Oat bed, or behind shorter plants in the tentative ideas into direction and find landscape. After the threat of frost, a meaningful path in life. Avena sativa rough up the soil surface, and thickly Oatstraw is about four times more scatter the seeds. (I use a 5-pound nutrient-dense than oatmeal, provid- Grass Family (Poaceae) bag for the previous year’s 25-by- ing calcium, silica, magnesium, and 25-foot chicken run.) Tamp them in potassium. Use it for healthy hair, Body Systems: Nervous/Adrenal, lightly. Water periodically if you don’t skin, and nails and to heal broken Nutritive, Bones, Skin, Connective have regular rainfall. Oats will die off bones, and as a pleasant lightly sweet Tissue in winter and enrich the soil. haylike background flavor for delicate yet flavorful herbs like lemongrass annual Nourishing and Restorative and Korean mint. Milky oat seed nourishes the adrenal- A Cover Crop with Purpose nervous system to soothe, calm, Safe, but Celiacs Beware Oats offer three forms of herbal rebuild, and nourish. Think of it as Milky oat seed and oatstraw are medicine — grain, milky oat seed, and food for the nerves, and take it in safe and foodlike, often used in high oatstraw — each with different appli- regular moderately high doses for doses. Oats do not contain gluten, cations, yet sharing the same ability months to get the best effects. It’s and when you grow your own, you to nourish and soothe. People rarely specifically indicated for when you don’t need to worry about gluten grow it in the garden (and process- feel burnt out, wired, and tired, and contamination. That said, oats con- ing oatmeal is too tedious for most it combines well with calm-energy tain glutenlike proteins called avenins gardeners), but it’s a great cover crop adaptogens and gentle nervines in that some people may react to. If you that doubles as medicine. Consider blends. As a flower essence (page know you react to oatmeal, skip all growing oat in a new or old garden 68), oat helps restless souls convert forms of oat. Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Oats Milky Oat Seed: Squeeze a few in the plot to ensure they’re ready — they should pop and exude a milky latex. Then run your hands up each stalk so the seeds slide off between your fingers. To extract the seeds, whir them in a blender with alcohol, vin- egar, glycerine, or water. Fresh only. Once dried, they’re more like oatstraw. Oatstraw: When the plant is vital, green, and happy (perhaps directly after you harvest the milky seeds), cut one-third to two- thirds of the grassy tops. Dry. Then use sharp, sturdy scissors to chop it into pieces. Extract vastly more minerals by simmering or making a super infusion. Tea (Oatstraw): 1 teaspoon to 1/4 ounce dried herb/cup; infusion, super infusion, or decoction, 1–4 cups daily. Nice in super infusions as well as simmering broths Tincture (Milky Seed): 2–5 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol or vinegar (best) or glycerine Recipes: Nettle-Oat Super Infusion, page 78; with Chai Base, page 78; Nutri-Tea, page 79; Nutri-Broth, page 80; Milky Seed–Milky Oats Tincture, page 106; Stress Support Tincture Blend, page 107; Mellow Me Glycerite, page 125 Milky oat seeds are ready only for a few days of the year. White latex should spurt out when you squish and pop them. 290 H e a l i n g G a r d en H er bs
Oregano Pungent Antimicrobial meat, sausage, lamb, chicken, and Winter savory, summer savory, grilled fish like sea bass, as well as Origanum vulgare and bee balm (especially M. fistu- white beans, chili, tomatoes, hot pep- losa) can stand in for oregano and pers, eggplant, curdito, feta, garlic, Mint Family (Lamiaceae) tend to be more reliably potent. cumin, and paprika. Simultaneously (Marjoram, while closely related, antimicrobial and antioxidant-rich, Body Systems: Immune, lacks the antimicrobial punch.) Bee oregano preserves food and extends Respiratory, Digestive, Gut, Skin, balm (page 249) remains my favor- its shelf life and improves the digest- Antimicrobial ite due to its beauty and prolific ibility of old meat and fatty dishes. growth, and medicinally it’s more of Oregano and friends boost diges- perennial, a mix between oregano and thyme. tion in general and help with gas and Zones 4–8 Likewise, you can use oregano as a bloating — perhaps that’s why it’s so general aromatic antimicrobial. All popular in bean chili. Mediterranean Heat Lover these herbs open, warm, and disin- The use of oregano as an integral fect the lungs, relieve sinus infections, Safe but Hot and Dry medicinal and culinary herb origi- address stomach bugs and yeast Oregano and friends are safe for nated in the Mediterranean region infections, and can also be applied most people, children, and animals. and eventually spread around the topically to treat infections, wounds, It’s often used as an essential oil — world. Many cultivars exist, and grow- and fungus. far more potent — but crude herbal ing conditions also influence the formulas work extremely well with flavor and potency. Nibble a leaf — Culinary Queen even greater safety. That said, it’s a you want a hot, spicy, pungent bite. Being half Sicilian, I go through more hot, dry herb more suited for slug- You can grow oregano in a pampered oregano in my kitchen than any other gish, cold, damp, stagnant conditions garden bed, but a sunny, semidry spot culinary herb. It’s not only essential and people and less for hot and dry bumps up the potency. Here in New for southern Italian cuisine and pizza circumstances where it might irritate Hampshire, where the heat of sum- but also Latin American and Middle instead (for example: respiratory mer doesn’t last long, I find it chal- Eastern fare. It pairs well with ground conditions, gut health). lenging to grow really strong oregano. Oregano may be more famous for Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Oregano medicine, but bee balm makes an equally effective and more prolific substitute. Trim happy aerial parts, preferably before it flowers. Taste your plant peri- odically to see when it’s most pungent — likely after a hot, dry spell. Use fresh or dried. Parts Used: aerial/leaves Tea: 1/2–1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Tincture: 1–3 ml, 1–3 times daily. solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol Syrup, Honey, Vinegar, Oxymel, Glycerite: 1 teaspoon as needed Capsules/Powder: 500–2,000 mg crude herb daily Food: liberally in food (see above), broth, pesto, hummus Topical: oil (preferably alcohol-intermediary), bath/soak, compress, liniment, vinegar Recipes: Dandelion-Violet Weed Pesto, page 88; Bee Balm-Mint Tea, page 171; Ick Stick Thuja Salve, page 199 He ali n g G ard en H er bs 291
Passionflower by herb growers, but you can trust Calming All Over Strictly Medicinal Seeds for spring- Passionflower gently calms many Passiflora incarnata shipped seedlings. Protect it in winter body systems and can be employed in Zone 6 (the very edge of its range). for digestive, cardiac, and respiratory Passionflower Family Plant in a protected spot or bring it issues related to tension, anxiety, (Passifloraceae) indoors where it does nicely in a pot, stress, or agitation — for example, blooming through winter. stress-induced asthma and hyper- Body Systems: Nervous, Mood, tension. Perfect for formulas. As Cardiovascular, Respiratory Natural Sedative a flower essence (page 68), pas- As one of our most reliable, safe sionflower helps connect you to the perennial, sedatives, passionflower brings deep divine within yourself and follow your Zones 6–9 sleep. In studies, it was more effective creative passions. Simply staring at and broad-acting for insomnia com- the mandala-like flower will help you Otherworldly Tropical pared to other popular sleep herbs, relax and find peace. Passionflower rambles somewhat particularly in blends. It’s specific for invasively across the southeastern people who can’t shut off their brains Safe Sedative states, putting forth stunning blooms due to mind chatter. People prone While safe for children, adults, and and edible maypop passionfruit. to anger, frustration, and frenetic elders, you’ll want to start with Many species exist, but trust only P. energy usually find it a lovely calming, low doses to gauge your personal incarnata for medicinal use — other cooling remedy. It can be useful for response and ensure it’s not too species may lack the safety and anxiety solo or in formula, but it may sedating (making you groggy, slug- benefits. It has white petals, a purple make some people too sleepy, slug- gish, depressed, or sleepy during crown, and three-lobed leaves. Seek gish, or even depressed. the day). the plant from a trustworthy source. I’ve seen it labeled incorrectly even You’ll be mesmerized by passionflower’s otherworldly blooms and heavenly Harvesting, Preparing, and Using aroma. Its name originated with Spanish missionaries in the New World who Passionflower used the parts of the flower to illustrate their teachings about the Passion of Christ. Cut back aerial parts, preferably while in flower. Use fresh or freshly dried. 292 H e a l i n g G a r d en H er bs Parts Used: aerial/vine, leaves, flowers Tea: 1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily or at night Tincture: 1–5 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol Syrup, Glycerite, Oxymel: 1 teaspoon as needed Capsules/Powder: 250–1,000 mg crude herb as needed Recipes: Mellow Me Glycerite, page 125; Sleep Tea, page 130; Sleep Tinctures, page 131; Soothing Lung Tea, page 176; Peaceful Heart Tea, page 231
Plantain children quickly learn to identify it. astringent properties without being Interchangeable plantain species overly slimy. It’s perfect in gut heal- Plantago major include Northeast native (P. rugelii, ing teas, and lung soothing recipes, often confused with P. major) and the including broth. The leaves make ser- Plantain Family (Plantaginaceae) almost ornamental English plantain viceable food — ground into pesto, (P. lanceolata). cooked, baked like kale chips — if you Body Systems: Respiratory, Gut, can get past the stringy veins (similar Skin, Immune First Aid Care to celery’s). The seed heads can be Best known for first aid, the fresh leaf dried and ground for soluble fiber perennial, poultice quickly and effectively draws and a grainlike substance much like Zones 3–10 out venom, splinters, and irritation its relative psyllium, but it’s tedious to when applied quickly to bug bites, harvest. White Man’s Footprint bee stings, and poison ivy. It may European explorers intentionally and even avert an allergic reaction (but Very Safe unintentionally brought this medici- still use your EpiPen). The infused oil, This plant agrees with almost every- nal potherb weed with them to the vinegar, or low-alcohol tincture spray one and is safe as food. Be sure of Americas; however, native species has a subtler anti-itch effect for poi- what you’re harvesting. Before it were already here. Plantain likes to son ivy and rashes. Alder leaf (Alnus blooms, English plantain is less dis- grow where people walk — along spp.) can be substituted. tinctive looking than other species pathways, in lawns, through side- and could be mistaken for several walks. The better the soil, the bigger Demulcent Astringent other plants, including a deadly the leaves will grow. With its stringy- Underrated for its other uses, plan- narrow-leafed foxglove. veined wide basal leaves and upright tain leaf has gentle demulcent and seed stalk, this first aid plant helps Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Plantain Harvest happy leaves anytime. Use fresh or dried. Parts Used: leaves Tea: 1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Tincture: 2–5 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol Glycerite, Syrup: 1 teaspoon as needed Food: in broth, as a cooked or raw green (not amazing) Topical: poultice (especially fresh), oil, salve, liniment, vinegar, bath, compress Recipes: Soothing Lung Tea, page 176; Nettle- Peppermint-Mallow Tea, page 183; Super Skin Salve, page 198; Plantain Salve, page 198; First Aid Simple: Plantain Oil, page 199; Plantain Poultice, page 205; Plantain-Yarrow Bite Rub, page 205 This underrated weed pops up in lawns and pavement cracks. It does far more than quell bug bites and bee stings. He ali n g G arden H er bs 293
Raspberry Rose-Family Toner Nutritive Tea A gentle tonic plant — yet another Raspberry leaves contain appreciable Rubus idaeus rose-family astringent — raspberry levels of vitamin C, bioflavonoids, leaves contain mild tannins that iron, and calcium and make a nice Rose Family (Rosaceae) tighten, tone, and astringe the tis- nutritive tea base, particularly for sues. Like the leaves of many in the women. Of course the edible, often Body Systems: Reproductive, rose family (strawberry, blackberry, delicious, Rubus berries are loaded Gut, Skin, Mouth, Nutritive lady’s mantle, cinquefoil), raspberry with antioxidants. As a flower essence leaf makes a tea that tastes a bit like (page 68), raspberry brings forgive- perennial, true tea but comes without the caf- ness while blackberry manifests Zones 4–8 feine and was common in “Liberty thoughts and desires into reality. Tea” blends during the American Bramble Berry Revolution. Raspberry improves the Safe but Astringent Raspberries amble easily via under- muscle tone of the uterus and lining. Generally very safe, even in modest ground root runners that are a bane Considered a tonic at any stage of a doses (not super infusions) during in the garden but not so bad in the woman’s life, it facilitates childbirth pregnancy and for children. However, wilder edges of your property. It and recuperation after pregnancy. the astringency may upset sensi- has fine bristly “thorns,” pinnately It tones the skin, gut, mouth, gums, tive stomachs, especially without compound leaves, and red berries and possibly the prostate, and helps food or sweetener, and could be with a hollow center. For medicine, stanch diarrhea, vaginal discharge, mildly constipating if drunk in excess. use wild raspberry, which does not heavy menstrual flow, and mild (non- Theoretically, the tannins might produce a lot of fruit — it has better life-threatening) gastrointestinal reduce mineral absorption. Although leaves. Perennial roots put forth bien- or uterine bleeding. Many plants blackberry root is excellent for both nial canes. Harvest leaves from the in the Rubus genus can be used as acute and chronic diarrhea, note that first-year canes in late spring/early astringents with varying strength. diarrhea may serve a purpose (flush- summer: bright, happy leaves, green Blackberry (R. fruticosus and R. allegh- ing out pathogens) or need to be stems. The stems get woodier as they eniensis) roots help stanch diarrhea examined by a medical doctor so that enter the second year, which is when in dysentery and cranky bowel flare- the root cause can also be addressed. they produce flowers and fruit. Good ups. It’s quite nice infused in black- raspberry leaves have a fruity tang berry brandy or wine! when you nibble them. Wild raspberries grow in thickets along the Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Raspberry edges of forests and yards. The leaves can easily be harvested in abundance. Note the Trim leaves from first-year canes (described above). Wearing gloves white underside of the leaf. is advised to avoid splinters from the prickles, especially when pro- cessing the dried herb. Use as tea. For blackberry roots, trim back the 294 H e a l i n g G a r d en H er bs plant so you can access the soil, then dig up the long, thin root run- ners. Often extracted as a tincture or similar extract. Parts Used: raspberry leaves, blackberry root, berries Tea (leaves): 1 teaspoon or more dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Tincture, Glycerite, Syrup, Cordial (roots): 1–5 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol • Add 10 percent glycerine to stabilize tannins and improve shelf life Food: Enjoy the berries! Recipes: Nutri-Tea, page 79; Lady Tea, page 243
Red Clover biochanin A as well as daidzein and clearing skin conditions via “blood its metabolite equol, which are not purification.” It’s added to alterative Trifolium pratense as potent as soy phytoestrogens but detoxification blends for this rea- serviceable. Phytoestrogens — com- son. Perhaps related to this (many Legume Family (Fabaceae) mon in legumes — bind preferentially immune cells reside in the lymph), to estrogen receptor sites, blocking red clover has a long-standing repu- Body Systems: Reproductive, the production of natural estrogen tation for fighting cancer. It appears Lymph, Detoxification, Immune but are much weaker (possessing in several controversial formulas less than 1 percent of the strength including Hoxey’s and some varia- perennial, of your body’s natural estrogen), tions of Essiac. Highly preliminary lab Zones 5–9 making them useful for managing studies support its use as an antipro- an overabundance of estrogen and liferative that also induces cancer cell Cover Crop Weed as a minor source of estrogen dur- death. Some studies suggest red clo- Red clover grows wild in lawns, fields, ing postmenopause, when levels ver inhibits breast cancer cells while and meadows and along sunny would be low. With long-term use, others find that it fuels them. As a woodland paths, and farmers plant it relieves hot flashes, night sweats, flower essence (page 68), red clover it as a cover crop to fix nitrogen and and tender breasts (mastalgia). As a helps people think for themselves in bring nutrients into the soil. Red clo- phytoestrogen and a source of cal- the face of group influence or mob ver has purple-magenta blossoms, cium and other nutrients, it’s added mentality. hairy stems, and green leaves often to nourishing infusions for strong grouped in threes, with a greenish bones. Studies show that red clover Preparation Problems white triangle or V on each leaf. It’s isoflavones prevent bone from break- Dried red clover is generally safe for easy to wildcraft, but you can also ing down as quickly during post- most people. Its effects in estrogen- plant it in your lawn on the edge of menopause and improve the efficacy dependent cancer are unclear. Proper the property (it won’t produce flow- of calcium, magnesium, and calcitrol. harvesting and drying is important. ers if you mow it) or incorporate Gut bacteria improve the potency, Red clover forms toxic coumarins if it it into areas sown with milky oats. and some research suggests that tak- dries too slowly or ferments, and clo- Unlike oats, clover won’t die in winter ing probiotics helps, too. ver infected with black patch fungus and will need to be plowed into the may contain the mycotoxin slafra- soil if you need to clear it for a future Lymph Mover, Cancer mine. Both can be deadly to grazing garden bed. Fighter? animals but human exposure to toxic As a tea or tincture, red clover and doses rarely occurs. See drying tips Minerals, Phytoestrogen other clovers improve lymph flow, below to limit these risks. Red clover blossoms contain phy- draining edema, lymph swellings, and toestrogenic isoflavones including Pretty red clover blossoms taste pleasant Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Red Clover in tea and look lovely in dried blends. Home-harvested clover surpasses Pinch off the colorful young flowers with the top leaves, preferably in the anything you can buy. morning. Only use happy-looking red clover. Process fresh immediately for tinctures. Dry thoroughly and quickly in the dehydrator. Parts Used: flower heads with top three leaves Tea: 1 tablespoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Tincture: 1–5 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol Food: fresh flowers taste nice as a garnish Recipes: Nutri-Tea, page 79; Lady Tea, page 243 He ali n g G arden H er bs 295
Rose Astringent Aromatic also produce nutritious antioxidant- The leaves and flowers of this family and bioflavonoid-rich fruits. Rose hips Rosa spp. (raspberry, lady’s mantle, strawberry) may taste fruity, tart, slightly sweet, or contain gentle astringent tannins, safe tomatoey. Fresh, they provide ample Rose Family (Rosaceae) enough for regular use to tighten and vitamin C, but vitamin C dissipates tone tissues, mucous membranes, with drying, cooking, and storage. Body Systems: Nutritive, Mood, skin (toner), and the gut (leaky gut, You’ll retain 45 times more vitamin C Nerve, Cardiovascular, Gut, Skin, diarrhea). They’re employed in mid- in a jam than tea. Bioflavonoids persist Reproductive wifery in various stages of pregnancy well and help you get more out of the and labor to prepare the uterus for vitamin C. Together, they support perennial, birth, stanch bleeding, and help lady immune function, connective tissue Zones 2–7 bits heal. Rose additionally offers repair, and wound healing. They also (depending on species) aromatic essential oils that nour- promote heart health and decrease ish and relax irritated or damaged inflammation. In flower essences Finding a Good Rose tissues (uterus, skin) while calming (page 68), the blossoms help worka- There are hundreds of rose species. the mind, gladdening the heart, and holics stop and smell the roses, aid Opt for wild and heirloom species uplifting the spirits. Rose’s aromatics healing from traumatic experiences, with fragrant flowers and/or plump, foster self-love and heal the heart and heal the emotional heart. red hips. Favorites include seaside (R. after trauma. Sprinkle petals in tea, rugosa), dog rose (R. canina), Damask cold water, honey, or glycerine in cool, Safe for Most People (R. damascena), apothecary (R. gallica long-term infusions to maximize aro- Roses are quite safe, but strongly var. officinalis), and cabbage (R. centi- matics. Alcohol and hot water extract brewed flowers may be too astrin- folia). Forage invasive multiflora rose more of the bitter, astringent tannins. gent and drying for some, leading to (R. multiflora), but don’t plant it. Roses constipation or nausea. Some people do best in full sun with periodic prun- Antioxidant Fruits simply don’t like the aroma. ing or thinning. Hedge roses can get Much like its relatives (raspberry, invasive, so keep them on the edge of strawberry, apple, hawthorn), roses your yard or sprawling along a wall. Fancy roses are prone to disease and Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Rose hardier ones ramble out of control, but they nonetheless remain the most eye- Use flowers and hips fresh or dry (in a dehydrator). Pinch off blooms or catching, beloved herbs in the landscape. pull petals, preferably in the morning. Gather rose hips in fall when they’re ripe and tasty. Check for bugs. Dry whole small or cut large hips. Once they’re cut, you’ll need to scoop out seeds or strain through a fine cloth. Parts Used: flowers, petals, hips (different uses) Tea: 1/2–1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Glycerite, Syrup, Honey, Oxymel, Vinegar, Hydrosol: 1 teaspoon Food: Hips as jam, jelly, juiced. Flowers as a garnish and infused in water Topical (Flowers): glycerite, hydrosol, tea spritz, bath/soak Recipes (Flowers): Yummy Teas, page 94; Infused Soda, Seltzer, and Water, page 97; Holy Rose Water, page 107; Stress Support Tincture Blend, page 107; Happy Tea, page 118; Good Mood Tincture, page 119; Rose Glycerite, page 119; Mellow Me Glycerite, page 125; Gut-Healing Tummy Tea, Take One, page 152; Rose Hydrosol, page 192; Calendula-Comfrey Cream, page 193; Lady Tea, page 243 Recipes (Rose Hips): Darcey Blue’s Elderberry Syrup, page 168; Elder–Rose Hip Oxymel, page 169 296 He a l i n g G a r den H er bs
Rosemary cayenne, lavender, horehound, or Stimulating by Nature California poppy — or in a container. Rosemary’s stimulating in nature Rosmarinus officinalis Terra-cotta pots look great and help (not like caffeine but because it achieve its favored growing condi- turns on the body’s systems) and Mint Family (Lamiaceae) tions. Harvest it all or bring it indoors profoundly antioxidant, making it an before frost. Do not overwater, but excellent culinary and tea ingredient Body Systems: Cognition/ consider misting it periodically. to improve digestion, particularly with Brain, Inflammation/Pain, heavy, fatty, or protein-rich meals. Nerve, Immune, Respiratory, Invigorating Aromatic Topically it also invigorates, improves Cardiovascular, Digestive, Skin Rosemary works for the immune circulation, repels insects, and helps and respiratory systems, like thyme, relieve pain. As a flower essence tender perennial, bee balm, and oregano, with a hint (page 68), rosemary perks up the Zones 8–11 of eucalyptus. Yet it leans in other brain and brings zest and joy to life. directions for which it’s better known: Finicky but Worth It anti-inflammatory COX-2 inhibi- Safe in Low Doses Rosemary’s one of the more finicky tion for pain relief and heart health, This is safe but potent and best as herbs to grow, yet we love it so much circulation support, and cognition a synergist in blends (1 to 5% of the that almost everyone still plants it enhancement. Studies show that formula), or enjoy one or two fresh each spring. It grows wild along the inhaling the herb or consuming small sprigs per day in food or tea. Mediterranean coast and likes hot, foodlike doses perks up memory, dry conditions (overwatering rots focus, and mental clarity, confirming it as does high humidity). Plant it a long history of use of “rosemary for in a sunny, well-drained, minimally remembrance.” watered bed — perhaps alongside A beautiful pot of rosemary stands out in the garden, prevents Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Rosemary the plant from getting too wet, and makes it easy to bring it indoors for winter. Harvest any time via “heading” or “thinning” cuts (page 25) depending on how you want to affect its growth pattern. If the stems are woody, remove them during processing. Best fresh, vaguely serviceable dried. Parts Used: aerial/leaves Tea: 1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Tincture: 1–5 drops, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol Capsules/Powder: 200–750 mg crude herb daily Food: fresh sprig or two daily in food, drink Topical: oil (preferably alcohol-intermediary), lini- ment, soak/bath, compress, vinegar Recipes: Dandelion-Violet Weed Pesto, page 88; Stress Support Tincture Blend, page 107; Brain- Boosting Tincture Blend, page 112; Minty Memory Tea, page 113; Rosemary-Lemon Tea, page 113; Herbal Insect Repellent, page 204; Heart Tonic Tincture Blend, page 237 He ali n g G ard en H er bs 297
Sage Dry, Antimicrobial, Aromatic most herb gardens and spice racks. Sage shares medicinal benefits with To be fair, it’s pretty potent. Just a lit- Salvia officinalis close relatives lavender, rosemary, tle bit brings an earthy-herbaceous- oregano, and thyme, yet it has its aromatic flavor to chicken, turkey Mint Family (Lamiaceae) own special affinities. It’s profoundly stuffing, and other poultry dishes. I drying and helps with conditions of recommend frying the fresh leaves Body Systems: Cognition/Brain, excess secretions: heavy perspiration in a little butter or olive oil. This mel- Digestive, Immune, Antimicrobial, from stress, daytime hot flashes, or lows and transforms the flavor. It Reproductive, Skin, Respiratory overactive sweat glands; night sweats; tastes amazing with autumn cuisine: and postlactation leaking. It affects winter squash, bread, mushrooms, perennial, hormones by providing plant estro- white beans, eggs, butternut ravioli, Zones 4–8 gen and inhibiting prolactin. As an creamy soups, and chowder. As a antimicrobial, it’s useful in a variety of flower essence (page 68), sage brings A Garden Guardian forms: a gargle for sore throats, a foot wisdom and understanding of the Herbalists plant sage in their gardens powder for sweaty feet and fungus, lessons of the planet. not only for culinary and medicinal an antiseptic vinegar spray for coun- purposes but also for its long-held tertops. As an aromatic, whether you Low-Dose Herb reputation for bringing wisdom and take it internally or inhale its aroma, This potent herb is best used in low protection to the property. Native sage provides wisdom by perking up to modest quantities or occasional to the Mediterranean, sage likes it cognitive function and helping to use. Its hormonal influences may not warm and dry and will do well near fight the effects of aging on the brain. always be appropriate, and there is “like-minded” herbs including lav- Anti-inflammatory aromatic proper- concern over its thujone content, a ender, horehound, thyme, and rose- ties also make it useful for cold, achy controversial constituent that may mary. It may die off after a few years, joint pain and arthritis, especially with be toxic to the kidneys and liver in especially if it gets too cold or damp. lemon and ginger. Sage, a bitter car- large quantities and will be more Older happy plants produce beauti- minative, improves digestion, fights concentrated in the essential oil. ful purple flowers throughout most intestinal pathogens, and makes it (Some say Spanish sage [S. lavandu- of the growing season. Several other easier to digest fat. laefolia] — also studied for cognitive species of sage have similar proper- benefits — contains minimal thujone. ties but are rarely winter-hardy. Autumn Cuisine Not exactly, but it has about half that Most people recognize sage as a culi- of garden sage.) nary herb, yet it often sits unused in Almost everyone grows sage in their herb gardens, but people often Harvesting, Preparing, and Using feel challenged in how to use it. Sage Trim fresh sprigs of leaves. Use fresh or dried. Parts Used: leaves Tea: 1/4 teaspoon dried herb or 1 small sprig/ cup, infusion, 1–2 cups daily Tincture: 5–20 drops, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol Food: Fresh, fried, or dried (see above) Topical: oil, salve, bath/soak, powdered, vinegar, liniment 298 He a l i n g G a r den H er bs
St. John’s Wort sun. It tolerates drought and is con- limits the severity, relieves symptoms sidered invasive in some states. In the (pain, itching, numbness), and gradu- Hypericum perforatum garden, it moves around, self-seeding ally repairs nerve damage. Use the and dying off, alternating boom oil as a light sunscreen; it may not be St. John’s Wort Family and bust years. Find baby plants in strong enough for fair-skinned folks. (Hypericaceae) early spring in untended spots (e.g., Topically, it promotes wound healing neglected lawns, abandoned lots) to and helps relieve and prevent bed- Body Systems: Mood, Nervous, move into your garden. sores, rashes, and scars. As a flower Pain, Immune, Antiviral essence (page 68), St. John’s wort Sunny Mood, Nerve Tonic brings light-filled protection, useful perennial, St. John’s wort brings the sun in. Best for nightmares and times when you Zones 3–8 known as an antidepressant, it acts feel overly vulnerable to the influence much like an selective serotonin and energies of others. Plant of the Sun reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) drug to Everything about St. John’s wort slowly boost levels of serotonin and Caution with Medications revolves around the sun. Its yellow other neurotransmitters that uplift St. John’s wort is quite safe, but it flowers grow in dry, hot, sunny spots mood. It works best in seasonal affec- increases the production of the in compact soil, bloom near summer tive disorder and mild to moderate CYP450 enzymes in the liver, includ- solstice (and the feast of St. John), depression and can be combined with ing CYP3A4, which speeds clear- and will be most potent harvested other treatment protocols for major ance of many medications. Used in after a hot-as-Hades week. Rub a depression. Expect results to kick in conjunction with serotonin-boosting fresh bud to see the maroon smear after 2 to 6 weeks of taking substan- medications, the herb may increase and get an idea of the plant’s potency. tial doses of a high-quality product the risk of serotonin syndrome, a Put your oil or tincture in the sun, two or three times a day. St. John’s condition that causes uncomfortable where it will macerate, activating the wort also acts as a nervine; heals and potentially dangerous symptoms hyperforins, red pigments from the nerve damage and irritation topically including confusion, fever, and rapid plant that will gradually turn your and internally; and is broadly useful heartbeat. In rare cases, fair-skinned extract from yellow to blood red for treating poststroke and postacci- individuals ingesting St. John’s wort and intensify its therapeutic proper- dent nervous system damage, includ- develop a phototoxic sun rash — a ties. The redder the better. Hold the ing brain injuries and sciatica. greater risk in grazing animals. Topical leaves up to the sun and look very use does not pose drug interaction, closely to see the “perforation” of Antiviral and Topical Herb sun rash, or other safety concerns. It light and black dots. Although it’ll As an antiviral in herpes outbreaks may inhibit thyroid function. grow in part shade, St. John’s wort including shingles, St. John’s wort prefers and will be more potent in full St. John’s wort’s lore not only associates Harvesting, Preparing, and Using St. John’s Wort it with the Christian saint but also with warding off hexes, witchcraft, evil spirits, Snip off the flower tops, focusing on flowers and buds (it’s fine if a few and nightmares with light-filled protection. leaves sneak in). Best fresh, almost useless dried. A deep red hue indicates its strength; it will turn brown and lose potency over time. Refresh your tincture every few years. Parts Used: flowers, buds Tincture: 2–5 ml, 3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol Topical: oil (fresh maceration), salve, cream, liniment Recipes: Lemon–St. John’s Wort Pick-Me-Up, page 118; Calendula- Comfrey Cream, page 193; St. John’s Wort Oil, page 215 He ali n g G arden H er bs 299
Skullcap Sedative Nervine relaxes and opens the flow of posi- Skullcap “caps the skull” when you’re tive energy, particularly between the Scutellaria lateriflora anxious, wired, and tired. It brings healer and recipient. sleep, calms nerves, relaxes muscles, Mint Family (Lamiaceae) and eases pain. Use it in a formula Get the Real Deal for headaches, sciatica, and back Skullcap is easily identified by its Body Systems: Mood, Nervous, pain. What makes it special is its abil- hooded lipped flowers, the “scute” Musculoskeletal, Digestion, Pain ity to turn down an overly reactive (dishlike) projection on the top of the nervous system for people who get calyx, and its unidirectional flowers — perennial, irritated and overwhelmed by incom- yet it’s often mismarked and adulter- Zones 4–8 ing stimuli such as lights, sound, or ated in commerce. Get your seeds touch. This makes it useful not only or seedlings from a reputable source, Along the River’s Edge for insomnia and anxiety but also then double-check the identity when Skullcap’s persnickety in the gar- agitation, hyperactivity, and attention it blooms. True skullcap is quite safe den — booming one year, gone the deficit disorder in children and adults except that it may cause overseda- next. In the wild, you’ll find various alike. It works quickly, nourishing and tion or aggravate depression and skullcap species, used interchange- supporting the nervous system. melancholy in rare, sensitive people. ably, growing along a riverbank or at Be cautions using it alongside seda- the edges of lakes, often alongside Mild Bitter Digestive tive and pain medications — it may wild mint and bugleweed. In the gar- Skullcap has a mild bitter flavor synergistically oversedate. den it prefers rich, consistently moist with minty undertones and can be but well-drained soil, particularly in employed as a bitter to promote spring, and minimal competition. relaxation and aid digestion. As a Make plenty of medicine in boom flower essence (page 68), skullcap years so you have it during the bust. Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Skullcap Harvest happy blooming plants to confirm iden- tity before it goes by. In good years you may get multiple harvests. Fresh works best. Dry carefully in a single layer for tea. It loses potency quickly. Refresh your tincture every 1 to 3 years. Parts Used: aerial/leaves, flowers Tea: 1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Tincture: 1–5 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol Glycerite: 1/2–1 teaspoon as needed Recipes: Mellow Me Glycerite, page 125; Sleep Tea, page 130; Sleep Tinctures, page 131 Skullcap sold in stores tends to be low potency and adulterated with liver-toxic germander. Grow your own to ensure quality and identity. 300 H e a l i n g G a r den H er bs
Solomon’s Seal similar properties. The herb becomes and use it topically and internally slimy and mucilaginous as you pro- along with homeopathic arnica. After Polygonatum biflorum cess it. a bad sprain, I got lax once things felt almost normal and stopped using Asparagus Family (Asparagaceae) Top-Notch for Injuries the herbs. A month later, I realized I Much of what I’ve learned about hadn’t improved since then, resumed Body Systems: Musculoskeletal, Solomon’s seal comes from herbalists the herbs, and was back in tip-top Pain, Inflammation, Connective Jim McDonald and Matthew Wood. shape in a week. Tissue The white knobby roots of Solomon’s seal resemble the joints of a spinal Technically Edible perennial, column, a good doctrine of signa- Foragers dig and cook Solomon’s seal Zones 3–8 tures of its use. It shines for its ability root like potatoes. I value it too much to heal joints and connective tissue as medicine to waste it on food — Eastern Woodland Native injuries, including tendons and liga- maybe I’d reconsider if I had an over- Solomon’s seal grows wild in rich, ments. Use it for sprains, strains, back abundance and was hungry enough. damp woodland habitats — the kind pain, slipped disks, tendonitis, and It’s worth combining with horsetail in of special spot where you might find other musculoskeletal injuries. The gelatin-rich bone broth for joint and fiddleheads and linden, fancying effects are often remarkable when arthritis support. As a flower essence the thought of woodland fairies all taken internally or applied topically. (page 68), Solomon’s seal brings around. Easily cultivated, Solomon’s It blends well with horsetail and mul- mercy, forgiveness, and humility for seal is distinguished by a graceful, lein root (targeting joints, bones, and yourself and others. robust appearance that evokes a connective tissue), St. John’s wort quiet old garden. Plant it in full- to (add nerve support), boswellia (anti- Likely Safe partial-shade spots with soil that is inflammatory), topical comfrey or Little safety data exists but consider- naturally rich or has aged manure arnica (aches and bruises), and other ing its use as food and the fact that worked in. It proliferates quickly, pro- pain herbs. Being prone to nasty high doses aren’t necessary for it to viding plenty of medicine without a spills, I keep a sprain formula on hand work, Solomon’s seal appears safe. long wait. Other species likely offer This stately woodland wildflower brings subtle beauty to shade Harvesting, Preparing, and Using gardens. The rhizomes spread quickly and help heal sprains, Solomon’s Seal strains, and joint injuries. Dig up the roots in spring or fall. Leave or replant some of the roots in the stand. In the wild or where it’s limited, harvest the back section of the root and leave the plant itself with a root section in the ground for future growth. Fresh preferred, but dried works. Parts Used: rhizomes, roots Tea or Broth: 1/2–1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, decoction, 1–3 cups daily Tincture: 5–60 drops, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol Food: boiled and eaten like potatoes Topical: oil, salve, cream, liniment, bath/soak, compress Recipes: Aches and Pains, Strains and Sprains Tincture/ Liniment, page 220 He ali n g G ard en H er bs 301
Thuja Potent Antimicrobial baptisia and echinacea. I add thuja Thuja is one of our most reliable herbs to tincture formulas as a low-dose Thuja occidentalis to apply topically to icky skin condi- synergist for chronic fungal and yeast tions, particularly fungal, viral (warts), conditions. It reportedly addresses Cedar Family (Cupressaceae) and some sexually transmitted infec- parasites. Dried thuja makes a nice, tions. I’ve seen it clear ringworm in a sweet-smelling incense, too. Body Systems: Immune, Skin, few days, though with any fungal con- Antimicrobial dition, you should continue applying Low-Dose Internally herbs for at least a week or two after Topically, thuja is pretty safe. perennial, it clears, since fungus has a way of Internally as a tincture; use it only Zones 2–7 creeping back. Foot fungus, fungal short term or in low doses due to its rashes under sweaty breasts, jock thujone content and potential liver/ Evergreen Native itch, you name it. Use it externally as kidney toxicity. That story about Thuja grows wild across most of the needed and internally in low doses Cartier’s team drinking arborvitae northeastern United States and is or homeopathically for warts. But my tea for vitamin C? While thuja does often cultivated along yard borders favorite wart remedy is greater celan- contain some vitamin C, historians for privacy. It grows wild in northern, dine (Chelidonium majus), a common now believe there was a mix-up and swampy forests and prefers some semitoxic weed with bright orange Native Americans more likely gave moisture — I see a lot of brown juice. Apply the fresh leaf poultice at the them (much safer) white pine arborvitae planted in poor soil in dry, night — the warts usually disappear needle tea. Do not use thuja inter- sunny spots. On the West Coast, within 1 to 3 days! nally during pregnancy due to abor- western red cedar (T. plicata) and tifacient properties. Many different other Thuja species can be used Immune Stimulant plants are called “cedar,” so check the similarly. Local extension offices that European herbalists have long used Latin name. sell trees often offer packs of young thuja in low doses internally as a deep bare-root arborvitae trees for $1 per immune tonic for everyday infec- tree. These take many years to grow, tions, chronic low immune function, but that’s fine if you’ve just moved in, and as an adjunct in cancer. A classic plan to stay for decades, or are in no remedy for colds combines thuja with big rush. Also known as arborvitae, thuja was called the “tree of life” because it was Harvesting, Preparing, and Using credited as saving explorer Jacques Cartier’s crew from scurvy during the Thuja Canadian winter. Harvest the needles any time of the year. Use fresh or dried. Parts Used: needles Tea: 1/2–1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1 cup daily short term Tincture: 1–15 drops, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula (keep dose on the low side when using long term) • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol Topical: oil (alcohol-intermediary), salve, cream, liniment, vinegar, soak/bath, com- press, poultice Recipe: Ick Stick Thuja Salve, page 199 302 H e a l i n g G a r d en H er bs
Thyme including lemon thyme (T. citriodorus, Disinfectant and Antiseptic variegated varieties add visual inter- You might recognize the flavor of Thymus vulgare est to the garden) and creeping (T. thyme as one of the prominent ingre- serpyllum). Let creeping thyme take dients in Listerine (thymol). Thyme’s Mint Family (Lamiaceae) over dry, sunny lawns — aromather- powerful antifungal and antibacterial apy while you mow! disinfecting properties are useful in Body Systems: Immune, a wide variety of different formats, Respiratory, Digestive, Gut, Skin, Respiratory Remedy ranging from a mouthwash, steam, Antimicrobial Medicinally, thyme offers properties foot spray, or wound compress to a similar to those of oregano and bee counter cleaner. As a flower essence perennial, balm — yet another aromatic, antimi- (page 68), thyme helps you live in the Zones 5–9 crobial mint-family herb. Thyme has now, especially when there doesn’t the strongest affinity for the respira- seem to be enough time. Mediterranean Medicine tory system, particularly the lungs. Its Yet another Mediterranean culinary dry, moving, warming properties work Safe for Most People herb packed with medicinal punch, well for damp, stagnant congestion. Generally very safe. Therapeutic thyme is a dense, low, herbaceous Thyme moves out phlegm, disinfects doses are not recommended in preg- ground cover with small leaves and the lungs, and opens the airways. nancy. Since thyme is warm and dry, little spikes of pinkish white flowers. Combine it with ginger, lemon, and use caution with hot, dry conditions, Popular in English, French, and Italian honey in tea, or other lung herbs for though it might be fine balanced with garden design, it prefers dry spots. If coughs, colds, bronchitis, asthma, moist, cooling herbs like marshmal- planted in a rich garden bed, thyme and pneumonia (alongside conven- low and mullein leaf. might thrive at first but eventually tional care, as needed). rot. Grow it alongside sage, lavender, horehound, and oregano. Use vari- ous thyme species interchangeably, This aromatic creeping ground cover does Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Thyme nicely in dry spaces, cascading from stone walls or tucked along walkways. Thyme is like a minihedge — shear it to harvest and promote happy new growth. Fresh tends to be stronger, but dried works well, too. Parts Used: aerial/leaves Tea: 1/2–1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Tincture: 10 drops to 5 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol (optional 10 percent glycerine) Glycerite, Syrup, Honey, Oxymel, Vinegar: 1 teaspoon as needed Capsules/Powder: 500–2,000 mg crude herb daily Food: Mediterranean culinary herb fresh and dried in savory dishes, especially with lemon Topical: oil (alcohol-intermediary), salve, liniment, vinegar, bath/ soak, compress Recipes: Bee Balm-Mint Tea, page 171; Soothing Lung Tea, page 176; Allergy Tincture Blend, page 182 He ali n g G arden H er bs 303
Valerian trunk, they said, “That’s all your tak- “valerian type” tends to be cold, anx- ing?” In my dry, sandy gardens, it’s far ious, and thin-framed, with muscular Valeriana officinalis better behaved. Be sure your region tension. This describes me well, and permits planting valerian. valerian was one of the first herbs I Honeysuckle Family ever used (successfully, I might add). (Caprifoliaceae) Herbal Valium In spite of the urban myth, the seda- Pain Relief and Peace Body Systems: Nervous, tive drug Valium is not made from Valerian promotes muscle relaxation, Mood, Musculoskeletal, Pain, valerian; however, the herb’s effects which makes it useful for muscle Cardiovascular are somewhat similar to the drug’s. It pain including tension headaches is nonaddictive and much safer. Best and back pain (it will probably make perennial, known for insomnia, valerian sedates, you sleepy). Valerian mildly reduces Zones 4–7 brings sleep, eases anxiety, relaxes hypertension by relaxing and dilating muscles, and relieves pain related the blood vessel lining. As a flower Sweet Flower, Stinky Root to muscle tension. Studies support essence (page 68), valerian brings Also called garden heliotrope, vale- its ability to improve sleep latency, deep peace regardless of whether or rian’s a lovely tall flower in the garden, which is how quickly you fall asleep. not someone is a “valerian type” or easily reaching 4 to 6 feet tall. The It can improve quality of sleep as on medications. pinkish white flowers catch your eye, well. However, it does not agree with wafting a honeysuckle-like aroma everyone — some people find that A Few Words of Caution throughout the garden. The robust it agitates like coffee (never a happy Remember, this is a sedative herb. divided leaves and thick stems resem- discovery when you’re already sleep- Don’t drive or operate heavy machin- ble lovage. Valerian’s mass of small deprived) while others feel groggy ery after taking it. Many medications white roots reek of skunk, perfume-y the next day. Sleep herbs like pas- (antianxiety, sleep, antidepressant, dirt, and stinky feet, which gets worse sionflower, skullcap, and California pain) may synergistically increase as they dry, sit out, or are exposed to poppy tend to work more reliably sedation alongside herbal sedatives heat. This plant self-seeds rampantly for a broader audience. Studies have including valerian. Slowly introduce and tolerates many soil types but shown that when taken solo and in the herb, gradually increasing the really takes over in moist, manure- blends, passionflower is more effec- dose to make sure it agrees with you rich soil. More than once, organic tive for insomnia relief than other and doesn’t oversedate. Not every- farmers have called me over to dig up sleep herbs such as valerian. The one feels good with valerian. ill-behaved plants. When I filled my Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Valerian Pull up the roots in spring or fall. Usually you can simply grab the whole plant at the base and pull. Spray off dirt, then scrub well with a bristle brush (watch for earth- worms). Bigger, older plants have bigger roots. Two- year-old and older plants are preferred, but you can use babies as you weed them out. Best fresh. You can make tea, but it tastes funky and is even more apt to disagree with sensitive people than the tincture. Parts Used: roots Tincture: 1–5 ml, before bedtime or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol Glycerite: 1/4–1 teaspoon as needed Recipes: Sleep Tinctures, page 131 Valerian’s tall, sweet-smelling blooms and stinky roots may take over meadows, pastures, and gardens with rich, damp soil. 304 H e a l i n g G a r den H er bs
Violet violets are likely to turn up near you. Lymph and Colon Support Some wild species may be at risk of Violets gently and effectively support Viola spp. becoming endangered. lymph flow, draining edema, improv- ing immune function, and clearing Violet Family (Violaceae) Moistening Nutrition toxins and infection “battle debris.” Most of our nutritives greens tend Long reputed as useful for cancer Body Systems: Lymph, to be diuretic and drying in nature. treatment support, violet also helps Detoxification, Gut, Nutritive, Violet leaves and flowers not only break up benign fatty cysts when Respiratory, Colon pack in the nutrition (calcium, mag- taken internally and applied topically. nesium, potassium, carotenoids, vita- Due to its mucilaginous property, it perennial, min C), but also have mucilaginous, helps keep waste moving through Zones 3–8 demulcent, moistening properties. the colon and may be mildly laxative This gives tea a velvety mouthfeel if taken in large doses. As a flower Tiny Medicine and favors people who are already dry essence (page 68), violet fosters con- These small shy, sweet flowers by nature. Add the leaves and flowers fidence in groups for shy people who dot the spring landscape. Popular to respiratory and gut formulas for its appear aloof. medicinal species include sweet vio- soothing, healing, moistening proper- let (V. odorata), common blue violet ties. Plus, violets taste nice. Happy Foodlike (V. sororia, including an escaped green, lightly sweet, with a hint of Violet leaves and flowers are white cultivar with blue streaks), wintergreen — and those ador- extremely safe in therapeutic doses and multicolored heartease pansy able flowers really perk up a recipe! for people as well as animals of all (V. tricolor), but many others are Foragers note that violet leaves are ages. Large doses can be mildly laxa- likely useful, particularly those with among the few wild greens that taste tive. Leaves contain a little salicylates, white or blue flowers and tender good throughout the growing season, which might pose a problem for peo- heart-shaped leaves. They’re per- making them perfect not only for tea ple with aspirin allergies. Herbalist fect for planting in shady corners but also as a cooked or salad green David Winston avoids yellow violets, or edging garden beds and sunny and in smoothies and pesto. because of their acridity. lawns. With more than 500 species worldwide, a few different types of This diminutive, easily overlooked Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Violet wildflower makes wonderful teas and remedies — nutritious, mucilaginous, Harvest leaves and flowers at any time, primarily spring. Use fresh or dried. gently detoxifying, and tasty. Parts Used: leaves, flowers Tea: 1 teaspoon or more dried herb/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily Tincture: 2–5 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol Glycerite, Syrup, Vinegar, Oxymel: 1 teaspoon as desired Powder: 1/2–1 teaspoon daily Food: Leaves in salad, juiced, pesto, cooked, smoothies. Flowers as garnish, candied, to decorate tea, infused water, seltzer. Blue flowers (tedious to harvest) make a gorgeous purple syrup, popular for cocktails and tea parties Topical: oil (for lymph massage, fatty cysts) Recipes: Nutri-Tea, page 79; Multimineral Vinegar, page 86; Dandelion- Violet Weed Pesto, page 88; Infused Seltzer, Soda, and Water, page 97; Nettle-Peppermint-Marshmallow Tea, page 183 He ali n g G arden H er bs 305
Wild Cherry wildcraft this plant, but if you want to when anxiety, trauma, and stress introduce it to the landscape, go for trigger or are triggered by respira- Prunus serotina black cherry, pruning it regularly to tory distress. The fruits are edible. keep the bark within reach. Wild cherry tastes better, but choke- Rose Family (Rosaceae) cherry is vastly easier to reach and Cough Remedy appears more prominently in Native Body Systems: Respiratory, Artificially cherry flavored cough American food history, including Immune, Nervous, Mood drops and syrup are likely a remnant pemmican meat-fat-fruit “energy of wild cherry bark’s history as a bars.” Woodworkers prize lumber perennial, cough suppressant, lung-soothing from wild cherry. As a flower essence Zones 3–9 remedy. It calms, eases spasms and (page 68), wild cherry aids creative irritation, and opens up the airways. expression, new ideas, and thinking Tree Medicine Turn to cherry bark for dry, irritated, outside the box. Chokecherry helps Wild black cherry grows wild spastic unproductive coughs. (For to illuminate your understanding of across most of the United States. mucus gunk in need of expulsion, use yourself and others, improving clarity. Chokecherry (P. virginiana), a service- horehound instead.) Combine cherry able substitute, grows everywhere. bark with honey to increase its the Cyanide? Both wild black and chokecherry cough-soothing properties. Consider As with many rose-family fruit trees, thrive in recently disturbed or logged cherry bark for dry asthma and lungs the bark, leaves, and pits contain areas, often on the edge of open tight from dry winter air, wood smoke, varying amounts of prunacin, or prus- and forested spaces. White lenticels or wildfires — it combines well with sic acid, which breaks down into weak speckle the young shiny brown bark. mullein leaf, which soothes and cyanide as it wilts. This substance Both species smell like amaretto moistens. Bonus: cherry bark tastes can be lethal to browsing animals but when scratched and are prone to delicious, like amaretto and mara- poses less risk to humans using low pests and diseases, including black schino cherries. doses of cherry bark for medicine. knot fungus and tent caterpillars. Once dried (and possibly if perfectly Drooping white flower raceme clus- Calm, Food, Creativity fresh), the cyanide content in the ters give way to red-black fruit. Wild The bark has a mild calming effect bark and twigs really isn’t a concern. black cherry eventually becomes a on the nervous system, especially Other cherries, including pin cherry, tall tree whereas chokecherry remains alongside passionflower, helpful do not share the medicinal properties. short and shrubby. You can easily Look for wild cherry trees in spring when the white Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Wild Cherry clusters of flowers bloom, or scan treetops for tent caterpillars. Harvest in late summer or fall. If given the choice, go for black cherry. Prune branches up to 1 inch in diameter, then shave the bark and chop up twigs per page 25. With larger branches, remove the outer bark, using only the green inner bark. Always dry first. Glycerine or honey helps stabilize the tannins to prevent tinctures from getting gloppy over time. Excessive heat will make cherry bark less effective. Parts Used: bark, twigs Tea: 1 teaspoon dried bark/cup, infusion, 1–3 cups daily (use not- quite-boiling water) Tincture: 1–3 ml, 1–3 times daily, solo or in formula • Dried 1:5 in 50–60 percent alcohol with 10 percent glycerine Raw Honey, Syrup, Glycerite, Cordial: 1 teaspoon as needed (dried bark, cold process) Recipes: Soothing Lung Tea, page 176; Raw Wild Cherry Honey, page 177 306 He a l i n g G ar d en H er bs
Yarrow Favor the white yarrow medicinally combined with tastier diaphoretics even though other colors exist in elderflower, peppermint, and ginger. Achillea millefolium cultivation. Also consider it for gut healing and dysbiosis. Daisy Family (Asteraceae) Woundwort and More Yarrow offers complex, multifaceted Bug and Negativity Body Systems: Skin, Immune, medicine. It improves structural Protection Digestion, Gut, Antimicrobial, integrity of mucosal lining, blood A low-alcohol yarrow tincture rivals Cardiovascular vessel lining, and connective tissues and may surpass essential oils as a while increasing function and “juice tick and mosquito repellent, bonus perennial, flow.” Taken hot, it’s moving; cold, points for being relatively odorless Zones 3–9 more toning. Pack wounds with the and safe. The long, straight stems fresh mashed leaves to stop bleeding, from yarrow flowers are cut into Stealthy Wildflower reduce the risk of infection (antimi- sticks and used for I Ching divina- For budding herbalists studying crobial), and quickly heal the injury tion. As a flower essence (page 68), wild plants, yarrow ranks in the top (vulnerary) with minimal scarring. yarrow protects so that a person can 10 easy-to-identify, incredibly use- Use the liniment on cuts and scrapes heal. White yarrow offers all-purpose ful plants to know. The flattopped for infection and healing, diluted protection against pollution, aller- clusters of white flowers catch tincture or glycerite as a mouthwash, gens, other people’s energy. Think your eye — look closely and you’ll in low-alcohol formats for hemor- pink for the heart, specifically not see each cluster has five petal-like rhoids, and as a sitz bath to tone absorbing others’ emotions. Yellow, structures each with two notches, (astringent), disinfect, and heal lady to protect from others’ anger and and a cluster of tiny yellowish white bits. Even though it improves clotting frustration. true flowers in the center. Notice and stanches bleeding, it also thins the ferny, soft, finely divided “million the blood, promotes healthy circula- Daisy-Family Flower leafed” leaves. Glance around, and tion, and stimulates other juices in Yarrow is very safe, but as a member you’ll realize those leaves are every- the body including stomach acid of the daisy family it can cause aller- where interspersed with grass and and digestive enzymes (an aromatic, gic reactions with respiratory or topi- other plants. Yarrow’s widespread in carminative, warming bitter). Drunk cal symptoms in some people. Wear fields, meadows, roadsides, edges hot, it acts as a diaphoretic to break a mask if processing lots of dried between forest and field, and sunny a sweat and a fever and is often flowers. garden beds that don’t get watered. Legend tells us that the Greek soldier Achilles used Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Yarrow yarrow as a battlefield woundwort. The finely divided, feathery “million leafed” leaves are easy to identify. Pinch off individual leaves from the ground anytime. Harvest aerial parts in flower. Use fresh or dried. Feel free to try nonal- cohol formats, too. Parts Used: aerial leaves, flower Tea: 1 teaspoon dried herb/cup, infusion, 1-3 cups daily Tincture: 2-5 ml, 1-3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol (best) or dried 1:5 in 40–50 percent alcohol Topical: poultice (preferably fresh), oil, salve, cream, liniment or vinegar, spray, bath/soak, compress, sitz bath Recipes: First Aid Simple: Yarrow Poultice, page 199; First Aid Simple: Yarrow Liniment, page 199; Herbal Insect Repellent, page 204; Plantain-Yarrow Bite Rub, page 205 H e ali n g G ard en H er bs 307
Yellow Dock Liver-Colon Bitter fight anemia. It not only contains a Like fellow weeds dandelion and bur- modest amount of the mineral but Rumex crispus dock, yellow dock also has bitter, liver- also encourages the liver to release moving, detoxification-enhancing iron from storage. This property is a Buckwheat Family (Polygonaceae) properties that improve digestion boon for people who don’t respond and help clear chronic skin issues like to iron supplementation alone, and Body Systems: Colon, acne. But it’s got a few more tricks up combining it with iron-rich blackstrap Detoxification, Liver, Skin, its sleeve. All bitters indirectly stimu- molasses synergizes its effects. The Nutritive, Digestion, Gut, late elimination through the colon leaf poultice helps stop nettle sting Antimicrobial by enhancing peristalsis (the wave- (though not quite as well as jewel- like muscle motion that moves food weed, plantain, or comfrey). perennial, through). Yellow dock also contains a Zones 4–8 low dose of stimulant laxative anthra- The Right Dose quinone glycosides alongside a mod- Yellow dock’s colon-regulating prop- Roadside Weed est amount of tannins that tighten erties only go so far. Taking mega- Yellow dock’s rust-colored seed and tone the gut mucosa and stanch doses may cause explosive diarrhea heads dot abandoned waste areas, diarrhea. Combined, these effects followed by massive constipation. fields, and roadsides. The long, tonify and improve elimination, which Like other plants in the buckwheat wavy-curly leaves resemble is why you’ll see it recommended for family (rhubarb, spinach, chard), yel- horseradish — hence its name both diarrhea and constipation. The low dock contains oxalic acid, which “curly dock.” This weed won’t win antimicrobial tannins also curb gut may be problematic in large doses for any horticultural awards, but let it dysbiosis. people with a tendency to develop grow on the unkempt edges of the kidney stones. yard or wildcraft it. The wider-leafed, Iron Fortification burdock-y broad dock (R. obtusifo- Another benefit of yellow dock root lius) is often misidentified as yellow is its ability to increase iron levels and dock but can be used similarly. Harvesting, Preparing, and Using Yellow Dock Dig up the taproots in spring or fall. Poor soil produces stronger roots. Use fresh or dried. Parts Used: roots Tea: 1 teaspoon dried root/cup, decoction, 1-3 cups daily Tincture: 1-3 ml, 1-3 times daily, solo or in formula • Fresh 1:2 in 95 percent alcohol, dried 1:5 in 50-60 per- cent alcohol, or double-extraction. Add 10% glycerine to stabilize tannins. Syrup, Vinegar, Oxymel, Glycerite: 1 heaping teaspoon as needed, preferably with high-iron molasses Capsules/Powder: 500–2,000 mg crude herb daily Recipes: Multimineral Vinegar, page 86; Mineral-Rich “Coffee” Syrup, page 87; Bitter Brew Coffee Substitute, page 158 The best yellow dock grows in rocky, compact, poor soil. The yellower the root, the stronger the herb is. 308 He a l i n g G ar d en H er bs
APPENDIces
commonly used herbs by condition Some herbs are especially known for the capacity to address certain conditions or promote wellness in certain areas. The herbs here are listed in order of potency and preference for each condition. Nutritious Korean Mint Blue Vervain Rosemary Liver Detoxification Nettle Purple Basil Betony Lavender Dandelion Oatstraw Violets Passionflower Culinary Seeds Burdock Calendula Marshmallow Linden Artichoke Violet Anise Hyssop Lavender Soothing Yellow Dock Rose Hips Bronze Fennel Rose Marshmallow Chicory Dandelion Plantain Red Clover Stress & Energy Sleep Meadowsweet Lymph Horsetail Holy Basil Valerian Fennel Detoxification Raspberry Gotu Kola Skullcap Violet Chicory Ashwagandha California Poppy Violet Burdock Milky Oat Seed Passionflower Gut Healing Red Clover Roses Chamomile Plantain Calendula Flavorful Peppermint Lemon Balm Calendula Echinacea Korean Mint Lemon Balm Lavender Meadowsweet Anise Hyssop Bacopa Ashwagandha Gotu Kola Kidney Lemongrass Linden Chamomile Detoxification/ Lemon Verbena Brain Boosters Blue Vervain Lemon Balm Diuretic Fennel Gotu Kola Betony Horsetail Mint Bacopa Nettle Stevia Rosemary Digestive Bitter Gut Antimicrobial Dandelion Holy Basil Lemon Balm Artichoke Berberines Horsetail Roses Mint Catnip Oregano Parsley Rosemary Sage Chamomile Bee Balm Burdock Lemon Balm Holy Basil Lemon Balm Garlic Chicory Bee Balm Ashwagandha Dandelion Elecampane Birch Leaves Chamomile Burdock Yellow Dock Lavender Antidepressant Yellow Dock Holy Basil Immune Simulant/ St. John’s Wort Chicory Roses Infection Support Base Flavor Mimosa Goldenseal Chamomile Nettle Roses Barberry Calendula Elder Oatstraw Holy Basil Oregon Grape Thyme Echinacea Marshmallow Lemon Balm Elecampane Bee Balm Lady’s Mantle Mint Rosemary Gut Astringent/ Oregano Raspberry Motherwort Yarrow Diarrhea Garlic Lemon Balm Ashwagandha Thyme Betony Digestive Roses Elecampane Cholesterol Lemon Verbena Carminative Raspberry Rose Hips Artichoke Lemongrass Plantain Berberines Garlic Peppermint Fennel Yellow Dock Holy Basil Korean Mint Lady’s Mantle Immune Modulator Lemon Balm Anxiety/Relaxation Anise Hyssop Ashwagandha Hawthorn Motherwort Mint Constipation Mushrooms Holy Basil Chamomile Yellow Dock Color/Flowers Skullcap Dill Artichoke Cancer Prevention Roses Lemon Balm Elecampane Dandelion Dandelion Calendula Ashwagandha Lemon Balm Burdock Ashwagandha Bee Balm Milky Oat Seed Catnip Marshmallow Holy Basil Holy Basil Violet Thuja 310 A P P ENDIc e s Mushrooms
Antimicrobial Berberines Calendula Black Cohosh Passionflower Bee Balm Honey Betony Motherwort Oregano Bee Balm Rashes/Itchy Skin/ Blue Vervain Valerian Garlic Oregano Bug Bites/Poison Valerian Cramp Bark Thyme Thyme Ivy Fennel Elecampane Marshmallow Cramp Bark Hyperglycemia Rosemary Garlic Calendula Skullcap Artichoke Sage St. John’s Wort California Poppy Holy Basil Lavender Antihistamine/ Plantain Barberry Berberines Allergies Lavender Joints/Tendons/ Bitters Yarrow Peppermint Ligaments/Sprains Garlic Calendula Nettle Nettle Chamomile Goldenrod Insect Repellent Solomon’s Seal Lemon Balm Korean Mint Horehound Yarrow Mullein Root Anise Hyssop Ashwagandha Lavender Horsetail Female Roses Elderflower Catnip Comfrey (topical) Reproductive Rosemary Hormonal Clear Lungs Congestion Nerve Pain Mullein Horehound Topical St. John’s Wort Black Cohosh Elecampane Bee Balm Antimicrobial/ Skullcap Red Clover Wild Cherry Oregano Antifungal/ California Poppy Sage Horehound Thyme Infections Motherwort Peppermint Goldenrod Gladden Heart Blue Vervain Thyme Peppermint Berberines Hawthorn Berberines Thuja Linden General Soothe Lungs Bee Balm Rose Reproductive Mullein Skin Care Oregano Motherwort Tonics/Toners Marshmallow Lavender Thyme Lemon Balm Plantain Rose Lavender Holy Basil Raspberry Honey Calendula Garlic Passionflower Lady’s Mantle Wild Cherry Plantain Calendula Roses Violet Gotu Kola Horsetail Circulation/Blood Nettle Korean Mint Comfrey Vessels Anise Hyssop Lemon Balm Herpes Male Reproductive Fennel St. John’s Wort St. John’s Wort Garlic Tonics/Toners Lemon Balm Cayenne Cough Wounds/Scars Rosemary Ashwagandha Wild Cherry Honey Topical Pain Relief Yarrow Nettle Root Horehound Yarrow St. John’s Wort Gotu Kola Horsetail Honey Gotu Kola Cayenne Mullein Root California Poppy Calendula Peppermint Heart Tonic Fennel St. John’s Wort Comfrey Hawthorn Thyroid Korean Mint Berberines Elder Leaf Linden Ashwagandha Anise Hyssop Horsetail Birch Garlic Lemon Balm Peppermint Lavender Meadowsweet Motherwort Motherwort Thyme Comfrey Cramp Bark Cayenne Bacopa Marshmallow Solomon’s Seal Plantain Bleeding Hypertension Strong Bones Mullein Yarrow Muscle Pain/ Dandelion Nettle Cayenne Relaxers/ Burdock Oatstraw Sore Throat Antispasmodics Chicory Horsetail Echinacea Hemorrhoids/ Nettle Red Clover Varicose Veins Peppermint Parsley Dandelion Rosemary Hawthorn Black Cohosh Yarrow Birch Linden Meadowsweet com m only us ed herbs by condi tion 311
Commonly used flower essences by condition Deep Healing & Earth Connection Sensuality & Confidence, Life’s Purpose Vital Force Lady’s Mantle Sexuality Protection, Gotu Kola Meadowsweet Courage Milky Oat Seed Comfrey Sage Holy Basil Blackberry Echinacea Lady’s Mantle Garlic Garlic Communication & Goldenrod Live in the Present Relationships Healing from Horehound Rose Pain Support & Trauma Meadowsweet Thyme Relief Bee Balm St. John’s Wort Calendula Comfrey Violet Heart Care & Blue Vervain Fennel Lady’s Mantle Yarrow Self-Love Comfrey Goldenrod Rose Dandelion Barberry Soothing Belly & Hawthorn Lavender Oregon Grape Flexibility & Solar Plexus Rose Lemon Balm Hawthorn Adaptability Horehound Chamomile Mental Clarity & Community & Marshmallow Birch Dill Cognition Social Connections Mimosa Motherwort Joy, Spark, Lift Depression & Dill Artichoke Mullein Renewal, Restore Darkness Fennel Cramp Bark Nettle Gotu Kola Korean Mint St. John’s Wort Bacopa Black Cohosh Horehound Anise Hyssop Skullcap Bee Balm (red/ Peppermint Mimosa Violet Grounding & Rosemary Red Clover Chokecherry didyma) Centering Sage Sage Yarrow Cayenne Chokecherry Yarrow Elder Betony Forgiveness Lemon Balm Creativity Spiritual Marshmallow Linden Tension Release Passionflower Connection & Raspberry Rose Blue Vervain Wild Black Cherry Consciousness Solomon’s Seal Rosemary Dandelion Linden California Poppy Antianxiety & Elecampane Relaxation Cleansing & Holy Basil Renewal Lavender Betony Meadowsweet Lavender Burdock Mimosa Lemon Balm Elder Passionflower Linden Garlic Skullcap Goldenseal Valerian Linden Spearmint Herbs Hot & Damp Hot & Dry Damp Shade for Bacopa Ashwagandha Bacopa Black Cohosh Specific Gotu Kola California Poppy Bee Balm Goldenseal Climates Holy Basil Horehound Blue Vervain Lady’s Mantle Passionflower Lavender Elder Lemon Balm Mullein Gotu Kola Parsley Rosemary Horsetail Solomon’s Seal Sage Linden Violet Thyme Marshmallow Wild Cherry Meadowsweet Mints Nettle Skullcap Thuja 312 A P P ENDIc e s
Measurements and Metric Conversions An “ounce” can refer to weight or volume, and for some items they will not be the same. Herbs can vary widely in how their weight and volume compare. 1 ounce volume = 30 ml 1 ounce weight = 28 grams 1 gram = 1,000 mg 1 liter = 1,000 ml = about 1 quart (32 ounces) 1 ml = 1/5 teaspoon = approximately 1 squirt = approximately 30 drops 3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon 2 tablespoons = 1/8 cup 4 tablespoons = 1/4 cup 1 cup = 8 ounces = 240 ml (about 1/4 liter) 2 cups = 16 ounces = 1 pint = 480 ml (almost 1/2 liter) 4 cups = 32 ounces = 1 quart = 960 ml (almost 1 liter) 8 cups = 62 ounces = 1/2 gallon 16 cups = 124 ounces = 1 gallon Tincture Measurements and Conversions 1:2 fresh extract Standard Measurements: 1 ounce herb (weight) in 2 ounces of alcohol (volume) Metric Measurements: 1 gram herb (weight) in 2 milliliters of alcohol To fill an 8-ounce mason jar, use 22/3 ounces herb covered in approximately 51/3 ounces alcohol. Each 1 ml of a finished 1:2 tincture contains 500 mg of herb 1:5 dry extract Standard Measurements: 1 ounce herb (weight) in 5 ounces of alcohol (volume) Metric Measurements: 1 gram herb (weight) in 5 milliliters of alcohol To fill an 8-ounce mason jar, use 11/3 ounces herb covered in approximately 62/3 ounces alcohol. Each 1 ml of a finished 1:5 tincture contains 200 mg of herb For comparison, 1 crude herb capsule contains approximately 500 mg of herbs, so each squirt (milliliter) of tincture equals approximately one pill. 313
Measurements and Metric Conversions, continued Choose your tincture vessel JAR SIZE WEIGHT OF HERB YIELD 4 oz. 11/2 oz. fresh or 2/3 oz. dry 1–3 oz. 5–7 oz. 8 oz. 22/3 oz. fresh or 11/3 oz. dry 8–11 oz. 10–15 oz. 12 oz. 4 oz. fresh or 2 oz. dry 20–30 oz. 16 oz. 51/3 oz. fresh or 22/3 oz. dry 32 oz. 102/3 oz. fresh or 51/3 oz. dry Tinctures versus Booze EQUIVALENT EQUIVALENT WINE HARD LIQUOR BEER OR HARD CIDER TINCTURE DOSE (12% ABV) (40% ABV) (5% ABV) (60% ABV, some fresh tinctures will 5 ml (1 tsp) 1.5 ml (~1/3 tsp) have a tad more, dried, a tad less) 12 ml (~1/2 oz.) 25 ml (~1 oz.) 7.5 ml (1/4 oz.) 1 ml 150 ml (5 oz.) 45 ml (11/2 oz.) 1 tsp (5 ml) 60 ml (2 oz.) 1 oz. bottle (30 ml, 6 tsp) 360 ml (12 oz.) Making Sense of Proof and Alcohol Percentage PROOF % ALCOHOL EXAMPLES BEST FOR 190 95% Ethanol Fresh plants, resins (preferred), diluting with water for (grain, grape, sugarcane) other % alcohol 151 75% Grain alcohol, vodka Fresh plants, resins 100 50% Vodka Dried plants, acceptable for fresh plants 80 40% Vodka, brandy Topical liniments, acceptable for dried and fresh plants Decoction Tincture Cheat Sheet to the Proofs For the sake of simplicity, here’s a cheat sheet to get 25 percent alcohol in your finished product. Note that you can use fresh plant material instead of dried, but you’ll want to bump up your alcohol percentage a tad to compensate. PROOF % ALCOHOL IN SPIRIT USE THIS MUCH USE THIS MUCH WATER SPIRIT 151-proof vodka or grain alcohol 75% alcohol by volume 66.67% (2/3) 33.33% (1/3) 190-proof ethanol (made from 95% alcohol by volume 75% 25% grain, grapes, sugarcane, or corn) (treat it like 100%) 100-proof vodka 50% alcohol by volume 50% 50% 80-proof vodka or brandy 40% alcohol by volume ~35% ~65% 314 A P P ENDIc es
Resources General Information Oregon’s Wild Harvest Seedlings oregonswildharvest.com American Herbalists Guild Companion Plants americanherbalistsguild.com Wise Woman Herbals companionplants.com wisewomanherbals.com American Botanical Council Crimson Sage Nursery herbalgram.org Zack Woods Herb Farm crimson-sage.com zackwoodsherbs.com Herb Society of America Growers Exchange herbsociety.org Seeds thegrowers-exchange.com Herbal Products Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds Mountain Gardens rareseeds.com mountaingardensherbs.com Gaia Herbs gaiaherbs.com Fedco Seeds Richters fedcoseeds.com richters.com Herb Pharm herb-pharm.com High Mowing Organic Seeds Grow Zones highmowingseeds.com To find your USDA Hardiness Mountain Rose Herbs Zone, go to the USDA website mountainroseherbs.com Strictly Medicinal Seeds and enter your zipcode: strictlymedicinalseeds.com planthardiness.ars.usda.gov FURTHER READING For more resources and book recommendations, visit www.wintergreenbotanicals.com. Flower Essences Herbal Plant Propagation Homegrown Herbs: A Complete Guide to Growing, Using, The Essential Writings of Dr. Edward Bach: The Twelve Healers and Heal Thyself by Dr. Edward Bach and Enjoying More Than 100 Herbs by Tammi Hartung The Medicinal Herb Grower: A Guide for Cultivating Flower Essence Repertory: A Comprehensive Guide to North American and English Flower Essences for Plants That Heal by Richo Cech Emotional and Spiritual Well-Being by Patricia Kaminski and Richard Katz Medicinal Herbs Alchemy of Herbs: Transform Everyday Ingredients into Flower Power: Flower Remedies for Healing Body and Soul through Herbalism, Homeopathy, Aromatherapy, and Foods and Remedies That Heal by Rosalee de la Forêt Flower Essences by Anne McIntyre Body into Balance: An Herbal Guide to Holistic Self-Care Lichenwood Herbals: lichenwood.com by Maria Noël Groves Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Andrew Chevalier Herb-Drug Reactions Herbal ABCs: The Foundation of Herbal Medicine by American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Sharol Tilgner Handbook, 2nd edition, edited by Zoë Gardner and Herbal Medicine: From the Heart of the Earth by Sharon Michael McGuffin Tilgner Mosby’s 2019 Nursing Drug Reference, 32nd edition, by Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Linda Skidmore-Roth, RN, MSN Medicine by David Hoffmann Rosemary Gladstar’s Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner’s Guide by Rosemary Gladstar Plant Families Botany in a Day: The Patterns Method of Plant Identification by Thomas J. Elpel 316 A P P ENDIc es
INDEX Page numbers in italic indicate images; page numbers in bold indicate main entries. A anti-inflammatories, 208 B antimicrobials Aches and Pains Garden bacopa (Bacopa monnieri), 248 plants in, 218, 219 for digestion and detoxification, 135 for brain boost, 110, 111, 112 recipes, 220–221 for immune and respiratory health, Sleepy Time Garden and, 217 balms, for gladdening the heart, 231 162 barberry (Berberis spp.), 271 Aches and Pains, Strains and Sprains for skin care and first aid, 187 bark, harvesting of, 25–26, 25, 26 Tincture/Liniment, 220 thuja as, 302 basil, holy (Ocimum sanctum), 274 antispasmodics, 209 Achillea millefolium. See Yarrow anxiolytics, 100 for aches and pains, 220 Actaea racemosa. See Black cohosh apple (Malus spp.), flavor and, 97 beverages containing, 124 adaptogens, 100 Arctium lappa. See Burdock for brain boost, 112 aerial parts, harvesting of, 25 aromatherapies flavor and, 94 Agastache foeniculum. See Anise hyssop for brain boost, 113 for gladdening the heart, 231 Agastache rugosa. See Korean mint earthly, 57–59 hydrosols and, 58 air-drying, 28–29 for relaxation and restoration, 125 for relaxation and restoration, 122, Albizia julibrissin. See Mimosa aromatic alcohol extracts, 57 Alchemilla spp. See Lady’s mantle aromatic herbs, 162 123, 125 alcohol energy and relaxation and, 101 stress relief and, 104, 105, 107 artichoke (Cynara scolymus), 246 uplifting preparations and, 116, 117, proof, percentage and, 41, 44, 45 for circulation, 237 tinctures and, 37 for digestion and detoxification, 138, 118, 119 Allergy and Sinus Garden baths, aromatherapies and, 57 overview of, 178 139, 141 beds, building of, 14–16 plants in, 180, 181 ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Bee Balm Honey, 170 recipes, 182–183 bee balm (Monarda spp.), 249 Allergy Tincture Blend, 182 247 Allium sativum. See Garlic for aches and pains, 220 for digestion and detoxification, 134 Aloysia citrodora. See Lemon verbena stress relief and, 104, 105, 107 for immune and respiratory health, alteratives, 155 Althaea officinalis. See Marshmallow aspirin-like herbs 166, 167, 180, 181 amphoterics, 162 as anti-inflammatory, 208 for immune system, 170, 171 analgesics, 209 black birch and, 213, 251 nomenclature of, 5, 5 Anethum graveolens. See Dill cramp bark and, 261 Bee Balm-Mint Tea, 171 anise hyssop (Agastache foeniculum), meadowsweet and, 151, 213, 284 Belsinger, Susan, 31 277 berberines digestion and, 101, 145, 146, 152 astringents for digestion, 141 flavor and, 93 for digestion and detoxification, 135 goldenseal and, 270 annual plants, defined, 20 raspberry as, 294 for immune and respiratory health, antidepressants, 100–101 rose as, 296 antihistamines, 162 for skin care and first aid, 186 183 dandelion as, 262 plants containing, 271 elder as, 166, 265 Avena sativa. See Oat Berberis spp. See Barberry goldenrod as, 180, 269 avenins, 290 bergamot, wild. See Bee balm goldenseal as, 271 Ayurvedic medicine betony (Stachys officinalis), 250 nettle as, 180, 289 Betula spp. See Birch; Black birch Nettle-Peppermint-Marshmallow ashwagandha and, 247 biennial plants, defined, 20 bacopa and, 248 biochanin A, 295 Tea and, 183 gotu kola and, 111 biochar, 17 holy basil and, 274 bioflavonoids, 296 317
birch (Betula spp.). See also Black birch C cherry, wild (Prunus serotina), 306 detoxification and, 158 honey and, 177 pain management and, 208, 213 calendula (Calendula officinalis), 255 for respiratory health, 174, 175 for daily skin care, 190, 191, 192, 193 birch beer soda, 251 for digestion, 150, 151, 152, 153 chickens, 16 bite care. See Insect Repellent and Bite for digestion and detoxification, 134, chitin, 37, 163 159 chocolate mint tea, 94 Care Garden flavor and, 92, 93 chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), 306. Bitter Brew Coffee Substitute, 158 for immune and respiratory health, bitters, 134 183 See also Wild cherry infused oils and, 64 Christopher, John, 235, 258 artichoke as, 246 Nutritive Garden and, 76, 77 chronic pain. See Pain relief Bitters Digestif Garden for skin first aid, 196, 197, 198 cinnamon, 135 circulation enhancers, 224 overview of, 137 calendula oil, 192 plants in, 138, 139 Calendula-Comfrey Cream, 193 overview of, 233 recipes, 140–141 California poppy (Eschscholzia califor- plants in, 234, 235 Bitters Spray, 141 recipes, 236–237 black birch (Betula lenta), 251. See also nica), 256 clover, red (Trifolium pratense), 295 Birch for pain relief, 208, 208 for digestion and detoxification, 156, pain management and, 213 for sleep, 128, 129 black cohosh (Actaea racemosa), 252 157, 159 for aches and pains, 218, 219, 220 calming digestives, 101 for women’s health, 240, 241, 243 time until harvest, 20 capsaicin, 213 CobraHead tool, 26, 27 for women’s health, 240, 241, 243 Capsicum annuum. See Cayenne coffee, substitutes for, 87, 158 Blankespoor, Juliet, 153 capsules, 56 Coffman, Sam, 199 Blue, Darcey, 168 cardiovascular system. See Heart and cohosh, black (Actaea racemosa), 252 blue vervain (Verbena hastata), 253 for aches and pains, 218, 219, 220 for aches and pains, 218, 219, 220, love time until harvest, 20 carminatives, 134 for women’s health, 240, 241, 243 221 Carminatives Garden comfrey (Symphytum officinale), 260 Bonbons, Brainiac, 112 for daily skin care, 190, 191, 192, 193 Brain Boosters Garden overview of, 143 for topical pain relief, 212, 213 plants in, 144, 145 compost, planting and, 15–16 overview of, 109 recipes, 146–147 compresses, 61 plants in, 110, 111 carotenoids, 255 connective tissue support, herbs for, recipes, 112–113 carvacrol, 167, 249 209 Brain-Boosting Tincture Blend, 112 catch drainage, 23 container gardening, 22–24 Brainiac Bonbons, 112 catnip (Nepeta cataria), 257 cordials, 54 Bronze Fennel Vinegar, 146 for detoxification, 134 digestive, 134, 146 broths for digestion, 134, 138, 139, 140, 141 for gladdening the heart, 231 for brain boost, 113 for insect repellents and bite care, for heart, 231 decoctions and, 36 cough remedies. See also Immune and for digestion, 153 202, 203 respiratory health for immune system, 171 cayenne (Capsicum annuum), 258 Horehound Cough Syrup, 177 Bruton-Seal, Julie, 288 wild cherry and, 306 buds, harvesting of, 25 for circulation, 234, 235 cramp bark (Viburnum opulus), 261 bug repellents, 187. See also Insect for topical pain relief, 212, 213 for pain relief, 208 Repellent and Bite Care Garden Centella asiatica. See Gotu kola for topical pain relief, 212, 213, 214 burdock (Arctium lappa), 254 chaga mushrooms, 163, 163 for women’s health, 243 for digestion and detoxification, 134, chai, 107, 171 Crataegus spp. See Hawthorn chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), creams, 66, 67 156, 157, 158 21, 259 for daily skin care, 193 Nutritive Forager Garden and, 84, for detoxification, 134 for digestion, 134, 138, 139, 144, 145, 85, 86, 87 butters, 31 147 Chamomile-Mint Tea, 147 318 INDEX
cuttings, 21 dosages F cyanide, 306 calculating, 56 cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors, 208, safety and, 9 fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), 267 for digestion, 144, 145, 146, 152 274, 297 drainage, 23 flavor and, 97 Cymbopogon citratus. See Lemongrass drug interactions, 9, 119 for immune and respiratory health, Cynara scolymus. See Artichoke drying, 27–30 176, 182 dysbiosis, gut, 153 D Fennel and Korean Mint Seltzer, 146 E Fennel Seed Chews, 146 daidzein, 295 fermentable oligosaccharides, disac- damping off, 21 Easley, Thomas, 153 dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), 262 echinacea (Echinacea spp.), 264 charides, monosaccharides, and poly- ols (FODMAP) reactions, 151, 153 for detoxification, 156, 157, 158 for immune and respiratory health, fertilizers, 17 for digestion, 138, 139, 141, 156, 157, 166, 167 container gardens and, 23 158 for immune system, 169 Filipendula ulmaria. See Meadowsweet Nutritive Forager Garden and, 84, time until harvest, 20 Fire Cider, 236, 237 elder (Sambucus nigra), 265 Fire Cider-Maple-Mustard Dressing, 85–88, 88–89 for immune and respiratory health, Dandelion-Violet Weed Pesto, 88, 237 166, 167–169 First Aid Garden. See also Skin care and 88–89 time until harvest, 20 Darcey Blue’s Elderberry Syrup, 168 Elderberry Syrup, Darcey Blue’s, 168 first aid de la Forêt, Rosalee, 214 Elder-Rose Hip Oxymel, 169 overview of, 195 decoctions, 36, 42–44, 45 elecampane (Inula helenium), 266 plants in, 196, 197 dehydration of herbs, 29–30, 29 for digestion and detoxification, 134 recipes, 198–199 demulcents electuaries, 49 energy and relaxation Flavor Garden for digestion and detoxification, Brain Boosters Garden, 108–113 overview of, 91 134–135 herb types for, 100–101 plants in, 92, 93 overview of, 99 recipes, 94–97 for immune and respiratory health, Relax and Restore Garden, 120–125 162 Sleepy Time Garden, 126–131 floral ice cubes, 96, 96 Stress Relief Garden, 102–107 flower essences, 68 Detox Forager Garden uplifting preparations, 114–119 overview of, 155 energy drinks, for brain boost, 113 for aches and pains, 221 plants in, 156, 157 Equisetum arvense. See Horsetail for brain boost, 113 recipes, 158–159 Eschscholzia californica. See California for relaxation and restoration, 125 poppy flower waters. See Hydrosols digestion essences. See Flower essences flowers Bitters Digestif Garden, 136–141 essential oils, 57 decorative edible, 96 calming digestives and, 101 for insect repellents and bite care, energy and relaxation and, 101 Carminatives Garden, 142–147 harvesting of, 25 herb types for, 134–135 204 FODMAP reactions. See Fermentable overview of, 133 for sleep and stress reduction, 279 oligosaccharides, disaccharides, Tummy Soothers Garden, 148–153 Essiac formula, 295 monosaccharides, and polyols estrogen, 252 reactions dill (Anethum graveolens), 263 extractions Foeniculum vulgare. See Fennel for digestion, 144, 145, 147 alcohol-free, 46–54 foraging aromatherapies and, 57 Detox Forager Garden, 155–159, 156 dilute remedies, 68–69 hot-water, 34–35 Nutritive Forager Garden, 83–89, diuretics, 135 infused oils and, 64 tinctures, 37–45 84, 85 dandelion as, 262 formulation, 69 dock, yellow (Rumex crispus), 308 freezing, 30–31 for digestion and detoxification, 156, 157 Nutritive Forager Garden and, 87 INDEX 319
G for circulation, 234, 235, 237 beverages containing, 124 for daily skin care, 190, 191, 193 for brain boost, 112 garbling, 30, 30 for skin first aid, 198 flavor and, 94 garden aromatics blend tea, 94 stress relief and, 104, 105, 107 for gladdening the heart, 231 gardens. See also specific gardens Gotu Kola-Calendula Cream, 193 hydrosols and, 58 grape root, Oregon (Mahonia spp.), 271 for relaxation and restoration, 122, in containers, 22–25 grindelia, for insect repellents and bite harvesting and, 25–27 care, 205 123, 125 planting, care, and maintenance of, growing conditions, herb selection and, 7 stress relief and, 104, 105, 107 Gut-Healing Broth, 153 uplifting preparations and, 116, 117, 13–19 Gut-Healing Tummy Teas, 152 preservation and, 27–31 118, 119 propagation and, 21 H Holy basil tea, 107 started from plants or seeds, 19–21 Holy rose water, 107 garlic (Allium sativum), 268 hand plows, 18 honey, 48–49 for circulation, 234, 235, 236, 237 Happy Tea, 118 for immune and respiratory health, hardening off, 16 for brain boost, 112 hardiness zones, 18 extractions and, 48, 48–49 166, 167 harmonizer herbs, 69 for immune system, 170 time until harvest, 20 harvesting, 25–26 oxymels and, 47 genus names, 5 hawthorn (Crataegus spp.), 273 raw wild cherry, 177 geranium, for insect repellents and bite for respiratory health, 177 care, 204 for brain boost, 112 syrups and, 52 Get the Blood Moving Garden for circulation, 234, 235, 237 honey-alcohol syrups, 49 overview of, 224, 233 for gladdening the heart, 228, 229, horehound (Marrubium vulgare), 275 plants in, 234, 235 for immune and respiratory health, recipes, 236–237 230, 231 Gladden the Heart Garden for heart issues, 224 180, 181, 182 overview of, 224, 227 time until harvest, 20 for respiratory health, 174, 175, 177 plants in, 228, 229 Hawthorn Tincture, 230 Horehound Cough Syrup, 177 recipes, 230–231 heading cuts, 25, 26 hormone balancers, 225 Gladstar, Rosemary, 3, 66, 236, 287 heart and love horsetail (Equisetum arvense), 276 gluten, 290 Get the Blood Moving Garden, for aches and pains, 218, 219, 220 glycerine, topical remedies and, 60 Nutritive Forager Garden and, 84, 85 glycerine transfer, 51 232–237 for pain relief, 208 glycerites, 50, 50–51 Gladden the Heart Garden, 226–231 Hoxsey formula, 295 aromatherapies and, 57 hawthorn and, 273 Hydrastis canadensis. See Goldenseal for digestion, 140 herb types for, 224–225 hydrosols, 58 for gladdening the heart, 231 overview of, 223 aromatherapies and, 57, 59 for relaxation and restoration, 125 Woman’s Garden, 238–243 for daily skin care, 192 stress relief and, 107 Heart Tonic Tincture Blend, 237 topical remedies and, 60 syrups and, 52 heavy metals, infusions, teas and, 78 Hypericum perforatum. See St. John’s for uplifting, 119 herb butters, 31 wort goldenrod (Solidago spp.), 269 herb infusions, 35 for immune and respiratory health, Herbal Insect Repellent, 204 I Herbal Nutri-Broth with Mushrooms, 180, 181, 182 81 ice cubes goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), herb-pack compresses, 61 floral, 96, 96 herbs, definitions of, 3 freezing in, 31 270–271 Holy basil blend tea, 94 teas and, 36 for immune and respiratory health, holy basil (Ocimum sanctum), 274 180, 181 for aches and pains, 220 iced tea, 36 Ick Stick Thuja Salve, 199 Good Mood Tincture, 119 gotu kola (Centella asiatica), 18, 272 for brain boost, 110, 111, 112 320 INDEX
immune and respiratory health Korean mint (Agastache rugosa), 3, 277 Leonurus cardiaca. See Motherwort additional ways to support, 171, 176 for digestion, 144, 145, 146, 152 Liberty Teas, 294 Allergy and Sinus Garden, 178–183 flavor and, 92, 93, 94, 97 lifespans, 20 herb types for, 162–163 linden (Tilia spp.), 282 Immune SOS Garden, 164–171 Kress, Henriette, 214 Lung Tonics Garden, 172–177 for gladdening the heart, 228, 229, mushrooms and, 163 L 231 overview of, 161 labeling time until harvest, 20 immune modulators, 162 freezing and, 30–31 Linden-Honey Cordial, 231 Immune SOS Garden safety and, 5, 8 liniments, 45 overview of, 165 LaBrie, Jessica, 57 for aches and pains, 220 plants in, 166, 167 Lady Tea, 243 for daily skin care, 192 recipes, 168–171 lady’s mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris, infused oils and, 64 immune stimulants, 162 for skin care and first aid, 199 infections. See Antimicrobials; Immune A. mollis), 278 topical, 60 and respiratory health for heart issues, 225 lion’s mane mushrooms, 163, 163 infused oils, 62–63, 62, 192 for women’s health, 240, 241, 243 lip balms, 65 infusions. See also Teas lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitors, 208 aromatherapies and, 57 lasagna gardening, 14–16 Listerine, 303 for daily skin care, 192 Latin names, 5 liver movers, 134 extractions and, 64 lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), 279 loam, planting and, 15–16 Flavor Garden and, 97 love. See Heart and love Nettle-Oat Super Infusion, 78 for daily skin care, 190, 191 low-heat drying, 29 seltzers, 35, 97 essential oils and, 57 lozenges, 56 water infusions, 35, 97, 113 hydrosols and, 58 lung tonics, 162 insect and weed control, 18 for insect repellents and bite care, Lung Tonics Garden Insect Repellent and Bite Care Garden overview of, 162, 173 overview of, 201 202, 203, 204, 205 plants in, 174, 175 plants in, 202, 203 for skin first aid, 198 recipes, 176–177 recipes, 204–205 leaves, harvesting of, 25 lymph movers, 135 insomnia, Sleepy Time Garden and, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), 280 lymphagogues, 135 127–131, 128, 129 for brain boost, 110, 111, 112, 113 intuition, 8 for detoxification, 134 M Inula helenium. See Elecampane for digestion, 134, 138, 139, 140, 141 iron levels, 308 flavor and, 94 macerated glycerite, 51 itch relief, herbs for, 187. See also Skin for gladdening the heart, 231 maceration, infused oils and, 64 care and first aid for relaxation and restoration, 122, Mahonia spp. See Oregon grape root maitake mushrooms, 163, 163 J 123, 125 Malus spp. See Apple for sleep, 130 manure, 16, 17 jewelweed, for insect repellents and stress relief and, 107 Marrubium vulgare. See Horehound bite care, 205 teas and, 95 marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), 283 uplifting preparations and, 116, 117, joint support, herbs for, 209 for digestion, 150, 151, 152, 153 118, 119 flavor and, 94 K Lemon Balm-Catnip Glycerite, 140 for immune and respiratory health, lemon cake tea, 94 Kallas, John, 283 lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora), 281 183 kidney tonics, 135 for respiratory health, 174, 175, 176 King, Jovial, 141 flavor and, 94 teas and, 95 uplifting preparations and, 118 Masé, Guido, 141 lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), 22, Matricaria chamomilla. See Chamomile 281 flavor and, 92, 93, 94 Lemon-St. John’s Wort Pick-Me-Up, 118 INDEX 321
McDonald, Jim, 219, 301 mulch, 15–16, 18 Nutritive Garden meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), mullein (Verbascum thapsus), 288 overview of, 75 plants in, 76, 77 284 for aches and pains, 218, 219, 220 recipes, 78–81 for digestion, 150, 151, 152 for immune and respiratory health, safety tips for, 78 for pain relief, 208 for topical pain relief, 212, 213, 214 182 O for pain relief, 209 medications, 9, 119 for respiratory health, 174, 175, 176 oat (Avena sativa), 290 Melissa officinalis. See Lemon balm Multimineral Vinegar, 86 for insect repellents and bite care, Mellow Me Glycerite, 125 muscle relaxers, 209 205 Mentha spp. See Mint mushrooms Nutritive Garden and, 76, 77, 78, 79 Mességué, Maurice, 60 as honorary herbs, 3 for relaxation and restoration, 125 microbial growth, infusions, teas and, medicinal, 163 stress relief and, 104, 105, 106 Nutritive Garden and, 81 teas and, 95 78 tinctures and, 37 microclimates, 15, 22–23 Ocimum sanctum. See Holy basil milk, 107 N oils. See also Essential oils Milky Oats Tincture, 106 mimosa (Albizia julibrissin), 285 Nepeta cataria. See Catnip for skin care and first aid, 199 Neptune’s Harvest fish and seaweed for topical pain relief, 215 time until harvest, 20 ointments, 65 uplifting preparations and, 116, 117, emulsion, 17 opioids, 256 nervines, 100 oregano (Origanum vulgare), 291 118, 119 for digestion and detoxification, 134 Mineral-Rich “Coffee” Syrup, 87 skullcap as, 300 for immune and respiratory health, minerals, tinctures and, 37 nettle (Urtica dioica), 4, 289 mint (Mentha spp.), 286. See also 167 for digestion and detoxification, 159 Oregon grape root (Mahonia spp.), 271 Korean mint flavor and, 94 Oswego tea. See Bee balm for brain boost, 110, 111, 112, 113 for immune and respiratory health, oxymels, 47 for digestion, 144, 145, 147 for digestion and detoxification, 159 180, 181, 182, 183 for immune system, 169 flavor and, 92, 93, 94, 97 Nutritive Forager Garden and, 84, syrups and, 52 for immune and respiratory health, 183 85, 86, 87 P for immune system, 171 Nutritive Garden and, 76, 77, 78, Nutritive Garden and, 79 PA. See Pyrrolizidine alkaloids for respiratory health, 176 79, 81 pain relief for sleep, 130 teas and, 94, 95, 183 Nettle-Oat Super Infusion, 78 Aches and Pains Garden, 216–221 Minty Memory Tea, 113 Nettle-Peppermint-Marshmallow Tea, herb types for, 208–209 molasses, Nutritive Forager Garden 94, 183 overview of, 207 nightshade family, 247 Topical Pain Relief Garden, 211–215 and, 87 nociceptives, 209 paper bags, drying in, 28, 29 Monarda spp. See Bee balm nomenclature, 5 passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), Moore, Michael, 3, 62, 170, 253 non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs 292 motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca), 287 (NSAIDs), 208 for gladdening the heart, 231 nootropics, 101 for relaxation and restoration, 125 for gladdening the heart, 228, 229 Nutri-Broth, 80, 81 for sleep, 128, 129, 130 for relaxation and restoration, 122, Nutri-Detox Tea, 159 pastes, frozen herb, 31 Nutri-Lady Tea, 243 pastilles, 56 123 Nutri-Tea, 79 Peaceful Heart Tea, 231 uplifting preparations and, 119 Nutritive Forager Garden perennial plants, defined, 20 mucilage overview of, 83 digestion, detoxification and, plants in, 84, 85 recipes, 86–89 134–135 marshmallow and, 283 tinctures and, 37 322 INDEX
peristalsis, 308 recipes flavor and, 94, 97 pest control, 19 for aches and pains, 220–221 for gladdening the heart, 228, 229 Pesto, Dandelion-Violet Weed, 88, 89 for allergy and sinus relief, 182–183 for immune system, 169 Phillips, Michael, 276 for brain boost, 112–113 Nutritive Garden and, 76, 77 Phillips, Nancy, 3 for carminatives, 146–147 for relaxation and restoration, 125 phytoestrogens, 295 for circulation enhancers, 236–237 for skin care and first aid, 186 pickles, for digestion, 147 for daily skin care, 192–193 stress relief and, 104, 105, 107 Plant Nanny stakes, 23 for detoxification, 158–159 time until harvest, 20 plantain (Plantago major), 293 for digestion, 140–141 uplifting preparations and, 116, 117, for flavor, 94–97 for detoxification, 134 for gladdening the heart, 230–231 118, 119 for digestion, 134, 150, 151, 152, 153 for immune system, 168–171 for women’s health, 240, 241, 243 for insect repellents and bite care, for insect repellents and bite care, rose glycerite, 107, 119 204–205 rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), 297 202, 203, 205 for nutrition boost, 78–81, 86–89 for aches and pains, 220 for respiratory health, 174, 175, 176 for relaxation and restoration, for brain boost, 110, 111, 112, 113 for skin care, 187 124–125 for circulation, 234, 235, 237 for skin first aid, 187, 196, 197, 198 for respiratory health, 176–177 for insect repellents and bite care, Plantain Poultice, 205 for skin first aid, 198–199 Plantain-Yarrow Bite Rub, 205 for sleep, 130–131 204 planting tips, 14–24 for stomach issues, 152–153 Rosemary-Lemon Tea, 113 poison ivy relief, 205 for stress relief, 106–107 rubbing screens, 30 Polygonatum biflorum. See Solomon’s for topical pain relief, 214–215 Rubus idaeus. See Raspberry seal for uplifting herbs, 118–119 Rumex crispus. See Yellow dock polysaccharides, 163 for women’s health, 242–243 poppies, 256. See also California poppy S pots, 22–23 red clover (Trifolium pratense), 295 poultices, 61, 61 for digestion and detoxification, 156, Sadeh, Lior, 286 for skin care and first aid, 199 157, 159 safety, 8–9 powders, 55–56 for women’s health, 240, 241, 243 for stress support, 107 heart issues and, 225 preservation methods, 27 Relax and Restore Garden Nutritive Garden and, 78 drying, 27–30 overview of, 121 sage (Salvia officinalis), 298 freezing, 30–31 plants in, 122, 123 for digestion and detoxification, 134 garbling, 30 recipes, 124–125 salicin, 251, 284 proof, 41, 44, 45 salves, 64, 65 propagation, 21 relaxation. See Energy and relaxation for skin care and first aid, 198, 199 prunacin, 306 relaxing bitters, 134 Salvia officinalis. See Sage Prunus virginiana. See Chokecherry Remifemin, 252 Sambucus nigra. See Elder pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA), 260 repellents. See Insect Repellent and Bite Scutellaria lateriflora. See Skullcap sedatives, 100 Q Care Garden seedlings resins, tinctures and, 37 self-sown, 21 Quick Dill Pickles, 147 respiratory concerns. See Immune and starting from, 19 seeds, starting from, 19–21 R respiratory health selecting herbs, considerations for, 7 restoration. See Relax and Restore seltzers rash relief, 205 for brain boost, 113 raspberry (Rubus idaeus), 294 Garden for digestion, 146 root division, 21 infused, 35, 97 teas and, 95 roots, harvesting of, 26, 28 shiitake mushrooms, 163, 163 for women’s health, 240, 241, 243 rose (Rosa spp.), 296 for daily skin care, 190, 191, 192 for digestion, 150, 151, 152 essential oils and, 57 INDEX 323
short-lived perennial plants, defined, Stachys officinalis. See Betony Nutri-Tea, 79 20 steam, aromatherapies and, 57 for relaxation and restoration, 125 steeping, 35 for respiratory health, 176, 183 SIBO. See Small intestinal bacterial stomach. See Digestion for sleep, 130 overgrowth storage of dried herbs, 30, 31 topical, 60 Stress Relief Garden uplifting, 118 silica, 276 for women’s health, 243 silk tree. See Mimosa overview of, 102–103 tender perennial plants, defined, 20 sinus relief. See Allergy and Sinus plants in, 104, 105 Thai Curry Fire Cider, 237 recipes, 106–107 Thai Curry Paste, 237 Garden sunlight requirement, 17 thermos cheats, 36 site selection, tips for, 14 sunscreen, 193 thiaminase, 276 skin care and first aid super infusions, 35 thinning cuts, 25, 26 Super Skin Garden Thompson, Samuel, 235, 258 First Aid Garden, 194–199 overview of, 189 thuja (Thuja occidentalis), 302 herb types for, 186–187 plants in, 190, 191 for skin care and first aid, 199 Insect Repellent and Bite Care recipes, 192–193 for skin first aid, 196, 197 Super Skin Salve, 198 thyme (Thymus vulgaris), 303 Garden, 200–205 suribachis, 55 for digestion and detoxification, 134 overview of, 185 Sweet Fennel Liquor, 146 for immune and respiratory health, Super Skin Garden, 188–193 Symphytum officinale. See Comfrey skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), 300 synergist herbs, 69 182 for relaxation and restoration, 122, syrups, 52 thymol, 167 honey-alcohol, 49 Tierra, Michael, 285 123, 125 for immune and respiratory health, Tilia spp. See Linden for sleep, 128, 129, 130 tilleul, 282 Sleep Tea, 130 168 tinctures, 37 Sleepy Time Garden Mineral-Rich “Coffee” Syrup, 87 overview of, 127 for respiratory health, 177 for aches and pains, 220 plants in, 128, 129 shelf-stable, 52 aromatic, 57 recipes, 130–131 simmered, 52, 53 bark and, 26 small intestinal bacterial overgrowth simple, 54 brain-boosting, 112 (SIBO), 135, 141, 151, 153, 254 for circulation, 237 soaks, aromatherapies and, 57 T for digestion, 140, 149 sodas, infused, 97 double-extraction (decoction), soil amendments, 17 tannins soil tests, 15 digestion, detoxification and, 135 42–44, 45 Solidago spp. See Goldenrod tinctures and, 37 dried plant, 40–41 Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum biflorum), fresh plant, 38–39 301 Taraxacum officinale. See Dandelion for gladdening the heart, 230, 231 for aches and pains, 218, 219, 220 teas, 34–37. See also Extractions for immune and respiratory health, for pain relief, 208 soothers. See Demulcents aromatherapies and, 57 182 Soothing Lung Tea, 176 for brain boost, 113 for immune system, 169, 171 Sore Muscle Bath, 214 compresses and, 61 for insect repellents and bite care, species names, 5 decoctions of, 36 sprays, for digestion, 141 for detoxification, 159 204 St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), for digestion, 147, 152, 159 liniments, 45 6, 299 Flavor Garden and, 94–95 low-dose, 68 for pain relief, 208 for gladdening the heart, 231 for relaxation and restoration, 125 for skin first aid, 196, 197, 198 for immune system, 171, 183 for sleep, 131 for topical pain relief, 212, 213, 215 infusions of, 35 stress relief and, 107 uplifting preparations and, 116, 117, Nettle-Oat Super Infusion, 78 topical, 60 for topical pain relief, 214 118 St. John’s Wort Oil, 215 324 INDEX
tissue toners, 225 uplifting preparations and, 118 Y Toll, Maia, 260 vervain, blue (Verbena hastata), 253 tonics yarrow (Achillea millefolium), 307 for aches and pains, 218, 219, 220, for digestion and detoxification, 134 Flavor Garden and, 91–97 221 for insect repellents and bite care, for heart, 224 202, 203, 204, 205 Lung Tonics Garden and, 173–177, Viburnum opulus. See Cramp bark for skin care, 187 vinegars, 46, 47 for skin first aid, 187, 196, 197 174, 175, 192 Nutritive Forager Garden and, digestion, detoxification and, 146 yellow dock (Rumex crispus), 308 Multimineral Vinegar, 86 for digestion and detoxification, 156, 83–89 tinctures and, 37 157 Nutritive Garden and, 75–81 topical remedies and, 60 Nutritive Forager Garden and, 87 overview of, 73 violet (Viola spp.), 305 Topical Pain Relief Garden for digestion and detoxification, 156, overview of, 211 plants in, 212, 213 157, 159 recipes, 214–215 Nutritive Forager Garden and, 84, topical remedies, 60–67. See also Skin care and first aid 85, 88 Trifolium pratense. See Red clover Nutritive Garden and, 76, 77 trophorestoratives, 162 teas and, 95 tulsi. See Holy basil vodka, 38, 41 Tummy Soothers Garden vulneraries for digestion, 152–153 for digestion and detoxification, 135 overview of, 149 for skin care and first aid, 186 plants in, 150, 151 recipes, 152–153 W turkey tail mushrooms, 163, 163 washing of herbs, 28 U water infusions uplifting herbs for brain boost, 113 list of, 116, 117 floral, 97 overview of, 115 teas and, 35 recipes, 118–119 water requirements, 17–18 for container gardens, 23 Urtica dioica. See Nettle weed control, 18 USDA hardiness zones, 18 wild cherry (Prunus serotina), 306 uterine antispasmidics, 225 honey and, 177 for respiratory health, 174, 175 V Winston, David, 285 Withania somnifera. See Ashwagandha vacuum sealing, 31–32 Woman’s Garden valerian (Valeriana officinalis), 304 overview of, 239 plants in, 240, 241, 252 for sleep, 128, 129 recipes, 242–243 Valium, 304 Wood, Matthew, 68, 219, 253, 301 varieties, defined, 5 wound healing. See Skin care and first Verbascum thapsus. See Mullein aid verbena, lemon (Aloysia citrodora), 281 flavor and, 94 INDEX 325
Cultivate Better Health, Naturally, with More Books from Storey by Maria Noël Groves by Tammi Hartung by Rosemary Gladstar Achieve your optimal health With complete information Stock your home medicine by learning to use herbs most on growing and using more chest with safe, all-natural, effectively. Step-by-step than 100 herbs for beauty, low-cost herbal preparations, photographs and in-depth flavor, and health, this valu- and enjoy better health! instructions help you read the able primer offers gardeners Profiles of 33 common and clues of your body’s imbal- of any level thorough guidance versatile healing plants show ances while also teaching you on seed selection, planting you exactly how to grow, har- how to minimize your use of and maintenance, harvest, vest, prepare, and use them. pharmaceuticals. and more. Join the conversation. Share your experience with this book, learn more about Storey Publishing’s authors, and read original essays and book excerpts at storey.com. Look for our books wherever quality books are sold or call 800-441-5700.
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