October 2014

Samhain Reflection – Connection and Renewal

October 29, 2014 // 0 Comments

Symbolism of Samhain [ pronounced [say – wen] Third Harvest, Dark Mysteries, Rebirth Through Death For those who follow the old ways, Samhain is the time when we honor our ancestors who came before us. For the veil is thinnest on these three nights, October 31, November 1, November 2. If we are fortunate enough [ ...click to read more ]

Happy Halloween to All Our Readers… and Some Herbal Safety Tips

October 28, 2014 // 1 Comment

Happy Halloween (or Samhain) to all our readers !! If you look at the stats, calls about plant ingestion to poison control centers do not usually involve culinary or medicinal herbs, but decorative house plants such as holly berries, mistletoe and poinsettias. Should you need to call the American Association of Poison [ ...click to read more ]

Herbs of the Zodiac

October 23, 2014 // 6 Comments

Aries– Garlic, hemp, marjoram, mustard seed, Angelica root Taurus– Coltsfoot, dandelion, sage, thyme, patchouli, cedar Gemini– Caraway seed, lavender, mandrake, vervain , witch hazel, mugwort, wormwood, spearmint Cancer– Lemon verbena, marigold, geranium, apple, catnip Leo– Anise, bay [ ...click to read more ]

Herbal Beauty ~ Natural Beauty

October 19, 2014 // 0 Comments

Herbal Splash Toner for Dry Skin 1/2 cup of boiling water 1/4 cup fresh parsley [ about 1 heaping tablespoon ] Chop the parsley and place in a small bowl. Pour the boiling water over the parsley and let it cool. Strain out the parsley and pour the liquid into a small container. Apply to the face and neck area using [ ...click to read more ]

Huacatay (Tagetes minuta) — Minty Herb from Peru — also called Peruvian Black Mint

October 13, 2014 // 13 Comments

I planted the huacatay seeds in pots (using regular potting soil) around the beginning of April of this year. These were seeds collected from last year’s crop. Most of them (70%) sprouted in about 5 days. I transplanted the seedlings to the garden when they were about two or three inches tall. It’s [ ...click to read more ]

For Your Information/Ebola Virus

October 11, 2014 // 1 Comment

There is no vaccine for the ebola virus. There are no medicines, no cures. Your best defense is a strong immune system, proper hydration, attention to hygiene and proper rest. Wash hands in plain soap and water. Do not use hand sanitizers or alcohol wipes. Wash your hands for 30 seconds, rinse well, and use paper [ ...click to read more ]

Herbal Pharmacy

October 9, 2014 // 3 Comments

Heal Thyself… Stuffy nose: Drink 1 teaspoon freshly grated horseradish mixed with 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice. Horseradish produces quick mucus release, and the lemon juice cuts the sting of the horseradish. Drink it quickly for fast relief. Gum pain: Rub a few whole cloves on the afflicted area. It won’t [ ...click to read more ]

Crossword Puzzle – “Garden Dealings”

October 5, 2014 // 0 Comments

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October Recipes

October 1, 2014 // 0 Comments

Pork Chops and Cabbage 6 thick, boneless pork chops 1 large onion 1 small head of cabbage 1 cup of milk Seasoned salt, pepper and paprika Brown the chops on both sides in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Slice the onion and add to the chops after you have browned them. Cook over low heat until the onions are tender. [ ...click to read more ]