shiplap house catching streams of water. Sometimes, things just get harder and then harder before they get easier. I like to laugh about it now.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-63Q0kk6TPhI/WkrJFM6FAMI/AAAAAAAACNo/mnJz8khcGVY_FdaHuvjAFoRUDPaDiK79ACHMYCw/s640/blogger-image-1081630524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-63Q0kk6TPhI/WkrJFM6FAMI/AAAAAAAACNo/mnJz8khcGVY_FdaHuvjAFoRUDPaDiK79ACHMYCw/s200/blogger-image-1081630524.jpg" width="150" /></a>The home is very shaded and in the city. The house is on a quarter of an acre has mostly pecan trees and has one very large loquat tree. We planted our Meyer lemon tree a year before and that was nice to have a bit of home at the new house. Other than that, the plants are not edible, but I plan on doing what I can to plant more medicinal plants around the house. I started planting daily household herbs in the front yard in October...sage, rosemary, sorrel, thyme and oregano. This was the first time I exhaled a bit of normalcy. The transition was harder on me than I realized. I had closed my Etsy shop during the summer, but I couldn't hide long. Orders were coming in whether the shop was temporarily closed or not. Thank goodness for those orders. I am grateful for them. I made the first batch of Cell Rejuvenator in October and I felt so happy and the Etsy store is back up. IVITA customers are now coming here to pick up orders and I live really close to the post office, so it's even easier to ship orders. Things are getting back to normal, one could say.<br />
<br />
With 2017 behind us, I enter 2018 with a bright spirit and positive intent. Herbhusband and I are inspired and determined to transform this city property into an herbal paradise. Although the botanical pictures I'll be posting of the future transformation will look quite different than the hill country pictures, they will still be fun and exciting to share. We have an herbal adventure ahead of us :) We have a challenge with the shade, but there are many shade loving creatures we plan to meet and explore. We are also near the Guadalupe River and the wildlife is breath taking. Herons, ducks, fish, turtles and so much more. I am eager to share all of it with you. We are eventually moving back to the hill country, just taking our time to figure out exactly what we need in our next forever home. In the meantime, it is nice to have a bit of the city life for just a while. We enjoy walking downtown and we've even gotten used to the train that runs at all hours of the night. I think it's a fun adventure.<br />
<br />
To your health and happiness! Big hugs and blessings to you and yours....<br />
<br />
Happy New Year and to a marvelous and loving 2018!<br />
<br />
<br />
Warmth and cheers!<br />
<br />
HCH<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-71495208149303690482014-12-26T17:19:00.000-06:002014-12-26T21:14:23.444-06:00Benefits of Organic Coffee: Not Just In Our Cups, But On Our Skin! <br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-000hMNodUUY/VJ3rkrg5K6I/AAAAAAAAB6Y/2BU1F5wqU28/s1600/coffee%2Bsrub%2Bjars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-000hMNodUUY/VJ3rkrg5K6I/AAAAAAAAB6Y/2BU1F5wqU28/s1600/coffee%2Bsrub%2Bjars.jpg" /></a>Caffeine is not just for our favorite mug anymore....well, unless we're talking about the mug reflected in our mirror. More and more, we are seeing caffeine as a key ingredient in anti-aging skin care formulations. Used over time, caffeine applied to the skin can help smooth and brighten skin...now who doesn't love that?<br />
<br />
Recently, I've been using organic ground coffee in both facial applications and body scrubs and testing out new formulations for IVITA botanicals. The result is very impressive - I'm wondering what took me so long to formulate skin care products using organic coffee since the benefits on the skin are quite impressive. Even after a few applications, I can really see and feel the difference on my skin. <br />
<br />
One reason coffee is so good for the skin is that it is very high in antioxidants. Antioxidants in topical applications help fight free radicals and improve the overall health of our skin cells. Free radicals can diminish skin's vibrant appearance and damage skin cells - so having skin care products with antioxidants is essential. Coffee also increases circulation in the skin, which can reduce dull appearance and lead to a vibrant fresh glow. Coffee is also anti-inflammatory leading to smoother skin with reduced redness and reduced puffiness. Yes, please!<br />
<br />
When formulating skin care products, I aim to create organic skin care that brightens, sooths, evens texture, and improves overall skin health. The healthier our skin becomes the better we look and feel. Over the holidays, I formulated two new skin care scrubs: Organic Coffee & Sugar Facial Scrub and Organic Coffee & Dead Sea Salt Body Scrub. Each are blended with organic cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla bean as well as special oils such as pumpkin seed oil, coconut oil, almond oil and hazelnut oil to bring out the vibrancy of each ingredient as well as improve the application to the skin. The result is fresh, vibrant and radiant skin. Followed by body oil and crème - skin feels soft and pampered all day or all night. <br />
<br />
Want to have fun with organic ground coffee at home? Try this simple DIY:<br />
<br />
- 1 cup organic ground coffee<br />
- 1 cup Dead Sea Salts or Organic Sugar<br />
- 1/2 cup almond oil<br />
- 1/2 cup melted coconut oil<br />
- 2 tablespoons organic cinnamon powder<br />
- 1 tablespoon powdered orange peel<br />
<br />
Mix all ingredients together and place in a jar with lid. Keep by shower and use as often as you like, making sure to avoid introducing water into the scrub container...water can introduce bacteria that can begin to grow. Bacteria growing in your scrub needs to be avoided. The smell will fill you with happiness and your skin will glow with appreciation. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NHyn-Agk-7Y/VJ3rl85Y1KI/AAAAAAAAB6g/7vQ-qaKaH9M/s1600/coffee%2Bscrub%2Bjars.5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NHyn-Agk-7Y/VJ3rl85Y1KI/AAAAAAAAB6g/7vQ-qaKaH9M/s1600/coffee%2Bscrub%2Bjars.5.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Wishing you a splendid (and happily caffeinated) New Year!<br />
<br />
For your skin and for the plants,<br />
Ivy<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: large;">Blessings to you in 2015!</span></em> </div>
<br />
<br />Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-54676311311802736442014-12-22T23:24:00.001-06:002015-05-04T22:46:02.567-05:00Oil for Mary: Soothing Herbs for Severe Itching Skin<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0sBTfSvRQWHO8ZleqXBU68kw9qSbhFDVJzZ-jNmGQxlaWJxHEd7b6jS9eg0fgsj5nlsuEk2mgZCyIPajUh_FOH18wEHHRtpZAfS0PVXVrfp5Dd49bgfXl2g4CVAB-Btn3THByw7YTTRQ/s640/blogger-image-202954443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0sBTfSvRQWHO8ZleqXBU68kw9qSbhFDVJzZ-jNmGQxlaWJxHEd7b6jS9eg0fgsj5nlsuEk2mgZCyIPajUh_FOH18wEHHRtpZAfS0PVXVrfp5Dd49bgfXl2g4CVAB-Btn3THByw7YTTRQ/s320/blogger-image-202954443.jpg" width="183" /></a>Most of the time, I'm approached for skin care solutions related to aging and/or sensitive skin. Recently, a close colleague approached me for the first time in 16 years of knowing and working with each other. She was seeking support. She confided in me that her mother was undergoing chemotherapy and all was going well besides one thing - her skin was severely irritated and creating chronic itching throughout the day and especially at night. Her dear mother was losing sleep due to the itching as a side effect of the chemotherapy was seeking support. <br />
<br />
I've known this family for 16 years as they have a tremendous history in the nonprofit and special needs field. They are like family. I humbly agreed and that night when I went home I carefully thought out what I hoped would help dear Mary get some well deserved sleep...at least for a night. <br />
<br />
I formulated a bath blend and kept it simple: magnesium salt, almond oil, lavender and chamomile. Magnesium salt to sooth her central nervous system and feed her muscles and skin from the outside in. I then formulated a body oil for her to place liberally on her skin after she came out of the bath. An oil that would hydrate and sooth her skin throughout the night was my inspiration. I quickly reached for oils I've infused and had on hand in my apothecary for skin health: yarrow infused olive oil, calendula oil, violet leaf oil and blended with other beneficial oils to hydrate and benefit the skin. <br />
<br />
I drove in the day after Thanksgiving to meet my colleague. As I handed her the bath salts and oils I sent her and her mother a special internal prayer of health, happiness and rest. <br />
<br />
Eager to find out how Mary slept the night before, I called my colleague on Saturday morning and she placed her mother on the phone. On the phone was Mary...telling me she slept so well...the first time since she started chemotherapy. She was elated and her voice rang with happiness. I felt incredibly full of joy and relief. I told her how happy I was she was able to get some much needed rest. She was delighted and so was her family who had been worrying about her itchy skin. Her skin had been such a bother to Mary that she had scratched it to the point of breaking the skin on her back and legs. <br />
<br />
Days later I asked how she was doing and the response was the same. She was able to sleep through the night without itching and her scratches were now starting to heal. Amazing....love. <br />
<br />
I'm sharing this special story out of gratitude. I am grateful for the humble support I was able to give one extraordinary lady in her time of need. <br />
<br />
Later, I learned through research that the process of chemotherapy reduces the skin's ability to renew itself, which can worsen dry skin. I didn't know this when formulating for Mary, but it makes so much sense now. <br />
<br />
The key is maintaining hydration and moisture. Many over the counter lotions or jellies can feel hydrating, yet may not hydrate or add moisture to our dermal layers. What may help is a good fragrance free botanical oil blend or crème. If you or a loved one is experiencing this, look for crèmes, oils, and ointments made with whole organic ingredients which may be a better path to relief. The key is retaining moisture in the skin using soothing ingredients, such as botanically infused oils. It's also best to seal in moisture after bath time. Of course, always consult your physician in your treatment.<br />
<br />
Blessings to Mary and all who are surviving cancer. May your strength and light persevere. <br />
<br />
Green Blessings <br />
For your skin and for the plants,<br />
Ivy<br />
<br />
For the latest information see our Etsy site:<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/231991297/oil-for-mary-for-sensitive-itchy-skin?ref=shop_home_feat_3">https://www.etsy.com/listing/231991297/oil-for-mary-for-sensitive-itchy-skin?ref=shop_home_feat_3</a><br />
<br />Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-89347825594940665012013-12-07T23:31:00.001-06:002014-09-17T21:35:44.903-05:00Herbalismo! A Medicinal Plant Festival: Johnson City, Texas<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZKE1JJ5c_4A/UqOYnJWJl0I/AAAAAAAABz4/UP3on8MkbL4/s640/blogger-image--1314687379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZKE1JJ5c_4A/UqOYnJWJl0I/AAAAAAAABz4/UP3on8MkbL4/s320/blogger-image--1314687379.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flat Creek Crossing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We didn't have to travel far to attend Herbalismo! A Medicinal Plant Festival held in Johnson City's Perdenales state park October 24th - 27th. What fun this herbal conference was! It was an honor to help sponsor and vend at this event. Herbhusband and I manned our IVITA Botanicals booth and met so many vibrant and beautiful people from all parts of the US. I think someone came as far as New Zealand!<br />
<br />
Speakers included Rosemary Gladstar, Maria Elena Martinez, Matthew Wood, Paul Bergner, William Morris, Margi Flint, Nicole Telkes, Ginger Webb, and so many more. It was a group of about 300 yet the feeling was intimate and cozy as we learned from one another over the course of four days. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Eaibv8wCTBU/UqOaMPnkY2I/AAAAAAAAB0M/pfVVKxE7LuQ/s640/blogger-image-1242414840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Eaibv8wCTBU/UqOaMPnkY2I/AAAAAAAAB0M/pfVVKxE7LuQ/s400/blogger-image-1242414840.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosemary Gladstar walking to the conference with her mother ~ beautiful ladies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another fascinating speaker at the conference was D'Coda. She's an herbalist and forager who has a documentary on Netflix called The Naturalist and it features how she lived in the Ozarks using only primitive skills to survive. She spent five years in the Ozarks, never leaving the land only living off the forest and her garden. I find that simply amazing and exciting - what a strong and balanced soul...she's incredible. <br />
<br />
Nicole Telkes, Director of the Wildflower School of Botanical Medicine offered a plant walk and discussed native medicinal plants growing in Flat Creek Crossing. Plant walks are so informative; a wonderful way to connect with the bioregion through guidance. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-PMceX_0AUs4/UqOjEY3p6tI/AAAAAAAAB0c/MRlSGKfO3bc/s640/blogger-image--416397915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-PMceX_0AUs4/UqOjEY3p6tI/AAAAAAAAB0c/MRlSGKfO3bc/s400/blogger-image--416397915.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-WESaPZyTHu4/UqOj359mk3I/AAAAAAAAB0k/Rh3vjrUj3PM/s640/blogger-image--1929852444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-WESaPZyTHu4/UqOj359mk3I/AAAAAAAAB0k/Rh3vjrUj3PM/s400/blogger-image--1929852444.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi820JqW0dFy8UfQfoV-mtVkrSzhU0PbMO8fXKFpIevuKolKxuajoJ7rUhGyrmUM_oNVjcRfC7nAFycdW_y4o3NP1TBrFg_aLvMu9ZPxwe8kQy9fgAD3yFxhfPIY5EbAyQPAEO9eA-NmfE/s640/blogger-image-785383737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi820JqW0dFy8UfQfoV-mtVkrSzhU0PbMO8fXKFpIevuKolKxuajoJ7rUhGyrmUM_oNVjcRfC7nAFycdW_y4o3NP1TBrFg_aLvMu9ZPxwe8kQy9fgAD3yFxhfPIY5EbAyQPAEO9eA-NmfE/s400/blogger-image-785383737.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--eQwVMZ6Z_I/UqOkGJ3IrMI/AAAAAAAAB00/0IP-AobqTIM/s640/blogger-image--1626099136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/--eQwVMZ6Z_I/UqOkGJ3IrMI/AAAAAAAAB00/0IP-AobqTIM/s400/blogger-image--1626099136.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another notable speaker who presented at Herbalismo! is Marjory Wildcraft, whose mission is "homegrown food on every table", and has developed a very realistic approach to what it takes to be a self sustaining community and family of four on a homestead. She's invested a lot of research in self sustainability and has been featured as an expert in sustainable living by National Geographic. At the conference she discussed organic gardening, composting, and raising farm animals such as goats, rabbits, chickens and ducks. Her video "Grow Your Own Groceries" helps everyone understand organic foods and survival skills using resources in your own backyard. You can learn more about her realistic and well researched approach to self sustaining homesteads at <a href="http://www.growyourowngroceries.org/">www.growyourowngroceries.org</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
It wouldn't be a conference without the compassionate voice of Rosemary Galdstar reminding us all to love one another and love our dear plants. Her work with United Plant Savers <a href="http://www.unitedplantsavers.org/">www.unitedplantsavers.org</a> is so important. As more of us are appreciating plant medicine for healing, it is important to know and be able to identify which wild medicinal herbs are currently at risk of extinction. Yes, plants can leave us and face extinction just like our wildlife if we are not careful. She reminds us all to appreciate alternatives to at risk herbs such as American Ginseng, Black Cohosh, Bloodroot and more. If you haven't already, look into her work and help this very important mission. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
It warmed my heart to be around so many caring nature lovers. It truly was a joyful experience. I'm happy to have been a part of a fist time Texas herb conference and honored IVITA Botanicals helped sponsor. Here is a picture of the booth - we had fun making friends! Until next time my dear herb and plant loving friends...be botanically beautiful and stay warm..... Green blessings ~ </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MC-4Q-3ZWv8/UqQAk6uXWNI/AAAAAAAAB10/rQ0MRBQRwOg/s640/blogger-image-1654486757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MC-4Q-3ZWv8/UqQAk6uXWNI/AAAAAAAAB10/rQ0MRBQRwOg/s640/blogger-image-1654486757.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-91978826973070395012013-06-16T16:49:00.000-05:002013-06-16T17:17:07.198-05:00Hill Country Herbs: Topical uses for Borage, Yarrow, Vitex, Calendula, Rose and Mullein<br />
In honor of the blooming herbs here in the Hill Country garden I dedicate this post to the topical uses of Borage, Yarrow, Vitex, Calendula, Rose, Prickly Pear Cactus, and Mullein. Below, I'll share just a little about how easy it is to incorporate these easy to grow herbs in your garden and in your skin care regime. I think each herb could fill a book on its own; however, this entry will simply highlight a few topical uses.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Borage (<em>Borago officinales</em>)</u></strong><br />
<br />
<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xNQfr7OzUvg/UaoDQoyQonI/AAAAAAAABss/fzL0V6OiAXY/s640/blogger-image--1872233421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xNQfr7OzUvg/UaoDQoyQonI/AAAAAAAABss/fzL0V6OiAXY/s320/blogger-image--1872233421.jpg" width="240" /></a>I started Borage from seed in early spring. Borage is a good companion plant for tomatoes, so I have some planted along side them as well as in my test "deer resistant" garden. So far, the deer are leaving it alone so we shall see how they continue to do over the months to come. <br />
<br />
Although, you can eat young leaves and flowers...it is the seed oil that is highly regarded for having anti- inflammatory properties due to the fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid; making this oil a good source of essential fatty acids. It is good for inflamed skin and it's very nice when infused in oil and made into crèmes or salves. The infused oil can be used on its own. Adding a bit of Vitamin E will allow the infused oil to have a longer shelf life. Fatty acids are wonderful for aging, dry, or irritated skin. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Yarrow (<em>Achillea millefolium</em>)</u></strong><br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bb36chNhrcA/UaqcZBeRK6I/AAAAAAAABtU/zDd1tyaM7wc/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bb36chNhrcA/UaqcZBeRK6I/AAAAAAAABtU/zDd1tyaM7wc/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="240" /></a>Yarrow, also known as soldier's wound wort, is a wonderful first aid herb and is very helpful for the skin. Packing Yarrow on bleeding wounds helps subside the bleeding until advanced first aid and care can be administered. It will help subside the bleeding. Drying the stems, leaves and flowers is also a good way to preserve Yarrow. After it is dried, it can be made into a powder in a grain or coffee grinder. Once powdered, you can store in dark glass jars to keep it from getting damaged by the light. The Yarrow powder can be a first aid powder and applied to bleeding cuts or wounds. <br />
Another way of using Yarrow is infusion. When leaves and flowers are infused in water, it draws out the healing properties of the herb. The healing infusion helps serve as a wound wash; cleaning the skin with its astringent and anti microbial properties. This herb is a must have in the garden. It's good to have a first aid herb growing in case you ever need it.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Yarrow's salicylic fatty acids are good for adding antibacterial properties to skin care blends (such as cremes and serums) making this a nice addition to blends made for those with acne prone skin. It also has antioxidant properties. That alone is key for good skin care. This herb is very good for oily or inflamed skin and the antibacterial properties helps keep infection at bay. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Vitex, or Chaste Tree (<em>Vitex angus-castus</em>)</u></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="clear: both;">
I read a lot about how Vitex, when used internally, balances female hormones; however, I also read here and there that when used topically, it can help with insect bites as well as repel insects from biting you. There's not a lot out there as far as how to use the herb topically, so I was happy to find "Wild Herbs of Crete" (<a href="http://quickbooker.org/kunden/wildherbsofcrete_com/pages/portraits-of-our-essential-oils-from-wild-herbs-of-crete/vitex-agnus-castus.php">http://quickbooker.org/kunden/wildherbsofcrete_com/pages/portraits-of-our-essential-oils-from-wild-herbs-of-crete/vitex-agnus-castus.php</a>). </div>
<div style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fOVOiC6xT8s/UaqeLM4rr1I/AAAAAAAABtk/vzL5fHYZ0Hs/s1600/photo+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fOVOiC6xT8s/UaqeLM4rr1I/AAAAAAAABtk/vzL5fHYZ0Hs/s320/photo+6.JPG" width="240" /></a>Here, it explains how Vitex seeds can be made into an essential oil and used to in massage oils as well as used to ward off insect bites. Essential oils come from the fruit/seed extracts and is not overly commercially produced; however, it can be found in select stores and it can be made with a home still. Wild Herbs of Crete explains the benefits of the oil and also discusses benefits in terms of topical massage. Since its known in the US as an herb to take internally, in an effort to balance female hormones, it makes sense that using the oil topically would have nice outcomes. Wild Herbs of Crete indicates massage oil containing Vitex is useful for skin inflamed by hormones, as well as beneficial as a massage oil for breast tissue. I liked reading that it, "reconnects a woman with her inherent harmony within and balances sexual desire between a man and a woman..." When it comes to Vitex, it is all about balance and hormonal harmony. How nice! We have it growing in our landscape; it is deer resistant and very beautiful. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Calendula (<em>Calendula officinalis</em>)</u></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8kw9ZTsGz04/Ubu3xlkpe4I/AAAAAAAABt0/yaRSisnAZFc/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8kw9ZTsGz04/Ubu3xlkpe4I/AAAAAAAABt0/yaRSisnAZFc/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="240" /></a>Calendula is gentle enough for a baby, yet strong enough for all sorts of skin uses. On any given day, I have Calendula petals and flowers solar infusing into oil in the kitchen's most sunny window. I like to solar infuse Calendula into oil for about 4 weeks until the oil is a nice warm yellow/orange color - filled with the Calendula's vitality. Once ready, I strain out the flowers and bottle the infused oil where it waits to be used into massage oil, salves, or crèmes. </div>
<br />
Calendula promotes cellular turnover, making it a very nice facial crème. It also helps sooth and soften skin. For a quick way to use Calendula, you can heat some water along with a handful of flowers and make an infusion. Once cooled and strained, you can use the infusion as a facial wash, an eye wash, or a first aid rinse. You can also enjoy the steam coming off the infusion for a nice DIY facial steam. A facial steam of this infusion is so wonderful for the face since Calendula boasts anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. <br />
<div style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both;">
Calendula is a very nice herb for sensitive or acne prone skin, as well. Calendula helps heal tissue and reduce inflammation. </div>
<div style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both;">
Calendula has so many uses, both internally and topically that it demands an entire book in its honor. In fact, one of my favorite Herbalists and Aromatherapists, Mindy Green, has written a book dedicated to Calendula, simply titled: "Calendula". As she states on the cover of her book, "This soothing first-aid remedy is unsurpassed for skin problems from diaper rash to varicose veins." Now, you can see why it is one of my favorites, as well....since from birth and beyond, this is a beautiful herb to enjoy throughout your lifetime. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Rose (Rosa)</u></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-utBGDh1N_eY/Ub4WNgAjRDI/AAAAAAAABuk/fgpU5pF4tV4/s1600/rose+bloom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-utBGDh1N_eY/Ub4WNgAjRDI/AAAAAAAABuk/fgpU5pF4tV4/s320/rose+bloom.JPG" width="239" /></a>Who doesn't adore rose petals freshly picked from the garden? So delicate, fragrant, soft.....and when kissed by the breeze, takes on the look of butterfly wings dancing in your hand. </div>
<br />
There are so many topical benefits using both the petals and the seed oil. Fresh rose petals can be infused in red wine vinegar (just one of many menstruums, i.e., oil, alcohol, vinegar) to benefit the skin, such as for relieving sunburn or toning the skin. I also like to dry rose petals and finely grind them into a powder to add into honey for a yummy deliciously humectant face mask. This delicious face mask (literally) can be applied to the skin one a month to draw moisture, nourish, protect and heal the skin. Literally: Skin Food! <br />
<br />
When infused in red wine vinegar, for example, the outcome is a wonderfully vibrant extract that can be diluted with aloe vera juice and rose water to make a cooling facial mist. Imagine this cooling mist on your face after a hot summer day or a hot flash....<em>ahhh.....</em> So nice! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both;">
Rosehip seed oil is yet another topical treat for your face. Rosehip seed oil is made from the wild roses naturally growing throughout Chili. It has long been a beauty secret for the people of Chili and it's popularity is growing in other countries. Rosehip Seed Oil is very high in essential fatty acids, especially linoleic acid. <br />
<br />
Rosehip seed oil has been used by women for stretch marks and it has also been used to assist with sun damaged skin and scars. <br />
<br />
I think this oil is best for dry mature skin, since Rosehip seed oil is very high in essential fatty acids. It seems best for individuals who no longer struggle with bouts of acne or breakouts. <br />
<br />
I love using this oil on my hands and under my eyes. It is silky and smooth. It absorbs very quickly and does not leave an oily feeling on the skin. Skin is left soft and satin smooth. You can tell you are helping it be the best it can be after using this very special oil. <br />
<br />
I especially enjoy this oil after using one of hand blended sugar scrubs....skin is so ready for a special oil like this after a light exfoliation. Happy skin is good :)</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSPneM2PjSs/Ub4Wn-ziBPI/AAAAAAAABus/riD2OZrWSKw/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Mullein (<em>Verbascum thapsus</em>)</strong></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcgW6mUc-qyv_sNQcdmODNpdWCsmlccIgDoJ7dCu5XrHd0iiQXcPx0ZaFwlAkiVbcJKCNqoDacevY0KWjXdtWiA0O0NObQ9IEpNgaHwXMSlv2Oy4f5IxbOfqSww5fOgHllDY6-2ZYnrk0/s1600/photo+11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcgW6mUc-qyv_sNQcdmODNpdWCsmlccIgDoJ7dCu5XrHd0iiQXcPx0ZaFwlAkiVbcJKCNqoDacevY0KWjXdtWiA0O0NObQ9IEpNgaHwXMSlv2Oy4f5IxbOfqSww5fOgHllDY6-2ZYnrk0/s320/photo+11.JPG" width="240" /></a>Another one of my favorite skin herbs is Mullein. Mullein is native to Europe, but can be found growing wild in much of our United States. I transplanted this Mullein (pictured) from the back field to our nearby kitchen garden. Mullein transplants very well. A bi-annual, it will soften your heart with time as you and Mullein spend then next 2-3 years enjoying each other's company as changes evolve.<br />
<br />
Mullein can grow very tall, this Mullein has reached over 6 feet with bloom stalks. It is a very magical plant and just to be around it brings you comfort. Soft leaves and large size suggests how comforting and beneficial it can be to any garden. <br />
<br />
Topically, the leaves and flowers are used. Leaves can be harvested, dried and infused into oil to make healing salves and crèmes. Mullein is very emollient....I use it in my Happy Camper crème <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/85012906/happy-camper-lotion-for-irritated-skin?ref=shop_home_active">https://www.etsy.com/listing/85012906/happy-camper-lotion-for-irritated-skin?ref=shop_home_active</a> <br />
that I have dedicated to all the gardeners, hard workers and outdoorsy folk I know. Mullein's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it a household staple for applying after being bit, scratched and "earth touched" while enjoying the great outdoors. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2q8n-yZsKLg/Ub43nhaDyGI/AAAAAAAABvE/ouAe3vGsfyI/s1600/lemon+mint+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2q8n-yZsKLg/Ub43nhaDyGI/AAAAAAAABvE/ouAe3vGsfyI/s320/lemon+mint+2.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
Another herb growing in the garden, that I will quickly mention, is <strong><em>Monarda citriodora; </em></strong>purple horsemint. I love to infuse the flowers and leaves in apple cider vinegar and dilute with aloe vera juice and rose hydrosol for a beautiful nourishing astringent toner. It is helpful for acne prone skin and I find it nourishes and tones skin ~ great for summer use when some of us over produce oils in our skin. <br />
<br />
Aloe vera is also growing out in the garden. Did you know you could substitute the inner fillet of a Prickly Pear Cactus pad for Aloe in a pinch? Well, you can....if ever hurt or burned...turn to the native Prickly Pear Cactus for comfort (<em>Opuntia</em>). Years ago, I posted a fun way to use our native friend...here's a quick link to that post: <a href="http://www.hillcountryherbalist.com/2010/09/great-way-to-use-prickly-pears-and-be.html">http://www.hillcountryherbalist.com/2010/09/great-way-to-use-prickly-pears-and-be.html</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
As you may have guessed, there are entirely too many herbs growing native and naturalized all around us that have topical benefits. I think I could write a book on just this one subject matter. However, I'm so happy to share just a few herbs that I use daily for topical applications. I hope you are enjoying your beautiful day and as always I wish you wonderful green luck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
For your skin and for the plants,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Ivy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Hill Country Herbalist</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Reference: Wild Herbs of Crete</div>
Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-21052186699410122642013-04-26T23:05:00.000-05:002013-04-26T23:31:34.686-05:00Mid Spring in the Texas Hill Country <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JmwazxtBng4/UXtHQ50AhEI/AAAAAAAABoU/6-HaF9lrgvo/s1600/photo+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JmwazxtBng4/UXtHQ50AhEI/AAAAAAAABoU/6-HaF9lrgvo/s320/photo+6.JPG" width="240" /></a>Happy Spring to all! It's been an amazing spring here in the Texas Hill Country with about three freezes since mid March! Our poor tomatoes, jalapenos and basil are stunted -left not knowing what to do. As they sprouted new leaves...a frost came along and zapped them! Not just once, but three times...the last one just this past week! Poor herblings. </div>
<br />
However, all is not lost (or stunted), here are some herbs and plants that were not fazed one bit by the ongoing frosts ~Onion, strawberries, yarrow, bee balm, self heal, mullein, apple mint, oregano, thyme, echinacea, parsley, dill, chives, carrots, calendula, poppies, hollyhock, roses, burdock, vervain, wormwood, sage, betony, mexican hat, artichoke, swiss chard, plantain, lettuce, and other hearty herbs such as rosemary. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheg8Bw5UYV04GirExaz4cbn08yF3q1HnFS1pXGZpcI2xn_wPoZRZLm2TsmlQnPOY5PaWJElvDpjFhITts0klFGf01IqQ_zEPaElwoFaoX4gnF7zGXM5NnSDJrs7RoW-7qDpf4zgclid_4/s1600/photo+24.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheg8Bw5UYV04GirExaz4cbn08yF3q1HnFS1pXGZpcI2xn_wPoZRZLm2TsmlQnPOY5PaWJElvDpjFhITts0klFGf01IqQ_zEPaElwoFaoX4gnF7zGXM5NnSDJrs7RoW-7qDpf4zgclid_4/s320/photo+24.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
It's very enjoyable after a long day at work to come home and find bright red ripe strawberries to pick! Half go to us and the other half must go to our freckled nose son...Mr. Briar! It's a treat he patiently waits for each spring day. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bGTLgTNq1KA/UXtHSPggTLI/AAAAAAAABoc/92wDlRzqsGY/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bGTLgTNq1KA/UXtHSPggTLI/AAAAAAAABoc/92wDlRzqsGY/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kxZfxv8Pndc/UXtHFeInfqI/AAAAAAAABoM/SE-f6FhnzvU/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kxZfxv8Pndc/UXtHFeInfqI/AAAAAAAABoM/SE-f6FhnzvU/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
This year, the poppies jumped over a bed. So...here I am looking in one bed...just to find them making a home in one bed over. Who knew they were so transient? All the same, I adore them. They are so glorious in their pink - red hues. Amazing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ufmZtTkACKM/UXtHT3ZoAwI/AAAAAAAABok/VMnINwQdxcQ/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ufmZtTkACKM/UXtHT3ZoAwI/AAAAAAAABok/VMnINwQdxcQ/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tGT6awcmxNA/UXtHk9LfS6I/AAAAAAAABo8/ShZOSxssgB4/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tGT6awcmxNA/UXtHk9LfS6I/AAAAAAAABo8/ShZOSxssgB4/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The sage is blooming - so beautiful. I planted sage as a low hedge this past year. Now, the low hedge is all filled in and blooming. The native deer do no not prefer or like sage...so this makes it the best hedge ever! Deer resistant and purple blooms around the home. Win win. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-khEP3t8xSPQ/UXtHaYNCY_I/AAAAAAAABos/r5gpswuG66M/s1600/photo+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-khEP3t8xSPQ/UXtHaYNCY_I/AAAAAAAABos/r5gpswuG66M/s320/photo+8.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Poppies are so intense as they build their petals. Starting off as a tight clam shaped buds...they expand as they form their petals within....later busting at the seams full of petal delight! I simply love poppies. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YylKNKIkBmw/UXtHjhmiM3I/AAAAAAAABo0/ByGiRb8FolA/s1600/photo+10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YylKNKIkBmw/UXtHjhmiM3I/AAAAAAAABo0/ByGiRb8FolA/s320/photo+10.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Black watchman hollyhock is beginning to set its stalk of buds. Later this spring and early summer...this stalk will be filled with black hollyhock blooms. Stunning. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb0M8GPfYyY/UXtHup_6qrI/AAAAAAAABpE/nR2VSX7uhx8/s1600/photo+12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb0M8GPfYyY/UXtHup_6qrI/AAAAAAAABpE/nR2VSX7uhx8/s320/photo+12.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Our Texas native poppy. Flouncy petals yet prickly stalks and leaves. Like many of us Texans ;) lol! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lo6QtXWHGw/UXtH1GdyqNI/AAAAAAAABpU/Na8zRyonBSU/s1600/photo+9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lo6QtXWHGw/UXtH1GdyqNI/AAAAAAAABpU/Na8zRyonBSU/s320/photo+9.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqioCfpQDjuy6p47SMQfmUyUDFM5pFf7HCAFLbwhFx_ShYmI4hhKn3oESNEWh_fy9wPOKzH3hDJ3XyXOug71BaFaQ9VFs0ykcFXiQQLR4Olrj7zeKmeHkkOUEK1C2b6M9ehyIeDEUbsQc/s1600/photo+14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqioCfpQDjuy6p47SMQfmUyUDFM5pFf7HCAFLbwhFx_ShYmI4hhKn3oESNEWh_fy9wPOKzH3hDJ3XyXOug71BaFaQ9VFs0ykcFXiQQLR4Olrj7zeKmeHkkOUEK1C2b6M9ehyIeDEUbsQc/s320/photo+14.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Our native thistle....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p97wb7E6tGM/UXtIJd1DzrI/AAAAAAAABps/aXtdzdJTycQ/s1600/photo+17.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p97wb7E6tGM/UXtIJd1DzrI/AAAAAAAABps/aXtdzdJTycQ/s320/photo+17.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Poppy going to seed...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1xKZi5Gy6M/UXtIJF3sIGI/AAAAAAAABpk/wQVcJHcCta4/s1600/photo+18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1xKZi5Gy6M/UXtIJF3sIGI/AAAAAAAABpk/wQVcJHcCta4/s320/photo+18.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Carrots from last winter going into flower....so beautiful<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYhEh6dwyWk/UXtIJfhd1dI/AAAAAAAABpo/kE6EZLBe9-Y/s1600/photo+19.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYhEh6dwyWk/UXtIJfhd1dI/AAAAAAAABpo/kE6EZLBe9-Y/s320/photo+19.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Chives full of blossoms....honey bees simply love them...buzzing all about! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i9XMdivDjeE/UXtIfop0OKI/AAAAAAAABqM/l3yqqz9o9nE/s1600/photo+20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i9XMdivDjeE/UXtIfop0OKI/AAAAAAAABqM/l3yqqz9o9nE/s320/photo+20.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
It's going to rain, I think...love Spring rains! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdwbOTT06idpKd_a7NPToKfaO0B74_cWsugeQXJ7NwiEX-4BOsz2Cphbou61FRrqHeb8zG9TcKaDRqgQSfHgn8jBjlPWcRGNZtTwCx5vA-ay_XzeWMLeZm388UxYLCOkYzI29UM4oRZk/s1600/photo+21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdwbOTT06idpKd_a7NPToKfaO0B74_cWsugeQXJ7NwiEX-4BOsz2Cphbou61FRrqHeb8zG9TcKaDRqgQSfHgn8jBjlPWcRGNZtTwCx5vA-ay_XzeWMLeZm388UxYLCOkYzI29UM4oRZk/s320/photo+21.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Poppy making petals....working so hard...in a day or two it will explode with double coral poppy petals! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvq-OJquH8z3mY98ujmejaqh0PGH5Gsu4fSfVeqIcem2N28tEmjh50tCYTercaOiWdLi1gnkNWVQSXklphPSC-Jx7QsNawHAmctul9XVTuEzeb096fiIXyaUAXX1lP4evyGt1qvwVmS8w/s1600/photo+23.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvq-OJquH8z3mY98ujmejaqh0PGH5Gsu4fSfVeqIcem2N28tEmjh50tCYTercaOiWdLi1gnkNWVQSXklphPSC-Jx7QsNawHAmctul9XVTuEzeb096fiIXyaUAXX1lP4evyGt1qvwVmS8w/s320/photo+23.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
California Poppy has been thriving all winter and still blooming today</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zLgeySkKSVU/UXtHzwc5PzI/AAAAAAAABpM/Ic0RF97G4e4/s1600/photo+11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zLgeySkKSVU/UXtHzwc5PzI/AAAAAAAABpM/Ic0RF97G4e4/s320/photo+11.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L7NZ4kpv_Oc/UXtIlX7bXqI/AAAAAAAABqU/v8I6oWP7QyA/s1600/photo+22.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L7NZ4kpv_Oc/UXtIlX7bXqI/AAAAAAAABqU/v8I6oWP7QyA/s320/photo+22.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Mullein is beginning to erect itself...I'm going to miss the giant rosette of velvety soft leaves. Mullein is erecting and soon there will be a stalk that will offer gorgeous little yellow blossoms.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11Xkba2g-O8/UXtIl4sdAoI/AAAAAAAABqc/_GvDboZl3rQ/s1600/photo+25.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11Xkba2g-O8/UXtIl4sdAoI/AAAAAAAABqc/_GvDboZl3rQ/s320/photo+25.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Our little greenhouse at dusk...time to head in and settle in for bed. Until next time, HCH. </div>
Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-89965075829957908002012-12-29T15:43:00.000-06:002012-12-29T19:39:10.309-06:00Hydrosols in Facial Mists, Toners and Cremes for Enhancing & Beautifying Skin <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NTnqKYxEUO8/UN9lJl8e_DI/AAAAAAAABeo/lSfcP6OG32A/s1600/Distilling+Hydrosols.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NTnqKYxEUO8/UN9lJl8e_DI/AAAAAAAABeo/lSfcP6OG32A/s200/Distilling+Hydrosols.3.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iAZ6I865vkA/UN8_8Hp_XfI/AAAAAAAABdY/4Q1YfneK_5g/s1600/Distilling+Hydrosols.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iAZ6I865vkA/UN8_8Hp_XfI/AAAAAAAABdY/4Q1YfneK_5g/s200/Distilling+Hydrosols.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uS5t2XuL2Wc/UN8_ZyUusKI/AAAAAAAABdA/8Xd9FdttueY/s1600/Distilling+Hydrosols.2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uS5t2XuL2Wc/UN8_ZyUusKI/AAAAAAAABdA/8Xd9FdttueY/s200/Distilling+Hydrosols.2.JPG" width="200" /></a>There are many floral hydrosols that I enjoy incorporating into my skin care blends. Some of my favorites are rose, orange blossom, lavender, calendula, lemon balm, and chamomile. I love orange blossom hydrosol. It makes my Calendula Orange Blossom: The Daily Lotion smell so sweet. You can make just about any hydrosol you desire....all one needs is a steam distiller.<br />
<br />
Here's a beautiful copper steam distiller made by Al-Ambiq. These pictures were taken last fall at Rootstalk Festival, an herb conference celebrating plants, people and planet benefiting Cascadia Wildlands. The good folks at Mountain Rose really did a fine job putting on this conference. It was my favorite thus far. It was held in Oregon and I can't say enough about it. Sadly, this was the first and last Rootstalk Festival they will put on. <br />
<br />
This is Ann Harman's copper distiller (from Morning Myst Botanicals). She presented a live demonstration on how to assemble the distiller and make essential oil and hydrosol using lemon thyme plant matter. <br />
<br />
Hydrosols, or essential waters, are a co-product of essential oil making. Hydrosols and essential oils are created when you steam distill plant matter. In this case, after assembly, Ann added water and plant matter into the distiller. As the distiller produces heat, the plants release their essential oils and are carried through the distiller's coils. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_s3nATi9Djk/UN8_SenOXlI/AAAAAAAABc4/s-EFW2anKP4/s1600/Distilling+Hydrosols+Condenser.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_s3nATi9Djk/UN8_SenOXlI/AAAAAAAABc4/s-EFW2anKP4/s200/Distilling+Hydrosols+Condenser.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
It vaporizes the water and the essential oils from the plants. The condensing coil, shown here in this picture, is a coil submerged in cool water. When the steam travels through the condensing coil, the steam and essential oil condenses from a vapor into a liquid. The liquid (hydrosol and oil) drips into the glass receiving element shown below. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybM2Dk_4r7A/UN8_la1FxzI/AAAAAAAABdQ/efWc6pid-Zc/s1600/Distilling+Hydrosols.essential+oil+and+hydrosol.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybM2Dk_4r7A/UN8_la1FxzI/AAAAAAAABdQ/efWc6pid-Zc/s200/Distilling+Hydrosols.essential+oil+and+hydrosol.JPG" width="200" /></a>Here, you can see the results of the steam distillation process: the darker golden line above the water is the essential oil and since oil and water don't mix...the oil will float above the water. The water portion below the essential oil is the beautiful hydrosol. Hydrosols also possess the fragrance of the plant. Although the fragrance is not as strong as the essential oil, it is still a delicate representation of the essence of the plant. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Hydrosols are not only deliciously fragrant, they carry many of the benefits of the plant. They carry beneficial plant acids and are anti-inflammatory. Hydrosols help heal, tone, restore pH balance and hydrate skin. Hydrosols are also wonderful because of their antioxidant properties. Plant acids can have wonderful impacts on the skin. Rose hydrosol, for example, has a long history for being known to help hydrate skin and reduce fine lines on the face. </div>
<br />
Due to its mild and therapeutic benefits, I use calendula hydrosol topically to help heal irritations on my cat, Basil. Like many cats, Basil does not like to tolerate much in terms of therapeutic intervention, but he enjoys the calendula hydrosol when applied to his skin. He is very allergic to fleas and if he gets bitten he will quickly get inflamed lips and sores. After applying the hydrosol with a cotton ball on his skin, his inflammation is reduced and his sores heal faster. <br />
<br />
I encourage you to keep researching and reading about the many benefits of hydrosols in skin care. For facial mists, I love to keep it simple: rose and lavender hydrosol. Rose hydrosol is a wrinkle fighting beauty secret and lavender is so loving to the skin making it wonderful for even those with the most delicate and sensitive skin. <br />
<br />
When purchasing hydrosol for skin care, be sure to purchase from a distiller whose main objective is to make hydrosol rather than essential oil. If it's a hydrosol that is a byproduct of essential oil, then the flowers and plant matter used may not be as fresh and full of the wonderful watery elements you want when enjoying hydrosol. However, if the distiller's main objective is making hydrosol, then you will ultimately have the best representation of hydrosol. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-61512789767419947372012-12-23T11:35:00.002-06:002012-12-23T11:42:22.244-06:00Figs: For Your Health and For Dessert! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxk5IOW360HH1Nnj47bLdc44OLbxpmNzWz_CHiG5MzOwkgpItkybP3eL5uTM9gK4766l7vfunqRsisUjSCjuMTk_YJRnSS3PoVWDhT0HRrdMr5ESxrvOvv9LkaHPETyhyphenhyphenWT-wKUpnAHV8/s1600/photo+46.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxk5IOW360HH1Nnj47bLdc44OLbxpmNzWz_CHiG5MzOwkgpItkybP3eL5uTM9gK4766l7vfunqRsisUjSCjuMTk_YJRnSS3PoVWDhT0HRrdMr5ESxrvOvv9LkaHPETyhyphenhyphenWT-wKUpnAHV8/s320/photo+46.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
Two years ago, herbhusband and I planted two fig trees, botanically known as <em>Ficus carica. </em>We planted Brown Turkey, or Texas Everbearing fig, for their ability to both handle the hot dry summers and cold freezing winters we experience in central Texas. <br />
<br />
Last year, we had an early freeze in October and lost the figs that hadn't finished maturing on the trees. That was so very sad. They had grown quite a bit their first year - up to 6 feet. However, their roots were new to their home and the trees froze to the ground. <br />
<br />
This year, in early spring, the figs sprouted new growth and grew to be over 8 feet tall! We have been excited to harvest figs throughout the summer and fall.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0UQ4NOqSHgo/UNcz2YAnBII/AAAAAAAABb8/D_YouC2MV2k/s1600/photo+49.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0UQ4NOqSHgo/UNcz2YAnBII/AAAAAAAABb8/D_YouC2MV2k/s200/photo+49.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-raTu_GYRU6c/UNczqBGPTeI/AAAAAAAABb0/5sVzNL95jog/s1600/photo+20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-raTu_GYRU6c/UNczqBGPTeI/AAAAAAAABb0/5sVzNL95jog/s200/photo+20.JPG" width="149" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Earlier this month, the leaves dropped but the figs remained and continued to ripen. Heavenly! I started to worry about a deep freeze we were scheduled to get and decided to harvest all the figs - ripe or not. I must have brought in a hundred figs. I placed ripe figs on the kitchen counter and the unripe figs in a brown paper bag to encourage ripening. So, just after two years of growth, the figs have nicely established root systems making them much more resistant to climate changes. Hurray! <br />
<br />
Now, the new task at hand was discovering a new and delicious way to savor all of these figs! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiel_1cDOjiFmeUuS9GbfVtpqo3zu90QiIshbhFej3mYhvw0zBboTb5HV5X5jxBwAD_04mECJrRtBFAjcxDUOl_i5ocwPiKisd2_08AAQl1YE0vtoY6wsZMsxKwA6qcRfOL-I3CmNIHJYQ/s1600/photo+50.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiel_1cDOjiFmeUuS9GbfVtpqo3zu90QiIshbhFej3mYhvw0zBboTb5HV5X5jxBwAD_04mECJrRtBFAjcxDUOl_i5ocwPiKisd2_08AAQl1YE0vtoY6wsZMsxKwA6qcRfOL-I3CmNIHJYQ/s320/photo+50.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aUQZtS6CfgE/UNc0OQN3bxI/AAAAAAAABcM/JtmpE8mJCfk/s1600/photo+51.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aUQZtS6CfgE/UNc0OQN3bxI/AAAAAAAABcM/JtmpE8mJCfk/s200/photo+51.JPG" width="149" /></a><br />
I knew I wanted to saute them with red wine and really was craving a figgy dessert sooo....here's what I did. <br />
<br />
Rinsed and sliced ripe figs and sauteed in a pan with red wine, maple syrup, a few sprigs of rosemary from the garden, and a hint of freshly grated nutmeg. I gently sauteed the figs just until they were warm and lightly cooked. (It's good to gently cook and not over cook figs to keep their shape and texture on point).<br />
<br />
After about 2-3 minutes, I removed the figs and then I was left with this gorgeous jewel toned sauce! <br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxf6MyHEkCc/UNc0XgzhmxI/AAAAAAAABcU/UPw-pwpyH20/s1600/photo+52.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxf6MyHEkCc/UNc0XgzhmxI/AAAAAAAABcU/UPw-pwpyH20/s200/photo+52.JPG" width="149" /></a><br />
Leaving the rosemary sprigs, I added just a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and created a red wine reduction over low heat. The maple syrup, red wine, rosemary, and balsamic mingled together and became one fantastically delicious herb infused sauce! <br />
<br />
A perfectionist would strain the sauce before serving to remove the tiny seeds left behind from the figs....but I was so excited and eager to eat this deliciousness....that thought just didn't cross my mind :) <br />
<br />
I gathered a couple scoops of good quality vanilla bean ice cream and then placed the sauteed figs over the ice cream. Then, I spooned and drizzled the red wine reduction over the figs and ice cream. Oh heavenly days, this was so good! The reduction gently melted the ice cream and the taste of maple syrup paired with hints of rosemary in the reduction is simple <em><strong>bliss</strong></em>! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YBCClccgNUA/UNczaSvv4NI/AAAAAAAABbs/x-3r7LsXW6w/s1600/photo+47.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YBCClccgNUA/UNczaSvv4NI/AAAAAAAABbs/x-3r7LsXW6w/s200/photo+47.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Figs can be eaten fresh from the tree (as Briar and I enjoyed this summer and fall) and can be made into meals, jellies and jams or dried. Figs are a great source of fiber and have superb nutritional value. They contain antioxidants, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin K. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Eating a few figs a day helps stimulate the digestive system and helps us stay healthy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hope next time you see figs in the grocery store or in a farmers market you don't pass them up - they are so good! I also encourage you to grow your own! They are easy and fun to have in the garden.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Until next time, HCH. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-77362262176806274332012-12-09T20:24:00.000-06:002012-12-10T23:08:43.634-06:00December Gardening in the Texas Hill Country: Beta Carotene & Vitamin C Power heading into Winter<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Um1MaCYR-9yzMuvSAhwtwU2UDvxRyvSV8xpdcpZa7LmtgDG3PNUlEpyqGcnpgAczsKJnQ2uTCLLu9UZ3hfVZvAkMAPZNIiNCSY1mHBxtr-Mck-S2ZSVZyvSWo-BavND83goE_SN3uDI/s1600/photo+12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Um1MaCYR-9yzMuvSAhwtwU2UDvxRyvSV8xpdcpZa7LmtgDG3PNUlEpyqGcnpgAczsKJnQ2uTCLLu9UZ3hfVZvAkMAPZNIiNCSY1mHBxtr-Mck-S2ZSVZyvSWo-BavND83goE_SN3uDI/s200/photo+12.JPG" width="149" /></a>This has been an amazingly warm fall and winter. Typically we receive our first frost (just enough to kill everything back) by late October. This year, we are heading into the second week of December without one damaging freeze yet! Incredible. Well, the clock is ticking.....we are gearing up for our first deep freeze this week. That means I've been very busy in the garden trying to capture and harvest every last drop of the late summer and fall garden. I've carried armfuls of fruits and veggies inside the house and there's so many foods I'm excited to share with you today!<br />
<br />
First, I want to share one of my most favorites: The Romeo Carrot. This carrot grows to be three inches or shorter and is just the same in diameter. They are popping up from the earth on their own letting me know they are ready to be enjoyed! <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hbw_wR6bAIY/UMVBFK40NwI/AAAAAAAABXA/ZgVfktnUL0A/s1600/photo+15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hbw_wR6bAIY/UMVBFK40NwI/AAAAAAAABXA/ZgVfktnUL0A/s200/photo+15.JPG" width="149" /></a>I planted them in late summer/early fall and they mature pretty quickly. I must say, these are the sweetest and tastiest carrots I've ever had. I peeled them and sliced them and gently sauteed them with a little butter, salt, pepper, and freshly ground nutmeg. Oh they are so tasty! I was eating them with my fingers hardly able to wait to plate them up!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMqvKwFfr_ez6t58WhJ6KhptarUuWabStysDkTYsZ1lseI7oEyGNf14vdhzdor-3292Y6kq1TMVC5Q1pCK2nimaPODdKwEtBwye1OCFsvnfX7C1NDR93Uh650AWQeeVhUdtaWlTyLITpA/s1600/photo+16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMqvKwFfr_ez6t58WhJ6KhptarUuWabStysDkTYsZ1lseI7oEyGNf14vdhzdor-3292Y6kq1TMVC5Q1pCK2nimaPODdKwEtBwye1OCFsvnfX7C1NDR93Uh650AWQeeVhUdtaWlTyLITpA/s200/photo+16.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
I also chopped fresh parsley from the garden and added them to the <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">sauté </span>at the end. So sweet and savory. I will certainly be enjoying these again and again. <br />
<br />
As I gobbled them down, I started wondering if there was a relationship between the primarily orange and reddish foods coming out of the garden as we head into winter. Exploring my curiosity, I noticed a lot of the food coming out of the garden is packed full of beta carotene and vitamin C. <br />
<br />
Beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant and full of age fighting properties. It also boosts the immune system and helps improve night vision. With the days growing shorter, we sure have a lot more night in our lives and eating fresh organic carrots is not a bad thing if you ask me. I need all the help I can get when walking in the dark checking on plants and the greenhouse not to mention driving in the dark at only 6pm! <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i2IomUN5uyU/UMVB3Xy39ZI/AAAAAAAABYE/BJ-zUml8UAA/s1600/photo+35.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i2IomUN5uyU/UMVB3Xy39ZI/AAAAAAAABYE/BJ-zUml8UAA/s320/photo+35.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peeled organic carrots from the garden: I love all the different shapes and sizes! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Before it freezes this week, I went ahead and harvested every single bell pepper, fig, pumpkin, tomato and herb I knew would be damaged by the cold temperatures. Did you know all bell peppers are a good source of Vitamin C? Yellow and red are higher, but even the green bell pepper is a great source of Vitamin C! So all these wonderful fresh foods sitting on my kitchen counter are great sources of beta carotene and vitamin C! What a blessing from mother earth. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V6lPVwOccOo/UMalzjNcuSI/AAAAAAAABaA/Q_8_0wG4uBk/s1600/peppers..JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V6lPVwOccOo/UMalzjNcuSI/AAAAAAAABaA/Q_8_0wG4uBk/s200/peppers..JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Heading into winter, it's important to feed and nourish our bodies properly with fresh sources of vitamins and minerals. Our immune systems will certainly get a work out in the months ahead. Last night, I made a fresh salad with sliced tomatoes and bell peppers with a squeeze of Meyer lemon juice and a dash of sea salt. A tart and savory treat. The combined juices could have been a specialty juice blend all its own! <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVgvkR0llhg/UMab9RrYNxI/AAAAAAAABY8/3Pvyyn6EtvQ/s1600/photo+27.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZVgvkR0llhg/UMab9RrYNxI/AAAAAAAABY8/3Pvyyn6EtvQ/s200/photo+27.JPG" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parsley (<em>Petroselinum crispum) </em>thriving in the December garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Parsley has been used as an after dinner herb, both pallet cleansing and bad breath reducer. Parsley is also a great source of potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and niacin. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--X_VBh6ZDzo/UMae1w5lqbI/AAAAAAAABZc/RxIQsmhVMgU/s1600/photo+62.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--X_VBh6ZDzo/UMae1w5lqbI/AAAAAAAABZc/RxIQsmhVMgU/s200/photo+62.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Parsley is also a good blood cleansing herb and can help rid the body of toxins. It's so easy to eat and versatile. I like to make cuttings from the fresh sprigs and keep in a slender vase in the kitchen. It keeps very well and stays fresh in water....and best thing is you can use the sprigs throughout the weeks in your nightly cooking. Chop finely and dress up any weeknight meal for a gourmet treat :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tonight, after I came home from a long day at work - I saw the abundance of tomatoes, peppers, parsley, sage and Swiss chard on my kitchen counter. I also had grass fed ground beef waiting to be introduced into a meal tonight, too. I had no idea what I was going to do when it just was so obvious I had no other choice but to make it. Stuffed bell peppers with sauteed tomato, beef, garlic, parsley and sage. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nhfh1PtDseQ/UMapb5r5JwI/AAAAAAAABak/y2OLxscQtyM/s1600/photo+58.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nhfh1PtDseQ/UMapb5r5JwI/AAAAAAAABak/y2OLxscQtyM/s200/photo+58.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I started by browning the grass fed beef along with one seeded habanero pepper (I have so many I always try and use them here and there). I took the seeds out to keep the flavor but not the heat. Fresh habanero is so sweet and adds complexity to the dish. It's a wonderful stimulating herb for your nose, taste buds, and circulatory system. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next, I drained any excess fat and added about two cups chopped tomato. After the tomatoes started to reduce, I added one minced garlic clove, two sage leaves, 1-2 leaves chopped Swiss chard leaves, and freshly chopped parsley (about two tablespoons). While cooking I halved and seeded 4 bell peppers. Once everything was simmering and reducing in the skillet, I gently added the halved peppers facing up just to gently steam them. After a couple minutes of steaming the peppers, I removed them and plated them. I then stuffed them with the ground beef <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">sauté.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vJ1zWAxQg5g/UMapTU25-NI/AAAAAAAABac/FNH1GHr0tP4/s1600/photo+60.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vJ1zWAxQg5g/UMapTU25-NI/AAAAAAAABac/FNH1GHr0tP4/s320/photo+60.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love this since it was made all in one skillet. No need to get overly fancy for a Monday night - but it really hit the spot....home cooked vitamin packed goodness but not all the fuss. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next time, I want to share with you how I made a wonderful figgy treat! It's a sticky, delicious, gourmet, must-have dessert you can make right at home :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Until nextime, HCH </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-52919076190889143242012-10-06T15:34:00.001-05:002012-10-06T15:36:04.774-05:00What's Blooming and Fruiting in the Hill Country Garden this Fall!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="236" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iS7aP1Btr9k/UHCMrSgbVCI/AAAAAAAABVc/Aljh8HVEf3U/s320/okra.jpg" width="320" /></div>
<br />
<div>
October is one of the most beautiful and productive months in the Texas Hill Country. Next to early spring, this is an eye popping time of year. The garden is abundant with blooms and fruits and veggies - perfect for garden to table lifestyles. Shown here is a beautiful Okra bloom. Our Okra was over 6 feet tall this year! Honey bees are active, as are cardinals, hummingbirds and lady bugs. Lots of lady bugs! There are so many pictures I want to share with you, I'm going to narrate less in this blog and just show you through pictures. So here we go, come stroll through the garden with me! </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfZCtu9_CT2h4FYmtfuVjYtkN_s0lXzxfGb0YZJ01rXB46Ku3876BI9qBe1Y6ISPexAY4LjHot_cFX0Z-6uZOrDm9c8jWBAj-MC5ezrP66YjniwPeDSQY7E26Cw8dcn3fofIWXUnZ0lbc/s1600/lady+bug+on+okra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfZCtu9_CT2h4FYmtfuVjYtkN_s0lXzxfGb0YZJ01rXB46Ku3876BI9qBe1Y6ISPexAY4LjHot_cFX0Z-6uZOrDm9c8jWBAj-MC5ezrP66YjniwPeDSQY7E26Cw8dcn3fofIWXUnZ0lbc/s320/lady+bug+on+okra.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lady Beetle on an Okra leaf</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gssMu-C630s/UHCLHruB3nI/AAAAAAAABUE/YBoJAQaF_Pg/s1600/Passion+Flower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gssMu-C630s/UHCLHruB3nI/AAAAAAAABUE/YBoJAQaF_Pg/s320/Passion+Flower.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passiflora incarnata<br />
Passion Flower vine growing on the garden fence. We admire this gorgeous flower daily. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GY--HSqSRFg/UHCK9nXUwII/AAAAAAAABT0/5lhcqk1R_lU/s1600/Echinacea.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GY--HSqSRFg/UHCK9nXUwII/AAAAAAAABT0/5lhcqk1R_lU/s320/Echinacea.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Echinacea - still blooming (but now fading) in the garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ09FuHe9nLmozCfrjCNSP7aAOs8G55OhKBNoy-Id5-mg2oB6qtzZzXgmtPvRtmvshHb7QPwldWjeLBgn49GqlvVjhkeYtQ9oVBRzdI2GSSjiIF7pT4IEYiCwlfw00wEab4qgJtzuHNM0/s1600/Hibiscus.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ09FuHe9nLmozCfrjCNSP7aAOs8G55OhKBNoy-Id5-mg2oB6qtzZzXgmtPvRtmvshHb7QPwldWjeLBgn49GqlvVjhkeYtQ9oVBRzdI2GSSjiIF7pT4IEYiCwlfw00wEab4qgJtzuHNM0/s320/Hibiscus.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Orange Hibiscus from one of the last cuttings my grandfather made</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qy_Ugxw49-Q/UHCLS3Tc67I/AAAAAAAABUY/1lEu-dsmrzo/s1600/rose+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qy_Ugxw49-Q/UHCLS3Tc67I/AAAAAAAABUY/1lEu-dsmrzo/s320/rose+2.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Belinda's Dream is budding and blooming. Exciting blooms ignite visual senses while the fragrance sweetens the air</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmcuo9UqgUHUdg2NTsu5DVUxbAZ-LMSoxbNnret6oCkiI1vxiIBEeLJWoR0F_sFYkr5fhPtfzWsh__MRK9IuY8eqg30Omicummx3lCFfGKFpSFekN5ayFR_K7GgWYQ-U9DM6lgbAxpfk/s1600/rose+bloom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmcuo9UqgUHUdg2NTsu5DVUxbAZ-LMSoxbNnret6oCkiI1vxiIBEeLJWoR0F_sFYkr5fhPtfzWsh__MRK9IuY8eqg30Omicummx3lCFfGKFpSFekN5ayFR_K7GgWYQ-U9DM6lgbAxpfk/s320/rose+bloom.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Souvenir de la Malmaison is a gorgeous bloom. I love picking this bloom along with other roses in the garden and infusing in apple cider vinegar for a skin tonic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tfwnXKT2mBY/UHCLhCUH2XI/AAAAAAAABUo/qPzaS8vkmro/s1600/Zinnia.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tfwnXKT2mBY/UHCLhCUH2XI/AAAAAAAABUo/qPzaS8vkmro/s320/Zinnia.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zinnias 4 feet tall!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wtlahAUBpKQ/UHCLoxKQ1CI/AAAAAAAABUw/gAGTzEFy_w0/s1600/Cayenne.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wtlahAUBpKQ/UHCLoxKQ1CI/AAAAAAAABUw/gAGTzEFy_w0/s320/Cayenne.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cayenne Pepper. Turns out this is my favorite peppers of all peppers. Incredible flavor! I add to rice, meats, soups, just about anything - </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h39CMzo58mI/UHCL8lqu23I/AAAAAAAABVU/gzMla1HYb20/s1600/peppers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h39CMzo58mI/UHCL8lqu23I/AAAAAAAABVU/gzMla1HYb20/s320/peppers.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Habanero, Serrano, and Cayenne peppers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62zwawLnubhplC6K4knAT2kAIlD9MYaOpcBfaAtq93yivmy9KDLyNRr2shvJFsRYlpQMnWrVvWe1YDYVhDcOGnbd60_Ea6bPE95Vu-loZ-WlIxq-OTuDuVL9-3vdHBdsGpMwVheDTeNQ/s1600/peppers+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62zwawLnubhplC6K4knAT2kAIlD9MYaOpcBfaAtq93yivmy9KDLyNRr2shvJFsRYlpQMnWrVvWe1YDYVhDcOGnbd60_Ea6bPE95Vu-loZ-WlIxq-OTuDuVL9-3vdHBdsGpMwVheDTeNQ/s320/peppers+2.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serrano overload! No doubt I'll be dehydrating these and grinding them into herbal spicy powders</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp4EzGdiWTVVFqspamd6JxtbvW-EVnOKCsTdpWBNmNhJy3_UzyWz3bD-cPIJ21dIiokYZ5hHjYp0e0z_TJLC-z5p5igAotcJt6Yhgy-sFpolbu9HGQlUxRea8oSBdwq5kzJikIHl0pauE/s1600/figs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp4EzGdiWTVVFqspamd6JxtbvW-EVnOKCsTdpWBNmNhJy3_UzyWz3bD-cPIJ21dIiokYZ5hHjYp0e0z_TJLC-z5p5igAotcJt6Yhgy-sFpolbu9HGQlUxRea8oSBdwq5kzJikIHl0pauE/s320/figs.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Figs! Happily harvesting figs daily. We love them!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ldwh_lB9O0w/UHCL3ittgaI/AAAAAAAABVI/s3ZA80Q4SXw/s1600/Meyer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ldwh_lB9O0w/UHCL3ittgaI/AAAAAAAABVI/s3ZA80Q4SXw/s320/Meyer.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meyer Lemons are getting larger and changing from green to yellow. They should be ready late next month. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wyTljJfuUnw/UHCLznYTalI/AAAAAAAABVA/OVDY5Vy8ez8/s1600/mullein.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wyTljJfuUnw/UHCLznYTalI/AAAAAAAABVA/OVDY5Vy8ez8/s320/mullein.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Mullein Friend!! I love Mullein - happy fuzzy soft leaves make me smile each time I walk by</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--JVjBN2d8bc/UHCLO57-NOI/AAAAAAAABUM/imS6KEZnrJM/s1600/passion+flower+at+dusk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--JVjBN2d8bc/UHCLO57-NOI/AAAAAAAABUM/imS6KEZnrJM/s320/passion+flower+at+dusk.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passion Flower at dusk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHIhE_3kQdnMb8uWpVIxypX6b2ZlJv11gOjMYAS_56gfgIoV1zVbj8guVHHIi9EZFPqTKmKQSHVLZsgfH1pH5JCEb49FqyBDEjvwh_5mnGZ5cmPMCLkiITRRFT3cWwZIp-IBAKQPnQDYg/s1600/briar+and+mexican+hat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHIhE_3kQdnMb8uWpVIxypX6b2ZlJv11gOjMYAS_56gfgIoV1zVbj8guVHHIi9EZFPqTKmKQSHVLZsgfH1pH5JCEb49FqyBDEjvwh_5mnGZ5cmPMCLkiITRRFT3cWwZIp-IBAKQPnQDYg/s320/briar+and+mexican+hat.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Briar with Mexican Hat wildflower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well, that's a quick update...so much more - I will share in another post. In the meantime - let's take a cue from Briar and head outside and smell the crisping autumn air and enjoy the fall flowers!!</div>
<br />Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-36568332036068608872012-09-26T21:53:00.001-05:002012-09-26T22:04:06.878-05:00Skin Loving Fall Herbs: Pumpkin Seed Oil Sugar Scrub! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wLbDrQx10OQ/UGOxFzfls7I/AAAAAAAABRY/EB662h2dMgE/s1600/Pumpkin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wLbDrQx10OQ/UGOxFzfls7I/AAAAAAAABRY/EB662h2dMgE/s200/Pumpkin.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Happy Fall!! What an amazing time of year ~ It has to be my most favorite with the weather cooling and the leaves falling....ahhh.....<br />
<br />
Since I've returned from northern Arizona and the Medicine of the People Conference, I've found the garden swollen with ripening tomatoes, peppers, pumpkins, passion flower fruit, figs, rose hips and so much more! <br />
<br />
The fall weather has inspired me to make a special Pumpkin Harvest Sugar Scrub with omega rich pumpkin seed oil, skin smoothing and plumping cinnamon, skin tightening and lightening nutmeg, and organic sugars and citrus. I've been using this fantastic scrub daily and love the intoxicating smell ~ like pumpkin pie in a jar. Life is good with this botanical blend. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMa13-EYafn7jVGFZxUSDmxSejMxLJb4ptW101br9AaHeYMz_9R1aBdz2LSLrzAwPetPlgpPDxipPVQdAQFKYtIx43q3rF8lwB40n6vFW99mLH-lqp7VXW_OkeGnRVjgV3FIDKOofy_fs/s1600/cinammon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMa13-EYafn7jVGFZxUSDmxSejMxLJb4ptW101br9AaHeYMz_9R1aBdz2LSLrzAwPetPlgpPDxipPVQdAQFKYtIx43q3rF8lwB40n6vFW99mLH-lqp7VXW_OkeGnRVjgV3FIDKOofy_fs/s200/cinammon.JPG" width="149" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs3_qdurUBQSiryyJpc6GSLJeqsCx53vuHUTjxL0KMttqkFBV_0GQwxKoe0_6PS6QwwyHePRbc0qSWeFKGAw3nPNrc3ws33y3txuh_IW0P7cLqWrIJAYS3dCOYJz9KF3xJxB0yTaI4L2Q/s1600/nutmeg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs3_qdurUBQSiryyJpc6GSLJeqsCx53vuHUTjxL0KMttqkFBV_0GQwxKoe0_6PS6QwwyHePRbc0qSWeFKGAw3nPNrc3ws33y3txuh_IW0P7cLqWrIJAYS3dCOYJz9KF3xJxB0yTaI4L2Q/s200/nutmeg.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<br />
Cinnamon powder can enhance skin care blends to add anti-inflammatory properties as well as help calm down acne prone skin. It also has a plumping action by stimulating and drawing blood and oxygen to the skin, essentially reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. <br />
<br />
Nutmeg is also a skin hero. Like cinnamon, nutmeg can be added to milk or honey for a simple anti-inflammatory skin care mask. I've introduced nutmeg to my facial and body sugar scrub not only for its anti-inflammatory benefits but for its astringent and antibacterial benefits, which helps heal acne scars. Nutmeg also adds a grounding element to the fragrance of the scrub. Combined with cinnamon, pumpkin seed oil and a hint of clove - this scrub <em>is </em>fall in a jar. <br />
<br />
Pumpkin seed oil is a skin's best friend seeing that it is rich in omega fatty acids, zinc and vitamins A, C, & E. When applied topically, it helps regulate the production of skin sebum. So, if you produce to much - it will help your skin produce less and if you produce too little (as in dry skin) it will help moisturize and encourage your skin to produce more. Also, like our friends cinnamon and nutmeg, pumpkin seed oil is also an anti-inflammatory, which helps heal troubled skin! I think we are seeing a trend here!<br />
<br />
<br />
So, for a simple facial for troubled skin or for skin needing rejuvenation after a long summer you can simply use a few ingredients right out of your pantry to help excite your skin this fall season. Try one part honey to half part cinnamon (or half part nutmeg) and apply to face for a great skin plumping and healing experience. <br />
<br />
You can also substitute honey for actual pumpkin scraped out of a fresh pumpkin (or canned). That is wonderful! No fresh pumkin pulp? No problem! Try one part milk with half part cinnamon (or one half nutmeg)...that works beautifully, too. <br />
<br />
Pumpkin seed oil can be enjoyed internally and externally for super beauty benefits. Try drizzling on salads or applying directly on face a few times per week. It's a wonderful addition to your fall beauty regime. <br />
<br />
Or, you can celebrate fall with a handmade facial scrub - like the one I made! Here's a picture of the lovely scrub I've been over indulging in these days. Smells delightful - it is confusing as it smells edible and delicious. Your skin will crave and rave after each application :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BmlyUlWuG88/UGO8Bl0jxTI/AAAAAAAABTQ/T2D3QlaBaPw/s1600/Scrub.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BmlyUlWuG88/UGO8Bl0jxTI/AAAAAAAABTQ/T2D3QlaBaPw/s200/Scrub.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
How have you been celebrating our new fall season? I'd love to hear from you! <br />
Until next time, wishing you health and happiness - HCH<br />
<br />
<br />Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-3913320018363615722012-09-17T12:49:00.000-05:002012-09-17T14:18:50.077-05:00Traditions in Western Herbalism: Medicine of the People Conference Mormon Lake, Coconino AZ<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF26WYBh0cOwyHqRGd18UCfVGk_1A3UM1P2ro54dWVmw2_2ANX0yyGwX7PhKyS8C8zz6ACpqOFomQYkgjThyphenhyphenBNzDWxsQ0agtQP7cuauAIqmxCvpQyahdTiKuLvetGSevDmOBKOAipcg64/s1600/drive+to+mormon+lake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF26WYBh0cOwyHqRGd18UCfVGk_1A3UM1P2ro54dWVmw2_2ANX0yyGwX7PhKyS8C8zz6ACpqOFomQYkgjThyphenhyphenBNzDWxsQ0agtQP7cuauAIqmxCvpQyahdTiKuLvetGSevDmOBKOAipcg64/s1600/drive+to+mormon+lake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF26WYBh0cOwyHqRGd18UCfVGk_1A3UM1P2ro54dWVmw2_2ANX0yyGwX7PhKyS8C8zz6ACpqOFomQYkgjThyphenhyphenBNzDWxsQ0agtQP7cuauAIqmxCvpQyahdTiKuLvetGSevDmOBKOAipcg64/s200/drive+to+mormon+lake.JPG" width="200" /></a>Just returned from Traditions In Western Herbalism: <em>Medicine for the People</em> Conference held at Mormon Lake in Coconino, Arizona. The 3-day conference focuses on sharing the herbal knowledge of teachers, healers, practitioners and rediscovering the nearly lost practice of appreciating, understanding and utilizing the healing plants that grow all around us. The conference is organized by Jesse Wolf and Kiva Rose (<a href="http://www.herbalresurgence.org/">www.HerbalResurgence.org</a>) who promote a supportive and lively venue to learn about native plants as well as the importance of plant conservation, bioregionalism, how to run a clinical practice and celebrating the diverse traditions, practice, culture and the art of folk herbalism. Here, you greet old friends and make new friends in the comfort of like minded plant conservationists. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IRLqREj-GlA/UFdQSDok6oI/AAAAAAAABNg/7U6UDdr3a0A/s1600/Nancy+and+me.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IRLqREj-GlA/UFdQSDok6oI/AAAAAAAABNg/7U6UDdr3a0A/s200/Nancy+and+me.JPG" width="200" /></a>Herb-husband,our friend and body healer Nancy, and I flew into Phoenix and drove 3.5 hours towards our destination stopping to view the gorgeous red Sedona hills along the way. <br />
(Here, Nancy and I pose for a quick pic in Sedona). <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MWzZ8lE1dxU/UFdYDPCjDuI/AAAAAAAABOA/RA_M2S9eF5c/s1600/nicole+at+her+booth.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MWzZ8lE1dxU/UFdYDPCjDuI/AAAAAAAABOA/RA_M2S9eF5c/s200/nicole+at+her+booth.JPG" width="149" /></a>We checked in our cabin then registered in a beautiful light strewn wooden lodge where many herbalists around our country displayed their botanical work and gifts. Here's Nicole Telkes of Austin's Wildflower School of Botanical Medicine displaying her Texas native Cactus Lotion. The inner fillet of cactus holds many of the same beneficial properties as Aloe Vera. This is a truly special way of celebrating our Texas-native cacti. Along with Nicole in the Healer's Market, I met Darcy Blue of Blue Turtle botanicals. I got to know her as I purchased her Ponderosa Pine salve - perfect for drawing out items that are trapped under the skin...like the splinter I have wedged 1/3rd into my nail bed received during the trip. I must say - it's really helping.</div>
<br />
We started our herbal retreat with a plant walk Thursday morning with Arizona native Phyllis Hogan of Winter Sun Trading Company and Arizona Ethnobotanical Research Association (AERA). Phillis guided our group into a circle at the foot of a hill filled with rich garden herbs and explained the importance of the 21 indigenous nations in AZ. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qYybS-bKtqY/UFda7rDxXnI/AAAAAAAABOY/Fw7-GKNnHb4/s1600/Phillis+Hogan+intro+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qYybS-bKtqY/UFda7rDxXnI/AAAAAAAABOY/Fw7-GKNnHb4/s200/Phillis+Hogan+intro+2.JPG" width="149" /></a>She reminded us of the importance of adjusting ourselves and aligning ourselves with nature before entering the plant's space. Burning a bit of Juniper to give everyone blessings we took a moment to appreciate the full circle of life. She stressed the importance of making a personal affirmation for the positive one wants to put into the world. Here are a few of the plants we met on our walk:</div>
<br />
Mallow <em>(Malva neglecta)</em> or Cheeseweed, common mallow. Tends to grow in disturbed areas. The Yaki used it for a weak heart or heart palpitations. Mallow's leaves look somewhat like a cheese wheel and tastes like cheese. It's a mucilaginous plant and a cold root decoction is best when working with mucilaginous herbs. A hot tea of the leaves can be made for gut health and soothes inflammation in the gut. A hair rinse can be made from the tea as well. <br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Chickweed <em>(Stellaria media)</em> was quite abundant on the hillside. In Texas, we really only see chickweed happily growing like this in early spring. You can gather fresh chickweed and juice it and drink it for wellness. Phillis said you could drink it to assist with ulceration or for burning urine. A member of our class said she uses it in tincture, tea, or poultice to assist with fibroids of the breast and uterus. She like to use a combination of chickweed and mallow oil to rub onto the skin to assist with fibroids, as well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RtIAzeSWXrE/UFddUKvmFkI/AAAAAAAABOs/cEjUa_opVJ8/s1600/Phillis+Hogan+with+Lambs+Quarters.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RtIAzeSWXrE/UFddUKvmFkI/AAAAAAAABOs/cEjUa_opVJ8/s200/Phillis+Hogan+with+Lambs+Quarters.JPG" width="149" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RtIAzeSWXrE/UFddUKvmFkI/AAAAAAAABOs/cEjUa_opVJ8/s1600/Phillis+Hogan+with+Lambs+Quarters.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
We also discussed Lamb's Quarters on the walk. Here's a picture of Doug Elliot with Phillis explaining the benefits of lambs quarters. He said its very high in Vitamin A and it's a tremendously healthy wild food source. You can steam it and eat as you would a vegetable or eat raw in salads.<br />
<br />
What a wonderful way to begin the day!<br />
<br />
<br />
Another class I really enjoyed was Lisa Ganora's Beyond Tinctures and Oils: Extracting Herbs with Honey. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUSkMft_MVU/UFdoY2g4KyI/AAAAAAAABPM/rTCRtivSHcQ/s1600/lisa+gonora+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUSkMft_MVU/UFdoY2g4KyI/AAAAAAAABPM/rTCRtivSHcQ/s200/lisa+gonora+3.JPG" width="200" /></a>Honey is a great medium for herbal infusions since honey does not expire. Lisa mentioned that recently honey was found in Egypt that goes back 1,000 years and it was still good. Honey is a perfect food and since it is so good for you, it's an ideal medium to preserve your herbs. <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
During the class, Lisa made Elderberry Honey. She recommends 1 part fresh herb to 2 parts honey. Heating the honey allows for the process to accelerate, however some prefer cold infusions to keep all the enzymes in tact and allow for a more nutritional end product. You can make honey infusions and honey powders using your herbs. Lisa recommends using fresh herbs when making infusions and dried finely powdered herbs for honey powders. </div>
<br />
Lisa's Elderberry Honey was made by heating the honey until liquid-like and then adding the Elderberries into the honey and stirring and warming on very low heat for two or more hours. It's best to use a vitamix and break down the herb just before infusing into the honey to allow more surface area to infuse into the honey. Honey becomes liquid like at around 130 degrees. It's very important not to use too much heat, but just enough for the infusion to take place. Once infused, the infusion is strained leaving behind the seeds and allowing for a clean and beautifully enhanced honey. This can keep for years in the refrigerator. <br />
<br />
I'm inspired to make a wound honey powder using my lemon mint, rose petals, thyme and self heal I grow here at home. Lisa uses rose hips, ginger, thyme in her would honey powder. It's best not to heat the honey in a wound honey recipe in order to keep the enzymes in tact benefiting from the antibacterial properties of the honey itself. The advantage of a powder over an infusion is you use the entire herb - nothing gets strained out. That's why a Vitamix or an herb grinder is helpful when trying to make fine powder out of your herbs since this is going to be the state it's in when infused in your honey. <br />
<br />
When purchasing honey, make sure it's a good quality honey. Some honey in the supermarkets are not pure honey. Some add corn syrup and still label their product as honey. <br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Honey is warming, nourishing and moistening. Honey can help temper an herb that is too dry or too cold (yin) when ingested alone allowing you to take in more of the herb than you could if you ingested it alone. For example turmeric is dry. Honey will help temper this herb when infused. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Glucose oxidase is a natural component of honey. It is made by bees when water gets introduced into the hive, such as after a rain. When water mixes with glucose oxidase, it releases hydrogen peroxide, which kills bacteria really well. It also pulls the water out from the honey. Lisa said honey is good for burns and puncture wounds. I know honey really worked wonders for me when I burned myself a while back. It's very healing and comforting to the skin.</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also enjoyed listening and learning from Herbalists Charles Garcia, Paul Bergner, Sean Donahue, Howie Brounstein, 7Song, Kathleen Maier, Jesse Wolf, Kiva Rose, and many others. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We ended the last day of the conference with a fast paced hike with Doug Elliot seeing the 'big picture' of the mountains, the pine forest, birds and mammals and of course plants all along the way. Doug is a cheerful inspiring herbalist who has a gift of knowing how everything fits together in nature, all with a song in his heart and skip in his step. A perfect way to end our journey in this amazing bioregion. </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some pictures taken on our own walks and hikes during our stay at Mormon Lake:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNUfgB_7hzKiANvJT77vRybdxUc3iH1tf7FVAooy9V3-kmg2fwA5d6I2z28lM_GF-8YVDFuWTkUaJj78iJZQCzXvdz68zyLo6UDPZJEWShi4DCtXOK-Woi2hrihNd09bLZWzYfWwGW5A/s1600/Doug+Elliot+ponderosa+resin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNUfgB_7hzKiANvJT77vRybdxUc3iH1tf7FVAooy9V3-kmg2fwA5d6I2z28lM_GF-8YVDFuWTkUaJj78iJZQCzXvdz68zyLo6UDPZJEWShi4DCtXOK-Woi2hrihNd09bLZWzYfWwGW5A/s200/Doug+Elliot+ponderosa+resin.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's a picture of the resin from the Ponderosa Pine. This resin can be heated and mixed with olive oil and beeswax to make a protective salve (like the salve Darcy makes). I have a bit of resin from the forest so I plan on gently heating it and applying it straight to my fingernail to draw out the splinter wedged in my nail. It may also help pull out the splinter once the sap hardens and gets removed from the finger. I'm going to try this later today. Doug Elliot also said you can chew on the resin to protect the mouth. Its antibacterial properties helps with mouth health. When its chewed in the mouth long enough it takes on the appearance of chewed gum. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BlPkysIKICE/UFdt3OhI2mI/AAAAAAAABQU/5J5SglSZn2Y/s1600/mushrooms+popping+up.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BlPkysIKICE/UFdt3OhI2mI/AAAAAAAABQU/5J5SglSZn2Y/s200/mushrooms+popping+up.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mushrooms popping up from the forest floor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7GAZgxGho9LoeF6IolU4o3zviepJlodR_-mKbMzzYwkbTpjrdRc0jnBb_FiI1KmjM37V8-DDlCq2NtRKdNCr3D3lWfX4uLtBH4K_jcn-pA0_9Htqu7UNBOiKuHXfWFlwsdJ6MyxBhW8E/s1600/bluebonnet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7GAZgxGho9LoeF6IolU4o3zviepJlodR_-mKbMzzYwkbTpjrdRc0jnBb_FiI1KmjM37V8-DDlCq2NtRKdNCr3D3lWfX4uLtBH4K_jcn-pA0_9Htqu7UNBOiKuHXfWFlwsdJ6MyxBhW8E/s200/bluebonnet.JPG" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bluebonnet...a little reminder of home </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzZAe01mtk4/UFdt0L7BheI/AAAAAAAABQE/RKUDZzKV1CI/s1600/Mullein.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzZAe01mtk4/UFdt0L7BheI/AAAAAAAABQE/RKUDZzKV1CI/s200/Mullein.JPG" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mullein flowers </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZB7MloGSmog/UFdtsuDuimI/AAAAAAAABP0/rZi_3SeXZ3w/s1600/Doug+Elliot+plant+walk+mahonia.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZB7MloGSmog/UFdtsuDuimI/AAAAAAAABP0/rZi_3SeXZ3w/s200/Doug+Elliot+plant+walk+mahonia.JPG" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holly Grape: this area's 'Mahonia'. Here in Texas we have Agarita which also contains the beneficial yellow berberine within the woody and root parts. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ea2wt_IzMHk/UFdt1pG7w-I/AAAAAAAABQM/-xpPtZKwUJE/s1600/mushroom+popping+up.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ea2wt_IzMHk/UFdt1pG7w-I/AAAAAAAABQM/-xpPtZKwUJE/s200/mushroom+popping+up.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mushroom cap - bursting out of the forest floor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-59174070096239576102012-08-04T12:47:00.000-05:002012-08-04T12:57:21.092-05:00Eating From The Summer Garden: Tomatoes & Okra!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xK-HJkbqk7g/UB1WXjEGN0I/AAAAAAAABJY/4FSrWun2Www/s1600/tomatoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xK-HJkbqk7g/UB1WXjEGN0I/AAAAAAAABJY/4FSrWun2Www/s200/tomatoes.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
I'm really enjoying the summer bounty here in the Hill Country Garden! I've been harvesting tomatoes, okra, basil, oregano, onions almost on a daily basis....so what's one to do? Well, here's one suggestion: tomato and okra summer simmer sizzle! Name too long? Probably, but it pretty much describes this bright and savory dish. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MI8RpqzokS8/UB1WezwzpyI/AAAAAAAABJg/diba4DuoEd0/s1600/tomatoes+adding+okra.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MI8RpqzokS8/UB1WezwzpyI/AAAAAAAABJg/diba4DuoEd0/s200/tomatoes+adding+okra.JPG" width="149" /></a>I start by slicing heirloom black cherry and Juliet tomatoes and add them to a bit of olive oil warming up in a pan. Then, I add salt, pepper, garlic and fresh crushed dried basil leaves. <em>(I like to harvest bundles of fresh basil and hang them upside down to air dry in my kitchen window - that way I just reach over and crush the dried aromatic herbs between my hands and sprinkle all over the dish I'm cooking....it's such a treat!).</em> <br />
<br />
After the tomatoes begin simmering and releasing their juices, I add fresh sliced okra. Sprinkle in just a bit more salt and let simmer for a few minutes. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e54tyLY_lCA/UB1WnGmdvgI/AAAAAAAABJs/gKwnEU8j80Y/s1600/cayenne+peppers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e54tyLY_lCA/UB1WnGmdvgI/AAAAAAAABJs/gKwnEU8j80Y/s200/cayenne+peppers.JPG" width="149" /></a>Take a look at these amazing cayenne peppers! It was so fun harvesting these red hot beauties. I'm always looking for ways to incorporate them in the dishes I'm making. For this dish, I sliced one pepper and added to the tomato and okra mix. They cook into the food so easily and by only using one, the dish gets more flavor rather than heat. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
After a few minutes, the okra begins to cook and soften.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><span style="color: #0066cc;"></span></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GvrE7QCgnSc/UB1W0OqONNI/AAAAAAAABJ8/d173OdXJwKs/s1600/tomatoes+and+okra+sautee+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GvrE7QCgnSc/UB1W0OqONNI/AAAAAAAABJ8/d173OdXJwKs/s200/tomatoes+and+okra+sautee+2.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
After a couple more minutes the tomatoes and okra are simmering and enjoying each other's company. The tomatoes naturally add a tangy bright sauce making this dish a real treat for your taste buds. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_OgGf51vCXx472pvumoYgGbYwF5BCnVcXKvtpE4vIREhO9m_J-AKUfnYGCjNr6tTfg1kwjPQM8fqLa5TlFSN4hHbONNrzrX_tHbpryCVFaEm4ClXLfKGyLKdP9zyF-gp1S9eS6cBiGiE/s1600/tomatoes+and+okra+sautee+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_OgGf51vCXx472pvumoYgGbYwF5BCnVcXKvtpE4vIREhO9m_J-AKUfnYGCjNr6tTfg1kwjPQM8fqLa5TlFSN4hHbONNrzrX_tHbpryCVFaEm4ClXLfKGyLKdP9zyF-gp1S9eS6cBiGiE/s200/tomatoes+and+okra+sautee+3.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
<br /></div>
<div align="center">
Now that the okra and tomatoes are ready to eat! Plate the dish and grab a fork and dig in! This is a great dish all on its own and it also goes extremely well with fried or baked chicken. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwtafJXOTChb3wC5lt_BMUTPzDhJ1aHuHFfpbHSkmiVBkhUuqd3m8Eu90boyuf6tJj5mhD8CpwuxsECuyFaVXANyqGhQgYjcq4fwVxLvJZDbJCDGEcuLl84N1pTvI5qE70nqgYpIqq4w/s1600/tomatoes+and+okra+ready+to+eat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwtafJXOTChb3wC5lt_BMUTPzDhJ1aHuHFfpbHSkmiVBkhUuqd3m8Eu90boyuf6tJj5mhD8CpwuxsECuyFaVXANyqGhQgYjcq4fwVxLvJZDbJCDGEcuLl84N1pTvI5qE70nqgYpIqq4w/s200/tomatoes+and+okra+ready+to+eat.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mmmmm! </div>Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-89160016405403557272012-08-03T23:22:00.000-05:002012-08-04T09:31:53.341-05:00Corn Baby!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMssD7mYtS0JJA3wNRcwPmcXszrM_fv18P_SC1IXGYnDTwfKECc5J9s6vdXElsvt0PXv1WjCyVMQafb-OT-oNCs8c1eTUr-HlluUvr5mwjYK76YgJ1JI-GSu1tEH_rSpaCTlpdR2f4Y58/s1600/corn+beginnings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMssD7mYtS0JJA3wNRcwPmcXszrM_fv18P_SC1IXGYnDTwfKECc5J9s6vdXElsvt0PXv1WjCyVMQafb-OT-oNCs8c1eTUr-HlluUvr5mwjYK76YgJ1JI-GSu1tEH_rSpaCTlpdR2f4Y58/s200/corn+beginnings.JPG" width="149" /></a>Greetings gardeners! I've missed you....I've been weeding, pruning and watering the veggie and herb garden in this nonstop Texas heat. It's really a big commitment and acceptance of the crazy heat in order to garden these days...it seems the only payoff is a dripping wet shirt and brow :/ </div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wait...that's not true..(<em>the heat must have hurt my judgment).</em> The payoff is delicious tomatoes! Delicious cayenne peppers! and much much more!!</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br />
However, today...we are celebrating CORN! <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTd32RqDGhxLHNkM7egw_EOd79d3rR9eM-QA7aV_ddfLyrWgLIU1PcffJbfLW-ncXjcgr84Ba-YX_yBWjkOgjQRCVUVGwYMoFZAr2E3D3lTRJx2VuECzoK50P71d7ECLfR_7t-57SnPI/s1600/corn+pollen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTd32RqDGhxLHNkM7egw_EOd79d3rR9eM-QA7aV_ddfLyrWgLIU1PcffJbfLW-ncXjcgr84Ba-YX_yBWjkOgjQRCVUVGwYMoFZAr2E3D3lTRJx2VuECzoK50P71d7ECLfR_7t-57SnPI/s200/corn+pollen.JPG" width="149" /></a>This season, I've had my hand (for the first time) growing our nations very favorite food...corn. Specifically, I've been growing and nurturing organic <br />
<span style="background-color: white;">'</span>marian jewels sweet corn'. This unusual sweet corn produces yummy deep and hearty sweet corn with a dense rich purple cob (seeds certified organic by the Oregon Tilth). </div>
<br />
<br />
As I nurtured and observed the marian jewels start maturing...I grew amazed by the deep purple stalks loaded with dangling cream pollen. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Nmwuch1gD7ca_ngAZkXmCYEmvtWedXxxqoYuw2rrAAEFOks-wRmFyGgNJGlFfB2bJTleTphRVKmzB-hfPwhhluHuS4i56JNIhjM0OQaKec_hY8FD2G19UGeyl1r-BcM-c67AdN8JoT0/s1600/corn+wanting+to+be+pollinated.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">S<img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Nmwuch1gD7ca_ngAZkXmCYEmvtWedXxxqoYuw2rrAAEFOks-wRmFyGgNJGlFfB2bJTleTphRVKmzB-hfPwhhluHuS4i56JNIhjM0OQaKec_hY8FD2G19UGeyl1r-BcM-c67AdN8JoT0/s200/corn+wanting+to+be+pollinated.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The silky flowers begged to be pollinated and over the course of a few weeks, they were! Thank you bees!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIoArordtXc_5myP_FauCOcfz9mdz2qpYOpaK2DHNuD-dyjNNnty6oUA29JSiIRxNpVdLcnC8ng7LT2kHBqAJKHiNgyG9D6vosO3y8009FALKYFKqNZ166_jTfnK6i62K4b0PD96qOErQ/s1600/corn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIoArordtXc_5myP_FauCOcfz9mdz2qpYOpaK2DHNuD-dyjNNnty6oUA29JSiIRxNpVdLcnC8ng7LT2kHBqAJKHiNgyG9D6vosO3y8009FALKYFKqNZ166_jTfnK6i62K4b0PD96qOErQ/s200/corn.JPG" width="149" /></a>So, for about a month, I would feel how the corn was getting along....thin ears of corn grew more solid and hearty. The more solid and full the better. I just kept wondering what was inside!! I was so excited about the corn. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-rtgT0t3qmbXBh8FZWGyfudZKrL7mdjfxxyLC3Km8B6jwDdGt62f5cgVdURGkT5-7sBUxpRL4WxghtPLphd0xiGyxKNbblO9O0sbr7jiNXN4qs2x60Lq3xtXXE0gUOAX1hTBSQs4_n0/s1600/corn+fresh+picked+and+shucked.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-rtgT0t3qmbXBh8FZWGyfudZKrL7mdjfxxyLC3Km8B6jwDdGt62f5cgVdURGkT5-7sBUxpRL4WxghtPLphd0xiGyxKNbblO9O0sbr7jiNXN4qs2x60Lq3xtXXE0gUOAX1hTBSQs4_n0/s200/corn+fresh+picked+and+shucked.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Then, one day...just yesterday, in fact...my curiosity drew to a close. I harvested and I held my breath as I peeled back the purple jeweled leaves revealing amazing gorgeous corn!! I did it!! I grew organic corn. Who knew a former city dweller like me would eventually grow and enjoy her own corn? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well.....speaking of enjoying...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eAwaGfu7r5Q/UBya2ihLYVI/AAAAAAAABIw/Ko-MJ4zEJjc/s1600/corn+ready+for+cokking+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eAwaGfu7r5Q/UBya2ihLYVI/AAAAAAAABIw/Ko-MJ4zEJjc/s200/corn+ready+for+cokking+2.JPG" width="200" /></a>So...I lightly steamed my corn... and took a cue from Rick Bayless....I added yummy homemade cream dressing with my own ground red peppers (from last year's jalapeno and red pepper harvest) and just dove in!!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gZSVy8zuguA/UBybCBxL2jI/AAAAAAAABI4/pAW6CT_MhCc/s1600/corn+ala+mexicana.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gZSVy8zuguA/UBybCBxL2jI/AAAAAAAABI4/pAW6CT_MhCc/s200/corn+ala+mexicana.JPG" width="149" />o</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1L_nT6eF6M4/UBybHTXOK2I/AAAAAAAABJA/jOSj0myTJxQ/s1600/corn+all+done!.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1L_nT6eF6M4/UBybHTXOK2I/AAAAAAAABJA/jOSj0myTJxQ/s200/corn+all+done!.JPG" width="149" /></a>Enough said. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grow you're own food. It's worth it. And it's soo sooo So So GOOOD!!!!</div>Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-17866883486232131222012-06-10T19:51:00.000-05:002012-06-10T19:53:16.471-05:00Squash and Ants in the Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nRlVoowp364/T9U_AEZiHoI/AAAAAAAABHg/VD-MYhkrtzc/s1600/squash+mix.butternut.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nRlVoowp364/T9U_AEZiHoI/AAAAAAAABHg/VD-MYhkrtzc/s200/squash+mix.butternut.JPG" width="149" /></a>....just a quick little entry this evening....</div>
The garden is magnificent this time of year! Heirloom tomatoes abound and the the scarlet runner beans are taking hold on the tripod support system we created. Birds are loving the new fountain - we enjoy seeing hummingbirds, painted buntings and cardinals every evening. However, I have such trouble this summer with ants on my squash and pumpkins (sigh). On the sad side, I am battling ants and doing that chemical free is challenging. On the plus side, it has opened my world to baby squash! Basically, harvesting immature squash and 'making lemonade'. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VszXndOuLUI/T9U_Fd1p4NI/AAAAAAAABHo/yEBOf2N3WRE/s1600/sqash+mix.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VszXndOuLUI/T9U_Fd1p4NI/AAAAAAAABHo/yEBOf2N3WRE/s200/sqash+mix.JPG" width="149" /></a>You can harvest squash in any stage of its life. They are soft, cute and decadent when they are young and every bit as delicious as their mature versions. Tonight, I am sauteing immature patty pan squash and butternut squash with onions and shiitake mushrooms. I'm seasoning with thyme, salt and pepper. (Adding a little white wine while cooking is also very fun and adds a lovely dimension to cooking~)<br />
<br />
So, although this entry is short - the message is sweet! Cooking with baby squash is delicious and adds beauty and whimsy to your dinner plate. <br />
<br />
I hope you are enjoying your lovely Sunday and if you are like me this Sunday evening... you are planning the menu ahead as well as planning for a jam packed work week. Rest well lovely garden friends :) <br />
<br />
Until nextime, HCH.Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-12306113169072233172012-06-09T00:17:00.000-05:002012-06-09T00:32:50.066-05:00Summer Gardening in the Texas Hill Country<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zp5zcodQNzg/T9LQWoTKYVI/AAAAAAAABGQ/AtRW_QljdQo/s1600/lemon+mint.wild+flower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zp5zcodQNzg/T9LQWoTKYVI/AAAAAAAABGQ/AtRW_QljdQo/s200/lemon+mint.wild+flower.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Summer is upon us! If you are like me...you are wondering where the time has gone. How did we get to June! Well, we are here. Nevertheless...Mother Nature has not forgotten. The world is exploding with abundant fruit, flowers and vegetables as we speak. Shown here: A lovely picture of my Texas Wildflower garden. I've been thoroughly enjoying the lemon mint or <em>Mondarda citriodora</em> this year. Infused in honey, vinegar or tea...it's a winning herb in our home. I'll blog in the near future about a lovely facial toner you can make with this wild borne exquisite flower! It's heavenly~<br />
<br />
I've been a busy bee this gardening season. I've planted and harvested two kinds of cabbage: traditional all season cabbage and Napa cabbage. Both are extraordinarily delicious. I have several heads of traditional all season cabbage still growing in the garden. I used half of one head in a wonderful soup and gave the other half to my neighbor. She was delighted. Gardening is a wonderful avenue to connect and share....it's pure love. With the Napa cabbage, I shredded the leaves and introduced into a mushroom stir fry. You just can't go wrong with homegrown cabbage...you just can't. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qy4uliSgZII/T9LQFiPxkNI/AAAAAAAABF8/pBT3Xinke2A/s1600/cabbage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qy4uliSgZII/T9LQFiPxkNI/AAAAAAAABF8/pBT3Xinke2A/s200/cabbage.JPG" width="149" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tYYYDR-AsDU/T9LPpCIPSCI/AAAAAAAABF0/zWyGtqmmA9Q/s1600/cabbage.napa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tYYYDR-AsDU/T9LPpCIPSCI/AAAAAAAABF0/zWyGtqmmA9Q/s200/cabbage.napa.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dj4ngtOBJh4/T9LUHcdtrhI/AAAAAAAABHA/1XjeZBGoI_4/s1600/pattypan+squash.4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dj4ngtOBJh4/T9LUHcdtrhI/AAAAAAAABHA/1XjeZBGoI_4/s200/pattypan+squash.4.JPG" width="149" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D5h27F_bGyA/T9LQKiVzCDI/AAAAAAAABGE/D5kY6NP8QLk/s1600/butternut+squash.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D5h27F_bGyA/T9LQKiVzCDI/AAAAAAAABGE/D5kY6NP8QLk/s200/butternut+squash.JPG" width="149" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Squash is also a delightful veggie growing in the garden. Shown on the upper left is our butternut squash. Aren't they just beautiful. In the moonlight, they glow ever so gently. To the upper right, is our pattypan squash. I simply love baby pattypan squash. I love to harvest early (before they fully mature) and enjoy while very young. Sauteed with onion, shallots and a bit of olive oil or butter - it's a wonderful addition to risotto or any other dish. Fantastic! You must indulge and plant and harvest for yourself! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-omVVWrdAsQE/T9LUDnLTa4I/AAAAAAAABG4/uUjQCHN3kYU/s1600/pattypan+squash.3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-omVVWrdAsQE/T9LUDnLTa4I/AAAAAAAABG4/uUjQCHN3kYU/s200/pattypan+squash.3.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAaZ0lJMGf8K6M9m9wk-kf-G3_i8snJAR97W9b_t1_4M2Dqf3qnOPMXpDt762yFn5FY4fXbFl606-sw9NI6fx-dKp2w69psYHytdJNR8whwsHLlU1NiolhA98qj9JNGk0R3gCVG9Ak9bI/s1600/poppy+seeds.1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAaZ0lJMGf8K6M9m9wk-kf-G3_i8snJAR97W9b_t1_4M2Dqf3qnOPMXpDt762yFn5FY4fXbFl606-sw9NI6fx-dKp2w69psYHytdJNR8whwsHLlU1NiolhA98qj9JNGk0R3gCVG9Ak9bI/s200/poppy+seeds.1.JPG" width="149" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-moB_3eXuGeE/T9LQcLbPFaI/AAAAAAAABGY/3_p1pn6t8Lo/s1600/poppy.dried+heads.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-moB_3eXuGeE/T9LQcLbPFaI/AAAAAAAABGY/3_p1pn6t8Lo/s200/poppy.dried+heads.JPG" width="149" /></a>Earlier this summer I gathered the very last of the dried red corn poppy heads. Beautiful on their own, they are solid and stout reminders of the flouncy red beauties they once were. As I gathered the heads, I can't help but notice each one is like a nature made salt/pepper shaker. Tapping each head into my palm...hundreds of tiny seeds spilled out. Amazing. I have enough for next year's crop and enough to share with special friends. Poppies, like friends, are beautiful through and through! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zWWF2k5hD34/T9LQn-4eP0I/AAAAAAAABGo/ECAlcPx5bsw/s1600/poppy+seeds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zWWF2k5hD34/T9LQn-4eP0I/AAAAAAAABGo/ECAlcPx5bsw/s200/poppy+seeds.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nn_1F2BX5Pc/T9La9h1swhI/AAAAAAAABHU/G82Pahe8VTo/s1600/Briar.tomato.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nn_1F2BX5Pc/T9La9h1swhI/AAAAAAAABHU/G82Pahe8VTo/s200/Briar.tomato.JPG" width="149" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BYD0uAZYbDY/T9La5SMd69I/AAAAAAAABHM/UWIjqiXCPeo/s1600/Basil.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BYD0uAZYbDY/T9La5SMd69I/AAAAAAAABHM/UWIjqiXCPeo/s200/Basil.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
My very favorite fur kids have been equally enjoying the garden's bounty this summer. Basil enjoys watching the finches, hummingbirds, butterflies and bees happily pollinating the garden flowers. Meanwhile, Briar simply enjoys eating the goods! His absolute favorites are strawberries (he hunts and harvests them himself) and tomatoes. This dog loves his organic veggies, that's for sure! <br />
<br />
Hope you are enjoying the summer season as much as we are.... lots of goodies to eat, dehydrate, infuse, and preserve!! That's the hill country garden way!<br />
<br />
Until tomorrow,<br />
HCHHill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-5207713142871633712012-05-12T15:40:00.000-05:002012-05-12T22:46:37.989-05:00Happy Mother's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WkHttuELySg/T67BQFBCs5I/AAAAAAAABD4/UunAHxQdM6A/s1600/mom+and+me.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WkHttuELySg/T67BQFBCs5I/AAAAAAAABD4/UunAHxQdM6A/s320/mom+and+me.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
Mother's Day...a beautiful day to celebrate and remember the one who gave you life. A special day not only to pay homage to her, but to also pay special homage to our mother earth - who gives us the air we breath, the food we eat, the sights we see, the aromas we smell, the textures we feel, and the beautiful sounds we hear such as soft chirping birds and the smooth sound of trickling water. A magical day, indeed.<br />
<br />
My mother is beautiful, strong, playful, driven, and free spirited. Just yesterday, she told me her weekend would be filled planting herbs and plants in her garden. She's also been very excited about rock dust these days...she is amending her sliver of mother earth with beneficial trace elements by incorporating rock dust in her garden beds. I suppose the apple does not fall far from the tree. <br />
<br />
In honor of mother's day, here's a wonderful recipe for a delicious mother's day treat - bringing mother earth and mother's everywhere closer together....<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Fig and Blueberry Salad with Orange Vinaigrette</u></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EAoolz6rUJs/T67Fb6iMX7I/AAAAAAAABEE/hAT200mLlzk/s1600/fig+salad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EAoolz6rUJs/T67Fb6iMX7I/AAAAAAAABEE/hAT200mLlzk/s200/fig+salad.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Ingredients:<br />
(Salad)<br />
- a dozen ripe figs (washed and quartered)<br />
- a cup of rinsed organic blueberries <br />
- 4 healthy handfuls of baby romaine lettuce leaves<br />
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts<br />
- feta cheese (optional)<br />
(Dressing: A Hill Country Herbalist Original ;)<br />
- 4 peeled and minced garlic cloves<br />
- 3/4 cup olive oil<br />
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar <br />
- 1/4 cup fresh juiced orange juice or lemon juice if you like a tarter dressing<br />
- salt and pepper to taste<br />
<br />
For the dressing, I like to begin by scraping freshly minced garlic into a glass jar that also has a good tight fitting lid. Next, add olive oil, red wine vinegar, citrus juice, salt and pepper. Place lid tightly on the jar and shake for several seconds. The citrus juice makes this dressing creamy looking and delicious! Taste a bit and add more salt, pepper, or any of the above ingredients to get the right balance you prefer. More olive oil if too tart or strong...more juice if too boring. <br />
<br />
You can also add fresh thyme leaves into this dressing for a wonderful hint of thyme. <br />
<br />
To make the salad, arrange the lettuce in a large bowl. Add figs, blueberries, and pine nuts. Begin drizzling the salad dressing over the salad and gently toss. Add feta cheese on top to add a creamy treat!<br />
~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MFMX8c3GmDQ/T67IK-fuqZI/AAAAAAAABEQ/264VWDNyCqs/s1600/ryan+and+ginny.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MFMX8c3GmDQ/T67IK-fuqZI/AAAAAAAABEQ/264VWDNyCqs/s200/ryan+and+ginny.JPG" width="149" /></a><br />
<br />
I hope you enjoy your beautiful day celebrating the fruits of life. I'll leave you with this cute picture of herbhusband and his mom back in the good ol' days ~ HCH<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-62544229488745302252012-05-05T12:36:00.001-05:002012-05-05T15:40:04.131-05:00Lemon Mint (Monarda citriodora) Growing in the Texas Hill Country: Benefits & Uses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LFA1St9xmKM/T6VjamBwyeI/AAAAAAAABDk/RHRxJeuUs0Q/s1600/lemon+mint+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LFA1St9xmKM/T6VjamBwyeI/AAAAAAAABDk/RHRxJeuUs0Q/s320/lemon+mint+2.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
Lemon Mint, or <em>Monarda citriodora</em>, is a wonderful addition to your garden. It invites and welcomes beautiful butterflies and honey bees as well as herbaceous plant lovers, like you and me. It's also known as lemon bee balm, purple horsemint, lemon bergamot and lemon horsemint. Like other Monardas, it is very beneficial to skin care and also helps promote our bodies to fight off colds and flu's. It is a member of the Lamiaceae or mint family. This is my favorite family, I'm just naturally drawn to anything Lamiaceae! <br />
<br />
In skin care, Lemon Mint leaves can be rubbed directly on the skin to ward off pesky mosquitoes and other biting flies. The essential oils of Lemon Mint contain citronellol, which is the reason it is effective at deterring these pesky insects. Citronellol is also used in making perfumes. <br />
<br />
The dried herb can be infused in oil (cold oil infusion) and later made into salves and lotions to sooth skin. It is also beneficial when added to facial steams. I would combine it with chamomille and lavender in a facial steam to assist with acne or oily skin. <br />
<br />
Internally, it is beneficial in soothing sore throats and boosting the body's ability to fight off colds and flu's since it also contains thymol- like other Monardas such as Bee Balm. Gargling with plants that contain thymol (such as Bee Balm and Thyme) helps fight sore throat and throat infections. It has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. As an herbal tea, Lemon Mint can be sipped and enjoyed to help calm an upset stomach. <br />
<br />
Today, I'm heading to the garden to harvest some Lemon Mint. I'm going to cut and dry the flowers by hanging them upside down in my kitchen window. The dried flowers can also be used in floral arrangements but I will be drying the leaves and flowers for herbal infusions. Until nextime :) HCH. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-83402749238331153432012-04-22T20:04:00.000-05:002012-04-22T20:12:25.257-05:00Today in the Hill Country Garden: Harvesting, Pruning and Planting!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-olrkWboAb-o/T5R3BC9I0aI/AAAAAAAABCE/KsvF2dgzgt4/s1600/california+poppy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-olrkWboAb-o/T5R3BC9I0aI/AAAAAAAABCE/KsvF2dgzgt4/s200/california+poppy.JPG" width="149" /></a>Harvesting this month: California Poppy, Arugula, Catmint & Strawberries!</div>
Earlier this month, I harvested California Poppies <em>(Eschscholzia californica)</em> I had planted from seed last fall. I harvested just after the first blooms faded and the second set of blooms were coming in. To harvest, simply dig around the plant so you can easily pull up the roots. You can dry the plant or use fresh. I like to use fresh and preserve in grain alcohol to make a tincture. You can also chop and dry and use in teas. To make a tincture, trim off fading/spent leaves and then chop roots and tops. Then, stuff a mason jar with the roots and areal parts until full. Next, fill the jar with grain alcohol...I like to use vodka and to extend shelf life - top off with everclear (e.g., 3 parts vodka and 1 part ever clear). Seal the jar with the lid and then place in a cool dry place in your home. Be sure to shake the jar at least once a day for two weeks. After two weeks, you can strain the plant matter (menstrum) from the infused liquid (tincture) and then store in dark little bottles, preferably with droppers. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FePz5SK9094/T5R3KDCZbMI/AAAAAAAABCM/t3q3RgVqZas/s1600/Arugula.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FePz5SK9094/T5R3KDCZbMI/AAAAAAAABCM/t3q3RgVqZas/s200/Arugula.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Arugula is exploding! No wonder it's called "Rocket Arugula"! It just takes off and goes to seed and grows and takes off again! I have a whole bed full of arugula. Shown here is the beautiful arugula flower with black watchman hollyhock leaves in the background. Herbhusband and I enjoy harvesting arugula leaves by the handful just to make our favorite savory Parmesan cheese and arugula salad in the evenings. To make, harvest 2-3 handfuls of arugula leaves, rinse and dry. Add extra virgin olive oil (about 3 tablespoons) 3 cloves minced fresh garlic, juice of 1 lemon, salt and pepper to taste and 4-5 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese. Toss and enjoy! Simply delicious with salmon or chicken. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cZrbk3eK4oQ/T5R3ng8kmaI/AAAAAAAABCc/7Vd7eyuJMFY/s1600/catmint.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cZrbk3eK4oQ/T5R3ng8kmaI/AAAAAAAABCc/7Vd7eyuJMFY/s200/catmint.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Catmint is another herbaceous friend of mine I love harvesting this time of year. I harvest the fresh tops in the evenings and air dry on paper towels in my kitchen. Once dry, I store the dried catmint in glass jars. In the evenings, I add about two pinches of the dried herb to 1 teaspoon lavender and 1 teaspoon chamomile to make my very favorite evening herbal tea. This is tea is very calming and it's very much like sipping love in a cup. The catmint adds just the right depth and dimension to this tea. It's a must have in my house. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NdLWRX98PSA/T5R4uyoi0II/AAAAAAAABCk/D1aoe3FkN_E/s1600/tomato+bed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NdLWRX98PSA/T5R4uyoi0II/AAAAAAAABCk/D1aoe3FkN_E/s200/tomato+bed.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Strawberries have been a delicious treat this year! We've been enjoying finding these sweet red delights when we are working in the garden. We've been harvesting the fruits and the leaves. Leaves can be dried and used in a tea as well as in skin care remedies. It's been a race around our house as to who harvests the strawberries first! Our herbdog (Briar) just loves digging his nose into the raised beds and doesn't think twice about gulping down these sweet little treats! He loves strawberries...guess it runs in the family :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bZjTdCHAEec/T5Se_BMogfI/AAAAAAAABCw/iSLBa7Eo364/s1600/Poppies+fading+out.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bZjTdCHAEec/T5Se_BMogfI/AAAAAAAABCw/iSLBa7Eo364/s200/Poppies+fading+out.JPG" width="149" /></a>Pruning is a big part of gardening this time of year. I've been busy pruning our grapes as well as finger smashing all the little pests that tend to heavily munch on the leaves and budding fruit. I've noticed caterpillars are big this year as well as katydids! Oh, yes...the katydids are back! (See my post on katydid outbreak in Central Texas posted in June 2010- they are aggressive eaters and can take down a garden in no time flat). Needless to say, we've all been keeping a careful eye on pests and taking the time each day to "thin" them out with our fingers and shoes! I detest pesticides...so this is a must at our house. I'm also busy pruning our hedges and roses. Lots of rain this year has stimulated significant growth in our garden. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LhoGd5uzDT0/T5SlDk-vhuI/AAAAAAAABC8/T6OUNDBuuIE/s1600/seeds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LhoGd5uzDT0/T5SlDk-vhuI/AAAAAAAABC8/T6OUNDBuuIE/s200/seeds.JPG" width="148" /></a>Today, I planted zucchini, carrots, pattypan squash, and sugar pie pumpkin. Earlier this month I planted cabbage and heirloom tomatoes. I'm already seeing many tomatoes setting fruit. Heirlooms I planted include vintage wine, brown berry, black cherry, black plum and juliette. These are all very prolific and tasty! </div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iyJeFNPwxyg/T5Soi8dV69I/AAAAAAAABDI/POm-t5DUrA8/s1600/seedling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iyJeFNPwxyg/T5Soi8dV69I/AAAAAAAABDI/POm-t5DUrA8/s200/seedling.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bCeI_xDx-Vg/T5SowsWGcBI/AAAAAAAABDQ/_KzW6Y-tyP8/s1600/tomatoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bCeI_xDx-Vg/T5SowsWGcBI/AAAAAAAABDQ/_KzW6Y-tyP8/s200/tomatoes.JPG" width="149" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It certainly is a productive time of year in the Texas Hill Country! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are having lots of fun keeping our fingers dirty and eyes open for critters - it's going to be a healthy year for critters. I'll leave you with this Meyer Lemon baby found today on our tree. It will be Novemberish before we can enjoy this sweet and juicy fruit...but, isn't it beautiful? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aY4PB-mKljw/T5Sp_roBpOI/AAAAAAAABDY/HxgWFNTPgOI/s1600/meyer+lemon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aY4PB-mKljw/T5Sp_roBpOI/AAAAAAAABDY/HxgWFNTPgOI/s200/meyer+lemon.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-42356578867021340012012-04-15T18:46:00.000-05:002012-04-15T18:48:52.151-05:00Decorating with Herbs from the Hill Country Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ES28IMkxUvw/T4tFq1fkANI/AAAAAAAABA8/MkcXGDflBgg/s1600/Cleavers+nest.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ES28IMkxUvw/T4tFq1fkANI/AAAAAAAABA8/MkcXGDflBgg/s200/Cleavers+nest.JPG" width="149" /></a>Where has the time gone? We are in mid Spring and enjoying the beautiful wildlife here in the Texas Hill Country. Butterflies are amazing this year....oh, and so are the leaf munching caterpillars :) These days, we are being creative with what we have and taking full advantage of bringing the outdoors inside and vice-versa. It's a harmonious time of year when the outdoors feels just as comfortable as the indoors. We are certainly blessed with green abundance this year. Rain and sunshine have been our friends. Green Blessings. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigz1c9L0-An1wyTV_GU0bJYkQwZmyUiFRGD1Tgj33SjciHnAFR57_brbdqEzCnsL-zTXzIYvGk5OEemVKWrGJiwGBVN4LhTlylTlQzY3diWPXum46Kd-so3FqSEuhZ7pqXx35keFd_ozA/s1600/Cleavers+basket+liner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigz1c9L0-An1wyTV_GU0bJYkQwZmyUiFRGD1Tgj33SjciHnAFR57_brbdqEzCnsL-zTXzIYvGk5OEemVKWrGJiwGBVN4LhTlylTlQzY3diWPXum46Kd-so3FqSEuhZ7pqXx35keFd_ozA/s1600/Cleavers+basket+liner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigz1c9L0-An1wyTV_GU0bJYkQwZmyUiFRGD1Tgj33SjciHnAFR57_brbdqEzCnsL-zTXzIYvGk5OEemVKWrGJiwGBVN4LhTlylTlQzY3diWPXum46Kd-so3FqSEuhZ7pqXx35keFd_ozA/s200/Cleavers+basket+liner.JPG" width="149" /><br />
<br />
</a>I recently updated my Facebook page showing you how we can use the recently fading Cleavers into your daily life. Besides being a wonderful spring tonic for our lymph system, Cleavers (<em>Galium aparine) </em>has wonderful uses in the garden! Since it is self clinging, it can be molded into almost any shape. Take advantage of this herb all you can. Before it went into seed, I harvested Cleavers and infused it into oil. I make "Healing Hands" lotion featuring this very healing and nourishing herb. It's a simple lotion but holds moisture in the hands like no other lotion I make. It's perfect for people in the health care industry who wash hands often or for people whose hands simply need the healing touch.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OnLceqQXjfI/T4tVwZB5-kI/AAAAAAAABBg/yLiNO3eWQVo/s1600/Cleavers+nest.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OnLceqQXjfI/T4tVwZB5-kI/AAAAAAAABBg/yLiNO3eWQVo/s200/Cleavers+nest.JPG" width="200" /></a>Above, you can see how I molded and used Cleavers to line a plant basket. Since then, it has dried and is very functional as a plant basket liner. Why purchase from big box stores, when you can use the herb that is ever giving in your very own back yard? Truly an amazing plant. This past Easter, I used it to make "nests" to hold eggs. I am not sure how I dreamt up the the idea of decorating with Cleavers - but I'm so glad I did. It will be an ongoing tradition in our herb home. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G2stYnnVaN0/T4taHmutW9I/AAAAAAAABBs/D0qkl_V9lkk/s1600/Parsley+Flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G2stYnnVaN0/T4taHmutW9I/AAAAAAAABBs/D0qkl_V9lkk/s200/Parsley+Flowers.JPG" width="149" /></a>Our Parsley has also gone into full bloom. I planted it last fall and now it has reached full bloom and it is just gorgeous. As I pruned this sweet smooth herb, I could not help myself ...I had to find purpose in my cuttings. I gathered up the blooms in my arms and carried the bundle into my home. I found a large vase and just made sure they were comfortable. What a magnificent herb. I smile each time I walk past the Parsley blooms. They are so happy and soothing. Just like they are when we add their fresh leaves to our food. Makes our tummies happy ~ Makes our minds happy.....Makes us happy and whole. Never under estimate the powerful impact surrounding yourself with beautiful herbs has on our mind, spirit and body. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Recently, I hurt my back working in the garden. I haven't been much for blogging or digging or harvesting,etc. However, with my herbal friends Lobelia, Cramp Bark, Chamomile, Lavender, and Arnica...I am healing very well. I have so many more garden pictures and stories to share. I will take time while I'm healing to catch up with you. Until then...many green and herbal blessings and don't forget to <em><strong>grow where you are planted</strong></em>. Much love, HCH. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This</div>Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-13308267096977385612012-03-04T23:03:00.002-06:002012-03-04T23:08:03.019-06:00Early Spring In The Hill Country<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HIbxwbGOQAM/T1RBqzUCicI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/kso9Mc9tUag/s1600/baby+blue+eyes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HIbxwbGOQAM/T1RBqzUCicI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/kso9Mc9tUag/s200/baby+blue+eyes.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
It's early spring! What a joyous time of year to celebrate green life. Young herblings are taking hold, wildflowers are ever present and the earth is ready for new plant life. Our fields are full of vibrant purple verbena that are just now opening their blooms. I can hardly wait when they are in full bloom. Last fall, I planted a wildflower mix in the back bed of the garden. Shown here: Baby Blue Eyes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hllG_TkUPfo/T1RCNvRYs9I/AAAAAAAAA_g/jA0JOWTtIgI/s1600/garden.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hllG_TkUPfo/T1RCNvRYs9I/AAAAAAAAA_g/jA0JOWTtIgI/s200/garden.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Herbhusband and I worked most of the day in the garden today. We were busy amending the soil, building new raised beds, planting new veggies and herbs and loving the sweet spring sunshine! We use drip irrigation in all of our beds. In the Texas heat, it keeps the plants well hydrated and reduces water waste. <br />
<br />
Yesterday, I spent a good part of the day at Antique Rose Emporium enjoying all the lovely roses, herbs and veggies. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PYF6GCycYiM/T1RDNjWTp1I/AAAAAAAAA_o/pOIUeD_4x3g/s1600/rose+emporium+herbs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PYF6GCycYiM/T1RDNjWTp1I/AAAAAAAAA_o/pOIUeD_4x3g/s200/rose+emporium+herbs.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
I was drawn to pak choy, spring cabbage, Chinese cabbage, dill, fennel, orange mint, lemon balm, jalapeno, artichoke, lettuce, and so much more! I especially had a hard time narrowing down which heirloom tomatoes to plant - I probably ended up getting too many, but that's just fine by me! <br />
<br />
I ended up selecting my very favorite high performing heirlooms: black cherry, juliet, black plum and brown berry. These are the most prolific producers and do so well throughout the summer and fall - they are just abundant and beautiful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YOZ3rQyPygM/T1REO13kdGI/AAAAAAAAA_w/nNsbqX7bSUQ/s1600/wagon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YOZ3rQyPygM/T1REO13kdGI/AAAAAAAAA_w/nNsbqX7bSUQ/s200/wagon.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
My shopping wagon runneth over! I knew when I couldn't fit one more herbling I had to end my scouting adventure. <br />
<br />
It's an herbal love affair in early spring - all the new green growth and colorful blossoms are so enticing. My roses are also budding and blooming. The first one to bloom in the garden this year is Valentine. The deep red blooms are a welcome sight! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vpq00fA6OBw/T1REgHDAyNI/AAAAAAAAA_4/Qlngx5cNYl4/s1600/rose+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vpq00fA6OBw/T1REgHDAyNI/AAAAAAAAA_4/Qlngx5cNYl4/s200/rose+1.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Here's a list of some of my favorite herbs and veggies to plant this time of year in the Texas Hill Country:<br />
- onions<br />
- garlic<br />
- chives<br />
- dill<br />
- fennel<br />
- lettuce<br />
- pok choy<br />
- spring cabbage<br />
- Chinese cabbage<br />
- artichoke<br />
- parsley<br />
- cilantro<br />
- mint (any)<br />
- radishes<br />
- sage<br />
- roses<br />
- calendula<br />
- yarrow<br />
- lavender<br />
- rosemary<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ehjd-v8mkGQ/T1RGVgYthPI/AAAAAAAABAI/BpWst3YOJCk/s1600/strawberry.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ehjd-v8mkGQ/T1RGVgYthPI/AAAAAAAABAI/BpWst3YOJCk/s200/strawberry.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
I ended up purchasing almost everything on this list (and what I didn't purchase I've been growing from seed in the greenhouse).<br />
<br />
Amending the soil with molasses, worm castings, organic blood meal, and compost is extremely beneficial - spending time amending the soil will save you so much heartache and stress down the road. The healthier the soil, the healthier the beneficial microbes are that fend away hurtful insects and larva. Plus, plant roots are happier with healthy soil and happy roots = healthy prolific herbs and veggies!<br />
<br />
I'm sad the weekend is over - how I will long for Friday when I can spend more time tending to the garden beds. In the meantime, spring flowers are a welcome sight. Hurray Spring!Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-39947866230966395982012-02-26T19:48:00.002-06:002012-02-26T20:13:01.077-06:00Getting Your Skin Ready for Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vQEFsszGMG4/T0rgYvw-lSI/AAAAAAAAA-w/p8xkZtVCSdg/s1600/Anemone.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" lda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vQEFsszGMG4/T0rgYvw-lSI/AAAAAAAAA-w/p8xkZtVCSdg/s200/Anemone.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Spring is around the corner! The gardens and fields are filled with buds and the beginnings of a beautiful flower show. Rosemary, Shepherd’s Purse, Roses, Anemone, Alyssum, Verbena, and Agarita are just a few herbs that are blooming around the hill country garden. <em>(Anemone shown here). </em><br />
<br />
This is a wonderful time to pamper the delicate skin on your face and neck - rejuvenating and nourishing it for a glorious Spring debut!<br />
<br />
This winter season, my face had become dull and lackluster. I was so sad - coupled with the fact I gained a few pounds - I had to do something. I'm so excited by the results of my efforts I had to share them with you.<br />
<br />
Two words: <strong>Facial Steam!</strong><br />
<br />
Trust me on this, you want one. It's so easy, too. Your face will be revitalized and vibrant. Incorporate a facial steam once to twice a week for the next few weeks and you'll be one vibrant specimen.<br />
<br />
I like to use herbs traditionally used in facial care, such as: chamomile, calendula, lavender, comfrey, rose petals, raspberry leaves, and any herb in the mint family. If you don't have these plants or dried herbs, you could use bagged tea you may have sitting around your cupboards. You could tear open the bags and pour right into your soup pot. <br />
<br />
To prepare your skin for a facial steam, use your favorite facial cleanser. I like to use my <strong>oatmeal, lavender and citrus sugar facial polish</strong> before enjoying an herbal facial steam. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JCRJqibkzY/T0rglE6aX9I/AAAAAAAAA-4/yx8VMyLJ7Yg/s1600/Steam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" lda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JCRJqibkzY/T0rglE6aX9I/AAAAAAAAA-4/yx8VMyLJ7Yg/s200/Steam.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Start the facial steam by adding water to a small soup pot (2 or 3 quart pot is fine) and adding herbs of choice (my absolute favorite is two pinches lavender, two pinches of calendula, two pinches comfrey and two pinches of chamomile). Simmer over low heat until the herbs have completely infused the water. I don't allow my water to boil; I like to simmer allowing it to gently infuse. <br />
<br />
After 20 minutes or so, take the pot off the heat and drape your head with a large bath towel and lower your face over the pot to begin receiving the benefits of the lovely steam. Hold your head over the pot in a position comfortable for you. You don't want to hurt your skin, you just want to gently expose your skin to the benefits of the herbal steam. Breathing in the steam can also help cleanse the respiratory tract. I found this out accidentally. I had been struggling with an itchy dry cough after experiencing a small cold. After the facial steam, my persistent cough had been greatly improved. <br />
<br />
Steam your skin for at least five minutes and more if you are having fun. It feels wonderful coming away from the steam and feeling the cool air in the room enter you as you breathe deeply. Your skin will be singing! Allow your face to air dry. I like to spritz my face with either rose hydrosol or orange blossom hydrosol, too. <br />
<br />
Next, follow up with a <strong>facial mask</strong> to experience enhanced results or if you are short on time, apply moisturizer to your face to protect and nourish your skin. <br />
<br />
Facial masks I like to use include ingredients I have on hand. If I have a little left over avocado, I'll cream a spoonful and add a little honey. If I have some Greek yogurt on hand, I'll use that. Sometimes, I like to simply use honey I infused with rose petals. This is a lovely and delicious treat for your skin. <br />
<br />
Here's how to prepare the <strong>Avocado and Rose Honey Facial Mask</strong>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-obzaP4epNwY/T0rgx6ZIHRI/AAAAAAAAA_A/Ccsacg0h6LY/s1600/Avacado+Mask.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" lda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-obzaP4epNwY/T0rgx6ZIHRI/AAAAAAAAA_A/Ccsacg0h6LY/s200/Avacado+Mask.JPG" width="149" /></a></div>
Begin with a small spoonful of avocado. Mash it until it is extremely creamy - the less lumps the better. Add a teaspoon of honey to the creamed avocado and mix.<br />
Next, apply the mask to your face with your fingers. Allow to sit on your face for 10-15 minutes. This mask is skin tightening and pore reducing. I love the essential fatty acids in this mask. Skin food = sexy skin! And we all want that, don't we?<br />
<br />
Rinse face with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Finish your facial regime by applying a facial moisturizer (I like to use my <strong>Restorative Skin Support Facial Moisturizer</strong>) and enjoy your replenished, revitalized and healthy skin. Spring - here you come!!<br />
<br />Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-18492885359064520912012-01-19T21:58:00.001-06:002012-01-19T22:14:27.905-06:00Gotu Kola: Bringing People and the Message of the Power of Plants Together<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-toqZKo-mMFg/TxjP-PPX8xI/AAAAAAAAA80/52mlVHdNzA0/s1600/gotu%2Bkola%2Btrailing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-toqZKo-mMFg/TxjP-PPX8xI/AAAAAAAAA80/52mlVHdNzA0/s320/gotu%2Bkola%2Btrailing.JPG" width="240" /></a>Back in May of last year, I posted an entry sharing the benefits of our beloved Gotu Kola. I am so drawn to this herb and have been nurturing this specimen for nearly three years. These past few years, I've learned about what it likes, how it tastes, when it blooms and that it thrives with moist roots, dry leaves and the Texas heat. It will freeze, so best to keep it potted and protected from the cold. (Link to my May post for more background information on Gotu Kola) <a href="http://www.hillcountryherbalist.com/2011/05/gotu-kola.html">http://www.hillcountryherbalist.com/2011/05/gotu-kola.html</a></div>
<br />
It is a trailing plant and an excellent ground cover. Native to India, it is prolific and enjoyed in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine. We enjoy eating a leaf or two a day for brain health. I'm also getting ready to infuse the leaves to make an oil infusion for salves and cremes blended specifically for irritated inflamed and hived skin. So, as you can see - herbhusband and I love our Gotu Kola plant. <br />
<br />
So last week I'm catching up on emails and messages and to my surprise, I received communication from the office of Dr. Lindsey Duncan, founder and CEO of Genesis Today, Inc, as well as a Naturopathic Doctor and Certified Nutritionist, & maker of superfruit juices and supplements. The request was for a Gotu Kola plant needed within a day or two to be flown to New York to be with him while he discussed the benefits of superfruits and herbs with the co-hosts of The View. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TR2w1LPYLWY/TxjZy3PDEsI/AAAAAAAAA9k/3Wne4NT7Sfs/s1600/gotu+kola+unpotted.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nfa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TR2w1LPYLWY/TxjZy3PDEsI/AAAAAAAAA9k/3Wne4NT7Sfs/s320/gotu+kola+unpotted.JPG" width="238" /></a><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
I didn't exactly know if I could be of help, but I extended what I could since I enjoy helping others with similar missions in health and wellness through the power of plants. So, I agreed to help by dividing a bit of our Gotu Kola - It had been weighing heavily on my mind that the plant had outgrown its pot and I needed to pot up our Gotu Kola and make a few divisions anyway. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Boy, did this request come at the right time! When I removed the pot from the plant I discovered ambitious runners with no where to go but round and round. You can see how this plant will spread so readily with its runners (shown in this photo- white runners circling the upper portion of the plant). </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
I carefully separated the runners and made a division. Herbhusband was so helpful in ensuring the division was well adjusted in its new little pot.</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-rycQ3UEzmbrCpCcr20kuLDmJVK1eZOxbmSCEYGi_09Zy2zEFEeTOY8nUdelSqAU7dDttczKN_wWWZI5acK6VlTS1KwKCor0GCv8VbXZk8CWl2thiRhKkJjtEAnq3m4qb53nMX4EGmc/s1600/gotu+kola+divided+to+give.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-rycQ3UEzmbrCpCcr20kuLDmJVK1eZOxbmSCEYGi_09Zy2zEFEeTOY8nUdelSqAU7dDttczKN_wWWZI5acK6VlTS1KwKCor0GCv8VbXZk8CWl2thiRhKkJjtEAnq3m4qb53nMX4EGmc/s320/gotu+kola+divided+to+give.JPG" width="240" /></a>Then, we were off to meet Ms. Angela Hein, Sr. Director of Public Relations at a nearby Whole Foods. She greeted us with a bag of lovely of superfruit juices (Acai, Goji, Noni & Mangosteen as well as chewable vitamins, supplements and poweders). It was so fun to chat about how funny our meeting really was. It's like our little Gotu Kola plant was bringing people together and contributing to sharing the meaning and power of herbs. Whether Gotu Kola is ingested as a super food or applied to the skin to help it feel better - it is win/win. </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
(Here's a picture of the Gotu Kola division on its way to meet up with Angela). </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VCS88_dtuws/Txjg5OwvG6I/AAAAAAAAA9w/DwfUpIgqVqQ/s1600/the+view.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" nfa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VCS88_dtuws/Txjg5OwvG6I/AAAAAAAAA9w/DwfUpIgqVqQ/s320/the+view.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
(Here's a picture of the Gotu Kola division a couple days later on the set of The View held by co-host Elizabeth Hasselbeck). Life is so fun sometimes. I just smile when I see this little guy in her arms next to Dr. Lindsey Duncan, Whoopie, and Sherri Shepherd. Gotu Kola made the big time, lol! <br />
<br />
I'll leave you with this neat and oh so good idea for herbal chicken soup, garnished and enhanced by our very own Gotu Kola leaves:<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mQyDZrx90ZM/TxjiGJA8eeI/AAAAAAAAA98/kMnceX8oW-I/s1600/herbal+soup+herbs+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" nfa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mQyDZrx90ZM/TxjiGJA8eeI/AAAAAAAAA98/kMnceX8oW-I/s320/herbal+soup+herbs+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Here in Central Texas, many of us get adversely affected by pollinating Cedar trees (otherwise known as Cedar Fever). Feeling a bit run down this time of year is a norm for us so I headed out to the herb garden and picked as many herbs I had growing in and out of the greenhouse and garlic, onion, shiitake mushrooms, celery, and dandelion greens I purchased from the store. <br />
<br />
I started with a bit of organic chicken and added rosemary and thyme bundles, mustard greens, joy choy, cilantro, celery, garlic, onion, dandelion greens, shiitake mushrooms, and seasonings. I splashed in a dash or two of apple cider vinegar to bring out the best in all the herbs and flavors. I let simmer and at the very end added yarrow. I garnished the soup with a bit more Yarrow and Gotu Kola leaves and a squeeze of Meyer lemon from the greenhouse. Amazing flavors and amazing benefits to the mind, body and spirit. A little suggestion on how to use our friend Gotu Kola. Hope you are able to enjoy this lovely herb in your home and garden, as well. <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSk_bQVBxP3fWzhFov-0UBOyd7kIBYoGCUl6afJUhemVgWo-5ZOunMjSaY4RejJRomjHB9N5bU7V46V33BCF4eb5dPY8qh0pBbE50sxKUdcwcu56hzcxXxMQRyPUTnSj4ORh_S2b9pJy4/s1600/herbal+soup+gotu+kola.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nfa="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSk_bQVBxP3fWzhFov-0UBOyd7kIBYoGCUl6afJUhemVgWo-5ZOunMjSaY4RejJRomjHB9N5bU7V46V33BCF4eb5dPY8qh0pBbE50sxKUdcwcu56hzcxXxMQRyPUTnSj4ORh_S2b9pJy4/s320/herbal+soup+gotu+kola.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-35336433957819810852011-12-10T14:47:00.001-06:002011-12-11T11:10:18.173-06:00Winter Blues? Seasonal Fruits and Herbs to the Rescue!Many of us feel better and are more productive when there are dapples of sunlight in our day. In winter; however, we aren't always kindly warmed by the sun's rays...so what should we do to shake away winter blues and blahs? <br />
<br />
...<i>Imagine</i> walking down a grove of orange trees....smelling the ripening fruit and the aroma of blossoms covered with honey bees....<i>Ahhhh! </i> Naturally, one would inhale deeply as the soul is fed by the wonderful sweet smells of citrus and blossoms. It wouldn't be long before the aromas therapeutically lifted our spirits. A bit of aromatherapy - mother earth style! <br />
<br />
Today, I started linking the chilly blue & gray skies with seasonal produce and evergreen herbs. I started thinking about their connection to our moods and our needs during the winter months. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFjedhJQjbq_P7KKeY05Q4jWdeXlgNI4OQSpjcF3ob3kcjlB32cWys84s5_uaWM5iEHizrB7FqWo6NkQRDD0hyphenhyphenRprb9I3eNsHWcL14P7p9pvAkIyiMJtPvavxkewn8ihoI7QlsO3_x7Xw/s1600/meyer+lemons.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFjedhJQjbq_P7KKeY05Q4jWdeXlgNI4OQSpjcF3ob3kcjlB32cWys84s5_uaWM5iEHizrB7FqWo6NkQRDD0hyphenhyphenRprb9I3eNsHWcL14P7p9pvAkIyiMJtPvavxkewn8ihoI7QlsO3_x7Xw/s200/meyer+lemons.JPG" /></a></div>Citrus is in season...Meyer lemons are ripe for the picking, oranges, limes, grapefruits are in abundance at the grocery stores and the evergreen herbs I have growing in the garden include rosemary, oregano, yarrow, and rose. You may have even more growing in your garden, too! This got me thinking that this is no coincidence. It's earth mother's way of nurturing and supporting us when we need her most.<br />
<br />
<br />
When you are feeling blah, tear into an orange or a grapefruit with your hands, allowing the oils to infuse the air. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jkmTKDIviMI/TuPbWtEpZoI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/W7n-dGxawFk/s1600/citrus%2B1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jkmTKDIviMI/TuPbWtEpZoI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/W7n-dGxawFk/s200/citrus%2B1.JPG" /></a></div>Then, inhale deeply! Eat the fruit for its vitamin packed benefits and save the peels...they can dry naturally on your counter then you can grind them later and add them into vinegar to make a lovely face tonic, hair rinse, and household cleaner. I like to add them to sugar scrubs, too! <br />
<br />
Next, head outdoors! Find some rosemary - pick off a bit and either crush it or rub it between your hands. Then, inhale deeply! Your spirit and mind will be invigorated and uplifted. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mxH579tnBls/TuPaEWQ4cMI/AAAAAAAAA6s/YRYp1OE6hYk/s1600/rosemary.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mxH579tnBls/TuPaEWQ4cMI/AAAAAAAAA6s/YRYp1OE6hYk/s200/rosemary.JPG" /></a></div>Gather a bit and cook with it, infuse in tea and sip on it while reading your favorite book...or hill country blog ;) You can use rosemary's leaves and twigs when making infusions. Rosemary is an anti-spasmodic, anti-depressive, and an antiseptic. It stimulates the spirit and eases tension - lovely!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OWAUptdI4yFhaXbDAGccFdQSVzA5IAS_fw1B3p0dFsOCnbAtUrJ-tcpZ98AxHti6U7i76UTivU9ynsmIgA7SBbHp4HyCwNUN_czFbVd2jMmVi06Pz6-mTvt4bC3eXL537ha2uBdBHso/s1600/oregano.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OWAUptdI4yFhaXbDAGccFdQSVzA5IAS_fw1B3p0dFsOCnbAtUrJ-tcpZ98AxHti6U7i76UTivU9ynsmIgA7SBbHp4HyCwNUN_czFbVd2jMmVi06Pz6-mTvt4bC3eXL537ha2uBdBHso/s200/oregano.JPG" /></a></div>Oregano is a wonderful immune supporter. I use a lot when I cook and make sure to add a lot of garlic, too. Keeping your body healthy and your spirits lifted will help you ward off winter blues and the common cold. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-do0lhz8clqU/TuPa-yPYHnI/AAAAAAAAA7E/OcgjO5oXT4o/s1600/yarrow.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-do0lhz8clqU/TuPa-yPYHnI/AAAAAAAAA7E/OcgjO5oXT4o/s200/yarrow.JPG" /></a></div>Yarrow also has antiseptic properties. It's also a diaphoretic, so it's an herbal remedy for helping us when we have fevers. A tea can be made by infusing the dried leaves into heated water and can be sipped throughout the day.<br />
<br />
And Rose....right now, roses have beautiful rose hips that birds enjoy throughout the winter months. Rose hips are full of vitamin C - a wonderful addition to your immune support regime. Rose hip tea is a nice way to enjoy this winter fruit. <br />
<br />
So… coincidence? What do you think?<br />
<br />
<br />
When I went outside to take pictures for this blog, I also met some other medicinal plants that I wanted to share with you...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeR_RnXadolBjuvHbgdBg3uXNGNTXqzQoLxt7tqCoBpuNubYUuXdMAzIC4LuKxFBjsxSiH25qrybdObzPXrLsrHZn_qzOHpr6F88E1T55wUtOX7DTlMj8OHZ6D_iAyGvblMXMpAHD5xM/s1600/wormwood.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeR_RnXadolBjuvHbgdBg3uXNGNTXqzQoLxt7tqCoBpuNubYUuXdMAzIC4LuKxFBjsxSiH25qrybdObzPXrLsrHZn_qzOHpr6F88E1T55wUtOX7DTlMj8OHZ6D_iAyGvblMXMpAHD5xM/s200/wormwood.JPG" /></a></div>Wormwood (also known as desert sage is ceremonially used as a smudging agent, much like sage, to cleanse and purify sacred spaces) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yruMwIQYH30/TuPb_-1mPtI/AAAAAAAAA7o/i7RcT5KhPl4/s1600/strawberry%2Band%2Bred%2Bclover.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yruMwIQYH30/TuPb_-1mPtI/AAAAAAAAA7o/i7RcT5KhPl4/s200/strawberry%2Band%2Bred%2Bclover.JPG" /></a></div>strawberry growing with red clover, <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fVzh2Je_8_I/TuPdM_jB7AI/AAAAAAAAA8E/D7FxBXCYXTI/s1600/plantain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fVzh2Je_8_I/TuPdM_jB7AI/AAAAAAAAA8E/D7FxBXCYXTI/s200/plantain.JPG" /></a></div><br />
& plantain <br />
<br />
Love!Hill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2860443614003524406.post-2770076202016082952011-12-04T22:52:00.000-06:002011-12-04T22:52:42.025-06:00Hill Country Herbs in December<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzf0P6JwKhFbk_oF9M2nW9fDAfVaU3weV-i-z-k1Dv0RBSXWfAY7Bzqa6gwHPA3NwXzCaGRe32TUikeeribA5ujAG8NQOFQePya-gIY7Y8048UabDW48gMvhGsh_Obj1iBwCEUVmtae4/s1600/cleavers+in+Dec.cleaver+baby+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzf0P6JwKhFbk_oF9M2nW9fDAfVaU3weV-i-z-k1Dv0RBSXWfAY7Bzqa6gwHPA3NwXzCaGRe32TUikeeribA5ujAG8NQOFQePya-gIY7Y8048UabDW48gMvhGsh_Obj1iBwCEUVmtae4/s200/cleavers+in+Dec.cleaver+baby+2.JPG" /></a></div>Today was a rainy day in the Hill Country...gray skies, no patches of sun, and cool constant light drizzly rain. A slumber day. But of course, by midday, a bit of cabin fever set in and I had to go outside and breathe in fresh earthly goodness. <br />
<br />
I first ventured to check on my Cleavers "hot spot" and I was thrilled to see baby Cleavers coming up once again. <b>Cleavers <i>(Gallium aparine)</i></b> are like precious friends that I wait all year-round to see...and in December they come and make their annual appearance. I'm very excited to see them. I look forward to seeing them take hold and using them in body cleansing infusions and making them into healing oils/salves/lotions. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WXdk2uZ6ACg/TtvvCzwb6SI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/5mTQEBImgOY/s1600/Yarrow%2Bin%2BDec.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WXdk2uZ6ACg/TtvvCzwb6SI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/5mTQEBImgOY/s200/Yarrow%2Bin%2BDec.JPG" /></a></div><b>Yarrow <i>(Achillea millefolium)</i></b> is also another herb that loves cooler temperatures and thrives outdoors in the Hill Country. I have Yarrow growing in the herb garden and planted in pots on the back patio. Yarrow is a tasty little herb that has wonderful flavor. I like to nibble on it in the garden and add the beautiful feather like leaves to salads for a special treat. Yarrow has astringent properties and is also known as "soldier's woundwort" as it has long been used to stop external bleeding when applied to wounds. Anti-inflammatory in nature, it can be applied directly, made into a poultice and can be infused in oils and used in salves and creams. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2AVPor_SOK4/TtvxVQtQ2oI/AAAAAAAAA50/3O1QJtbhafg/s1600/Thyme%2Bin%2BDec.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2AVPor_SOK4/TtvxVQtQ2oI/AAAAAAAAA50/3O1QJtbhafg/s200/Thyme%2Bin%2BDec.JPG" /></a></div>Here's a picture of my Thyme in the greenhouse. I love this plant - we go back over five years I think. I sit with it, admire it, harvest it, and spoil it...especially this time of year when the tiny green leaves sparkle with life. I like to cook with as much Thyme as I can during the winter months. I attribute health and wellness to Thyme, as it is a wonderful plant full of antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties due to its high Thymol content. It is wonderful infused into oils for cooking or for topical use - how could you not have time for Thyme in your herb garden? <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwWYNOEWdw0BtGPGfOm4_ZLZugcBXkY3SVgwSEW7DiHoScVA_reVKVYtibFsnapEXeTouq4Nshum-TVVOBHZuK1Em8Pza_ixDjWzHQQPOrw8qG5x5MfbipQ_fSN5NokDmpqL22woXKys/s1600/Patchouli+in+Dec.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCwWYNOEWdw0BtGPGfOm4_ZLZugcBXkY3SVgwSEW7DiHoScVA_reVKVYtibFsnapEXeTouq4Nshum-TVVOBHZuK1Em8Pza_ixDjWzHQQPOrw8qG5x5MfbipQ_fSN5NokDmpqL22woXKys/s200/Patchouli+in+Dec.JPG" /></a></div>Remember this little hitch hiker? This is the Patchouli plant I carried on the plane with me from Oregon to Texas. I purchased it from Horizon Herb's Richo Cech himself! His lovely wife gingerly wrapped the potted little herb in a cloth covering "diaper" wrapped with twine. I love this little plant, it reminds me of the wonderful time herbhusband and I had at Rootstalk in Salem, Oregon this past September. I'm protecting it in the greenhouse, as it does not like cold temperatures. I'm looking forward to seeing it mature...and although I won't be using it in my skin care potions - I'm happy to have it join the rest of the herbs in the garden. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6xs01cHcY4x1jQHwt-MJi3nStVwI59vNqX-oi-RaUz7ec5SMsDcNKCK01pYI28YsegOV7DW_Mtf79pNcGQFpePnIKMD21VlGl4ysvO6Du81MZCM9WHRONEAjZzip3hQExsPwgO0BI0c/s1600/Meyer+Lemon+in+Dec.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6xs01cHcY4x1jQHwt-MJi3nStVwI59vNqX-oi-RaUz7ec5SMsDcNKCK01pYI28YsegOV7DW_Mtf79pNcGQFpePnIKMD21VlGl4ysvO6Du81MZCM9WHRONEAjZzip3hQExsPwgO0BI0c/s200/Meyer+Lemon+in+Dec.JPG" /></a></div>The Meyer Lemon is at it again. This year, I harvested over 40 lemons and that's not counting the dozen I left on the tree (seen here). I made limoncello with some of the peels - I lovely treat. Squeezing a bit of the juice in water is a wonderful bright pick me up any time of day. The taste is sweet and clean. The yellow Meyer's bring sunshine and joy on this drizzly day. To promote a healthy throat, it's great to have a squeeze of meyer lemon in warm water with a bit of honey. A lovely warm beverage on this cloudy day. That sounds so good, I'm signing off to make a cup and grab a good herb book and rest easy for the rest of the day. Hope you find some time to treat yourself to this lovely infusion some time this winter season. <br />
<br />
Wishing you warmth and health herbal friends,<br />
HCHHill Country Herbalisthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00211352954162737212noreply@blogger.com0