Herbal Pharmacy – 12

Terrific Toner: The tannins in witch hazel help it tone skin and tighten pores, leaving the skin cool and refreshed. It also helps kill breakout-causing bacteria. To make a skin toner, combine equal parts distilled water and witch hazel. Use a spray bottle or cosmetic pad to apply.

Amazing Herbs: Adaptogens are a class of herbs thought to help the body regulate itself. These may actually help reduce physical and emotional stress. Adaptogens are considered to be “tonic” herbs, which means that most healthy adults can consume them (in recommended doses). Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Ashwagandha, Asian ginseng, astragalus, rhodiola, and holy basil are considered to be adaptogens.

India has one of the lowest rates of Alzheimer’s disease. Some researchers attribute this to their consumption of curries which usually contain turmeric, a root rich in the anti-inflammatory compound curcumin. Future research will determine whether eating turmeric could be a natural way to combat dementia.

Ginkgo has long been marketed as “the memory herb” due to its apparent ability to enhance memory. Ginkgo also contains anti-oxidants that can improve blood circulation to the brain by dilating blood vessels. The dried leaves of the Ginkgo trees can be brewed as a tea, or purchased as capsules or tablets. Because ginkgo can interact with other medications, it should be taken only under the supervision of your health-care provider.

Yarrow is an anti-inflammatory, as well a styptic (stops bleeding). It can be used topically. As a poultice it may also reduce swelling from muscle aches and strains. Dried yarrow extract is used as first aid for minor cuts and scrapes to reduce bleeding. FYI, in the 1950s a little bottle of BFI Powder contained sulfur and yarrow. The powder was sold in tiny, metal cans with a shaker top. It was applied to the skin to stop bleeding — from razor cuts, for example.

Dandelion is an herb. As far back as 1880, studies showed that dandelion is an effective treatment for hepatitis and swollen liver. Research is underway to determine if the simple dandelion root will protect the liver from harmful toxins such as carbon tetrachloride (used in cleaning products and home building materials). If you do make yourself a cup of dandelion tea, check that the leaves are organic and have not been sprayed with toxins or grown near busy highways.

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17 easy-to-grow herbs: Basil, chives, dill, fennel, garlic, lavender, lemon balm, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, scented geranium, thyme, winter savory, bay, cilantro.

11 plants that repel mosquitoes: Citronella, lemon balm, catnip, marigolds, basil, lavender, peppermint, garlic, pennyroyal, rosemary and tansy.

9 herbs that you can keep fresh and grow in water: Peppermint, oregano, sage, stevia, basil, thyme, rosemary, catnip, and lemon balm. Take fresh cuttings from any of these herb plants. Remove all but the 2 top leaves from the stems. Fill one or more mason jars or glasses half-full with water, add 2 or 3 stems per glass and place them by a sunny window. They will likely start growing leaves and roots in a few days. Change the water 3 times a week. You can plant them later or just keep them in water.

15 medicinal herbs for your garden: Ginger, lavender, garlic, catnip, thyme, tea tree, sage, lemon balm, peppermint, Echinacea, dandelion, oregano, chamomile, fenugreek, turmeric.

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August Calendar Planting Dates

Above ground crops, 1, 4, 6, 24, 28
Root crops, 9, 11
Annual flowers, 24, 28
Plant perennials, 9, 11
Plant roses, shrubs, trees, vines, 9, 11, 13,
Transplant herbs, 4, 6, 11
Harvest Medicinal Herbs- 7th, 21st

Full Moon, August 7th
Last Quarter, August 14th
New Moon, August 21st
First Quarter, August 29th

August’s flower is the gladiolus — “small sword”. The month’s color is yellow, and it is named after Emperor Augustus Caesar.

Blessed Be, sweet ones

~ Meadow Walker

Image courtesy of: plantingapractice.com