From the Herb Basket

 

Going camping? Here’s a neat idea for packing herbs, spices, salt and pepper. Transfer your favorite herbs and seasonings into empty Tic Tac  containers. Mark each with a label. The compact plastic boxes make a wonderful space saver when packing food items for the trip.

Beautiful Basil: Basil is packed with calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C. These work together to help lower blood pressure and reduce stress. Basil is also rich in vitamin K, which boosts circulation and keeps arteries clear. Use fresh basil if possible in teas, pasta dishes, salads, or for making a wonderful pesto with oil and nuts.

The next time you’re enjoying a cup of your favorite herbal tea, add a few tablespoons of the tea to some cosmetic cotton rounds. Place each round single file on small sheets of foil, fold over and store in the freezer. Whenever your eyes look puffy or swollen, take out 2 frozen cotton rounds and place one over each eye. Relax for 5 to 10 minutes as the cold temperatures erase the swelling. Best herbs to use: Spearmint, Chamomile and Lemon Balm.

According to Korean scientists, older garlic has 45 percent more antioxidants than fresh bulbs. The reason is this: When bulbs first begin the process of sprouting inside the paper hulls, they produce a substance called phytoalexins – anti-oxidant chemicals that prevent free-radical damage that can lead to heart disease.

Fever blisters: Bruise fresh lemon balm leaves to release the healing power of this wonderful herb. Apply the leaves to the blisters several times each day. Be sure to use fresh leaves each time. Applying the leaves will reduce itching and pain as the fever blisters heal. You can also soak the leaves in warm water and dab the water on the blisters.

The famous Dr. Oz has deemed Holy Basil as “an incredible alternative health secret.” Research shows it helps the body cope with stress, reducing the “fight or flight” cortisol that’s produced in response. Women who take Holy Basil typically notice their belly fat begins to diminish within one week.

June 13th is the Full Strawberry Moon. June 21st is Summer Solstice [ the longest day ]

“The hum of the bees is the voice of the garden.”

~ Elizabeth Lawrence – American Poet

~ Meadow Walker