Nothing beats natural healing. The cure for every dis-ease and illness is already in nature. Just reprogram your… by kristyna888
Do you know about the many wonderful benefits of yarrow? Yarrow is a fantastic medicinal plant that's easy to grow and use in your herbal remedy arsenal. You may even have some yarrow posing as
Botanical Name of Ashwagandha: Withania somnifera. The ashwagandha root is often referred to as the 'Indian ginseng' because it is used in a similar way in Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine as Panax ginseng is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The herb has been used for more than 2500 years to restore overall health and increase longevity. The Indian or Hindu common name ashwagandha (Sanskrit), translates roughly to 'the smell and strength of a horse,' referring to the plant's alleged ability to enhance sexual vigor. Ashwagandha Seedpods (Withania somnifera) - Attribution: Vinayaraj V. R What is Ashwagandha Used For? Some of
How to grow and use Toothache plant. This unique plant is easy to grow and can be used fresh to numb mouth pain or preserved for later use. This antiviral, antibiotic and antifungal has a numbing sensation when used in the mouth or on small wound like bug bites.
Most of us probably don’t think twice about the air quality within our home. We think our home is odorless, fresh or neutral smelling. But the truth is that indoor air quality can be, well, deceiving. There are several factors that can contribute to toxicity within the air. All the interior like furniture, paint, carpe
Herbal cigarettes were a common way to take your medicine, long before cigarettes became associated with tobacco (and addiction). Learn how to choose herbs for herbal cigarettes, and enjoy this time-honored way to take your
Botanical Name: Angelica sinensis. Other Common Names Chinese angelicaFemale ginsengDang gui (Chinese)Toki (Japanese)Tanggwi (Korean)Chinesische Engelwurz (German)Kinesisk angelikarot (Swedish). When Chinese angelica is used as a medicinal herb it is mostly known by its Chinese name 'dong quai'. Habitat It is found growing wild in China, Korea, and Japan. In China, it has been cultivable for more than 1500 years, mostly in the southern and western parts of the country. Description Dong quai is a member of the Umbelliferae family and is a fragrant perennial plant which can grow up to 2 meters tall and produces white flowers in early summer.
Herbal cigarettes were a common way to take your medicine, long before cigarettes became associated with tobacco (and addiction). Learn how to choose herbs for herbal cigarettes, and enjoy this time-honored way to take your
Botanical Name: Camellia sinensis. Camellia sinensis is the plant which white tea, green tea, oolong and black tea are all harvested from. The difference between those teas lies in how the tea plant is processed. Other Common Names: Mecha, gyokura, bancha, kukicha, Asian tea, senchu, Chinese tea, Japanese tea. Habitat: China, Tibet, India, Assam, Cambodia and Japan. Plant Description: The tea plant is native to Southeast Asia; cultivated in tropical and subtropical altitudes from sea level to 7,000 feet. The plant is constantly pruned to a height of about 3 feet to encourage new growth. The tea plants produce abundant
Arnica Montana is thought to be an effective herbal treatment for bacterial infections, including salmonella and listeria. Comprehensive testing has not been performed to prove or disprove this. The Herb Arnica Montana - ©The Herbal Resource It is possible that the herb can speed up the healing process after a surgical procedure, and as an anesthetic to reduce pain during surgery, including dental procedures. In folk medicine, the herb has been used for a migraine and tension headaches. It has recognized sedative effects that relieve pain, and relax muscles. Diluted arnica packs may be applied to an abscess, reducing swelling, and speeding up
Explore how to use mugwort, its traditional uses, as well as some of the folklore and facts about how mugwort can enhance the dream state.
Botanical Name: Cuminum cyminum. Cumin should not be confused with black cumin (Nigella sativa), a similar and closely related species from Pakistan and India with slightly larger and bent seeds. Other Common Names: Cummin, Roman caraway, Egyptian caraway, comino (Spanish), spisskummen (Norwegian), roomankumina (Finnish), Kreuzkümme (German), cumin de prés (French), zi ran qin (Chinese), spiskummin (Swedish), spidskommen (Danish). Habitat: The original habitat of cumin is not known, but it has been theorized that it could have its origins in the Nile valley and from there it spread to other countries in North Africa, Southwest Asia, East Mediterranean and all the
Botanical Name: Tussilago farfara. Other Common Names: Coughwort, bull’s foot, assfoot, farfara, horsehoof, foalswort, foal’s foot. Habitat: Coltsfoot can grow in damp or dry conditions and grows well in alkaline clay soil. It is usually found in places such as wastelands, on the side of the road or railway, hedge banks etc. It is native to some countries in Europe and Asia but has also been introduced and naturalized in North and South America. Description: It is a perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers that emerge in early spring and bear a close resemblance to the dandelions. The leaves appear
Information on the health benefits, dosages and side effects of the herb astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) and the traditional uses of its root
Symphytum officinale NL: Smeerwortel / F: Consoude Comfrey is another amazing perennial herb, essential to any herbal first aid kit as well as to any healthy organic and permaculture garden. Comfrey in the garden: it contains more Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) than most commercial fertilizers. Its long roots draw nutrients from deep in the soil and transfer it all to the leaves. The nutrient-rich leaves can then be used directly as a mulch, added to compost piles as a compost activator or chopped and added to a container with rain water to allow it to ferment and be later used as liquid compost. Comfrey not only enriches the soil but it can also speed up heat processes, which is pretty handy to have near and around fruit shrubs and other fruit trees or larger crops that require higher soil temperatures. Do not allow it to grow near to smaller plants, as it is a pretty strong, large and rather dominant plant. it also comes in white Comfrey as first aid herb: it has been used in folk medicine to help reduce bruising and to speed up tissue repair: broken bones and ligaments, damaged cartilage or connective tissue. Its tissue healing properties (mainly attributed to a substance called allantoin) are so strong that it is not advisable to be used in case of open wounds, as it risks “closing” the wound much faster than the time the body might need to get rid of any harmful microorganisms. It is also useful externally in the treatment of varicose veins, joints inflammation, to stop bleeding and in eye injuries. Its tincture or tea made out of the dried leaves or roots have been used internally to reduce heavy menstruation flow and to relieve gastric ulcers. The leaves can be used freshly squeezed, dried and made into a strong tea or macerated in oil for 3-4 weeks, the drained oil can be used to make salves to be applied in bruises and rheumatic joints to help relieve pain and swelling. hairy leaves and stems Comfrey in the kitchen: it has also a long history of being used as an edible but in the light of recent studies this is no longer advised, since the plant contains varying amount of pyrrolizidine alkaloids - which are toxic. The young leaves contain little amounts of the harmful alkaloids and can therefore be consumed in moderate amounts (I personally would do that only in case where there is no other food source available). Dried leaves and roots can be made into tea and its roots can be roasted into coffee, such as with dandelion and chicory roots. More on Comfrey: Comfrey -Symphytum officinale - Knitbone, Bruisewort, Miracle Herb Comfrey Comfort - Lesley Tierra - PlanetHerbs Comfrey - The Superfood for Plants Medicinal & Poisonous Plants to Livestock - Comfrey Montana Plant Life: Comfrey Nice videos: Common comfrey Symphytum officinale - Sylvanbotanical Why permaculture folks love comfrey - Paul Wheaton
The aromatic nature of the mint family (Lamiaceae) come from their high levels of volatile oils, which also account for many of their medicinal properties.
Botanical Name: Tabebuia impetiginosa, Tabebuia avellanedae, Tabelbuia heptaphylla. Other Common Names: Tabebuia ipê, ipê, ipê roxo, lapacho, tahuari, taheebo tree, tabebuia avellaneae, trumpet tree, ipê-contra-sarna, tajy. Habitat: Pau d’arco is found throughout the rainforests of Central and South America, although it may be harvested as far north as southern Florida. Plant Description: There are about a hundred species of this large tropical tree. It is a broad-leafed evergreen that may grow to 150 feet in height, and six feet in diameter. Some species produce large, white flowers, while Tebebuia impetiginosa produces purple or pink flowers. Plant Parts Used: Heartwood and
Botanical Name of Horsetail: Equisetum arvensis, Equisetum arvense. Other Common Names: Bottlebrush, shave grass, corncob plant, scouring rush, field horsetail, pewterwort, paddock-pipes, Dutch rushes, snake pipes, small scouring rush, åkersnelle (Norwegian), cola de caballo (Spanish), prêle des champs (French), Acker-Schachtelhalm (German). Habitat: Horsetail is native to both North America and Europe. It is one of only a few Equisetum survivors from the dinosaur era. In parts of Northern America, Canada, and Europe it is often considered a rather bothersome weed because of its prolific tuber system. Plant Description: Horsetail is a perennial plant of the Equisetaceae or the horsetail plant
Botanical Name: Scutellaria lateriflora. Other Common Names: Blue, greater, hairy, hooded, American, European western, maddog and side-flowering skullcap. It is also called scullcap, helmet flower, blue pimpernel, quaker bonnet, hooded willow flower, mad-dog weed, mad weed, hoodwort and hoodwart. Habitat: This herb is often found in partially shaded, wetland areas. It prefers light shade to full sun and wet to moist soil with plenty of organic matter. This perennial plant is native to North America. Plant Description: Skullcap grows to a height of 45 to 60 centimeters tall. It has a light green to reddish-green square stem with occasional branches.
Botanical Name: Marrubium vulgare. Other Common Names; Seed of horus, bull's blood, eye of the star, adorn, houndsbane, haran haran, grand bonhomme, blanc rubi, mapiochin, Andorn (German), marrube vulgaire (French), marrubio (Spanish), kransborre(Swedish). Habitat: White horehound is probably native to the Mediterranean countries but can be found growing wild in many places in central and southern Europe, northern Africa, and much of Asia. In Asia, it grows in the western temperate regions of the Himalayas, Kashmir, north-western India, southwestern Pakistan and southeastern Iran. It has been introduced and has become naturalized in many countries around the world with suitable climate.
Pine needles can be used for a variety of ailments, as food, for making crafts, and even in the garden. Let us teach you 8 ways to use pine needles.
This hops plant guide covers everything from its beauty, the best way to harvest the plant, and how to use hops for insomnia and anxiety.
Arnica is a lesser-known plant for growing in the garden, but it deserves more attention. The pretty blossoms are also a potent medicine.
Botanical Name:: Inula helenium. Other Common Names: Scabwort, marchalan, elf dock, wild sunflower, horseheal, velvet dock. Habitat: Elecampane can be found throughout Great Britain, central and southern Europe, the temperate zones of Asia west of the Himalayas, and the eastern and central regions of North America. It is found growing wild in damp meadows, wet-mesic pastures, old fields, and roadsides. It prefers a moist, well-drained clay loam in a damp, partly shaded environment and is easily grown from seed and from cuttings. Plant Description: Elecampane is a large beautiful plant with leaves that are similar to the downy leaves of
Botanical Name of Licorice: Glycyrrhiza glabra. Other Common Names: Sweetwood, sweetroot, black sugar, liquorice, regliss (French), lakritze (German), liquirizia (Italian), regaliz (Spanish), mulethi (Hindi), European Licorice Habitat: The licorice root is native to Southeastern Europe and cultivated in most of Europe. It prefers the open, dry areas with rich soil. It was first harvested from the wild until it was cultivated one thousand years ago. Plant Description: The licorice plant is erect, standing about 1.5 meters tall with spikes bearing lilac-colored flowers with bean-like pods containing three or four seeds. The main root (taproot) descends up to a meter into
Angelica is a biennial herb that has been used medicinally, as a vegetable and to flavor liqueurs.
There are a great many reasons why you should consider growing borage in your garden. It is useful both while it is in growth, and as a crop for harvesting.
Botanical Name: Urtica dioica, Urtica galeopsifolia. The annual nettle species dwarf nettle (Urtica urens L.) can be used in a similar manner as the stinging nettle in herbal medicine. Other Common Names of Stinging Nettle: Big string nettle, common nettle, Nettle, devil’s leaf, European nettle, Grosse Brennesse (German), grande ortie (French), ortiga (Spanish), brenninetla (Icelandic), brænde nælde (Danish). Habitat: While originally from the cold regions of northern Europe and Asia, this herbaceous shrub can now be found growing all over the world. The plant grows well in nitrogen-rich soil and is most often found in disturbed areas such as lawns,
Botanical Name of Lady's Mantle: Alchemilla vulgaris and Alchemilla mollis The family name Alchemilla stems from the word 'alchemy', and refers to the belief in medieval times that water droplets forming on the lady's mantle leaves could turn base metals to gold. Alchemists believed that these drops had a mysterious and magical power that in addition to transforming common metals into gold could also be used in regaining youth. Other Common Names: Dew-cup, our lady's mantle, lion's foot, bear's foot, nine hooks, Frauenmantel (German), maríustakkur (Icelandic), almindelig løvefod (Danish), pied de leonis (French). Habitat: Alchemilla vulgaris is widespread in Britain
Blackberry leaves are not simply window dressing for blackberries. They have healthy attributes as well and help in healing certain ailment. Read on.
Borage is an annual herbaceous plant that is easy to grow and provides a myriad of benefits for gardeners. Not only are its striking star-shaped flowers picturesque to look at, but borage is an excellent companion plant that helps other plants to thrive, and it is entirely edible from stem to flower. The plant's leaves and stems are easily identifiable by the bristly hairs that cover them as they mature and look particularly unique on dewy mornings. Follow our guide to learn about borage uses, benefits, and companion planting advantages. Borage Soil Requirements Borage soil should be well-tilled and well-draining. Borage is a vibrant herbaceous plant that can tolerate soil that falls between 4.5-8.5 on the pH scale but thrives optimally in the middle at a pH of 6.5. How to Plant Borage Borage plants can be found at your local specialty nursery in the herb section, but they grow very well from seed as well. Either way, they should be planted directly outdoors after the threat of frost has passed. Sow seeds directly into the ground about ½ inch deep in clusters of 3 or 4 seeds and cover with nutrient-rich soil or compost. Plant borage plants or thin seedlings to approximately 15 inches apart. Borage can tower up to three feet in height, so it's essential to give the plant room to spread out. Proper spacing will help airflow, proactively combat against diseases such as powdery mildew and allow for the adequate spread of blooms. How Much Light Does Borage Need? A common question when planting and growing borage is, how much light does borage need? Plant your borage plants and seeds in full sun or partial shade. Plants will bloom more vigorously if they are planted in an area where they receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. How Often Should You Water Borage Plants? It can tricky to figure out exactly how often you should water borage plants. The answer is simple, water borage plants regularly. They are not drought tolerant and need plenty of water to thrive. However, try and avoid over-soaking them. The Best Temperature for Growing Borage Borage is relatively cold-tolerant, enjoying soil temperatures that are a minimum of 50°F. It can withstand light frosts. Kellogg Garden Organics All Natural Garden Soil Learn More Product Locator by Locally **Product not available in AZ, CA, HI, NV, UT. For a comparable product in these states click here. Common Borage Pests and Diseases Unfortunately, borage tends to be plagued with powdery mildew in damp conditions or in areas of high humidity. For the best chance of avoiding this devastating disease, space your plants adequately for proper airflow and be sure that your plants receive plenty of sunlight. Aphids and Japanese Beetles are drawn to borage plants and feed on their leaves. Aphids can be kept at bay with a strong spray of water from the hose, while the beetles can be easily handpicked off the plant and placed in a jar of soapy water to eliminate them. Borage Companion Planting Companion planting borage with vegetables and certain flowers can bolster each other and significantly improve your garden productivity. Borage is an all-around best friend in any garden bed for several reasons. Borage flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden, which are essential for plant reproduction. Borage also benefits gardens by attracting beneficial insects for natural pest control of common garden pests. Additionally, borage releases calcium and potassium into the soil, which can help other plants like squash and tomatoes to combat diseases such as blossom rot. Interplant borage with: Tomatoes Cabbage Strawberries Grapes Peas Beans Cucumbers Squash Borage Uses and Benefits Not only does borage have a flower you can eat, but its leaves are also edible and can be used in a variety of ways. Its flowers have a refreshing taste that is reminiscent of cucumber. Pick blooms early in the morning and use them to brighten up a fresh salad, add some zest to a sandwich, mix into dips, and cook up in soups or stews. Harvest borage leaves when they are young for the best taste and texture. You can use borage fresh as salad greens or steam them up like you would spinach or kale. Another option is to dry the leaves and set them aside for use as a dried herb or seasoning. It can also be used to steep in teas and is a delightful treat when candied. How to Harvest Borage Seeds Borage plants do a fine job all on their own when it comes to propagating and spreading their seeds around. Once you have an established borage plant, you will likely always have a borage plant or several. You will often find new plants in the garden each year, and they are a pleasant surprise to see. Once you have borage in your garden, you will likely never have to reseed them again. If you intend to save the seeds, wait for the flowers to dry thoroughly on the stems, and allow the petals to die away. When the flower head is dehydrated and browned, remove the seeds from the center and store them in a paper bag or paper envelope until next spring. Share The Garden Love
Herbal cigarettes were a common way to take your medicine, long before cigarettes became associated with tobacco (and addiction). Learn how to choose herbs for herbal cigarettes, and enjoy this time-honored way to take your
Growing Nasturtiums. Everything you need to know about growing and what delicious things to make with this beautiful, abundant permaculture plant.
Artemisia absinthium is a woody perennial with finely cut, silvery gray, aromatic foliage.
Botanical Name of Shepherd's Purse: Capsella bursa-pastoris. Other Common Names: Lady's purse, shepherd's bag, mother's heart, shovelweed, caseweed, borsa de pastor (Spanish), bouse de pasteur (French), Hirtentäschelkraut (German), hjartarfi (Icelandic), hyrdetaske (Danish). Habitat: The plant is probably native to Europe and parts of Asia, but now it can be found in temperate regions around the world. The European settlers brought the plant with them to North America, and the species quickly spread across the continent. Shepherd's purse is often regarded as a weed. Plant Description: Shepherd's purse is an annual plant that belongs to the mustard family (Brassicaceae) with highly
Learn how to grow elderberries for food and medicine, right in your own backyard! Elderberries can be grown from cuttings, starts, or seeds.
Herbal antibiotics help fight infections, such as UTIs, and speed wound healing. Many also fight viruses, like colds and flu. They are gaining interest as treatments for antibiotic resistant bacteria.
Find comfort in these DIY self-care projects, like a health tonic and an herbal foot soak, that are straight from the garden.
