Bath and Body Cleaning Substitutions

Over the years Americans have gotten used to running to the market or pharmacy to get all the little personal cleaning aides needed. From shampoos to toothpaste to mouth wash to soap and beyond. Often these things are not always earth friendly, they leave footprint in our lives and on our Mother that are not healthy or wise.

In the old days these products were not available, so how did our ancestors survive? They used more earth friendly, often earth provided things to do the same jobs.

Egg Shampoo for Dry Hair: Beat two eggs until frothy and massage well into scalp. Leave on the hair for a few minutes and rinse off with warm water (hot water will cause the eggs to congeal.) To cut the film left from the whole egg shampoo add 2 or 3 tablespoons of cider vinegar to rise water for brunettes or the juice of half a lemon for blonds.

Avocado Deep Conditioner for the Hair: Ingredients: 1 small jar of mayonnaise, 1/2 avocado Directions: Peel avocado and remove pit. Mash avocado then mix all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl with your hands until it's a consistent green color. Smooth into hair. Use shower cap or plastic wrap to seal body heat in. Leave on hair for 20 minutes. For deeper conditioning wrap a hot, damp towel around your head over the plastic, or use a hair dryer set to a low to medium heat setting. Store extra in refrigerator.

Rosemary as a Versatile Hair Aid: Add an infusion of rosemary to the final rinse after a shampoo to prevent oiliness and give a sheen to dark hair. A rosemary rinse also makes hair more manageable and easy to set. It is said to help with dandruff also.

Bath Oils: Turkey-red oil, a derivative of castor oil, acts as an emulsifying agent on other oils so that they do not leave a film of oil on the skin or the bathtub. Mix three parts turkey oil with one part essential oil of your choice and add a few drops to your bath.

Oatmeal scrub: Oatmeal makes an excellent nonalkaline soap substitute. Wrap a handful of dry oatmeal in a wash cloth (a sock can work very well), dampen it, and rub it over your body in place of soap when you shower or bathe. Oatmeal is a soothing, softening cleaner. If your skin is dry, use ground almonds in place of the oatmeal, they are particularly moisturizing.

Honey and Almond Cream: This traditional recipe makes a very moisturizing night cream for dry hands. Melt 2 oz honey in a double boiler and mix in 4 ounces lanolin until thoroughly combined. Remove from heat and allow to cool before stirring in 2 ounces sweet almond oil and a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

Age Spot and Freckle Fading: An old French recipe uses fresh cucumber juice.
Cucumbers are said to be excellent bleaching agents for the skin, and can be used on brown spots. To make a lotion, mix 1 tsp of the cucumber juice with 2 tsps of water. Apply once in the morning and once at night, letting it dry on the skin

In France, a freckle lotion is made from 1 oz. of
powdered alum and 1 oz. of lemon juice in a pint of rose water. Shake well and apply.

In Israel, brown spots are treated with a paste made by mashing 1/3 cup of chickpeas in a little water. Smear on the paste and leave it on until dry and crumbly. Wash completely. You can apply this mixture daily.

Cucumber Facial: Use this facial to soothe and cleanse the skin. Some say cucumbers with lemon juice ease freckles. This recipe is certainly astringent. Cukes also contain a hormone thought to work against wrinkles. For best effect, apply after a shower or facial steaming. Be sure the skin is clean before you apply the mask.

2" chunk fresh cucumber, seeded, and pureed
1 tsp. witch hazel
1 tsp. lemon juice
1 egg white
1 tbsps. cream or plain yogurt
2 tsps. powdered milk

Lip Butter: 20 ounces Almond Oil1/2 pound Anhydrous Lanolin8 ounces Glycerin3 3/4 ounces Beeswax5-10 drops of Essential Oil

Over low heat, dissolve the lanolin in the almond oil, add the glycerin, and stir until all three are dispersed. Add the finely-chopped beeswax, stirring until just melted, add the essential oil, and pour the salve into containers. Stir the pot frequently and pour as quickly as reasonable. If you take too long the lanolin and glycerin may begin to separate

Athletes Foot Remedies: Rubbing diluted alcohol on the affected area with cotton balls is one of the athletes foot remedies.

Applying aloe vera gel twice daily on the affected areas is one of the other athletes foot remedies. Apple cider vinegar having antifungal properties in one of the other widely used athletes foot remedies. Soaking the feet in a mixture of equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water for ten minutes daily up to ten days or until symptoms disappear is one of the best athletes foot remedies.

Soaking the feet in a solution of baking soda and water for about 30 minutes daily is one of the other athletes foot remedies. This helps change the pH of the skin. Washing the feet in a mild solution of boric acid is one of the other common athletes foot remedies. Chaparral is one of the other effective athletes foot remedies.

Healing Cracked Heels: Clean and moisturize your feet daily. Before going to bed, soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 15 minutes, wash and dab it dry. Take one teaspoon Vaseline, add lemon juice extracted from one lemon. Rub this mixture on your feet mainly the cracked areas. Let the skin absorb this mixture. Do this daily to get maximum benefits.

Mixture of glycerin and rosewater applied on daily basis helps heal the cracked feet.
Cold Sore Treatment: Lemon balm has been known to have strong anti-viral property. In a recent study, patients blisters went away 5 days quicker than patients that didn’t use lemon balm. Another good homeopathic remedy is peppermint oil. Studies done found that peppermint essential oil was found to enter the skin and have a strong virucidal effect on the virus. It was also found to have a strong effect against certain strains of the virus that have been known to be stronger than other strains. Rhubarb and sage cream has also been found to have powerful effects over cold sores. It has also been found to be one of the most powerful creams out on the market.

Acne Treatment: Steam your face for five to ten minutes to clean the pores with hot infusions of lavender, chamomile, or thyme. Rinse your face with honey water, rosewater, or a dilute infusion of marigold tea to tone and close the pores. Do this every day until the skin starts to heal.

Herbal Gargle for Bad Breath: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lavender (1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried)1 tablespoon (15 ml) peppermint (1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried)1 cup (250 ml) waterBring the water to a boil. Put the herbs into a clean glass jar. Pour the boiling water over the herbs and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain the solution. Now simply Gargle.

Three Sisters Gardening

In late spring, we plant the corn and beans and squash. They're not just plants- we call them the three sisters. We plant them together, three kinds of seeds in one hole. They want to be together with each other, just as we Indians want to be together with each other. So long as the three sisters are with us we know we will never starve. The Creator sends them to us each year. We celebrate them now. We thank Him for the gift He gives us today and every day.
Chief Louis Farmer (Onondaga)

For more years than the people have counted, the Three Sisters, have been planted together. These three plants were the vegetable base for native diets, they provided balance. When the Staving moons were here, and meat was scarce it saved many from death. Many eastern seaboard tribes have claimed the origination of this planting method. The Haudenosaunee (hah-dee-no-show-nee), or "People of the Long house" are just one of many.

These three plants were so important in the lives of the Native American that many rituals revolved around them. Among the Cherokee they were: In late June or July was the Green Corn Ceremony, the dates scheduled for the celebration depended upon the time the first corn ripened. It was performed when the new corn was ripe enough to eat. New corn was not to be eaten until after the ceremony took place. In August or September came the Ripe Corn Ceremony, it celebrated the maturing of the corn crop and is one of the few ancient ceremonies to last into the 21st century

Myths among the people also reflected this importance of these three plants, especially corn. Among the Cherokee there is the story of Kanati and Selu (corn). Among the Sioux we find the myth of The Forgotten Ear of Corn and The Hermit, The Origin of Corn. Among the Abenaki we find The Strange Origin of Corn.

The traditional Three Sisters garden forms an ecosystem by creating a community of plants and animals. This system creates a beneficial relationship between the three plants- each plant helps the others grow. This is a form of companion planting. Corn provides support for beans. Beans, like other legumes, have bacteria living on their roots that help them absorb nitrogen from the air and convert it to a form that plants can use. (Corn, which requires a lot of nitrogen to grow, benefits most.) The large, prickly squash leaves shade the soil, preventing weed growth, and deter animal pests. The three sisters also complement each other nutritionally.

To plant the Three Sisters wait until the soil warms in spring. Make a mound of dirt about one foot high and two foot in diameter. In the center of the mound plant 5 or 6 corn kernels, tamp down the ground well. Space the mound approximately 4 feet apart, remember you will be dodging squash vines to cultivate and harvest.

When the corn sprouts and reaches about 5 or 6 inches high it is time to plant the bean seeds, make sure they are the climbing variety. You will want to plant 6 to eight of them around the top of the mound. You do not have to plant just green beans, grow some kidney beans, or pinto beans if you like.

About 1 week later, after the beans emerge from the ground, plant the squash seeds on the flat ground around each mound. You can plant all the way around or choose to plant just two opposite sides of the mound, to possibly control some of the rambeling that the vines do. If you plant all the way around 6 to 8 plants are sufficient. If just on opposing sides then 2 or 3 per side is fine. Also consider planting diferent types of squash to make a more varied diet.

Good companions to plant either interspersed thoughout the garden or making a border around the Three Sisters are: Marigolds, to keep bean beetles away; Sage, to encourage bees; Nasturiam, to discourage squash borers; Catnip, to discourage been beetles; Summer Savory, discourages the Mexican bean beetles; Dill, French Tarragon and Basil lure bees.

To keep up tradition, plant more than you plan to consume…..first for the wild critters…..seconly, considering todays economic situation, it will give you produce to share with family, friends, less fortunate people or food banks.

To Smudge or Not to Smudge

What is Smudging? Smudging is a ritual that is used by many cultures and many traditions. The Catholic Church uses incense burners during high mass suspended from long chains which the priest then swings over the congregation…the Priest waves the therafur in which they burn any combination of aromatic herbs…in the old days it was frankincense and myrrh. The story of its beginning dates back to the Black Plague. The Priests used the incense to cleanse the people, and cover the smell of death.

In the Native American Culture smudging is used for cleansing spiritually and physically. The four main herbs used are sage, sweet grass, cedar, and tobacco. Although others have been utilized also. There is an old story of where it came from on the East Coast….after the smallpox was introduced to the people, a young man of mixed ancestry (Cherokee and black slave) found he was immune to the disease. Everyone around him was dying…..He went out into the swamp and prayed to Creator for the healing of his people. He had a vision where he was shown holding a large clam shell with smoke spiraling from it. In the vision he fanned the smoke over the sick, and slowly, one by one, they got better. He returned home joyous that Creator had given him a vision that showed how to heal his people. He proceeded to collect the cedar, the sweet grass, the sage, and the tobacco and smudge his people. Lo and behold, they slowly arose from their sick beds healed.

But in all I have found one constant……smudging smoke carries the prayers of the petitioner to Creator God.

Smudging may be done several ways: with loose herb in a fire-proof container, or using smudge sticks.

To make a smudge stick is not difficult. You need to select the herbs you want, being sure you know for certain the plant is the one you believe it is (you Do Not want to smudge with a toxic plant). You may cut and hang to dry, or as some people do, make the smudge stick then let it dry. I personally prefer to use dried herbs (since the herbs shrink when drying, the wraps could get too loose if tied before drying). Also drying before hand ensures that the herb actually dries and does not mold…you Do Not want to burn moldy herbs, you could get very ill.

Next take the ends of the herbs (stem ends together) and tie snugly with a thin twine or thread. I personally like embroidery floss, 3 strands thick. The colors can represent the herbs used in the bundle. Then wrap around the bundle, spiraling down to the other end. At the other end, again tie the bundle off. Do not cut the threads, instead spiral back up the bundle to the beginning, it will end up looking criss-crossed. Once you reach the beginning end, tie off again.

The final stage is just tiding, cut the ends straight across, for better lighting capability. Trim the side the length of the bundle, if anything is straying to the outside, unless you like the look.
You can use Sage straight (not Garden Sage, some people have bad reactions to it burning, it has been known to set off asthma attacks in those sensitive) or combine it with cedar. Straight Lavender is nice too.

Good Luck and have fun with your smudging!

Recycle for Christmas

It’s not too early to begin planning for Christmas (Chanukah, Kwanza, Yule) now. And it is never a bad gift when your hands make it; your love and creativity construct it therefore you make it personal.

Start keeping jars for recycling into your treasures. Old spaghetti jars are just the right size to put all dry ingredients for bean soup in. Just place the ingredients, including spices into the jar, seal it. Cover the lid with a scrape of cloth and ribbon leftovers. If the different kinds of beans are layered to show off the colors , it is very pretty. Next make a nice label, either attached to the jar or hanging from the ribbon. On the label place the name of the soup, gifted by, and full directions for cooking the soup, including ingredient list. The label becomes a recipe card at the same time!

6 Bean Soup

Ingredients for Jar:
¼ cup baby lime beans
¼ cup small white beans
¼ cup black eyed peas
¼ cup garbanzo beans
¼ cup pink beans
¼ cup pink beans
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup dehydrated onions
½ cup dehydrated celery
½ cup dehydrated carrot
¼ cup dehydrated green pepper
½ cup dried parsley, minced
¼ teaspoon powdered garlic
½ bay leaf crumbled
½ teaspoon fines herbs
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
2 envelops chicken noodle soup (opened and poured into jar)

Ingredients for Label:
Parmesan Cheese grated

Directions for Label:
To soak beans: For each pound of dry beans, any variety, add 10 cups hot water.
Up to 2 teaspoons of salt per pound of beans may be added to help the beans absorb water more evenly.
Heat to boiling, let boil 2 to 3 minutes.
Remove from heat, cover and set aside for at least one hour, but preferably four hours or more.
The longer soaking time is recommended to allow a greater amount of sugars to dissolve, thus helping the beans to be more easily digested.
Always discard the soak water.
To maintain color integrity, soak beans separately.

Drain beans.
Combine vegetables with soup mix, 2-1/4 quarts water, bay leaf, fine herbs and soaked beans. Simmer, covered, about 1 hour to desired tenderness.
Serve hot sprinkled with cheese.

Note: a small zip lock baggy can be attached to the label filled with the cheese. Another zip lock baggy can be used inside the jar to hold and separate the spices and soup from the beans. Also note this is a large recipe and a larger jar will be needed.

Keeping the same idea, you could make up all the dry ingredients for brownies, layer it so the flour is white with the cocoa’s brown separate on top. On the label add directions for assembly and cooking- but do not forget to tell them what “wet” ingredients they have yet to add!

Brownies for Jar

Ingredients for Jar:
1-1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ cup cocoa
1/3 cup red candy covered pieces (like M&M’s)
1/3 cup green candy covered pieces (like M&M’s)
½ cup chopped pecans
1 cup brown sugar packed
1 cup white sugar

Ingredients for Label:
¾ cup softened butter
4 eggs, lightly beaten

Directions for Label:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Place mix from jar into large bowl
Add butter and eggs
Mix until completely blended
Spread into lightly greased 9x9 pan
Bake for 35 minutes or until brownies just start to pull away from sides of pan
Cut into 16 pieces, 2x2


Another suggestion for the spaghetti jars you are recycling is to make bath salts up and place in the jar. Again the lid can be covered with fabric and ribbon with a label telling them what they have, how to use it and what the ingredients are (in case of allergies).
Making a bath salt is as simple as adding essential oils to some Epsom salts and….voila! instant bath salts. (In the next post I will put several different bath salt recipes, some far more complicated.)

Disaster Preparedness - Clean Drinking Water in Any Situation

Whether you have a natural disaster, like an earthquake or hurricane, or just need to be sure the water you consume is clean when hiking, it is important to know how to find and purify water for safe consumption.

After a natural disaster that threatens the water you drink there are several sources readily available to you that were safe before the problem arose, and if you can reach them are most likely still safe and clean. Every home in modern America has a hot water heater….this water is safely contained and housed from contamination and may still be used safely. You also have within your home toilets that have reserve tanks, this water stands a good chance of still being clean if the tank is not breached. Also check your freezer…ice cubes are a good source of water.

A very good idea is water storage. Putting water in clean, hard plastic bottles for future use is excellent planning. You can use any container that once held drinkable liquids, do not use bottle that held bleach or other household chemicals! Also one note on bottles…although gallon milk jugs with screw caps work, you will find that the seams on the bottle do not hold up well. Water can be stored for up to a year safely. The main complaint is that the water tastes “flat”, this is due to the oxygen slowly leaving the water, so just re-oxygenate it by pouring it from one container to another before consumption.

How much water should you plan on storing you might ask…. A normal active adult should drink at least 1/2 gallon of water per day. Additional water is needed for brushing teeth, bathing, cleaning cooking utensils, and also for cooking food in. Store as much water as you have space for, but a three days supply is considered to be a minimum amount. Do not forget your companion animals when planning amounts of water to store…..if you do not plan on their consumption then you will go through water faster than you imagined.

If your water storage gets ruined in a disaster or you are hiking and run out of potable water, the need arises to obtain clean water for survival. If the water you find is cloudy you need to filter it before anything else……there are ways to do it with next to nothing available. Take a funnel, if you have one, or make one from an old 2 liter soda bottle or a rolled leaf into a cone shape (large, waxy leaves like those of the Southern Magnolia work well). Place the funnel into a collecting container. Inside the funnel place a rolled up white sock, pour the water slowly over the sock (a white sock allows you to see when the sock gets dirty and needs to be replaced).
Next take the filtered water and boil it for 10 minutes. This kills many of the bacteria found in water. If bleach is available you can then add it to the water to finish the cleaning process. Bleach must be the type that says on the label that is contains 5.25% hypochlorite. You then take an eye dropper and add it in the amount of 8 drops per gallon of clear water and 16 drops per gallon of cloudy water. For 5 gallons you use ½ tsp for clear water and 1 tsp for cloudy water. Let this stand for 10 minutes before consuming.

For additional information call the EPA - Safe Water Hotline (800) 426-4791.

Some Oils and Their Uses

The following list is a guideline only. There are many more essential oils and numerous uses for each plant. Use this list as a launching pad only for future reference.

Angelica - Angelica archangelica – Used in Chinese medicine for promoting fertility

Basil, Sweet - Ocimum basilicum – Used in India to brighten mode – Do Not use during pregnancy

Bay - Pimenta racemosa – Used in the West Indies for stimulating hair growth - avoid during pregnancy

Bergamot - Citrus bergamia – has been used for relieving stress – may cause photosensitivity

Black Pepper - Piper nigrum – From Madagascar used to stimulate circulation

Calendula - Calendula officinalis – Used for any skin complaint

Atlas Cedar - Cedrus atlantica – Used by the ancient Egyptians to relax tense muscles


German Chamomile - Matricaria recutica – is an anti-inflammatory – avoid in early pregnancy

Citronella - Cymbopogon nardus – In Chinese medicine used for an insect repellent – avoid on damaged skin

Clary Sage - Salvia sclarea – Used for eye problems in the past

Eucalyptus - Eucalyptus globules – Used for congestion by the Aborigines of Australia – avoid if you have high blood pressure or epilepsy

Fennel, Sweet - Foeniculum vulgare – used for rheumatism and arthritis – avoid during pregnancy or is epileptic

Frankenscense - Boswellia species – for healing fears and grief

Ginger - Zingiber officinale – reducing muscular aches and pains

Hyssop - Hyssopus officinalis – Used to heal bruises – avoid during pregnancy and epilepsy

Jasmine - Jasminum grandiflorum – Used as an aphrodisiac

Juniper berry - Juniperus communis – used to energize and relieve exhaustion

Lavender - Lavandula officinalis – Used to relieve tension and headache, promote sleep

Lemon - Citrus Limonum – To balance nervous system – may cause photosensitivity

Myrrh - Commiphora myrrha – Used to heal wounds and nurture aging skin

Neroli - Citrus aurantium var. amara –Used to heal scars and increase circulation

Nutmeg - Myristica fragrans – Used for warming and to stimulate heart and circulation – avoid during pregnancy, may be mildly toxic if over used

Orange, Sweet - Citrus sinensis – Used to brighten mood, relieve melancholy and apathy

Patchouli - Pogostemon cablin – Used to relieve stress and nervous tensions, an aphrodisiac

Peppermint - Mentha piperita – for energy and mental clarity

Pine - Pinus sylvestris – Used to ease breathing, immune system stimulate

Rosewood - Aniba rosaedora – Used to relieve stress and balance central nervous system

Sandalwood - Santalum album – Used to lift melancholy

St John’s Wort - Hypericum perforatum – Used to treat fungal infection, oily hair

Tea Tree - Melaleuca alternifolia – Used as a disinfectant

Ylang Ylang - Cananga odorata – Used as an aphrodisiac, to relieve anger and anxiety

Plants in Modern Medicine

Many years ago, herbs were the only source of medicine. Today modern Medicine has a myriad of chemicals to be prescribed by your medical doctor. But did you know that at least 120 of these medicines that they have available to prescribe are plant based. In other words Herbology!

If you should go to your doctor and ask for herbal remedies instead of the chemical pharmacy company products, and he says NO…..remind him/her of these contributors from the plant kingdom. Many more of the prescriptions written are for medicines that are simple synthetic modifications or copies of the naturally obtained substances. For example, many years ago a plant chemical was discovered in a tropical plant, Cephaelis ipecacuanha, and the chemical was named emetine. A drug was developed from this plant chemical called Ipecac which was used for many years to induce vomiting mostly if someone accidentally swallowed a poisonous or harmful substance. Ipecac can still be found in pharmacies in many third world countries but has been mostly replaced by other drugs in the United States.

Many European countries, including Germany, regulate herbal products as drugs and pharmaceutical companies prepare plant based drugs simply by extracting out the active chemicals from the plants. A good example is the plant substance/drug shown below, cynarin. Cynarin is a plant chemical found in the common artichoke (Cynara scolymus). In Germany, a cynarin drug is sold for liver problems and hypertension which is simply this one chemical extracted from the artichoke plant or a plant extract which has been standardized to contain a specific milligram amount of this one chemical. These products are manufactured by pharmaceutical companies, sold in pharmacies in Germany and a doctor's prescription is required to purchase them. In the United States artichoke extracts are available as natural products and sold in health food stores.

Some examples of these plant derived medicines follow:

Digoxin - Digitalis purpurea

Atropine - Atropa belladonna

Caffeine - Camellia sinensis

Camphor - Cinnamomum camphora

Cocaine - Erythroxylum coca

Codeine - Papaver somniferum

Emetine - Cephaelis ipecacuanha

Ephedrine - Ephedra sinica

Morphine – Papaver

Papavarine - Papaver somniferum

Pilocarpine - Pilocarpus jaborandi

Pseudoephredrine - Ephedra sinica

Quinine - Cinchona ledgeriana

Salicin - Salix alba

Scopolamine - Datura species

Strychnine - Strychnos nux-vomica

Many of our newest drugs are coming from plants of the Rainforest. And yet the rainforests are being burned, slashed and destroyed daily. The future cure for AIDS or cancer may already be extinct due to these practices!

Thus far seven plant-derived anticancer drugs have received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for commercial production. Some of them are listed below:

Taxol from the Pacific Yew

Vinblastine from the Madagascar Periwinkle

Topotecan from the Chinese tree Campototheca acuminate

Teniposide from the Mayapple plant family

Definitions of the Ways to Use Herbs

There are many accepted ways to use herbs. You will occasionally find references to a tea, an infusion or a decoction….are they the same or different? How are they dissimilar?
This small piece will hopefully add to your understanding of the differing terms and allow you to make wise choices in how you utilize the herbs.

Compress - In a compress an infusion or decoction is made first and a piece of clean cloth or gauze is soaked in the resultant liquid. The cloth or gauze is applied to the affected area. When using a compress, use it as hot as can be tolerated, you can cover the compress with plastic wrap, to keep it hot longer, and change it when it cools off.


Decoction - an infusion which has been reduced to one/half of its original volume by slow steam release. Not brought to a boil, the decoction is taken to the point of steam release and the heat is then reduced very low to continue the steam process. Decoction is handy for those herbals which taste bad or bitter, requiring only one quarter the dose. Decoctions are strong and can be kept longer if gin or vodka is added.

When you’re dealing with roots, bark, seeds or hard dense pieces of herbs a decoction is usually the better choice. Pieces should be small.

Extracts - These usually require a still and are difficult and expensive to try to do at home. There are a wide variety of extracts on the market, check your local health food store.

Infusion - a tea made from the flowers, leaves or roots of an herb, with a longer steeping time than a general tea. The water is boiled fully, the cup or pot is heated and the herbs and water are covered during the steep to prevent steam escaping. The standard measure is one teaspoon of dried herbs, two of fresh, to one cup of boiled water. Covered steeping time is generally up to ten minutes for flowers, twenty minutes for leaves and up to four hours for the root.


Most appropriate for stems, leaves, flowers you can infuse bark, roots and seeds, but seeds should be bruised (use a mortar and pestle for this) and bark and roots should be powdered first.

If you wish to make larger quantities at one time, be sure to refrigerate after brewing, herbal infusions are usually so rich that bacteria can multiply and thrive very quickly. Even a refrigerated infusion shouldn’t be kept more than 2 days.

Inhalations – Inhalations have been used for centuries, it conveys the therapeutic essences of the plants through hot, moist air through the nose and into the lungs. A simple form can be used with hot, steaming water, a few drops of essential oil and a tea towel over the head while inhaling the steam (be careful of burns if the steam is too hot). It can be used for treatment of many respiratory disorders and emotional states.


Poultice - For a poultice you would use the plant material itself. For poultices, you can use fresh or dried herbs. Fresh herbs can be bruised and applied directly to the skin. If the skin is particularly sensitive, the poultice can be placed between layers of gauze. When using dried herbs they must be moistened first. Make a paste by adding hot water or apple cider vinegar to the dried plant material. Keep the poultice warm as for a compress. You may want to cover the skin with a thin layer of oil as this protects the skin and may make removing the poultice easier.


Salve - an herbal decoction blended with a beeswax or olive oil base, reduced and placed in jars. These are semi-solid and are usually used externally, applied to the skin. For use on burns, chapped skin, scrapes and other skin irritations, depending on the herb used.
Some people use petroleum jelly as a base. I know, I know, it isn’t "organic". But…it’s easy and quick, it isn’t absorbed by the skin, it’s fairly water-proof and makes a great covering which won’t let anything in from outside either. It simply acts as a carrier and lets the herbal stuff sink into the skin... and it works!

Syrup - an infusion or decoction which is then mixed into a sugar base, using brown sugar, molasses, honey or corn syrup. (Caution - children under three should not ingest honey) Syrups are used in cases of sore throat, upset stomach in children, etc.

Tea – a tea never boils the plant matter, only steeps it, and only to taste. Place the plant matter in a pot, pour boiling water over it and allow to sit until desired strength is reached

Tincture - a strong infusion or decoction prepared in an alcohol base (vodka, brandy or gin) and are much more stable for storage and long life. Most times, alcohol makes a stronger tincture than water, glycerin or vinegar.


NOTE: any use that heats the herb causes some volatile oils to be lost and cell wall destruction, if those factors are not desired it is recommended by many to use tinctures instead of teas, infusions or decoctions.

How to Make Your Own Recycled Paper

First off.....I need to apologize in advance......Not for this article, but because of the authorship of it. Years ago I found this article, online. I didn't know much then, I didn't copy the URL or the name of the author......SO, I honestly don't know where it came from. It is a great, short piece on recycling paper, I knew it needed no improvement, so include it here. Again my apologies if it is your work with no credit.

Don't throw away your old newspapers. Try making your own recycled paper!

Recycled paper can be made from old newspaper, following the instructions below. Recycling paper uses cellulose (plant fibers) over and over again, it uses less electricity, less water, a lot less pollution, and it saves trees from being cut down!

You will need:

a food processor or an old blender
an electric iron
an old wire hanger
an old pair of panty hose
newspaper or other paper, torn into 2-inch squares
white glue
water
an insect screen or strainer (optional)
food coloring (optional)
a big sink or tub filled with 4 inches of water

Make sure you have a place to work where you can make a big mess!

Step One:Make a frame out of the coat hanger. You'll need a frame for each piece of paper you make. Stretch the hanger and bend it into a rectangle/square shape. Take one leg of the panty hose and stretch it carefully over the hanger frame. Make sure it is tight and flat.

Step Two:Put a handful of the torn up paper and some water into the food processor or blender. Blend the mixture on high until it becomes mushy. Keep adding paper and water until you have a big gray blob. You may have to add a little more water to keep things moving smoothly. Keep the food processor on until all the paper has disappeared. Then leave it on for 2 minutes.
For some color, add a handful of brown or red onion skin (not the onion itself, just the papery outer skin).

Step Three:Put 2 tablespoons of white glue in the sink water and add all of the paper pulp you just made. Mix it really well. Use your hands.

Step Four:Scoop the frame to the bottom of the sink, then lift it slowly. (Count to 20 slowly while you are lifting.) Let the water drain out for about a minute.

Step Five:Hang the frames on a clothesline or put them out in the sun. Wait until they are completely dry with no dampness at all. You can then gently peel off the paper.

Step Six:Use the iron, set on the hottest setting, to steam out your paper. You can keep making paper until the pulp is all strained out of the sink. Mix up the sink every time you make a new piece.

Try other things like using in insect screen over a wood frame, or a strainer instead of the pantyhose and hanger.

Try adding lots of food coloring, for colored paper, or try adding lint or leaves to the food processor. Your paper will have an interesting texture.

Making your own paper can be fun, and it's a great way to re-use old paper.
You can recycle all kinds of paper for re-use.
Sometimes paper printed from color-inkjet printers will run, that is, the color will bleed off and become part of your new paper, but that can make for an interesting effect!

Wildcrafting the Herbs You Use

When you walk the earth, there is a need to remember that she is our Mother, without her we have no place to be. In remembering she is our mother we need to bear in mind that it is our responsibility to care take all her creatures great and small. It is our duty to harvest conscientiously, remembering that we impact the 7 generations that follow us.

In the Native way we do not harvest the first plant we spy, but rather offer a gift of tobacco to thank the “Grandparent” plant for the sacrifice of the others we might harm. We never harvest from an area that does not have an abundance of the herb we seek, and we never, ever take all of a plant in an area.

If you are in a position of having the ability to plant gardens in your self acclaimed space, then do so. Consider also planting a Wild Garden in which you plant the wild herbs you use most often. A bed developed with Echinacea, Black Eyed Susan, Queen Anne’s Lace, Violets, Butterfly weed, Chickweed and others can be stunning. The scents can make the mind reel with their delicacy, and reward the soul.

When you do go to harvest in the wild remember to consider if the plant is endangered. If it is, you do not take it. To find out if the plant is rare, endangered or threatened in your area, contact the state horticulturalist or the local chapter of the Native Plant Society.

When you are out in the ‘wild’ remember to look around you, see the land, the animals, the insects, the wind, feel the vibrations of life around you. Connect to your Mother, feel her breath lift your hair, wet your fingers in the streams of her life giving waters, gently probe her skin, walk with beauty, walk in gentleness…..impact your Mother with care. When you have found the proper stand of plants from which you decide to harvest; take note of the other plants in the area. Are there sufficient plants to continue growing after your harvest year after year? Are the plants healthy enough for you to use? Can you harvest a few seeds to scatter in a new area? Are there sufficient seeds to allow natural reseeding in that area for the future?

There are a few things to consider before harvesting a plant….is it the right time of the year? Will it do harm to the plant? Can the harvesting be done in a less impacting way?
Never take so many leaves from a plant that the plant looks denuded, try to make the plant look like it has not been harvested at all…..in other words take a little from many to get the amount of herb that you need. If it is bark do not strip the main trunk, but rather take bark from downed wood or from branches that you cut and strip. Try not to harvest from steeply pitched slopes, as the removal of plants may make an erosion problem. If possible harvest from gently inclined slopes.

Let me regress a little….you must have an absolutely positive identification. Without a definitive identification you could poison yourself. I cannot stress this too much, for example…Queen Anne’s Lace and Poison Hemlock have flowers that are very similar in look…the mistake has been made before with deadly results. Do not jeopardize your safety that way!
The next consideration is the distance from a roadbed. There are noxious fumes given off by gasoline and diesel engines that will affect the plants along the roadside. Many plants like disturbed areas, like along roadsides, so care must be taken to harvest only plants at least a minimum of 50 feet from the nearest source of the contaminants.

Next a few suggestions for the actual harvest:
Select only 2 – 5 plants to harvest on any one trip
Keep plants totally separate from each other to not cross contaminate
Harvest early, but after the nights dew has dried
Process the plants as quickly as possible to avoid loss and waste
Leave all sites just as you found them: fill any holes, cart out all trash, etc.
Never harvest in excess of your expected use

Heal All

Common Name: Heal-All, Prunella, All-Heal, Hook-Heal, Self Heal, Slough-Heal, Brunella, Heart of the Earth, Blue Curls, Carpenter-weed, Common Selfheal, Consolida Minor, Lance Selfheal, Sicklewort, Woundwort, Xia Ku Cao

Scientific Name: Prunella vulgaris

Origin: Europe

Range: Europe, Asia, Japan and the U. S….. Found growing in waste ground, grassland, woodland edges, usually on basic and neutral soils

Botanical Description: Vary in color from pinks and purples to while, bloom in the early and midsummer. Attractive perennial flower that acts as a well-behaved ground cover in the garden; will bloom for nearly 2 months.

Part Used: Flowers, leaves

What’s in a Name? It’s name is a description of what was felt for centuries to only be self discriptive

All in the family: Heal All is cousin to such choice delicacies as peppermint, oregano, rosemary and thyme

Harvest: Gather whole plant when flowers bloom, dry for later herb use. Leaves and small flowers are edible. Harvest the aerial parts of self-heal while it is in flower. This may have to be hand harvested with snips or scissors, as the plant is very low growing. May also have to rinse dust from the leaves after harvesting, as the plants can get quite dirty from rain splash.

Cultural Uses: Prunella Vulgaris, or Heal All Plant, has been used for over 500 years for all kinds of wounds, open sores, inflammation, sore throats and most any kind of skin ailment. A cold water infusion of the freshly chopped or dried and powdered leaves is a very tasty and refreshing beverage, weak infusion of the plant is an excellent medicinal eye wash for sties and pinkeye. It is taken internally as a medicinal tea in the treatment of fevers, diarrhoea, sore mouth and throat, internal bleeding, and weaknesses of the liver and heart. Clinical analysis shows it to have an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of pseudomonas, Bacillus typhi, E. coli, Mycobacterium tuberculi, which supports its use as an alternative medicine internally and externally as an antibiotic and for hard to heal wounds and diseases. It is showing promise in research for cancer, AIDS, diabetes, and many other maladies.

As the flower spikes resemble the throat, the herb was also used to treat inflammations of the mouth and throat. In Chinese medicine, the flower spikes are regarded as being very specific for the liver and gallbladder, cooling an over-heated liver condition, call “gan hao, or “liver fire,” from which the phrase “gung-ho” is thought to be derived. In western herbalism, leaves and young shoots applied to fresh wounds to stop bleeding and as first aid for clean cuts.

Medicinal Uses: The whole plant is medicinal as alterative, antibacterial, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, diuretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, stomachic, styptic, tonic, vermifuge and vulnerary.

Food Uses: Edible, it is chewy and flavorless, so more to be eaten for nutrition than gastronomic delight. As a woodland grower, it affords good greens to people who hike far from cities. By all means, eat some leaves and fresh flowerheads if you have access to tender rank-growing specimens. It is good for you. Just add some pieces to sandwiches or salads.

Active Compounds: The plants most useful constituents are Betulinic-acid, D-Camphor, Delphinidin, Hyperoside, Manganese, Oleanolic-acid, Rosmarinic-acid, Rutin, Ursolic-acid, and Tannins. Contains the anti-tumor and diuretic compound ursolic acid. Also rich in natural antioxidant compounds, containing more rosmarinic acid than Rosemary.

Research: Herpes- Research shows Prunella may lessen the severity and duration of outbreaks, however there is no proof that it will completely kill the virus in humans. Even if you don't have outbreaks, you can still spread Herpes to other people.

Recent research suggests the plant possesses antibiotic, hypotensive, and anti-mutagenic qualities. Contains the anti-tumor and diuretic compound ursolic acid. Also rich in natural antioxidant compounds, containing more rosmarinic acid than Rosemary.

In Lore, Legend and Life: Once proclaimed to be a Holy herb and thought to be sent by God to cure all ailments of man or beast, and said to drive away the devil, which lead to the belief that Heal-All was grown in the Witches garden as a disguise. The root was used to make a tea to drink in ceremonies before going hunting by one Native American tribe to sharpened the powers of observation.

Recipes: Medicinal tea or infusion: Add 1 oz. dried or fresh herb to a pint of boiling water, steep till cool, take in ½ cup doses, sweetened with honey, as a general strengthener

Pokeberry

Scientific Name: Phytolacca Americana

Common Name: Pokeweed, Pokeberry, Poke, Inkberry, Pigeonberry

Botanical Description: A large, smooth, branching herb from a large, perennial rootstock, and with green, red, or purple stems; leaves alternate and simple; flowers white, on a long stem, more or less erect; fruit a dark purple berry composed of 5-12 segments fused in a ring, the stem drooping. P. rigida differs by having shorter, erect fruiting stems
The berries are believed to be toxic to humans, but are eaten by birds. It is a native of northeastern North America where it is a common weed of disturbed, usually fertile, soils. The closely related Indian pokeberry, P. acinosa, is quite similar in appearance.

Range: Forest or natural areas, weedy in disturbed areas, in fields, fence rows, low grounds, clearings, waste places, roadsides.

Cultural Uses: The fresh and very young spring-time greens of the pokeberry were boiled, drained, and boiled again to make "poke salad" the traditional rural dish in the southern U.S. immortalized in the 1960's hit song "Poke Salad Annie". The plant is generally poisonous so this, and all other uses of this plant are not recommended without the guidance of a seasoned expert. This plant contains chemicals called the "pokeweed mitogens" that are being studied for use in treatments of autoimmune diseases including AIDS and rheumatoid arthritis. Mitogens are substances that promote cell division and may activate mitosis in animal cells that normally would not divide. Some lectins, e.g. those in pokeweed mitogens, can activate mitosis in white blood cells; it is this property that is of interest to AIDS researchers. Pokeweed is also being studied as an agent to combat fungal infections. The berries of the Indian pokeberry have been used for dye production.

Edible Parts: Young tender leaves eaten only as thoroughly cooked greens (in two waters). Cooked berries are safe for making pies. CAUTION: Berries, roots and mature plants are poisonous, therefore, only use as new, young growth. Also any red-tinged plant material should be discarded. To avoid possibly collecting part of the toxic root, do not cut below ground level.

Harvest: Only collect young shoots from areas you know have NOT been treated with pesticides. Collect in early spring. SAFE HANDLING PROCEDURES: Wash young shoots thoroughly with warm water. Do not use dish detergent or any type of sanitizer. These products can leave a residue. Peel and parboil tender young shoots (less than eight inches) in two changes of water several minutes each. Boil in a third water until tender and serve like asparagus. Young stalks less than one foot tall, with leaves removed, and before red tinged, can be cut and rolled in corn meal and fried like okra. They can also be pickled. Young leaves taken from stalks less than one foot tall can be parboiled in two changes of water for several minutes each and
boiled in a third water until tender. To freeze, parboil leaves twice, cook, pat dry and place them in plastic bags. (SOURCE: Larson, Ken. 1995. God's Free Harvest, Rhema Publishing, Inc., Suwanee, GA. 231 pp.)

Active Compounds: Toxic principle: Phytolaccatoxin and related triterpene saponins, an alkaloid (phytolaccin), and histamines.

Toxicity Rating: Low.

Animals Affected: All animals may potentially be affected.

Dangerous Parts of Plant: All parts, especially roots and seeds.

Class of Signs: Gastrointestinal irritation (colic, diarrhea which may be bloody). Rarely: anemia, possibly death. Birth defects and tumors may also be possible.

Animals do not voluntarily eat this plant unless there is no other forage available. If the animals are forced to eat pokeweed (especially if it has been incorporated into processed feeds), the primary signs relate to the irritant effects of the saponin toxins, in particular phytolaccigenin. Salivation, abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may become bloody) can be noted. Horses and ruminants do not exhibit vomiting, which is seen in humans, dogs, cats, and pigs. Signs usually resolve within a day or two. Only if large doses are consumed will the animal display more serious signs: anemia, alterations in the heart rate and in respiration, and in very rare cases, death.

Noted in the human literature but not well published in the veterinary literature is the mutagenic and teratogenic properties of pokeweed, that is the ability to induce mutations (and possibly cancer) and birth defects. For humans, even handling the plant is considered dangerous, so it would seem wise to not only prevent human contact with the plant, but animal contact as well. Despite this, the plant is eaten as a spring vegetable in the southern U.S. after cooking it first in several changes of water. Consumption of the plant is not advised.

First Aid: For gastrointestinal irritation, provide better feed and symptomatic care, and signs should abate in about 24 hours. Discard all feeds containing pokeweed, since the plant is never safe for consumption. For severely affected animals, or if it is known that a large amount was consumed, consult a veterinarian promptly for emergency care

Prevention: Pokeweed should be removed from pastures and barnyards. Exercise caution when doing so, since the plant is toxic to humans as well. Good pasture management, with mowing and weed removal, will suffice in keeping pokeweed under control.

Research: Used by Harry Hoxsey in a controversial cure for Cancer (in conjunction with other herbs). The formula is under long term study at the University of Texas School of Public Health. Early results are encouraging.

Silver Lupine

COMMON NAMES:Lupine, Bluebonnet, Quaker-Bonnets

LATIN NAME:Lupinus perennis (wild)
Lupinus polyphyllus (cultivated)
(pea family)

TOXICITY RATING: Low to moderate in Indiana. In the western rangelands, where lupine grows plentifully, the risk of toxicosis would be high. Different species of lupine have different toxicities. According to reports, L. leucophyllus (velvet or wooly-leafed lupine) is the most toxic and should never be grazed since all stages of plant growth are toxic.

ANIMALS AFFECTED: Sheep are primarily affected, but all animals are susceptible.

DANGEROUS PARTS OF PLANT: All parts, especially pods with seeds.

CLASS OF SIGNS: Breathing problems, behavioral changes, trembling, birth defects, coma, death.

PLANT DESCRIPTION: Lupines (fig. 6) are herbaceous perennials grown in gardens or found wild along roadsides, in fields, and in open woods. Wild lupines are common only in the prairie and lake counties of Indiana. In the rangelands of the West, they are a leading cause of livestock poisoning. Several stems often grow from one creeping root and reach 12 to 30 inches in height. The leaves are alternate and pal-
mately compound with 7 to 11 spear-tip-shaped, softly hairy segments. Elongate spikes of blue, purple, white, magenta, or bicolored pea-like flowers in early summer are followed by 1- to 2-inch, fuzzy, pea-like pods.

SIGNS: Toxicity in lupine is believed to result primarily from the alkaloid D-lupanine. The signs of lupine poisoning can develop within an hour or may take as long as a day. The signs are related to the nervous system and resemble the signs seen with excessive consumption of nicotine (tobacco): twitching, nervousness, depression, difficulty in moving and breathing, and loss of muscular control. If large quantities were consumed, convulsions, coma, and death by respiratory paralysis may occur. In cows that graze lupine, skeletal birth defects in calves can occur, and the syndrome is called "crooked calf".

FIRST AID: There is no antidote. Allow affected livestock to rest quietly, especially if they are unfamiliar with human contact. Handling, trailering, or other stress on the animals after they have been grazing lupine will make the signs worse and can increase losses.

SAFETY IN PREPARED FEEDS: The alkaloids in lupine remain after the plants have dried, so prepared feeds are unsafe for consumption, especially if the feeds contain lupine seed pods.

PREVENTION: Do not allow hungry animals access to lupine, particularly when in the seed stage, if other forage is not available. If lupines are prevalent in the pasture, become familiar with the particular species, since toxicities vary. Do not handle, process, or ship animals that are heavily grazing lupine since this type of stress will increase the number of animals that will become sick and/or die. Livestock can graze lupine without incident as long as excessive ingestion is avoided and animals are not handled or trailered while on lupine pastures (and if the animals are not pregnant). In cattle, to avoid birth defects, do not allow grazing between days 40 and 70 of gestation.

Chicory

Scientific Name: Cichorium intybus

Common Name: chicory

Range: throughout the United States; found along roadsides, in field borders, in waste lands and barren meadows

Origin: chicory is native to Europe and temperate regions in Asia; it has been naturalized to the United States.

Botanical description: Chicory has a long fleshy root filled with a milky sap, much like that of its sister dandelion. Leaves form a basal rosette along the ground with a tough branched stem that is hard to break. Upper leaves are small and insignificant; lower leaves are large and toothed. The flowers are usually blue, although on some rare occasions they are white or pink. They are ray flowers with fringed edges and are about 1½ inches in diameter. They face toward the rising sun in the morning and by afternoon are faded and withered, to be replaced by a new set of flowers the next morning. Chicory is easily recognizable during its flowering season by the daisy-like blue flowers that seem to be in constant supply; when the flower is gone, the leaves and arrangement do resemble dandelion but are distinguishable because they have tiny hairs on them, while dandelion leaves are hairless.

What’s in a name: The origin of chicory’s name is uncertain, but it is suggested that an alternate name for the plant, succory, comes from the Latin word succorrere, meaning to run under, for the length and depth of chicory’s root. It is also suggested that the name may be a corruption of the Egyptian word Ctchorium (meaning unavailable). The species name of chicory, intybus, is derived from another name for the plant, Hendibeh, which is a name also used for endive, the only other member of the genus Cichorium.

All in the family: Chicory is a member of the composite family, a large group of wildflowers that includes dandelions, purple coneflower, daisies, and endive.

Cultural uses: Traditionally, chicory juice was used as part of a remedy for headaches. The Romans used chicory as a vegetable or in salads. The root was ground and used as a caffeine-free coffee substitute. It is still used that way today, and is the special ingredient in Luzianne coffee, a mellow blend of coffee and chicory that is sold in Louisiana.
A tea made from the flowers and leaves is good for the liver and gall bladder, and is used to treat jaudice, dyspepsia, loss of appetite and mild laxative, especially good for children. Chicory is also taken for gout and rheumatic conditions.

Active compounds: inulin, sesquiterpene lactones, vitamins, minerals, fat, mannitol and latex

Research: An article in the Journal of Nutrition examined the effect of chicory inulin in a variety of disorders. The results were favorable for the effectiveness of inulin in reducing risk of heart disease, treating gastrointestinal distress, elevating immune functions, facilitating the metabolism of lipids and reduction of risk of colonic carcinogenesis. Other research confirmed the cardioactivity of chicory in frog hearts in vitro, ascribing to the plant a digitalis-like property. This study has not been carried out in humans. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity in rats, but this also has not been tested in humans. Like many other herbs, chicory must be more thoroughly tested.

In lore, legend and life: Chicory is known as the blue sailor weed in some countries, based on a legend about a young woman who fell in love with a sailor. The sailor left her for his true love, the sea, and the young woman was left alone. The gods took pity on her and turned her into the beautiful blue flower we know as chicory

Echinacea

Scientific Name: Ecinachea purpurea

Common Name: purple coneflower

Range: Most of the eastern United States; another similar species of the flower is found in Western states with similar medicinal and cultural uses; found in open woods, thickets, fields, and meadows.

Origin: Purple coneflower is native to Eastern and Central United States

Botanical description: Purple coneflower is a 2-3 foot perennial with large, daisy-like flowers with swept back reddish-purple rays. The center disk of the flower is cone shaped, large and orange-brown in color. The leaves are low on the flower stem, long and tapering with a rough-toothed edge. The flower is unmistakable; it resembles a black-eyed susan dipped in raspberry juice. When not flowering, the plant is somewhat harder to identify.

What’s in a name: Purple coneflower’s genus name, Ecinachea, is derived from the Greek word for hedgehog, which was inspired by the appearance of the central cone.

All in the family: Purple coneflower is a member of the Compositae family, the composites, which includes the daisy-like flowers, dandelions, chicory, and a host of other Echinachea species that are also used medicinally.

Cultural uses: Purple coneflower has a long history of medicinal use. Native Americans used it as an antidote for snake bit and other venomous bites and stings. It was also used in a smoke treatment for headaches. Purple coneflower was used to calm toothaches and sore gums, and tea form it was drunk to treat colds, mumps, arthritis, and a blood purifier (often a euphemism for the treatment of venereal diseases). Further, it was used as a treatment for pain, indigestion, tumors, malaria and hemorrhoids. After a long period of disregard, purple coneflower has come back into vogue in recent years. It is used primarily as an immune-system booster and it has been used as a treatment for skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis, boils and wounds, burns, cold sores and genital herpes. It is also recommended for use to treat bronchitis, tonsillitis, meningitis, tuberculosis, abscesses, whooping cough, arthritis and ear infections.

Active compounds: alkamides, caffeic acid esters, polysaccharides, volatile oil, echinolone, and betaine

Research: Research has yet to determine what exact compounds in purple coneflower give it its medicinal properties. Early research with purple coneflower and its relatives were done with adulterated or misidentified samples, so results of those tests are unreliable. Although clinical trials have been poorly designed, animal and test tube studies have shown that purple coneflower extracts do fight certain viruses and appear to stimulate the immune system to ward off bacterial infection. Some animal studies have shown that purple coneflower promotes phagocytosis, but the results are not conclusive. Laboratory findings have shown that purple coneflower is effective in healing superficial wounds. More study must be done before any clear recommendations about the use of purple coneflower can be made.
In lore, legend and life: No particular stories ascribed to purple coneflowers could be located.

Common Plantain

Scientific Name: Plantago major

Common Name: common plantain

Range: throughout the United States; found in lawns, pastures, meadows, cracks in sidewalks, waste places and disturbed habitats

Origin: native of Europe and temperate parts of Asia

Botanical description: The common plantain has broad, irregularly rounded to oval leaves, 1-6 inches in length that form a basal rosette that is prostrate to the ground. The leaves have smooth, wavy, or toothed edges; 3 – 11 parallel veins run their length and are large and noticeable. A tall spike of inconspicuous flowers, then tiny seeds cover the central flower stalk, which stands erect from the center of the basal rosette and can be 3 – 12 inches tall. This spike of seeds easily identifies common plantain. The round, prominently veined leaves are readily found during all seasons. Plantain is so common in grassy areas that it is likely to be overlooked.

What’s in a name: Plantain’s common name comes from the Latin word planta, which means sole (as in sole of a shoe). Native Americans associated the plant with the Europeans, who seemed to leave a trail of the alien weed wherever they went, and called it “white man’s foot”.

All in the family: Common plantain is in the same family as Plantago psyllium, the plant whose mucilaginous fiber is the active ingredient in Metamucil and other bulk fiber/laxative products.

Cultural uses: In Gaelic, plantain is known as the “healing herb” because it was used in Ireland to treat wounds and bruises. Plantain was hailed by Pliny as a cure for the “madness of dogs”, and Erasmus claimed it to be an antidote for spider bite toxins. It was also said that if someone was bitten by a mad dog, rubbing plantain on the bite would heal it. Native Americans used it as an antidote to snakebite venom by rubbing its juices on the wound. It was listed as one of the nine sacred herbs in Anglo-Saxon medicine because of its healing powers. It was used as a cure for disorders of the kidney, a remedy for worms, a diuretic, and a cure for hemorrhoids, as well as a laxative.
Current use of plantain is the commercially significant extraction of its mucilage – a carbohydrate fiber that is used in gentle laxatives. Ironically, plantain infusions can be used to halt diarrhea. Mucilage also acts as an appetite suppressant and reduces intestinal absorption of fat and bile. It reduces LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. Plantain is commonly used as an astringent; its juice, when rubbed on an insect bite or bee sting, immediately sooths the area and begin the healing process. Plantain may also stop poison ivy from blistering and itching if applied to the skin immediately after contact. Plantain is still considered a diuretic; in addition, it is used as an expectorant and decongestant. It is also thought to sooth the throat and is taken to relieve laryngitis. Finally, when chewed, plantain acts as a breath freshener. If eaten early enough in the spring, plantain leaves are said to make a tasty cooked vegetable dish.

Active compounds: beta carotene, mucilage, calcium, monoterpene alkaloids, glycosides, sugars, triterpenes, linoleic acid, iridoids, and tannins.

Research: Clinical studies have verified plantain’s astringent properties; research has been conducted into the possible connection between allergic responses and the inhalation or ingestion of psyllium (see Arlian, Vyszenski-Moher, Lawrence, Schrotel, Ritz; 1992).

In lore, legend and life: Shakespeare referred to plantain in Romeo and Juliet as a cure for a broken shin; he also spoke of it as cure for sores. Chaucer also made reference to the healing powers of plantain.
Native Americans carried a small bag of powdered plantain root as a charm against snakebite.
Unscrupulous herbalists long ago removed a portion of plantain seeds from the recipe for a salve and planted them instead; the patient then had to return to the herbalist for another dose of the medicine.
Plantain, like dandelion, is a ubiquitous weed that vexes all who wish for a perfect lawn. Left to its own device, plantain can quickly overtake any grassy area.

White Clover

Scientific Name: Trifolium repens

Common Name: white clover

Range: throughout United States, except Great Plains and extreme South; found in lawns, fields, roadsides, and disturbed habitats

Origin: native to Eastern Mediterranean and Asia

Botanical description: White clover is a perennial plant with alternate compound leaves found in threes. The dark green leaves often have a white “V” or crescent in their center.
The flowers are white, sometimes tinged with pink, and are actually dense groups of individual red clover by this close to the ground growth pattern and, of course, the white flowers when flowerettes arranged in a round head. The plant grows close to the ground and is notorious for its ability to creep, or spread, by the use of stolons. White clover is most easily distinguished from blooming. Red clover plants often have larger leaves than those of white clover.

What’s in a name: Like red clover, white clover’s genus name, Trifolium, means “three leaves”, and its species name, repens, means “to creep”.

All in the family: White clover is a member of the Leguminosae family, which includes red clover and other plants such as peas, beans and peanuts that are nitrogen fixers (see description in red clover information sheet).

Cultural uses: White clover blossoms were used in folk medicine against gout, rheumatism, and leucorrhea. It was also believed that the texture of fingernails and toenails would improve after drinking clover blossom tea. Native Americans used whole clover plants in salads, and made a white clover leaf tea for coughs and colds. White clover is thought to clean the system, decreasing irritation and muscular activity of the gastrointestinal tract. It is also used to decrease the activity of the central nervous system. Like red clover, it was thought to give anyone who carried its leaves the ability to detect witches, sorcerers and good fairies in his presence. It also was seen as representing the Trinity by Christians.

Active compounds: The active compounds of the white clover are unknown.

Research: none found

Red Clover

Scientific name: Trifolium pratense

Common name: red clover

Range: throughout the United States; found in lawns, on roadsides, in fields and in other disturbed habitats.

Origin: native to the Eastern Mediterranean and Asia; naturalized to the United States

Botanical description: Red clover grows up to 16 inches, with a hairy upright stem. The leaves are made up of three (and sometimes, the lucky four!) oval leaflets with a prominent white “V” mark in the center, called a chevron. The flowers are purple to pink and are egg-shaped. Red clover are found in fields and grassy areas and are readily identified by the three part leaves, the white V in the center of each leaf, and the distinctive purple-pink flower. Without the flower, the key to differentiating red from white clover is the V mark on the leaves, present in the red clover but absent in the white.
Also, leaves of white clover are all on stems that originate from the base of a central stem; red clover leaves spring from both the base of the central stem and above.

What’s in a name: The genus name Trifolium means “three leaves”, which is characteristic not only of red but also of white clovers.

All in the family: Red clover is a member of the Leguminosae, or pea family. Other members of the family include not only peas, but beans and peanuts. These are a group of plants that are able to take nitrogen from the atmosphere and “fix” it, or make it biologically available to other plants. Nitrogen fixation is of critical importance in protein production in plants and makes the legumes a critical player in agricultural planning.

Cultural uses: Historically, tea made of the red clover flower has been used as an antispasmodic, expectorant, a mild sedative, and a blood purifier; additionally, the tea has been used for asthma, bronchitis and respiratory spasms. A wash made from the flowers is used as a topical remedy for cancer; the belief was that a concentrated decoction applied to the site of the tumor would draw it out and clear it from the body. Red clover was also used for athlete’s foot, sores, burns and skin ulcers. The flowers were also smoked in “anti-asthma” cigarettes. Today, red clover flowers are made into a wine as well as the previously described tea; they are also used to treat coughs and respiratory spasms. Estrogens in red clover may be useful in treating menstrual problems. Native Americans have been known to eat red clover in salads, and dried flowers can be dried and turned into flour that can be used in breads, muffins or pancakes. Use of red clover as an anti-AIDS and anti-diabetic medicine has been suggested.

Active compounds: flavenoids, phenolic acids (including salicylic acid), volatile oils such as methyl salicylate and benzyl alcohol, sitosterol, fatty acids, tannin and starch

Research: Studies are being done in the use of red clover for combating AIDS, diabetes and the increased cardiovascular risk associated with menopause.

In lore, legend and life: Red clover is the state flower of Vermont.
The V or crescent markings on the leaves of the red clover were once believed to be a sign that the plant would be useful in curing cataracts (in accordance with the Doctrine of Signatures, which was a belief that a plant’s appearance indicated the ills it would cure).

In ancient times, the red clover was believed to bring good luck in gaming as well as in living.
It was believed that whoever carried a three-leaf clover with him would be able to detect witches, sorcerers and good fairies around him.

Christianity believed the three-leaf clover to be a symbol of the Trinity, so the plans of churches and church windows are designed around a cloverleaf.

A favorite activity of children is to pull the individual blossoms out of the red clover flower head and suck the nectar out of the ends

Queen Anne's Lace

Scientific Name: Daucuscarota

Common Name: Queen Anne’s Lace, wild carrot

Range: throughout the United States; found in fields, meadows, waste places, roadsides, fence rows, and disturbed habitats

Origin: native to Europe

Botanical description: Queen Anne’s Lace has feathery, finely divided leaves and a stem that rise 2-4 feet tall. The showy white flower is shaped like an umbrella and is made up of many small flowers in a lace-like pattern. At the center is a purplish-black floret. The root of Queen Anne’s Lace is thick and resembles a carrot. When in bloom, Queen Anne’s Lace looks like no other flower; without the showy white umbrella of florets, the leaves of the plant look like those of the domestic carrot and a pair of deadly relatives, poison hemlock and fool’s parsley.

What’s in a name: The word carrot is Celtic and means red of color; the species name, Daucus, comes from the Greek word dais, which means to burn, signifying Queen Anne’s Lace’s pungent and stimulating qualities

All in the family: Queen Anne’s Lace is a member of the Apiaceae, or parsley, family. It is the ancestor of the domestic carrot, and is related to parsley, and the aforementioned poison hemlock and fool’s parsley.

Cultural uses: Traditionally, tea made from the root of Queen Anne’s Lace has been used as diuretic to prevent and eliminate kidney stones, and to rid individuals of worms. Its seeds have been used for centuries as a contraceptive; they were prescribed by physicians as an abortifacient, a sort of “morning after” pill. The seeds have also been used as a remedy for hangovers, and the leaves and seeds are both used to settle the gastrointestinal system. It is still used by some women today as a contraceptive; a teaspoon of seeds are thoroughly chewed, swallowed and washed down with water or juice starting just before ovulation, during ovulation, and for one week thereafter. Grated wild carrot can be used for healing external wounds and internal ulcers. The thick sap is used as a remedy for cough and congestion. The root of Queen Anne’s Lace can be eaten as a vegetable or in soup.

Active compounds: Queen Anne’s Lace contains flavonoids, essential oils, vitamins B and C, pectin, lecithin, glutamine, phosphatide and cartotin, a vitamin A precursor

Research: Chinese research has confirmed the function of Queen Anne’s Lace seeds as an abortifacient; other research has shown the plant to be a bactericidal, a diuretic, a hypotensive, and an effective treatment for parasites.

In lore, legend and life: Queen Anne’s Lace is said to have been named after Queen Anne of England, an expert lace maker. When she pricked her finger with a needle, a single drop of blood fell into the lace, thus the dark purple floret in the center of the flower.

Disaster Preparedness -- Take Your Companion Animals With You

Storm Warning! Emergency Preparedness

Everyone has been informed of the necessity of being prepared for an emergency evacuation. Very frequently the animals you are closest to are forgotten or left behind. We have all seen on TV reports in flood areas of rescue workers saving a dog from the roof of a submerged house. There is one easy solution to these and worse tragedies...TAKE YOUR PET WITH YOU!
With careful preplanning and preparation there is no need for animals to be lost or injured due to a hurricane, flashflood or anything else that may arise that you need to get the “family” to safety.

My children were always taught the necessity of being prepared no matter what the crisis (they grew up near 3-mile Island in Pennsylvania)….they carry backpacks with extra clothes, first aid kits, potable water and emergency rations of food in the trunks of their cars. They have also been taught that their companion animals are their children and should be planned for also.
So when the situation arises, everything is ready…..people, animals and supplies, all
set to go. Get in the car and leave before the situation turns deadly, go when life is easily spared.

Preplanning

Preplanning includes getting your supplies and your family ready for any emergency. Have a predesignated meeting place in or near your home. Just remember to have someone remember the dog, cat, bird, etc. They do not understand the words as children do.
Preplanning also includes having a place to go, contacts numbers set up outside of your area that anyone can call and reconnect with you if separated.

Preplanning also includes being ready for any type of emergency….injuries included to people or animal family members!

What to Take:

When you leave home plan for 1 weeks stay away. The following is a suggested list of items to have together and ready for an evacuation situation.

Medications
Medical records
First Aid Kite
Food & Water in sealed
containers
Bowls
First aide kit
Bedding
Litter and box
Leash
Collar and tags
Grooming supplies
Current pet photo (in case pet gets lost
A favorite toy or two
(esp. for cats) a sturdy well ventilated carrier

Where to Go

There are literally NO human emergency shelters which allow you to take your pets into the shelter with you, unless they are work animals (I.e. seeing eye dogs.) So the question arises HOW do you take the pet with you...preplanning!

Call now to find out which motels outside your area allow pets in their rooms, keep a list near the phone for easy access. When the situation arises, call and reserve a room early.
Another option is to set up with a family member or friend outside of your area that would allow you to come and stay with them during the crises, knowing that that would mean pets and all!
Find camping areas that allow your pets to come with, if you are fortunate enough to have an RV this should be simple! Post these numbers by the phone also so that reservations may be made as early as possible!

First Aide

Before worry over injuries prepare the pets with constant health maintenance, such as keeping all vaccines current, flea control and heartworm prevention monthly.

In preparing for an emergency evacuation it is wise to have the training and knowledge to handle any situation. A good early step in being ready is to take the Red Cross First Aid Course for animals. There they will teach you how to handle basic first aid procedures and animal CPR.

The next step is to have a basic first aid kit. Below is a list of first aide supplies to have in a water proof container to carry with you:

Latex gloves
Gauze sponges a variety of sizes, both large and small Roll gauze, 2 inch
Roll bandages, such as gauze wrap that stretches and clings to itself
Material to make a splint ( pieces of wood, news paper or magazines
Adhesive tape, hypo-allergenic
Non-adherent sterile pads
Small scissors (bandage)
Grooming clippers or a safety razor
Nylon leash
Towel
Muzzle
Compact thermal blanket
Pediatric rectal thermometer
Water based sterile lubricant
Hydrogen peroxide
Rubbing alcohol
Topical antibiotic ointment
Epsom salts
Baby dose syringe or non-glass eye dropper
Sterile eye lubricant
Sterile saline eye wash
Glucose paste or kayro corn syrup
Styptic powder or pencil
Expired credit card to scrape away stingers
petroleum jelly
penlight
clean cloth
needle-nosed pliers
A list of emergency numbers
Pet’s vet
24 hr ER Vet Hospital
National Animal Poison Control Center 1-800- 548-2423 or 1-900-680- 0000

Going Home

After an evacuation the return home can be just as traumatic. Prepare for it in advance also. Make sure that the authorities have cleared the area for entering, do a dry run home before moving back in and let others know of your plans to go and check everything out before you leave your evacuation place.

When you return home, Proceed with Caution, check out the area around your home and property for any hazards before allowing pets to enter, run and explore. A downed tree can be hiding live electrical lines; weakened floor boards can lead to a nasty fall; etc.

Check your food and water supply to make sure there are no contaminations.
Walk pets on a leash until all hazards are removed and the animal is reoriented to the area. Also until all repairs to home, fences, etc can be accomplished.

Disaster Preparedness - First Aide

When preparing for a disaster one must think about the safety of the family. Injuries and sickness do occur, especially during time of emergency.

The best way to handle any emergency is thorough preperation. Take the time to contact The Red Cross in your area and take their first aide, advanced first aide and CPR classes. In fact every person, including children, should take these classes. Also purchase a good first aide book.....Red Cross also offers these.

You will need a first aide kit. The following items are suggestions only:

MEDICATIONS

· Antibiotic Ointment
· Medications For All Family Members
· Aspirin and/or Pain Relief Medication
· Diarrhea Medication
· Eye Drops
· Cold/Cough Medicine
· Benadryl
· Insect Spray
· Ear and Nose Drops
· Hydrogen Peroxide
· Skin Disinfectant Spray
· Extra Prescription Medication
· Old Pair Of Prescription Eyeglasses For Spare

MEDICAL MATERIALS

· Band-aids
· Medical Latex Gloves
· Surgical Mask
· Instant Cold Packs
· Instant Hot Packs
· Ace Bandages
· Butterfly Bandages
· Gauze Pads
· Cotton Swabs
· Adhesive Tape
· 2" & 4" Wide Sterile Bandage Rolls
· Triangular Bandage For Sling, Etc. (37" x 37" x 52")
· Tongue Depressors (Pop-sickle Sticks)
· Splint Material Spray Bottle With 10% Bleach Solution For Disinfecting Objects

Remember that this list is a suggestion only....every family is different, with different needs, allow for this, plan for this

Dandelion

Scientific Name: Taraxacum officinale

Common Name: common dandelion

Range: throughout the United States; found in lawns, fields and meadows, along roadsides, cracks of sidewalks, and disturbed habitats.

Origin: Native of Europe and Asia

Botanical description: The common dandelion is a perennial, herbaceous plant with long, lance-shaped leaves that are deeply toothed. The leaves are 3 to 12 inches long and grow from a basal rosette. It has yellow composite flowers that are 1-2 inches wide and grow individually on hollow, purplish stalks 2 to 18 inches tall. Each flower head is made up of hundreds of tiny rays. Familiar to most viewers is the white, globular “seed head”.

The dandelion has a thick, highly branched taproot. All parts of the plant contain a sticky, milky white sap.

Dandelions are generally easily recognizable in all seasons. The growth of leaves from the basal rosette, the leaf shape with its characteristic multi-toothed edges (although some dandelions exhibit less toothiness and a smoother, broader leaf – these are generally found in shady areas) is easy to spot even in winter. If unsure, break a stem or leaf and the characteristic milky sap will emerge. When in bloom, dandelions are bright yellow and hard to miss.

What’s in a name: The genus name of the dandelion comes from the Greek word taraxos, which means disorder, and akos, which means remedy. The species name, officinale, means that it is used medicinally. The common name may come from the Greek word leontodon, which means lion’s tooth. Other sources claim the word dandelion comes from the old French word Dent-de-lion or from the Latin dens leonis, both also meaning lion’s tooth or teeth.

All in the family: The common dandelion is a member of the Composite family, with relatives including Ecinachea (purple coneflower), chicory and other daisy-like flowers.
Cultural uses: Various Native American groups used dandelions for food, a dermatological aid, a gastrointestinal aid, a cure for sore throats, an analgesic, a blood purifier, a sedative, a laxative, an emetic, a love potion, and a general tonic for good health. The first use of the dandelion as a medicine was by Arabian physicians in the 10th and 11th centuries. References to the use of dandelion as a medicine was also found writings of physicians in Wales in the 13th century.
Today, dandelions are still used as food; many enjoy the dandelion leaves boiled like spinach or mixed in salads. Baby dandelion leaves are often found in haute cuisine. The root, when dried, has been used in coffee substitutes. But it is as a medicine that dandelion continues to shine. Dandelion leaves are used as a diuretic, but an unconventional one. While most diuretic preparations leach potassium from the body, dandelion leaves provide an abundant source of potassium. Leaves are also used to treat high blood pressure because of their ability to reduce the volume of fluid in the body. Dandelion root has been shown to stimulate bile production by the liver and is used to cleanse the liver. The root is also a gentle laxative. It is considered one of the most effective detoxifying herbs. It works on the liver, the kidneys and the gallbladder to accelerate the removal of toxins from the body. It also is used to relieve constipation, skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis, to prevent and possibly dissolve gallstones, and to treat osteoarthritis and gout. Parts of the dandelion may be consumed in a tea, a wine, an extract or tincture, or in combination with other medicinal herbs and flavorings in a reduced broth.

Active compounds: sesquiterpene lactones, triterpenes, vitamins A,B,C,D, coumarins, carotenoids, potassium and other minerals, taraxacoside, and phenolic acids

Research: Various clinical studies have demonstrated the legitimate use of dandelion as a diuretic, a bile production stimulant, a mild laxative, and an excellent source of potassium. Other studies have been only mildly indicative of any medicinal properties of dandelion, and those have been done in mice and rodents.

In lore, legend and life: Dandelions were actually brought to the United States from Europe to provide food for honeybees; now they grow wild worldwide and are more difficult to exterminate than almost any other weed.

Dandelions are used to make an herbal beer in England and Canada. Children use dandelion seed heads to make wishes by blowing the seeds away from the receptacle on which they are held.

Dandelion pollen causes severe allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to other pollens such as ragweed.

Young dandelion buds can be fried in butter and eaten; enthusiasts claim they taste like mushrooms.

Dandelions have been called “piss-a-beds” because of their strong diuretic properties.