WEEDS FOR WELLNESS – A GUIDE TO YOUR BACKYARD PHARMACY
In the following weeks I will share information about some of the so-called weeds and how you can add them to your food menu. Many of the “weeds” have a greater nutritional value than cultivated vegetables.
Let’s start with the “pesky” DANDELION that adds so much vibrant yellow to the landscape right now; the blossoms look like little suns reaching up to the sky. Dandelion is a great friend for an ailing digestive system. Medicinally the leaves are used internally as a diuretic and stimulant for the gall bladder; the root provides support for the digestive system especially the liver. The milky juice from the stems is applied externally to warts and skin blemishes.
Dandelion GREENS are more nutritious than spinach; they contain many vitamins (i.e. vitamin A, C and D) and minerals (i.e. calcium, potassium and iron). Another constituent, photosterols support the body by preventing the accumulation of cholesterol.
The greens should be harvested before the flowers appear; either for immediate use or kept in the fridge for up to 5-6 days after they have been rinsed with cold water. You may want to store them in a damp dish towel. Leaves that are lighter in colour have less of a bitter taste as do younger leaves.
FOOD USES: My favorite is to add Dandelion greens to a salad, scrambled eggs or the Jungle Juice (see previous post). You can also add them to smoothies, guacamole or baking such as pancakes, muffins and biscuits.
Dried leaves, stored in an airtight container, can be prepared as an infusion (tea).
FLOWERS: Gather while in full bloom and fully open. Pluck the petals and add to any baking or water to make a cold infusion. Dandelion flowers don’t keep well, therefore they should be used within a few hours of harvesting. You can also make wine or syrup from the flowers.
ENJOY and be creative. Feel free to share your Dandelion experiences and recipes.
Stay tuned for the next weedy post.
Spring appears to have made a come back after all!
It is the time of the year when great herb conferences are in the final planning stages. Check out the Kootenay Herb Conference the first weekend in June. It will be a fun-filled weekend with lots of interesting workshops and people who care about the Earth and leaving a positive foot print.
I will be there for sure, teaching two workshops.
Check it out at: http://kootenayherbconference.com.
Green Blessings,
Gudrun
TROUBLE WITH SEASONAL ALLERGIES
Most of us welcome the arrival of spring, yet for others it means the return of a challenging time because of seasonal allergies.
Suffering may be reduced greatly with natural remedies, many of them available at my office. Call me at 780.532.2464 for information.
A wholesome diet (eliminates food allergens), regular exercise, stress reduction, reflexology and a positive outlook on life are key to our well-being all helping to reduce allergic/sensitivity reactions.
SEASONAL ALLERGIES present as short term, seasonal episodes with the majority of symptoms concentrated in the respiratory system, but can extend to the skin and digestive tract. Reactions may be triggered by air-borne pollens, dander, dust and mold.
COMMON SYMPTOMS include:
- Sneezing
- Post nasal drip
- Sinus and nasal congestion
- Itchy watery eyes
- Excessive clear mucous production
- Laboured breathing
- Skin irritations or hives
CHART – by Bio Lonreco
Seasonal allergies are lurking just around the corner
NOW is the time to implement a treatment protocol to minimize reactions. Call me to set up a custom tailored approach depending on presenting symptoms.
ALLERGY SCENARIOS
– Chronic seasonal allergies with sinus pain
– Person with seasonal allergies causing acute asthma
– Allergic rhinitis with sinus pain causing eye discharge
– Nasal congestion, headache, sore throat with history of allergic rhinitis
– Allergy conjunctivitis (pink eye)
In addition, a wholesome diet (eliminate food allergens), regular exercise, stress reduction and a positive outlook on life are key to our well-being all helping to reduce allergic/sensitivity reactions.
Allergies, including those stemming from food, fungus, animals, dust, ragweed and pollens, are often a major source of misery. With the rapidly increasing incidence of environmental allergies, asthma, and sinusitis the demand for allergy solutions is at an all time high. Any person affected by allergies understands the importance of finding ways to minimize the effects of allergens in order to regain optimal daily function.
Allergic reactions vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, and, in some cases, potentially deadly anaphylactic reactions. In the case of seasonal allergies, the majority of symptoms are concentrated in the respiratory system, but can extend to the skin and digestive tract. There is a genetic component; children with allergy suffering parents are more likely to be afflicted. Another source is the severe, repeated exposure at a young age. Though genetic vulnerability and exposure to allergens are highly difficult to combat, patients can be helped through the supporting of the immune system, which decreases the severity of the reactions in question. This may include the use of immune tonics, antihistamines, and the very important concept of drainage, to reduce the toxic load on the body and support the rapid elimination of inflammatory toxins.
PLAGUED BY A PERSISTENT COUGH?
Here are some tips and simple home remedies to support the body in overcoming this affliction regardless of what causes the cough.
1. Cut out all mucous forming foods, especially dairy and wheat as well as all foods you know you are sensitive to.
2. Change your diet to at least 70% raw and drink lots of carrot juice and green smoothies.
3. Drink lots of good water – city water is typically full of chemicals and not recommended for consumption on a regular basis.
4. Keep the chest warm with appropriate clothing.
5. Apply poultices to the chest, i.e. onion poultice or castor oil pack (see DVD “Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone”, Disc 2 for instructions)
6. Cough Syrup – homemade, simple yet effective:
Cut up an onion, place in glass jar and cover with honey (honey can be hard; the juice of the onion will liquefy the honey).
Let sit for several hours to several days and strain. Take 1 tsp. as needed.
7. Herbs to use are the ones with anti-microbial properties such as Garlic and Thyme and expectorants for example Mullein (Verbascum thapsus), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and Fenugreek seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum).
You can find good combination teas for the support of the respiratory system at the health food stores.
Rosehips High in Vitamin C
Rosehips are from the Wild Rose (Rosa canina). They are especially high in vitamin C but also contain vitamin A, B1 and B2 in the pulp. Vitamin C was first discovered in Rosehips. Long before the discovery of vitamin C Rosehip tea was used for the common cold and locally for inflamed and bleeding gums.
Most animals are able to manufacture their own vitamin C but because of a lack of a major enzyme in the human liver, the human body is unable to manufacture its own vitamin C. This is why we need to ensure adequate vitamin C intake through our diet or supplements. Rosehips also help to maintain healthy collagen, the substance that holds trillions of cells together in our body.
ROSEHIP TEA
Following are two of my favourite ways of preparing Rosehip tea:
1. My preference is to make a cold infusion and let it sit over night or at least a few hours before straining it. Cold infusions have the advantage of preserving the mineral content provided by the herbs.
2. Make a cold infusion and then slowly bring the infusion with the rosehips to simmer to make a decoction.
For instructions of the different water extractions such as cold infusions and decoctions I suggest you refer to disc 1 of the DVD “Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone”.
Why Eat More HEMP HEARTS?
Hemp Hearts (shelled hemp seeds) are the best source of protein, essential fats — rich in Omega — vitamins and enzymes on the Earth. Rocky Mountain Hemp Hearts contain twice as much protein compared to other kinds.
ON SALE now at my office until quantities last – $8.50/lb
Rocky Mountain Hemp Hearts are grown without herbicides or pesticides. The products are made fresh daily, priced to sell quickly and shipped in small lots. They contain a natural antioxidant (Vitamin E) that keeps them fresh for many months at room temperature. Nothing has been added to the Hemp Hearts from Rocky Mountain. Nothing has been removed but the shell. The list of health benefits is almost endless – both for healthy individuals and those dealing with (chronic) health issues.
Hemp Hearts compared to other foods:
– contain more amino acids than milk, eggs or meat
– complete source of protein
– contain about 47% oil, 86% of which is omega 3, 6 and 9
– contain all essential fatty acids required for health
– provide plenty of energy without the use of sugar, caffeine etc.
– suitable for anyone unable to digest gluten, dairy, nuts, meat and sugar
– perfect for those avoiding carbohydrates
– supports and encourages proper bowel function
Hemp Hearts can be enjoyed in cereal, salads, baked goods, added to sauces, mixed with yogurt and fruit…
I strongly recommend to make Hemp Hearts part of your daily health giving regime!
Green Blessings,
Gudrun
BACH FLOWER WORKSHOP in VANCOUVER, October 10, 2017
While in Vancouver for a guest speaking engagement at Boucher Institute of Natural Medicine I am also offering a workshop at the clinic of Dr. Marisa Marciano. Thank you Marisa! Hope to see some of you there! Looking forward to a great experience.
Green blessings,
Gudrun
In Celebration of Herbs
In Celebration of Herbs – IHA (International Herb Association) Conference in Michigan
I just returned from the herb conference in Michigan where I taught a class on Bach Flowers. The conference was held at the old Kellogg “summer cottage” on Gull Lake, an absolutely amazing place. The primary focus of the conference was Hops because it has been chosen as the “herb of the year”. I am now back in Ontario for a book signing tour, another interesting (ad)venture.
Green Blessings,
Gudrun
PROPERTIES AND APPLICATIONS of CALENDULA OIL
The oil is made from Calendula officinalis often referred to as Marigold. Many plants are called Marigold and therefore the Latin name is required for correct identification.
The flowers are bright yellow and orange and have many therapeutic properties. It is easy to grow and harvest. The oil can be made into a healing salve which is a favorite of many of my clients.
PROPERTIES
anti-inflammatory – wound healing – anti-fungal – anti-bacterial/anti-microbial – anti-septic
Calendula oil is used topically and primarily used in SKIN CARE because of its great anti-inflammatory and wound healing actions.
APPLICATIONS
SKIN DRYNESS & IRRITATION
The oil helps to moisturize the skin, soothes the area and reduces pain.
Conditions: diaper rash, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, minor cuts and wounds, bed sores, insect bites, frost bites
FUNGAL INFECTIONS
Athlete’s foot, ring worm and jock itch
INFLAMMATION
Swelling from injuries i.e. sprained muscles and bruises, leg ulcers, spider and varicose veins.
HISTORICAL USE
Applied externally for abdominal cramps and constipation.
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