What Can You do with Lavender Powder©

What Can You do with Lavender Powder©

Arlene Wright-Correll

Lavender powder is used in cosmetics, soap, and skincare for the following properties simply because it is anti-inflammatory plus being antiseptic, antibacterial, toning, and healing.

Lavender powder works very well to treat acne and oily skin to say nothing of eczema and psoriasis.

You can buy our lavender powder at this link. 

At Home Farm Herbery we discovered that Lavender Flower Powder can be used in bath tea formulas.

When we started by experimenting we discovered that Lavender flowers are most commonly used in dessert recipes.

However as we progressed in cooking with lavender, we discovered it was also an outstanding addition to savory recipes. Like rosemary, lavender can add a robust flavor to roasted meats and is especially good with lamb.

In the home making world we discovered that certain natural substances can actually completely destroy and repel bed bug infestations and typically used in aromatherapy, lavender oil is one such repellent. To keep the bed bugs away, use lavender, which many people like the smell of! You should use this while you are ironing or rinsing your laundry.

We found that the best tasting edible lavenders are the ones with the sweetest perfume. Home Farm Herbery’s English lavender is extremely popular as culinary lavender. This is often sold as Lavandula angustifolia, but it's sometimes sold as Lavandula officinalis or Lavandula Vera and we simply list it as true English lavender.

At first Home Farm Herbery used larger lavender cultivars because it was best for attracting bees, and then we discovered varieties from fragrant white to luscious dark purple.

When you are cooking with Lavender you will discover it has a particular affinity for dairy and that means that adding it to ice cream, custards, hot chocolate, shortbread cookies, or butter-rich frostings works brilliantly.

Dried lavender is something that you can purchase and keep in your spice rack for years,

Lavender Key Lime Sorbet

Serves: 8

Skill level: Appropriate for all

Ingredients:

6 cups water

2 cups sugar

2 teaspoons dried culinary lavender   

2 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel

½ cup Key Lime Juice

Combine water, sugar, and lavender in heavy saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain liquid in a bowl and discard lavender. Return liquid to the saucepan. Add lemon peel and boil 2 minutes. Pour into a glass dish and stir in limejuice. Chill until cold. Freeze for 4 hours. Then transfer to a food processor and puree quickly. Return to glass dish and re-freeze for 2 hours and re-process and freeze again for 2 or more hours.

Lavender Foccacia

Foccacia with Lavender Garlic Topping

Makes: 8 Servings

Skill Level: Appropriate for all

Ingredients:

Dough:

1(1/4 oz.) envelope active dry yeast

1 tablespoon sugar or honey

1 2/3 cups warm water (110 to 115 degrees)

5 cups all-purpose flour plus additional for kneading

2 teaspoons salt

¼ cup olive oil


Topping:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon culinary lavender   

2 cloves garlic

1 teaspoon coarse salt (sea or kosher)

¼ teaspoon black pepper

In a small bowl, combine sugar or honey in about half of the tepid water (110-115 degrees Fahrenheit). Sprinkle the yeast over the mixture and let the stand until foamy, 5 to 8 minutes.

You can combine the flour and the yeast mixture by hand or with a mixer fitted with a dough hook. To do it by hand: On a large clean area or a very large bowl. Pour the flour and salt into a mound in the center. Make a well in the center. Pour the oil into the yeast mixture. Pour the half of the mixture into the well. With your hand make circular movements to mix the flour in with the yeast. Once half the flour has been incorporated then pour in the remaining water. Continue until all the flour has been incorporated into the mixture.

Lightly flour work surface. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it is smooth. If the dough is really sticking to your hands then put a little flour on your hands. Form the dough into a round shape and place dough in a bowl. Score the top with a knife a few times. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place the bowl in a draft free room for an hour or until it rises to double in size. Knead the dough for 3 minutes and then let it rest for another hour to relax the dough. At this point you can refrigerate the dough overnight. But be sure to allow the dough to return to room temperature before putting it in the oven.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Oil a large baking sheet. Lightly flour work surface and roll out dough into a large rectangle.

Transfer dough to the baking sheet, cover with towel and let proof for 30-45 minutes or until it doubles in size. Meanwhile, make the lavender garlic topping. Mince the garlic. Finely chop the lavender. Mix garlic and lavender with olive oil.

Make dimples in the dough with your fingers by pushing into the dough several times. Brush the lavender garlic all over and into the dimples. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. You can drizzle more olive oil on top if you want. Transfer to wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Lavender Lemonade

Lavender lemonade can be made by steeping for 5 minutes 1/2 cup dried lavender flowers in water that has been brought to the boil. Strain and use as part of the water in making frozen lemonade.

Lavender Sugar

To make lavender sugar for tea or baking, blend in a food processor 2 tablespoons dried lavender flowers (always making sure they have not been sprayed) with 1 cup sugar. Store in airtight container.

Lavender Jelly

2 1/4 C apple juice
1 C fresh lavender flowers (1/2 C dried)
3 1/2 C sugar
1/2 t butter
3 oz. liquid pectin

Combine apple juice and lavender flowers. Bring to boiling, turn off heat, steep 15 mins., strain. Add butter to 2 C juice infusion and make jelly, following directions on pectin package. Makes 7 4-oz. Jars

“Tread the Earth Lightly” and in the meantime… may your day be filled with….Peace, light and love, 

Arlene Wright-Correll

Home Farm Herbery LLC

https://homefarmherbery.com/

Remember 100% of our profits go to St Jude's Research Hospital.

What you Need to Know About Herbs Part 7 ©

What you Need to Know About Herbs Part 7 ©

By Arlene Wright-Correll

Barley Grass has been a food source of the majority of the world for thousands of years. It is medicinally used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and cancer preventative. Barley Grass is an amazing source of vitamins and nutrients. If you are on a low-carb regimen, supplement your diet with Barley Grass.

Official Latin Name: Hordeum vulgare

Barley is one of the most important plants in human history. Barley Grass is one of the green grasses, which is the only vegetation on earth that can be the sole source of nutritional support for a person’s entire lifespan. Barley has served as a food staple in most cultures.

The use of barley for food and medicinal purposes predates civilization. Archaeologists have determined that Barley has been cultivated for at least 9,000 years. Barley Grass contains all of the eight essential amino acids, which our body cannot produce on its own. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are needed for cell building, cell regeneration, and energy production. A large amount of vitamins and minerals are found in green Barley leaves. These are easily absorbed through the digestive tract, giving our bodies’ instant access to vital nutrients including beta-carotene, calcium, copper, folic acid, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and Vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C. In addition to being a great nutritional supplement, Barley Grass has been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Barley Grass has also been used to treat diarrhea, bronchitis, stomach problems, and throat ailments. It is an anti-oxidant and detoxifier. Barley Grass is also believed to increase sexual stamina. The ability of Barley Grass to aid in cellular rebuilding has led to its use for everything from dermatitis to an anti-aging supplement.

 Mustard Seed is also known by the names Black Mustard, White Mustard, Brown Mustard, Garlic Mustard, Pepper Grass, White Top Mustard, Tansy Mustard, and Hedge Mustard. Mustard is a widely cultivated annual found wild in many parts of the world.

The part of this plant used medicinally is the seed, which is collected when ripe in late summer. The word Mustard is from the Latin "mustum ardens", meaning "burning must" because the ground seeds have been mixed with grape must (an unfermented grape juice) to make the condiment Mustard. In Medieval Europe, Mustard was one of the most common spices used to flavor the bland diet of the time. By the Fourteenth century, Dijon, France had been established as a Mustard center, supported by the Dukes of Burgundy. Today, Düsseldorf is one of the main mustard regions of Germany.

At one time, surgeons disinfected their hands with a paste of mustard. The primary chemical constituents of Mustard Seed include glucosinolates (sinigrin), sinapine, enzyme (myrosin), mucilage, protein, and sulphur. When taken internally, the seeds are laxative, mainly because of the mucilage they produce, but only small doses are advised as they may inflame the stomach. The stimulating, diaphoretic action can also be utilized for fevers, colds, and influenza. But this well known herb has its primary medicinal use as a stimulating external application.

The rubefacient action causes a mild irritation to the skin, stimulating the circulation in that area, and relieving muscular & skeletal pain. An infusion or poultice of Mustard will aid in cases of bronchitis and pleurisy. Mustard is often taken as a tea or ground & sprinkled into a bath. There are many types of Mustard used interchangeably with Brassica nigra, commonly known as Black Mustard. These include: White Mustard (Sinapsis alba), Brown Mustard (Brassica juncea), Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata and Alliaria officinalis), Pepper Grass (Lepidium sativum), White Top Mustard (Cardaria draba), Tansy Mustard (Descurainia species), and Hedge Mustard (Sisymbrium officinale).

“Tread the Earth Lightly” and in the meantime… may your day be filled with….Peace, light and love, 

Arlene Wright-Correll

Home Farm Herbery LLC

https://homefarmherbery.com/

Remember 100% of our profits go to St Jude's Research Hospital.

What you Need to Know About Herbs Part 6©

What you Need to Know About Herbs Part 6©

By Arlene Wright-Correll

Avocado is a great natural source of potassium, vitamin E, lutein, and other essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Avocado also contains compounds that have the ability to lower cholesterol, improve eyesight, and help prevent many types of cancer.

Official Latin Name: Persea Americana

Avocado has been part of the New World diet for about 2,500 years. The Avocado is believed to have originated in southern Mexico, and was cultivated there by 500 B. C. The Aztecs considered the Avocado, which they called Ahuacatl, to be an aphrodisiac. The Spanish conquerors of the Aztecs called the fruit ‘Aguacate’, which the English later interpreted as Avocado. In Florida, the Avocado was sometimes called ‘Alligator Pear’ due to its shape and its deep-green, textured skin.

Avocados are now grown across the globe, but the main producer by far is California. Avocado is a very healthful fruit, containing numerous vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Avocado contains even more potassium than Banana, which is essential for balancing electrolytes and preventing cramps. Avocado, like Spinach, is also a great source of lutein, which is good for the eyes and helps ward off prostate cancer.

Another cancer fighting agent in Avocado is Vitamin E. Avocado also contains monounsaturated fats, which help reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase good (HDL) cholesterol. It also contains folic acid, magnesium, and fiber. Avocado also contains the cholesterol reducing phytochemical betasitosterol.

Bacopa monnieri has been used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for everything from snakebite to headache. It is now used most often as a brain tonic and a memory enhancer.

Official Latin Name: Bacopa monniera

Bacopa monnieri is also known by the common names Brahmi, Pennell, Herb-of-Grace, and Water Hyssop. Bacopa is a small, creeping plant found in wetlands across India. Bacopa has been frequently mistaken for Gotu Kola. Traditional uses of Bacopa include cardiac and nerve tonic, insanity, headaches, scorpion stings, snakebites, anemia, leprosy, liver ailments, skin conditions, and memory lapses.

In use for several thousand years in the Ayurvedic tradition as a brain nerve tonic, Bacopa monnieri is now being recognized for its memory enhancing and revitalizing effects. It also assists in heightening mental acuity and supports the physiological processes involved in relaxation. Bacopa is the source of an extract used in India for centuries. It has specific benefits for the brain, and specialists in Ayurvedic medicine commonly use it to treat mental illness and epilepsy. Bacopa appears to strengthen memory and improve concentration by enhancing the conductivity of nerve tissue. It also has mild sedative and anti anxiety properties. Bacopa is often found in commercial formulas used for memory symptoms.

Balsam Pear grows in tropical areas, including parts of East Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and South America, where it is used as a food as well as a medicine. The leaves and fruit have both been used to make teas and beer, or to season soups in the Western world. Balsam Pear is being studied in the support treatment of diabetes and psoriasis.

Official Latin Name: Momordica charantia

Balsam Pear is also known by the names Karela and Bitter Melon. Balsam Pear grows in tropical areas, including parts of East Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and South America, where it is used as a food as well as a medicine. It is a green cucumber shaped fruit with gourd-like bumps all over it. It looks like an ugly, light green cucumber. The fruit should be firm, like a cucumber. And it tastes very bitter. Although the seeds, leaves, and vines of Balsam Pear have all been used, the fruit is the safest and most prevalent part of the plant used medicinally. The leaves and fruit have both been used occasionally to make teas and beer, or to season soups in the Western world. Balsam Pear was traditionally used for a dazzling array of conditions by people in tropical regions.

Numerous infections, cancer, leukemia, and diabetes are among the most common conditions it was believed to improve. Balsam Pear is reported to help in the treatment of diabetes and psoriasis. It has also been thought that Balsam Pear may help in the treatment of HIV, but the evidence thus far is too weak to even consider. The ripe fruit of Balsam Pear has been suggested to exhibit some remarkable anti-cancer effects, but there is absolutely no evidence that it can treat cancer. However, preliminary studies do appear to confirm that Balsam Pear may improve blood sugar control in people with adult-onset (type 2) diabetes. If you have type 2 diabetes, you might consider adding Balsam Pear to your diet, but only under a doctor's supervision.

The blood lowering action of the fresh juice of the unripe Balsam Pear has been confirmed in scientific studies in animals and humans. At least three different groups of constituents in Balsam Pear have been reported to have hypoglycemic (blood sugar lowering) or other actions of potential benefit in diabetes mellitus. These include a mixture of steroidal saponins known as charantin, insulin-like peptides, and alkaloids. It is still unclear which of these is most effective or if all three work together. Nonetheless, Balsam Pear preparations have been shown to significantly improve glucose tolerance without increasing blood insulin levels, and to improve fasting blood glucose levels. Blood and urine sugar levels and post-prandial (after eating) blood glucose levels also fell. An as yet unidentified constituent in Balsam Pear also seems to inhibit the enzyme guanylate cyclase, which may benefit people with psoriasis.

Bananas don't grow on trees; they grow on the world's largest herb. Banana is the perfect herbal supplement for active people, as it replaces the vitamins and nutrients most commonly lost due to strenuous activity, such as potassium, Vitamin B-6, and Vitamin C.

Official Latin Name: Musa paradisiaca

The Banana is a large plant that grows in the tropical parts of Central America, South America, Asia, and Africa, where the climate is warm and damps the year round. It grows 10 to 40 feet high and has enormous, broad green leaves that are sometimes 10 feet long.

The Banana plant has a hollow stem that is 8 to 15 inches thick. Another stem, which grows through the hollow stem, bears the flowers and the fruit. The flower bud is very large and shaped like a heart.

As it grows it slowly unfolds and shows about 100 small blossoms, which are long and narrow and grow together in clusters or groups. Some of these clusters grow into great bunches of fruit.

Each bunch is called a ‘hand’ because it looks almost like a hand with the separate Bananas like fingers. The fruit is cut off the plant while it is still green and unripe.

When the fruit is ripe its soft skin is yellow and resembles a small Plantain. The flesh of the fruit is soft, sweet, and a very pale cream color.

Banana plants are cut down after the fruit has been removed, because they bear fruit only once. A piece of the root is planted again and in a few months the young plant grows several feet height. It takes two years before the plant begins to flower and bear fruit. Bananas are an excellent provider of energy and a healthy addition to anyone’s diet. Banana is the perfect supplement for active people.

It provides large amounts of Vitamin B-6 and Vitamin C, which are two of the vitamins most commonly lost during strenuous exercise. Banana is most well known as a supplier of potassium. Potassium is very important to muscle function and is the nutrient most often associated with relieving muscle cramps. The potassium in Banana may also help reduce the likelihood of hypertension and stroke. Banana is also high in dietary fiber, and thus may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, especially colon cancer. Banana is also packed with natural energy and phytonutrients.

Barberry Root is an excellent herb for correcting liver function and promoting bile flow. It is used in debilitating conditions marked by poor digestive function and a history of dietary or alcohol abuse, or excessive exposure to drugs, chemicals or industrial pollutants. 

Official Latin Name: Berberis vulgaris

Barberry Root is also known by the names Oregon Grape Root, Rocky Mountain Grape, Mahonia, Pepperidge, Pepperidge Bush, Holy Thorn, Sowberry, Oregon Grape, Berberry, Jaundice Berry, and Daruharidra. The Mahonia and Berberis species (Oregon Grape and Barberry, respectively) are very closely related, and herbalists often treat them as one herb. The genus name Berberis is thought to be derived from a Phoenician word "barbar", meaning "glossy" in reference to the glossy leaves.

Barberry is a densely branched, deciduous shrub 3-8 feet tall. Berberis is a deciduous shrub that has smooth leaves and thorny stems. The parts of this plant used medicinally are the root, root bark, bark of stem, and rhizome berries (some herbalists also use the leaves). Many species of Barberry are found all over the world. They are all used for similar medicinal purposes by the different traditions. The Italians call this herb Holy Thorn, because it is thought to have formed part of the Crown of Thorns. Berberis is the Arabic name for the fruit. The berries were pickled in the past and had various culinary uses.

In the Far East, berberine-containing plants were specifically used for bacillary dysentery and diarrhea. Barberry became unpopular with farmers when it was discovered to be a host plant for the wheat rust fungus that decimated crops in the 19th century. The yellow root was an important dye for baskets, buckskins, and fabric among Native Americans.

The early Spanish-Americans used the yellow root to make neck-crosses (crucifixes). The ripe berries were taken for fever or diarrhea, dysentery, and typhus fever. The fresh juice was used for mouthwash to strengthen gums or gargle. The primary chemical constituents of Barberry include alkaloids (berberine, berbamine, and oxyacanthine), chelidonic acid, resin, tannins. The berries are rich in vitamin C. The root-bark contains berberine, a bitter alkaloid, that aids in the secretion of bile and is good for liver problems, acts as a mild purgative, and helps regulate the digestive processes.

The antibacterial properties of the alkaloid berbamine have shown activity against Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Salmonella, Shigella and Eschorichia Coli. It has anti-microbial properties that are especially beneficial for the skin and intestinal tract. Barberry has a beneficial effect on the blood pressure by causing a dilatation of the blood vessels.

This herb is also good for hepatitis, colic, jaundice, diabetes, consumption. Historically, Barberry was used as a bitter tonic to stimulate digestion, and in the treatment of inflammatory arthritic, sciatica, and rheumatic complaints. Use of this botanical decreases heart rate, depresses the breathing, stimulates intestinal movement, reduces bronchial constriction, and kills bacteria on the skin. External applications have included use for sores, burns, ulcers, acne, itch, tetters, ringworm, cuts, and bruises. It is indicated in congestive jaundice, and inflammation of the gall bladder & gallstones.

As a bitter tonic with mild laxative effects, Barberry is used by weak or debilitated people to strengthen & cleanse the system. It also appears to be able to reduce an enlarged spleen. It acts against malaria and is effective in the treatment of protozoan infections. Berberine is highly bactericidal, amoeboidal and trypanocidal. It is active in vitro and in animals against cholera. It makes a useful compress for inflammatory eye conditions such as blepharitis and conjunctivitis. The common name Barberry includes Berberis repens, Berberis aqilfolia, Berberis nervosa, Berberis pinnata, and other Berberis species, which are used interchangeably with Berberis vulgaris. 

“Tread the Earth Lightly” and in the meantime… may your day be filled with….Peace, light and love, 

Arlene Wright-Correll

Home Farm Herbery

https://homefarmherbery.com/

Remember 100% of our profits go to St Jude's Research Hospital.

What you Need to Know About Herbs Part 5©

What you Need to Know About Herbs Part 5©

By Arlene Wright-Correll

Ashwaghanda is an Ayurvedic herb similar to Indian ginseng that has been traditionally used for libido, fatigue, mental problems, concentration, memory, general debility, nervous and sexual debility, headaches, drug burnout, rejuvenation and recovery from prolonged illness.

Official Latin Name: Withania somnifera

Ashwaghanda is also known by the names Ashwagandha, Winter Cherry, Indian Ginseng, and Withania. Ashwaghanda, which belongs to the pepper family, is found in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Africa. The medicinal part of this herb is the root. The shoots and seeds are also used as food, and to thicken milk. Ashwaghanda is an important herb used in Ayurveda.

The name comes from the peculiar odor of this herb, a smell similar to that of a sweaty horse. Ashwaghanda in India is similar to Ginseng in other parts of the Orient. Both herbs are touted for their longevity enhancing and sexually stimulating properties, however Ashwaghanda is considered to be milder and less stimulating than Ginseng. Ashwaghanda has been used for 4000 years in traditional Indian medicine - it was used for tumors, inflammation (including arthritis), and a wide range of infectious diseases. Traditional uses of Ashwaghanda among tribal peoples in Africa included fevers and inflammatory conditions. Modern herbalists classify Ashwaghanda as an adaptogen, a substance said to increase the body's ability to withstand stress of all types.

Like other adaptogens, Ashwaghanda is supposed to improve physical energy, exercise capacity, and overall health. It also strengthens immunity (against colds, flu, and other infections), increases sexual capacity, improves fertility, and normalizes cholesterol levels. As its name "somnifera" suggests, it is also sometimes said to produce mild sedation (an effect potentially useful for those troubled by insomnia or anxiety). However, as yet the evidence for these and other potential benefits is limited to highly preliminary studies at best. The primary chemical constituents of this herb include alkaloids, steroidal lactones, and iron. Studies with rats and human volunteers have shown that Ashwaghanda is helpful in putting cancer tumors into regression (used as an alcoholic root extract) and in reducing inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. The plant's high steroid content was found to be more potent than hydrocortisone in animal and human arthritis. Compounds known as withanolides are believed to account for the multiple medicinal applications of this herb. Ashwaghanda has also been shown to relieve pain by lowering serotonin levels, which contribute to the sensitivity of pain receptors in the body. It is considered a good tonic for the mind and useful for those who have overindulged in work, drugs, or alcohol.

Asparagus Root is a highly regarded herb worldwide. Asparagus is used by homeopaths in the treatment of rheumatism and edema due to heart failure. This herb is considered a diuretic, and will clear sediment from the bladder. It also has laxative properties. Asparagus is also high in folic acid, which is essential for production of new red blood cells.

Official Latin Name: Asparagus officinalis

Asparagus Root is also known by the names Sparrowgrass, Tien Men Tong, and Shatavari. Asparagus is a perennial plant with short, horizontal rootstock having long, thick roots and sending up the young shoots that we eat as vegetables. The parts of this plant used medicinally are the root, shoots, and seeds.

The word Asparagus is from the Persian "asparag", referring to tender shoots that can be consumed. Due to its phallic shape, it has long been regarded as an aphrodisiac. The Ayurvedic name, Shatavari, means "she who has one hundred husbands". Asparagus Root has been used to help one develop peace of mind, a loving nature, a good memory, and a calm spirit. Asparagus is a highly regarded herb worldwide. Chinese pharmacists save the best roots of this plant for their families and friends in the belief that it will increase feelings of compassion and love.

In India, Asparagus is used to promote fertility, reduce menstrual cramping, and increase milk production in nursing mothers. In the Western world, it has been touted as an aphrodisiac. These customs and beliefs are not mere superstition - the root contains compounds called steroidal glycosides (asparagoside) that directly affect hormone production and may very well influence emotions.

Asparagus is also high in folic acid, which is essential for production of new red blood cells. Other primary chemical constituents of Asparagus include essential oil, asparagine, arginine, tyrosine, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercitin, and rutin), resin, and tannin.

Asparagus acts to increase cellular activity in the kidneys and thus increases the rate of urine production. This herb also encourages evacuation of the bowels by increasing fecal bulk with undigested fiber. The roots considered diuretic, laxative, induce sweating, and are recommended for gout, dropsy, and rheumatism.

Chinese studies report that the roots can also lower blood pressure. The powdered seeds have antibiotic properties and help to relieve nausea while calming the stomach. Japanese studies report that green Asparagus aids protein conversion into amino acids. Because Asparagus helps to dissolve uric and oxalic acid, it benefits arthritic conditions and kidney stones. It is also a nourishing, blood-building tonic that enhances the health of both male and female reproductive organs.

In India, the racemosa species is used to increase sperm count and nourish the ovum. Known topical applications have included use as a poultice and compress for muscle spasms and stiff joints. This herb also has culinary applications - the young shoots are eaten raw or cooked in salads and omelets; the root & shoots are added to soups; the seeds can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute. The common name Asparagus also includes the species Asparagus racemosus and Asparagus cochinchinensis, which are often used interchangeably with Asparagus officinalis.

Astragalus Root is an herb that has been used for centuries as a natural way to support the body's immunity (defense) system. Known since ancient times as the "superior tonic," Astragalus Root is also used as a natural aid for healthy digestion and metabolism. Many people also believe it helps boost their energy levels and overall stamina.
Official Latin Name: Astragalus membranaceus

Astragalus is also known by the names Milk Vetch, Locoweed, Yellow Vetch, Poison Vetch, and Chinese Astragalus. The common name "Astragalus" also includes the species Astragalus mongolicus, Astragalus chinensis, and Astragalus complanatus, which are used interchangeably with Astragalus membranaceus.

The Chinese have used Astragalus for many thousands of years as a superior tonic that is often combined with ginseng for replenishing a persons vital energy. The root of this plant is said to strengthen the body's surface resistance and is supposed to invigorate and promote tissue regeneration. It's also been seen as an immune system stimulant as well as a protector of adrenal cortical function. Some say that Astragalus shows promise to support cancer patients undergoing radiation and chemotherapy therapies, and may also help fight against environmental allergies, but more scientific evidence is needed to affirm these considerations.

Astragalus contains numerous constituents, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, triterpene glycosides, amino acids, and trace minerals. Astragalus Root is considered to have a normalizing effect on the body's functions.

In folk medicine, Avena Sativa was used to treat nervous exhaustion, insomnia, and “weakness of the nerves.” A tea made from it was thought to be useful in rheumatic conditions and to treat water retention. A tincture of the green tops of Avena Sativa was also used to help with withdrawal from tobacco addiction. Additionally, Oats were often used in baths to treat insomnia and anxiety, as well as a variety of skin conditions, including burns and eczema.

Official Latin Name: Avena sativa

Oats have been eaten since prehistoric times. The genus name, Avena, is derived from Latin and means "nourishing". Sativa means "cultivated". Avena Sativa is often planted to prevent soil erosion, and is widely distributed as a cereal crop. The fruit and straw are gathered at harvest time, typically in August. The stalks are cut and bound together, and then left upright to dry. The straw is just the crushed dry stalks. In the past, this plant was used in India to help opium, morphine and cigarette addicts kick their habits. 

Highly nutritive and supportive of the nervous system, Avena Sativa helps build healthy bones, skin, hair and nails. Avena Sativa is not a bona fide aphrodisiac, but it does nourish the nerves, making tactile sensations more pleasurable. Avena Sativa is one of the best remedies for "feeding" the central nervous system, especially when under stress. It is considered a specific in cases of nervous debility & exhaustion, especially when associated with depression. Avena Sativa may be used with most of the other herbal nervines, both relaxant and stimulatory, to strengthen the nervous system. It is also used in general debility. The high levels of silicic acid in the straw explain its use as a remedy for skin conditions, especially for external applications.

Avena Sativa is often used as a bath herb to soften skin and help with eczema and neuralgia. The husks have been used historically to stuff pillows and bedding, which is said to have a sedative effect and help for those with rheumatism. Oats has also been used extensively for culinary purposes. The Oat grain from the ripened seed is high in protein and helps to increase stamina. Oat bran (fiber) has been shown to lower cholesterol levels.

The primary chemical constituents of Avena Sativa includes saponins, flavonoids, starch, alkaloids (trigonelline, avenine), steroids, calcium, iron, B vitamins, lysine, and methionine. The fruits (seeds) contain alkaloids, such as gramine, as well as saponins, such as avenacosides A and B. The seeds are also rich in iron, manganese, and zinc. The straw is high in silica. Oat alkaloids are believed to account for oats’ relaxing action. The common name "Oat" also includes the species Avena fatua, which is used interchangeably with Avena sativa.

“Tread the Earth Lightly” and in the meantime… may your day be filled with….Peace, light and love, 

Arlene Wright-Correll

Home Farm Herbery LLC

Remember 100% of our profits go to St Jude's Research Hospital.

Angela B. from Baton Rouge, LA is January’s art contest winner

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Angela B. from Baton Rouge, LA is January’s art contest winner 

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