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Creating an Edible or Medicinal Garden for Your Use and for Butterflies to Enjoy

 
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"Pollinators are responsible for assisting over 80% of the world's flowering plants. Without them, humans and wildlife wouldn't have much to eat or look at! Animals that assist plants in their reproduction as pollinators include species of ants, bats, bees, beetles, birds, butterflies, flies, moths, wasps, as well as other unusual animals. Wind and water also play a role in the pollination of many plants."

Butterflies, like the honeybee, are excellent pollinators and will help increase your flower, fruit and vegetable production. The secret to successful butterfly gardens lies in providing a wide variety of flowers and shrubs.

One of the joys of having a garden is seeing the butterflies take wing among the flowers.  Simple flowers are better than fancy double-hybrids, offering an easy-to-reach nectar source.   Aim for a wide spectrum of flower colors. Some butterflies prefer oranges, reds and yellows, while others like whites, purples and blues.   "It's very true that if you plant it, they will come."

The truth is, butterflies don't care how you approach herb gardening, so long as you set out their favorite nectar and larval plants. And as I've discovered on my tiny parcel of land, a bit of creative mixing can be attractive and enjoyable. You'll be happier with an herb garden that has been thoughtfully planned. Consider, along with your own personal style and plant preferences, a pleasing combination of plant sizes, colors, textures, and seasons of bloom.

From the University of Texas article on Butterfly Gardening:      “A damp sand patch, baited with a small amount of manure, fermenting fruit such as bananas or cantaloupe, or ripe fish will attract butterflies in a puddle assemblage where they will be less wary. These assemblages make observation and photography easy.”

Make a Mud Puddle: The damp edges around garden ponds are perfect areas for butterfly puddling, but you can also make your own butterfly puddle by filling a small bowl with sand and moistening with water. Find a nice spot in your garden and dig the bowl into the ground.  Add a small pinch of salt to entice the males; you may find that many males of a single species come to visit with their friends. Decorate the butterfly puddle with river rocks or clam shells to give the butterflies a nice place to bask in the sun.

A butterfly-pleasing oregano for hedges is Origanum vulgare 'Aureum,' with its golden leaves and pink flowers.

You could build your entire herb garden around sage because there are hundreds of varieties, from annuals to biennials to tender or hardy perennials. Salvia coccinea, with its tubular red flowers, will appeal more to hummingbirds, but other red varieties will bring in butterflies: cherry sage (Salvia greggi), pineapple sage (S. rutilans), honeydew melon sage (S. elegans), and the annual variety, scarlet sage (S. splendens). Tall, blue-flowered sages for butterflies include Mexican bush sage (S. leucantha), blue sage (S. Clevelandii), bog sage (S. uliginosa), and anise-scented sage (S. guaranitica).

Pick carefully  Be careful not to carry small larvae into your kitchen when trimming off a bit of herb for your culinary creations.
Butterfly eggs are tiny, Monarch butterfly eggs are the size of a pin head, but they are often laid in bunches.

Please do your own research as to how these are edible or medicinal

Edible or Medicinal Flowers and Herbs
Coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea)
Passion Flowers (Passiflora spp.)
Spotted Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum)
Lavender  (L. angustifolia)
lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
bee balm (Mondara didyma)
wild bergamot (M. fistulosa)
lemon mint (M. citriodora)
plains beebalm (M. pectinata)
Oswego tea (M. didyma)
nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Herbs:
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)
Dill (Antheum graveolens)
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
mountain mint (Pycnanthemum spp.)
dotted mint (Monarda punctata)
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
purple oreganos, Origanum laevigatum 'Hopley's' and 'Herrenhausen,'
Thyme (Thymus spp.)
Creeping thyme (Thymus pseudolanguinosus)
wild marjoram (Origanum vulgare)
true valerian (Valeriana officinalis)



Some shrubs that butterflies like:  unknown if they are edible or medicinal
Coontie (Zamia pumila)
False Indigo (Baptisia australis)
Spicebush (Lindera benzoin )


Good Article on Herbs for Butterflies
 
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I'll add a side note for people just starting. It took three years before large numbers butterflies found my lantanas and a couple of years for the milkweed. I think if the milkweed hadn't been right next to the lantana it may have been three years, also. Don't give up if you don't have immediate results. Until this year I had come to the conclusion that were overrated as butterfly plants. This year we had clouds surrounding them ever time I went past.

That's not to say you won't have fast results. Small butterflies immediately found my culinary herbs and the numbers have increased every year I let the frog fruit proliferate.
 
Anne Miller
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Here are some butterflies you might attract:

pipevine-butterfly.jpg
[Thumbnail for pipevine-butterfly.jpg]
Pipevine Butterfly
Monarch-on-Mexican-Sunflower.jpg
Monarch-on-Mexican-Sunflower
Monarch-on-Mexican-Sunflower
Lavandula-pinnata-plant.gif
[Thumbnail for Lavandula-pinnata-plant.gif]
And a Lavender Plant
 
Anne Miller
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Purple coneflower is so easy to grow and attractive and draws so many birds and butterflies that you simply must grow coneflowers, if you have the room. Valued for its large sturdy daisylike flowers with dropping petals, this prairie native will spread easily in good soil and full sun. It is bothered by few pests or diseases. It's a great cut flower -- bring in armloads of it to brighten the house. And birds and butterflies love coneflower plants. Allow it to spread so that you have at least a small stand of it. Let the flowers go to seed and the goldfinches will love you, coming to feast on the coneflower seeds daily. Butterflies and helpful bees also love purple coneflower.

It used to be that rosy purple or white were the only choices in flower color. Recent hybrids have introduced yellow, orange, burgundy, cream, and shades in between.

I want to stay with natives as much as possible but I fell in love with "Hot Papaya coneflower"; it is out of my price range.

Echinacea - From Wikipedia

Some species of echinacea, notably E. purpurea, E. angustifolia, and E. pallida, are grown as ornamental plants in gardens. Many cultivars exist, and many of them are asexually propagated to keep them true to type.

They tolerate a wide variety of conditions, maintain attractive foliage throughout the season, and multiply rapidly. Appropriate species are used in prairie restorations. Echinacea plants also reseed in the fall. New flowers will grow where seeds have fallen from the prior year.

These flowering plants and their parts have different uses. Some species are cultivated in gardens for their showy flowers. Echinacea purpurea is used in folk medicine.

Some Species:

   Echinacea angustifolia – Narrow-leaf coneflower
   Echinacea atrorubens – Topeka purple coneflower
   Echinacea laevigata – Smooth coneflower, smooth purple coneflower
   Echinacea pallida – Pale purple coneflower
   Echinacea paradoxa – Yellow coneflower, Bush's purple coneflower
   Echinacea purpurea – Purple coneflower, eastern purple coneflower
   Echinacea sanguinea – Sanguine purple coneflower
   Echinacea serotina – Narrow-leaved purple coneflower
   Echinacea simulata – Wavyleaf purple coneflower
   Echinacea tennesseensis – Tennessee coneflower

Echinacea angustifolia was widely used by the North American Plains Indians for its supposed medicinal qualities.... some Plains tribes did use echinacea for cold symptoms. The Kiowa used it for coughs and sore throats, the Cheyenne for sore throats, the Pawnee for headaches, and many tribes including the Lakotah used it as a pain medication.

 
Anne Miller
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I found this list of edible flowers.

Caution: Other parts than the flowers of the plants mentioned in this list may be poisonous.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_edible_flowers
 
Anne Miller
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dedicated thread about just plain ol' eatin' herbs. (though some of them are still indeed medicinal) so here's me starting one with this nifty infographic.



https://permies.com/t/52705/cooking-flavoring-fresh-herbs#545164

These cooking herbs can be planted along with the ones the butterflies like.  Some of them may also help to repel pests like bugs, deer and rabbits.

What I like best about the Chart is because of the Key Flavor Profile and the cooking tip!  Great info!  It also tells how to store fresh herbs that you purchase at the store.
 
Anne Miller
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Botanically, herb is short for herbaceous, meaning a plant that grows from a soft—not woody—stem. Historically, however, the word herb refers to plants that are useful to people by way of their flavor, fragrance, or medicinal properties, no matter what type of stem they grow from.

When you think of an herb garden you may picture a summertime patch of colorful plants, but not all herbs exist just for summer harvest. Some of the most common herbs grown in the United States are evergreen . Growing evergreen herbs requires a little more care than raising annual varieties, but the rewards are worth the effort. Watch the weather and give these plants some protection during the worst of winter weather by piling leaf mold around the base and covering the plants with fleece or other warm fabrics.



Silver thyme Thymus vulgaris ‘Argenteus’ is a wonderful herb to grow in cracks and crevices. This evergreen grows up to 12 inches tall and has small lavender-pink blossoms in summer. Its fragrant, silver-edged leaves create a bushy and abundant texture that can be used to soften hard edges or to dapple a pathway. Zones: 4 to 9 Thyme needs a mention in a list of deer resistant and drought tolerant herbs.

Ornamental oregano Origanum laevigatum An excellent herb that grows well in stone walls, this 24-inch-tall creeping perennial is native to Turkey and Cypress, where it can be found growing in rocky terrain. Its dark-green leaves have a rich purple tint, and its purplish-pink flower clusters appear from late spring through autumn. Zones: 7 to 10 Deer resistant

Roman chamomile Chamaemelum nobile A hardy perennial, Roman chamomile thrives in moist, rich soil and grows to 12 inches tall. Its young leaves and flowers can be gathered to make a calming tea. Its threadlike leaves fill the air with a pleasing apple-pineapple scent. This delightful herb reveals its white, daisylike blooms in summer. Although it spreads like a ground cover, it tends to be patchy. Zones: 6 to 9

‘Berggarten’ sage Salvia officinalis ‘Berggarten’ One of the most beautiful foliage herbs, originally from Germany, is ‘Berggarten’ sage, which has a shapely, compact habit and large rounded leaves. At 2 feet tall, it’s perfect for planting at the corners of beds and along walkways. Zones: 5 to 8 Deer resistant

Catmint Nepeta X faassenii With its smallish gray-green leaves, arching habit, and lavender-blue flowers in summer, it can soften and adorn the edges of beds. In particular, its 18-inch-tall form blends well. This catmint has few medicinal or culinary attributes, but it does make a lovely cut flower. It is often irresistible to cats, so you may find a euphoric feline friend lying in the center of your plants from time to time. Zones: 4 to 8 Deer resistant

‘Salem’ rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Salem’ Evergreen ‘Salem’ rosemary is another excellent foliage plant. Its shiny, green, needlelike leaves weave through beds like a thread in a tapestry, and it bears small blue flowers in early spring. This herb makes an excellent hedging plant or accent at the edge of borders or in containers. ‘Salem’ reaches up to 2 feet tall, but it takes well to pruning throughout the growing season. Zones: 7 to 10 What makes rosemary so wonderful, its unique smell, also makes it unpalatable to deer and other wildlife. Being a Mediterranean herb, Rosemary is a no-brainer as the perfect herb for a drought garden.

Cardoon Cynara cardunculus Its gray-green arching leaves and statuesque frame give rise to its round, purple, thistlelike flowers in midsummer. In its glory, cardoon reaches 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide and is perfect in a mixed border. The magnificent flower heads can be cut and dried for floral arrangements. As an edible plant, its leaf stalks and midribs are tasty when blanched, while the unopened flower heads can be boiled and eaten, like those of its close cousin the artichoke. Zones: 7 to 9

‘Tutti Frutti’ anise hyssop Agastache ‘Tutti Frutti’ Another herb that attracts a great deal of attention in the border is ‘Tutti Frutti’ anise hyssop. Its stunning raspberry-red flower spikes reach up to a foot long and offer appealing color in late summer. Plants stand 2 to 6 feet tall with gray-green toothed leaves. Zones: 6 to 10 deer resistant

Garlic chives Allium tuberosum It’s hard to miss this plant in late summer when its lovely starry-white flowers are in full bloom. After it flowers, cut the attractive seed heads back to prevent vigorous seedlings from sprouting up everywhere. The seed heads are great for decorative use indoors, while the flat, garlic-flavored leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season to add to soups, sauces, and dips. Zones: 4 to 8 Deer resistant
 
Anne Miller
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This topic has a list of medicinal herbs that would be worthy of any herb garden.  I have not gone the the link provided so I am only posting this for the list.  I plan to research the ones that are not familiar to me.

https://permies.com/t/11669/kitchen/Medicinal-plants-herbs-healing-diseases

Vinko Cev wrote:MEDICINAL PLANTS AND HERBS FOR HEALING DISEASES.


We prepared short list of diseases which can be cured by using various medicinal plants. They can at least alleviate the problems we have because of illness. The advantages of use are in prevention and medicinal intentions. Above all, we can provide a lot of herbs and medicinal plants by ourselves in meadows, fields, forests , well in nature.
We believe that ECHINACEA (Echinacea purpurea), ANGELICA (Angelica archangelica), ARNICA (Arnica montana), BASIL (Ocimum basilicum), ELDER BUSH (Sambucus nigra), WHORTLEBERRY (Vaccinium myrtillus), WILD STRAWBERRIES (Fragaria vesca), CHAMOMILE (Matricaria chamomilla), NETTLE (Urtica dioica), CORN SILK (Stigmata maydis), QUINCE (Cydónia oblónga Mill), COLTSFOOT (Tussilago farfara), WILD PANSY (Viola Tricolor herba), Marjoram (Origanum majarona), THYME (Thymus vulgaris), MELISE (Melissa officinalis), HOREHOUND (Marrubium Vulgare), HOUSELEEK (Sempervivum tectorum), MARIGOLD (Calendula officinalis), MISTLETOE (Viscum album), ABSINTH (Artemisia absinthium), LUNGWORT (Pulmonaria officinalis), RHUBARB (Rheum officinale), DANDELION (Taraxacum officinale), ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus Officinalis), LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia), SPRUCE TIPS (Picea excelsa), ST JOHN'S WORT (Hypericum perforatum), PLANTAIN (Plantago lanceolata), VIOLET (Viola odorata), SAGE (Salvia officinalis), and of course other herbs should not be missing in any domestic pharmacy.

For now, we prepared for you this collection of medical plants, that should not miss in home apothecary. We will supplement web page soon and add more plants, that will help you with easing and treatment of your diseases and troubles.



This link has a list of safe herbs and benefits for your Canine Friend

http://www.natural-dog-health-remedies.com/safe-herbs-for-dogs.html

Canine Dental Care

http://www.natural-dog-health-remedies.com/canine-dental-care.html

Fortunately, a number of herbs can be used to speed up the healing process and to prevent recurrence:

   Oregon grape: Use a tincture of Oregon grape to inhibit bacterial growth. Use a cotton swab to liberally apply the tincture directly to your dog's gums. Oregon grape is antiseptic and also promotes new gum tissue growth. Other herbs with similar properties include Goldenseal, and Myrrh.
   Echinacea: If the teeth are infected and your dog is weak and thin as a result of his dental problem, try apply a tincture of echinacea directly to your dog's gums directly with a cotton swab.
   Calendula: If your dog has bleeding gums, apply a tincture of calendula directly to the gums. Calendula is excellent for healing wounds and stopping bleeding.

Some herbs are well known for their abilities to promote dental health and fresh breath. For example:

   Fennel - Fennel is rich in vitamin C, has anti-inflammatory properties, and can help fight gingivitis and freshen your dog's breath.
   Parsley - Parsley also has potent antimicrobial properties and is commonly used as a breath freshener.
   Dill - Dill has potent antimicrobial properties that helps fight infections.

The good news is, all these culinary herbs can easily be fed to your dog. Just sprinkle some of these herbs on his food every day!



 
Anne Miller
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I have a tooth that has been bothering me for 2 or 3 years.  Every time it starts to hurt DH says he has a tooth with a cavity that needs to come out.  I have said nothing about my tooth.  Now he says he has another tooth bothering him and my tooth is bothering me too.

On Thursday, I found out the I need eye surgery.  I can't afford to have tooth problems now.  My tooth does not hurt but it is sensitive to touch.

We have lots of plantain so while walking the dog, I picked a leaf, took it in and washed it, then bit into it some and put it on my tooth, it felt better.

So I have been reading WAPF, Dr Mercola, and Wellnessmama.

Here is my strategy to improve the tooth and my health for surgery:

Lots of bone broth; mouth wash of baking soda and oregano; use honey and apple cider vinegar as a mouth wash; brushing teeth with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide; adding turmeric and ginger to my tea; adding parsley to bone broth, soup, stew and other foods that complement it and use more plantain because I have lots.  I may see if the nettles are still around.

I purchased a parsley plant to add to my garden, but it is an annual so I will plant it in a pot so I can bring it in for the winter.

Here is what I learned about parsley and a recipe:

Flat Leaf Parsley
It’s an annual herb thought to have originated in southeastern Europe or western Asia, now grown in gardens throughout the world.

There are two basic parsley types: one with curly, crinkly leaves and the more familiar Italian parsley, which is flat. The latter is hardier for withstanding cold in Northern or Midwest gardens. Parsley usually reaches one to two feet in height in the first year before flowering, and grows best in partial shade. It's been suggested that because it's a bit difficult to start from seed, taking up to two months to sprout, buying small parsley seedlings may be a better way to start this in your indoor pots or late spring garden. One tip involves pouring a kettle of boiling water along the row before covering the seeds. As a potted plant, keep it evenly moist. Don't think of it as decorative on your plate; this medicinal herb is loaded with nutrients as well as healing powers to help with flatulence and bad breath.

If you want to be impressed by parsley, take a look at its vitamin K content – a whopping 574% of the daily recommended value. What this does is promote bone strength, but it also has a role in the treatment and possible prevention of Alzheimer's disease by limiting neuronal damage in the brain. The vitamin K dominance is enough to make the 62% daily value of vitamin C and the 47% DV in vitamin A look positively paltry, but the “C” content is 3 times more than in oranges, and the “A” augments the carotenes lutein and zeaxanthin, helping to prevent eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration.
The iron in parsley (twice as much as in spinach) is essential for the production of an important oxygen-carrying component in the red blood cells called heme. Copper is important because it’s required by the body for normal metabolic processes, but must be supplied through outside sources. The manganese in parsley contains super-antioxidant superoxide dismutase, and the folate helps form red blood cells and make up our genetic material.

Parsley is useful as a digestive aid with its high fiber content. This helps move foods through the digestive tract and controls blood-cholesterol levels, but has a diuretic effect as well. A tea made from parsley is a traditional remedy for colic, indigestion, and intestinal gas. As an herb sprinkled in food, it actually helps purify the blood and fight cancer. Eating parsley is now thought to be a way to detoxify the system of harmful compounds like mercury, sometimes found in dental fillings.

Quite a unique compilation of compounds and volatile oils is contained in parsley. Eugenol is used in dentistry as a local anesthetic and an antiseptic to help prevent gum diseases. It's also been found to reduce blood sugar levels. Polyphenolic flavonoids and antioxidants include apiin, apigenin, crisoeriol, and alphathujen. Volatile oils include myristicin, limonene, apiol, and alpha-thujene. It also contains one of the highest antioxidant counts among plants, with an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) of 74,349 per 100 grams of fresh, raw parsley.

Chopped fresh or dried and combined with thyme and bay leaves, parsley is included in the French combination of herbs called bouquet garni, used to season stock, stews, and soups. It can be added to sandwiches, any type of casserole and adds a fresh, spring-like flavor to dips and cheese. The best way to keep fresh parsley sprigs is to wrap them in damp paper towels, place in a sealed zip-lock baggie, and keep refrigerated. Dried parsley flakes are useful for several months when stored in a tightly sealed glass container and stored in cool, dark, and dry place.

Parsley Jelly
"This is an old English recipe that is especially good on meats. Instead of parsley you may substitute mint, rosemary, sage, tarragon, or thyme. If you can only find dried parsley, use 1/4 cup."

   2 1/2 cups boiling water
   10 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
   1/4 cup cider vinegar
   2 1/2 cups honey
   1/2 (6 fluid ounce) container liquid pectin

   Make a strong infusion by pouring the boiling water over the parsley. Let stand for 15 minutes. Strain out bits of parsley, and reserve liquid in a glass or stainless steel saucepan.
   Stir the honey and vinegar into the parsley water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the pectin, and continue to boil, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Remove from heat, and skim off any foam from the top. Transfer to sterile jars, and seal in a hot water bath.
 
Anne Miller
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4/14/17  Since herbs play a big part, in my humble opinion, to getting healthy ... I am making this thread my getting healthy project.

The tooth is not bothering me anymore except some after the evening meal, mostly due to chewing.  I have mostly been using baking soda to brush my teeth.  I am eating bone broth which after heating I add two or three stalks of parley and chives.

I have done oil pulling or oil swishing previously so I am going to add that to my regime.  I am not sure what the correct term is .. I am making an oil infusion using the lemon balm to use with the oil pulling.

Here is some of the information I have learned about Lemon Balm and a recipe:

Lemon Balm  (Melissa officinalis)  
A relative of mint, lemon balm is a versatile medicinal herb that helps relieve anxiety, insomnia, wounds, herpes, insect bites, flatulence, and an upset stomach. It also speeds the healing of cold sores.

A lovely mild herb named for the lemony scent of its leaves. Originally grown in South Europe, lemon balm is often used in combination with other herbs and is frequently found in poultry and fish dishes, desserts, and teas. It also makes a nicely scented sachet.

Lemon balm is perennial in zones 4 to 9. Plants are not frost-tolerant. If you need plants to survive a light frost, cover them with a frost blanket.
The plant looks best when it is cut back periodically, so plan to use lots of fresh, flavorful leaves to brew tea, flavor fruit or green salad, and season fish. Be sure to include stems in bouquets of summer flowers.
Common issues: Lemon balm can spread rapidly in the garden. Help prevent self-sowing by clipping stems back to a few inches several times during the growing season, so the plants don’t set seeds. Clip as soon as flowers appear. Lemon balm is generally pest-free.
Lemon balm does not spread by underground runners like mint. It will increase in size, though, making a bigger clump in the garden each season and sprouting from seeds that develop from inconspicuous flowers. To keep it from taking up too much of your garden, cut the plant back to a few inches tall several times during the growing season. This will keep the plant bushy and healthy-looking while preventing seeds from ripening. The flowers of lemon balm are not necessarily showy, but they will produce viable seeds that will germinate in your garden.

Harvesting: Pick lemon balm leaves at any point in the growing season. Leaves tend to become smaller after plants flower. Clip leafy stems to be as long as you want. Plants branch freely from just below where you snip stems, so place cuts accordingly.

It is a multi use Herb: use it in recipes that require lemon peel, as a good substitute for lemon peel. it tasted just as good if not better. Great for teas and many other things
Like many other herbs, lemon balm can lose its flavor in cooking, so add it near the end of the cooking process. The fresh lemon fragrance and flavor go nicely with both chicken and fish dishes, as well as fruit and fruit juice drinks. Create your own herbal tea by cutting a few stems of lemon balm (plus any other appealing herbs), putting them in a pitcher, pour boiling water over them, and allow them to steep for about 15 minutes. Enjoy your tea hot or over ice.

Lemon Balm Tea Sorbet
   1 cup white sugar
       1/2 cup water
   6 lemon balm leaves
   2 cups brewed orange pekoe tea

   Combine sugar, water, and mint leaves in a small pot over medium heat; cook until sugar dissolves and mixture is thick and syrupy. Remove from heat. Strain out mint leaves and discard. Cool syrup to room temperature, about 20 minutes.
   Combine brewed tea with lemon juice in a bowl with a lid. Stir in syrup. Refrigerate until temperature reaches 40 degrees F (4 degrees C), about 20 minutes.
   Pour tea mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer's instructions for sorbet, 10 to 15 minutes.

Storage: Fresh lemon balm stems keep in water at room temperature five to seven days. For longer storage, dry or freeze leaves. Individually quick freeze leaves on a parchment-lined tray and store in freezer bags, or freeze in ice cubes.

This plant is also wonderful as a repellant for mosquitoes. Keep it on your deck or patio to keep them at bay. You can also crush up some leaves and rub them on your exposed skin to stop them from biting you, and it smells pleasant too.

   Type: Perennial, zones 5 to 9
   Planting time: Spring, after the last frost
   Features: Lemon-scented leaves
   Light: Part shade
   Soil: Well drained, let dry between waterings; pH 6.7 to 7.3
   Spacing: 20 to 24 inches
   Plant size: 24 to 36 inches tall
 
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This is a wonderful thread.  With the vagaries of trying to grow fruit trees here in the PNW, my attention has been shifting away from trees and towards a medicinal pollinator garden.

Here is a list of Puget Sound butterflies and their food plants.  It probably looks a bit different than drier regions.  

https://wabutterflyassoc.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Common-Butterflies-of-Puget-Sound-2.pdf


 
Anne Miller
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4/20/17 Update:  my tooth is not bothering me anymore.

We went to water the sunflowers yesterday and the are already up after the rain we got a few days ago.

Now regarding getting healthy:  I have never smoked and I gave up sodas about 15 years ago or more.  In an effort to do this I have given up drinking sweet green tea and fruit juices.  I am now drinking water and tonic water for leg cramps, occasionally having some ginger ale.

I started taking a multivitamin and glucosamine with chondroitin.  The glucosamine is to help with the long trips I will be making to have the surgery.  I also have limited being on the computer.

I eat fairly healthy except for junk foods what I do in moderation and will not buy when they are gone.  Except we will still have potato chips and tortilla chips for DH.

I would like to loose 15 lbs.
 
Anne Miller
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I ran across this older thread today and thought I would share since it has some good info on medicinals:

https://permies.com/t/21919/kitchen/starting-medicinal-garden
 
Anne Miller
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Here is a list of herbs which can be used as Antibiotic Alternatives:

Garlic, goldenseal, licorice root, Echinacea, aloe vera, Capsaicin (cayenne pepper), Turmeric, Ginger, Oregano, Cinnamon, Honey, Apple Cider Vinegar,  Coconut oil (and coconut milk), Tea Tree Oil, + Grapefruit Seed Extract.  
 
Anne Miller
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Until now, I have never had depression or anxiety.  Now I am finding that I am bothered by Anxiety.  I try to go to sleep and after a period of time, I start to feel anxious.  Now I am feeling it more and more during the day.

Here is what I found that might help: Valerian, lavender and lemon balm.

I am going to try the valerian at bedtime.  

Valerian. In some studies, people who used valerian reported less anxiety and stress. In other studies, people reported no benefit. Valerian is generally considered safe at recommended doses, but since long-term safety trials are lacking, don't take it for more than a few weeks at a time. It can cause some side effects such as headaches and drowsiness.

Lavender. Some evidence suggests that oral lavender or aromatherapy with lavender can reduce anxiety; however, evidence is preliminary and limited. Oral lavender can cause constipation and headache. It also can increase appetite and the sedative effect of other medications and supplements and can cause low blood pressure.

Lemon balm. Preliminary research shows lemon balm can reduce some symptoms of anxiety, such as nervousness and excitability. Lemon balm is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for short-term use, but can cause nausea and abdominal pain.

Is there an effective herbal treatment for anxiety?

 
Anne Miller
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I have been drying and storing my herbs for winter use.  Now I would like to learn other ways to use them.  Such as how to make a infusion, tincture, salves, oils etc.

Here are some threads I have found helpful.

https://permies.com/t/58401/kitchen/Store-Plants-Medicinal

https://permies.com/t/9249/kitchen/tinctures-salve

https://permies.com/t/53268/kitchen/Herbal-Tincture-Newbie

https://permies.com/t/45762/kitchen/opinion-making-infusions

https://permies.com/t/37801/medicinal-plants#297595

https://permies.com/t/654/kitchen/making-tinctures

Lavender:
https://permies.com/t/9163/kitchen/Lavender-garden

Yarrow:
https://permies.com/t/8453/kitchen/Yarrow

 
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https://permies.com/t/35589/kitchen/Dr-Bielers-Broth-mom#438662

Bieler's Healing Broth

Bieler's Broth
The Original Healing Soup

Uses: The original recipe was developed by Maverick Physician Henry Bieler to heal a variety of illnesses. Many times the soup was used as a fast or a general detox.

Dr. Bieler's Health Broth
Adapted from "Food is Your Best Medicine" (see below)
Wonderful for a Fall or Winter Detox
· 3 stalks of celery
· 3 whole zucchini
· 2 cups of string beans
· 1 cup of (Italian)parsley
1 Tbl. of unsalted butter

Dr. Henry Beiler created this vitamin and nutrient rich soup to heal his patients. Bieler's broth,(Beiler's broth) contains zucchini and string beans, which are rich sources of organic potassium and sodium. The liver and probably other organ's use those elements to clean and revitalize the body. Occasionally, when you’re sick, the best thing to do is not eat.Instead, drink Dr. Bieler’s healing broth recipe for energy, weight loss, and cleansing.

Directions for making the broth
Put 1 cup of water into a stockpot. Put the string beans in first and steam for about 5 minutes. Then put in the celery and zucchini into the pot and steam for another 5 - 7 minutes or until tender, but still crisp. Do not overcook.

Then put the vegetable water and the cooked vegetables together into the blender. Blend until liquefied. Add a teaspoon of raw unsalted butter and a large handful of parsley. Blend again until parsley is liquefied.

Dosage: Drink 2 cups a day of the broth/soup for an excellent way to stay healthy.

*Optional add 1 clove of garlic.
 
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Lavender

The most widely cultivated species, Lavandula angustifolia, is often referred to as lavender, and there is a color named for the shade of the flowers of this species.   The plant is grown mainly for the production of essential oil of lavender.

This has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, and can be used as a natural mosquito repellent. These extracts are also used as fragrances for bath products.

Even smelling this medicinal herb has been shown to calm and relax. It also eases pain, and when applied to cuts and bruises functions as an antiseptic.

English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) yields an essential oil with sweet overtones, and can be used in balms, salves, perfumes, cosmetics, and topical applications.  As well as making the salve smell good, lavender is known to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action.
Japanese study that confirmed lavenders ability to create feelings of relaxation helped subjects solve math problems.

Prune lavender plants immediately after flowering, removing approximately one-third to one-half of the plant to encourage new growth.

Avoid over-watering soil, as waterlogged conditions may lead to water stress and encourage the development of root rot problems while increasing susceptibility to pests.

With lavender and thyme propagating by division is super quick and easy. Stick a shovel down into the stem area and get one big shovel full of roots with a few stems. It works well, replanting is as simple as just popping the shovel full in a new hole.

Lavender is grown as a condiment and used in salads and dressings. The flowers yield abundant nectar, from which bees make a high-quality honey. Monofloral honey is produced primarily around the Mediterranean, and is marketed worldwide as a premium product. Flowers can be candied and are sometimes used as cake decorations. It is also used to make "lavender sugar."

Lavender Simple Syrup

Fresh lavender blossoms are steeped with sugar and water to create a sweet and aromatic floral syrup to flavor cocktails, lemonade, cakes, and sorbets."

1 cup water
1 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lavender blossoms

Combine water, sugar, and lavender blossoms in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and let syrup steep, about 30 minutes.

Pour syrup into a sterilized glass jar through a mesh strainer to remove blossoms; let cool.

Lavender lends a floral and slightly sweet flavour to most dishes, and is sometimes paired with sheep's-milk and goat's-milk cheeses. Lavender flowers are occasionally blended with black, green, or herbal teas. Lavender flavours baked goods and desserts, pairing especially well with chocolate. In the United States, both lavender syrup and dried lavender buds are used to make lavender scones and marshmallows.

For most cooking applications the dried buds, which are also referred to as flowers, are used. Only the buds contain the essential oil of lavender, from which the characteristic scent and flavour of lavender are derived. Lavender greens have a more subtle flavour that is compared to rosemary.

The greens are used similarly to rosemary or combined with rosemary to flavour meat and vegetables in savory dishes.

They can also be used to make a tea that is milder than teas made with the flowers.

Flower spikes are used for dried flower arrangements. The fragrant, pale purple flowers and flower buds are used in potpourris. Lavender is also used extensively as herbal filler inside sachets used to freshen linens. Dried and sealed in pouches, lavender flowers are placed among stored items of clothing to give a fresh fragrance and to deter moths. Dried lavender flowers have become recently popular for wedding confetti. Lavender is also popular in scented waters and sachets.

Making lavender potpourri:

1 1/2 ounce dried lavender buds with seeds
1 cinnamon stick, crushed
1/2 teaspoon cloves, ground
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, ground
25g (1 ounce) orris root powder
3 drops essential lavender oil
2 drops essential bergamot oil
1 litre (1 3/4 pint) mixture of dried lemon balm leaves, rosemary and thyme leaves

Add the cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and orris root powder to a small bowl. Stir together.

Add the essential lavender and bergamot oils. Using the tips of your fingers, rub the oils into the spices and orris root mixture, to coat the powdery ingredients. The oils should be mixed in completely with the dry ingredients.

Add the dried lavender, lemon balm leaves, rosemary and thyme leaves to another bowl. Mix to combine.

Put the spice mix into the leaf mix. Stir to combine together.

Transfer the potpourri mix to an airtight container. Set aside in a cool, dry and dark place to infuse for six to eight weeks. The linen cupboard is a good place, or a cupboard in a dry room of the house (not the bathroom or kitchen).

Stir every few days or at least once a week, to help the ingredients to settle together properly.

Remove from the container at the end of the setting time. Check that you're happy with the fragrance level (if not, let it sit for a week or more longer). If all is ready, it can be used.

Put the spicy lavender potpourri into a potpourri pot. Set out on a mantelpiece, shelf or bookcase to waft its scent into the room.  It is best kept high, as this avoids any curious children or pets from trying to eat it and helps the scent to fill the room better.

Tip:  You don't have to use the lavender seeds, they are optional. They just create a stronger scent that you will notice more.

Warnings: Be careful none of the lavender goes in your eye. Don't rub it before you have washed your hands. It stings and you will be in pain!

Plants purchased at Lowe's 2017  "Bonnie Plants" label only says Lavender:  Light - Full Sun; Spacing: 12 - 18" apart;  Height 20 - 24"
 
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Until now, I have never had depression or anxiety.  Now I am finding that I am bothered by Anxiety.  I try to go to sleep and after a period of time, I start to feel anxious.  Now I am feeling it more and more during the day.

Here is what I found that might help: Valerian, lavender and lemon balm.

I am going to try the valerian at bedtime.  



I have experienced some relaxation with all of these, especially valerian.  

The best one for me has been passion flower vine.  

Passion flower (passiflora incarnata) is an herbal supplement used historically in treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures and hysteria. A perennial climbing vine native to southeastern North America, passion flower is now grown throughout Europe. The herbal supplement is composed of the flowers, leaves and stems of the plant.



My understanding has been that just the wild variety is used for medicinal purposes...sorry I can't find where I read that, years ago, but it said not to use the ornamental kinds.

We were fortunate that it grew everywhere at our old place.  We gathered long vines, with bloom and sometimes tiny fruit...dried in a dark hall upstairs and packed the dried herb in jars.  A cup of tea was noticeably relaxing and helped with sleep or during the day just for a bit of a break.  We are just starting to propagate some here at the new place so I bought some capsules and am disappointed in their effect...nothing that I can notice and I think it upset my stomach.

My favorite combination was lemon balm and passion flower vine combined...tastes good too We are starting over with lemon balm also.

If you can stand the taste a leaf or two of feverfew has some immediate effect for some people.  I happen to be one and liked the very bitter taste in order to feel the almost immediate relaxation....no lasting effect though and it does irritate mouth and stomach if you ingest too much, too often.
 
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Some important things about administering the echinacea.  It’s a very mild herb, so you can use a LOT of it.  The proper way to administer it is with frequency instead of just quantity.  Give frequent doses instead of just one or a couple of large doses.  I started off giving a dose every thirty minutes, then I give a dose every hour….except while I’m sleeping.  If you can also get the echinacea directly on the bite mark…do it, it will put medicine localized directly where needed.  Echinacea is an herb to use as needed instead of constantly.  If you use it only in cases where it’s needed then it will be very effective, but if you use it every day as a “preventative” it won’t be very effective when the time comes that you actually NEED it.  <—no experience with that statement, just something I’ve read.  



https://permies.com/t/68613/kitchen/Echinacea-venomous-snake-bites


I hope this is not a repeat of what I posted previously on Coneflowers or Echinacea.   I wanted to include the information about tinctures.


Coneflowers are bright perennials, some of which are used in herbal remedies. These flowers are easy to care for, relatively drought-tolerant, and are good for cut flowers. Coneflowers are daisy-like with raised centers. The seeds found in the dried flower head also attract songbirds to your garden.
The plant also provides a tall background or repeating rows of large (often 6 inches across) purple, daisy-like flowers. The sturdy stalks, which may reach 5 feet in height, rarely bend or require staking for an upright appearance. If your plants are floppy, cut them to the ground after they flower.
Remember to cut off the dead/faded flowers to prolong to blooming season and prevent excessive self-seeding. To attract birds, keep the late-season flowers on the plants to mature.
Divide your plants into clumps every 3 to 4 years in spring or autumn, although coneflowers do not like excessive disturbance.
Coneflowers both attract butterflies and repel deer, so they’ll keep your garden just how you want it!
Echinacea purpurea is the species most often used as a natural remedy and in folk medicine. The flowers, leaves and roots of this plant can all be used differently in natural remedies. In general, the leaves and flowers are the parts traditionally used in remedies. Native American’s used it as a remedy hundreds of years ago and it is re-gaining popularity in modern times. Echinacea is widely used to fight infections, especially the common cold and other upper respiratory infections.

If you suffer from a cold or the flu, try this medicinal herb to ease the severity of your symptoms. It also helps provide relief to your immune system.
  Applying an infusion of coneflower will help soothe a sunburn. In indigenous medicine of the native American Indians, the plant was used externally for wounds, burns, and insect bites, chewing of roots for toothache and throat infections; internal application was used for pain, cough, stomach cramps, and snake bites.
The plant is important economically, to the pharmaceutical trade. It is purported that all parts of the purple coneflower stimulate the immune system.
Blog article by Patrick Jones, DVM – the “homegrown herbalist”. He says:  “…there is another side to Echinacea…that has saved many of my patients from disfiguring wounds or death from rattlesnake and venomous spider bites. The same property also makes Echinacea a wonderful choice for the repair of torn cartilages and ligaments or other joint injuries. That property is (the plant’s) ability to inhibit hyaluronidase and to actually stimulate hyaluronic acid production.” Yes, he goes on to explain and then encourages adding a little echinacea to your formulas for chronic injuries, torn ligaments, sprains, tears, arthritis, snakes and spider bites.
You use the whole plant – including those flower heads – there’s something about grinding up those substantial “seed heads”
Seeds – If you wish to collect seeds for next year’s crop of purple coneflower plants, do so before the birds have eaten all the seeds. Place a brown paper bag over the seed head, turn right side up and let seeds drop into the bag. Professional growers believe stratification (chilling) of the seeds for a few weeks, after they are planted in moist soil, produces a more abundant bloom when growing purple coneflowers. Those in areas where temperatures remain warm year long may want to try this technique. Alternately, planting purple coneflower seeds in autumn, in areas with cold winters, allows the seeds to chill naturally. Division – Purple coneflower plants may be started from root division in fall. Only plants that have been in the ground for three years or longer should be divided. Younger coneflower plants may not have developed a root system that is extensive enough for division. Root division should be limited to every three to four years. Growing purple coneflower from seeds is easy enough for the beginning gardener, while long-time gardeners delight in the ease of how to care for coneflowers.

How to Make Herbal Tinctures
Make most tinctures in an alcohol base as this makes them the most long lasting, but tinctures can also be made with glycerine, vinegar or even with honey to make a syrup!
Although one can use the leaves and flowers, the roots are where the strongest medicine is. That is what’s included in almost all traditional tinctures
To make a tincture, you will need the following supplies:

   A clean glass jar (at least pint size) with lid
   Consumable alcohol like vodka or rum- at least 80 proof (or apple cider vinegar or food grade vegetable glycerine)
   Herbs of choice
Also called an extract (in fact, the same process is used to make real vanilla extract), alcohol tinctures are the most common type and the easiest to make.

First, pick which herbs you plan to use.
Fill the jar 1/3 to 1/2 full with dried herbs. Filling half full will make a stronger tincture. Do not pack down.
Pour boiling water to just dampen all of the herbs. (This step is optional but helps to draw out the beneficial properties of the herbs)
Fill the rest of the jar (or the entire jar if not using hot water too) with alcohol and stir with a clean spoon.
Put the lid on the jar. Store the jar in a cool/dry place, shaking daily, for at least three weeks and up to six months. (I usually leave herbs for six weeks)
Strain through cheesecloth and compost the herbs. Store the tincture in colored dropper bottles or clean glass jars.
NOTE: The alcohol can be evaporated before use (see below) or a tincture can be made in the same way using apple cider vinegar, though it will need to be stored in the fridge and will only last 3-6 months.


How to Use Herbal Tinctures

The standard adult dose we take is 1/2 to 1 teaspoon up to three times a day as needed. Kids usually get 1/4 to 1/3 of the adult dose.

For children, pregnant women, or those not wanting to consume alcohol, it can be poured into a hot liquid like tea to evaporate the alcohol before consuming.

https://wellnessmama.com/8168/herbal-tinctures/

Echinancea 'Purple Coneflower' seed purchased from Ferry-Morse at Lowe's "Non GMO" 2017

 
                                  
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Judith Browning wrote:

Until now, I have never had depression or anxiety.  Now I am finding that I am bothered by Anxiety.  I try to go to sleep and after a period of time, I start to feel anxious.  Now I am feeling it more and more during the day.

Here is what I found that might help: Valerian, lavender and lemon balm.

I am going to try the valerian at bedtime.  



I have experienced some relaxation with all of these, especially valerian.  

The best one for me has been passion flower vine.  

Passion flower (passiflora incarnata) is an herbal supplement used historically in treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures and hysteria. A perennial climbing vine native to southeastern North America, passion flower is now grown throughout Europe. The herbal supplement is composed of the flowers, leaves and stems of the plant.



My understanding has been that just the wild variety is used for medicinal purposes...

If you can stand the taste a leaf or two of feverfew has some immediate effect for some people...



I would encourage everybody considering use of valerian to be very cautious.
Valerian is one of those plants that some of us used recreationally, and...
Dependency is problematic.

The best thing for anxiety in my experience... Is to stop drinking...
To get out of unfulfilling relationships...

I've read about both passion flower and feverfew, and while I grow both, can not attest to their effectiveness.
The fritillaries sure are numerous at my place....
(Passiflora is a host plant).

While herbs are excellent for pollinator nectaring activity, most butterflies at my place depend on naturally occurring plants and trees.

Plant lists are cool and stuff, I always prefer pictures of the butterflies laying eggs, and the caterpillars on recognizable plants...

Not sure how much to post to your thread...
Or whether starting one would be better....

 
Anne Miller
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I want to make a stress relief lotion.  I have   Lemon balm and Lavender growing in my garden that I can use.  The best information on how to make it  that I found was at:

http://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/diy-herbal-salves

Part 1: Make Herbal-Infused Oil

We recommend using only dried herbs in your infusions, as the lack of moisture content in the plant material can keep spoilage at bay.

Folk Method for Solar-Infused Oils

Use the sun to naturally infuse oil with the goodness of herbs!

1. Place herbs in a clean, dry quart jar. We always recommend using dried herbs, but if you desire fresh herbs, wilt them first for 12 hours to remove the moisture (too much water will cause your oil to go rancid), cut into small pieces, and crush with a mortar and pestle before adding to the jar. You can skip this step if your herbs are dried.  Some herbalists coarsely crush or grind herbs first, while others finely chop herbs but leave the delicate flowers whole.

2. Fill remaining space in jar with oil, making sure to cover herbs by at least 1”. If your herbs soak up all of the oil, then pour more on top to ensure that the herbs are well covered.

Cover with organic Olive Oil (or other carrier oil of choice that is shelf stable) pre-mixed with vitamin E oil to prolong shelf-life (500 IUs for every 8 oz. carrier oil). Stir well.  Cap the jar tightly and place in a sunny, warm window. If desired, the jar can be covered with a bag or box so that the oil isn't exposed to direct sunlight. Shake the jar once or twice per day, or as often as you remember. If the herbs absorb the oil, then add more oil so that the herbs are always submerged. Allow to infuse for 2-3 weeks,  or until the oil takes on the color and aroma of the herb within. Once the oil is ready, strain using cheesecloth, and bottle into dry and sterilized amber glass bottles for storage. Make sure to squeeze as much oil as possible from the herbs so that you don't waste any precious liquid! Herbal oils will keep for about a year if stored properly in a cool, dark place.

Vitamin E oil may also be added to prolong the shelf life.

Quick Method: Another way to infuse oils, which is sometimes necessary when herbal oils need to be created in a pinch, is the quick method utilizing heat. Much care needs to be taken when creating herbal oils this way because you don't want to deep-fry your herbs! Place herbs in crock-pot, double boiler, or electric yogurt maker, and cover with organic Olive Oil (or other carrier oil of choice) pre-mixed with vitamin E oil to prolong shelf-life (500 IUs for each 8 oz. carrier oil). Gently heat the herbs over very low heat (between 100 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit) for 1-5 hours until the oil takes on the color and scent of the herb. Some herbalists recommend heating the oil 48-72 hours at a controlled temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Turn off heat and allow to cool. Once the oil is ready, strain using cheesecloth, and bottle into dry and sterilized amber glass bottles for storage. Store in a cool, dark place.

Is it safe to leavie bits of herb:

When it comes to infusing herbs in oils, it is best to strain them well before using in salves, liniments and lotions. The little bits of plant material, when exposed to the air, will cause your finished product to spoil faster. You can leave the herbs in the oils for a while, however, if the jars are well sealed and away from direct light and temperature fluctuations after the initial infusion. Over time, the properties do break down and the infused oils do not last indefinitely.

Part 2: Turn that Oil into Salve

• 8 oz herbal infused oil(s) of your choice. Choose one or a combination.
• 1 oz Beeswax (use Carnauba Wax for a vegan salve)
• 10-20 drops essential oil of choice (optional). Some essential oils commonly used are lavender and tea tree.
• Glass jars or tins

Place herbal oils and beeswax over a double boiler, and gently warm over low heat until the beeswax melts. Remove from heat and add the essential oil(s). Quickly pour into prepared tins or glass jars and allow to cool completely. Salves should be stored in a cool location where they will remain semi-solid and will not continually re-melt and re-solidify. If stored correctly, salves will last for 1-3 years. Yields 8 oz.

Since this is for a Salve I still needed ingredients for a Lotion  which I found at:

https://wellnessmama.com/3765/homemade-lotion-recipe/

Homemade Lotion Ingredients

   1/2 cup Almond oil or Jojoba oil (or any other liquid oil)
   1/4 cup coconut oil
   1/4 cup beeswax
   1 teaspoon Vitamin E oil (optional)
   2 tablespoon Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter (optional)
   Essential Oils, Vanilla Extract or other natural extracts to suit your preference (optional)

How to Make Lotion

Combine almond oil (or any other liquid oil), coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a glass bowl on top. If using shea or cocoa butter, add it as well.
As the water heats, the ingredients will start to melt. Stir occasionally as they melt to incorporate.
When all ingredients are completely melted, add vitamin E oil (if using) and any essential oils or scents like vanilla.
Pour into whatever jar or tin you will use for storage. Small mason jars (8 ounce) are great for this. It will not pump well in a lotion pump!
Use as you would regular lotion. This lotion is ultra-moisturizing and more oily than water-based lotions so you won’t need to use as much. It also has a longer shelf life than some homemade lotion recipes since all ingredients are already shelf stable and not water is added. Use within 6 months for best moisturizing benefits.

Note: A little goes a long way! This lotion is incredibly nourishing and is also great for diaper rash on baby, for eczema and for preventing stretch marks!



 
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10/13/17 I have a big bunch of rosemary drying in our machine room:

Rosemary
Set out rosemary in spring, planting seedlings 2 to 3 feet apart; you can also plant in fall in zone 8 and south. Plants are slow growing at first, but pick up speed in their second year. While rosemary tolerates partial shade, it prefers full sun and light, well-drained soil with a pH between 6 and 7.  In zone 8 and farther south, rosemary needs no winter protection. Rosemary is a woody-stemmed plant with needle-like leaves that can commonly reach 3 feet in height,  In zone 8 and farther south, rosemary makes a good evergreen hedge. You can even train rosemary into topiary shapes.

Keep the soil uniformly moist, allowing it to dry out between waterings. Mulch your plants to keep roots moist in summer and insulated in winter, but take care to keep mulch away from the crown of the plant. In the spring, prune dead wood out of the plants.

Early spring before growth begins is a good time to prune any evergreen, and that includes rosemary. Remove any dead, leafless stems first, and then prune to improve the shape of the plant. Avoid cutting stems that are very old, as they may not sprout new shoots are readily as younger stems. However, if your plant is nicely shaped and you are happy for it to continue growing larger, remember that pruning is not a necessity.

Cut stems at any time for fresh rosemary. To dry rosemary, use a rack or hang it upside down in bunches to dry. Once stems are dry, strip the leaves from them. You can also freeze rosemary sprigs, preserve them in vinegar, or use them to flavor oil or butter. Rosemary, olive oil, and a dash of sea salt make the perfect simple dip for fresh bread.  Add an entire sprig to vegetable soups for a bright, unique flavor. To make your own rosemary-infused oil, place a sprig or two of completely dry rosemary leaves into a glass jar, top with olive oil, replace the lid, and shake lightly. Store in a warm, dark place for two weeks, strain, and then simply pour back into the glass jar. Use ¼ cup for a fragrant bath or blend with balsamic vinegar to drizzle all over a salad for a delicious dressing.

While rosemary blends well with other herbs, use it lightly on its own in lamb, pork, chicken, and veal dishes, as well as in soups and stews, vegetables, and sauces. Rosemary provides a wonderful flavor in breads and makes a good marinade with olive oil, wine, and garlic. Rosemary’s aromatic qualities also enhance a bath, bouquet, wreath, or sachet.

This medicinal herb helps memory and concentration, improves mood—and sweetens breath.  This herb, especially the flower tops, contains antibacterial and antioxidant rosmarinic acid, plus several essential oils such as cineol, camphene, borneol, bornyl acetate, and α-pinene that are known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antiseptic properties.

Rosemary Shortbread Cookies
   1 1/2 cups unsalted butter
   2/3 cup white sugar
   2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
   2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
   1/4 teaspoon salt
   2 teaspoons white sugar for decoration

    In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and 2/3 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the flour salt and rosemary until well blended. The dough will be somewhat soft. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
   Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees F). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into rectangles 1 1/2x2 inches in size. Place cookies 1 inch apart on the lined cookie sheets. Sprinkle the remaining sugar over the tops.
   Bake for 8 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden at the edges. Cool on wire racks, and store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Rosemary-Infused Watermelon Lemonade
   2 cups water
   3/4 cup white sugar
   1 sprig rosemary, leaves stripped and chopped
   2 cups lemon juice
   12 cups cubed seeded watermelon
   8 cups ice cube

   Bring the water and sugar to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat. Stir in the rosemary, and set aside to steep for 1 hour.
   Place half of the lemon juice, and half of the watermelon into a blender. Strain the rosemary syrup through a mesh strainer into the blender. Cover, and puree until smooth. Strain into a pitcher, then puree the remaining lemon juice and watermelon. Stir the lemonade before serving over ice.

 
Anne Miller
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This is a pdf of "The Herb Garden Redefined" a low maintenance garden.  It features beautiful picture and lists grouped by themes.

http://www.naturalgardeneraustin.com/images/stories/content_images/media_center/articles/fine_grdning_reload_july_2014.pdf

"A Dream Garden"

http://www.naturalgardeneraustin.com/images/stories/content_images/media_center/articles/natural_gardener_in_herb_companion_magazine.pdf

I like their Monthly To Do lists:.

https://www.naturalgardeneraustin.com/this-month-s-to-do-lists/

 
Anne Miller
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Here is a great thread for planting companion plants using medicinal herbs:

/Companion-planting-medicinal-herbs-diverse

 This info isn't as much about medicinal herbs, but I do like that it suggests positive interactions between culinary herbs and fruit trees/bushes. If garlic really does help repel Japanese Beetles, this place is gonna look like a garlic farm for the next few years.

Basil: Basil can benefit the growth petunias and the flavors of tomatoes, asparagus, peppers and oregano; it should not be planted near common rue or sage. To increase the essential oils in your basil, plant chamomile or anise.

Borage: Borage acts as a deterrent to tomato hornworms and cabbage worms and is known to attract bees and wasps. It also improves soil composition and helps any plants near it be more resistant to both pests and disease. Plant borage with strawberries, tomatoes or squash to enhance both the flavor and amount of your fruit or vegetable harvest.

Chamomile: In addition to increasing the essential oils of any nearby herbs, chamomile can help basil, wheat, onions, cabbage and cucumber plants. This herb also attracts hoverflies and wasps, which assist in pollination and prey on aphids and other pest insects.

Chive: A long-term investment, chives are often planted in conjunction with tomatoes, carrots, apple trees and roses. At first growth they will repel aphids from tomatoes, mums and sunflowers, and after about three years they have known to prevent apple scab and rose black spot.

Cilantro/Coriander: This familiar kitchen spice will deter aphids, potato beetles, and spider mites. It’s a good companion to anise, caraway, spinach and dill. If you have continued problems with spider mites, a tea made from coriander can repel them.

Dill: Companion to lettuce, cabbage, onions, sweet corn and cucumbers, dill should not be planted near carrots, caraway, lavender or tomatoes (it attracts tomato horn worms). This herb will keep aphids, spider mites and squash bugs from taking over your garden and will attract hoverflies, wasps, and honeybees. To avoid cross-pollination, don’t plant dill near fennel.

Garlic: In addition to its health benefits, garlic deters rabbits as well as tree borers, aphids, cabbage looper, codling moths, Japanese beetles, snails, carrot root flies, ants and cabbage maggots. It is especially beneficial when planted near apple, pear and peach trees, roses, cucumbers, peas, lettuce or celery.

Mints: Be careful when planting mints as they can be very invasive; keep it in a container if possible to prevent its spread. Cuttings of mint can be beneficially used in mulching around turnips, cabbage, broccoli and mustard, and can also be effective in discouraging mice. As a live plant, spearmint and peppermint are especially useful in attracting bees and repelling black flea beetles, ants, mosquitoes, white cabbage butterflies, aphids and cabbage maggots. Do not plant mint near parsley.

Rosemary: Rosemary benefits the growth of sage, cabbage, beans and carrots by deterring cabbage moths, bean beetles and, if cutting are placed around carrot crowns, carrot flies. Again, don’t plant rosemary near basil or the rosemary will die.

Sage: Another herb to pair with beans, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and carrots as it repels cabbage moths, black flea beetles, carrot flies and some bean parasites. Again, sage grows well with rosemary, but do not plant it close to rue, cucumbers or onions.

Tarragon: A general nuisance to pests, tarragon is well-planted throughout any garden and can help enhance the flavor and growth of nearby vegetables, especially eggplant.  



 
Anne Miller
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I ran across this handy chart and could not figure out where would be best to share.

Here it is:

 
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Thanks for all this information, I found it as I began to add to my garden.  The lemon balm is growing tall, as are a few other herbs, I am hiding them from our Florida heat, and thankful for the rain.  But I ordered a few medicinal seeds; I am awfully late to begin from seeds, but I want to try, I have a cool corner. Haha, in Florida?  Anyway, thank you for this forum.
 
Anne Miller
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I happened to find these and thought I would share:














 
Anne Miller
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While reading a thread here on permies, someone had posted this website which I feel is very helpful:  https://botanical.com/

Home of the electronic version of "A Modern Herbal" by Maud Grieve, originally published in 1931.   https://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/mgmh.html

Plants listed in A Modern Herbal, which contain recipes.   https://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/recipe.html

Also, here is a list of articles submitted by ... readers over the years:  https://botanical.com/features.html

 
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Are there any trees or shrubs that are particularly beneficial to butterflies? I like trees and shrubs because they tend to be drought tolerant once established and even if I have a bad year in my personal life and don't do a good job of maintaining herbs or perennials they'll still keep in blooming
 
Anne Miller
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I would think that they would like any flowing tree or shrub.  I have blue sage that they love because I live where it is very dry.

Here is an article that mentions several that they like:  https://www.thespruce.com/eleven-trees-that-attract-butterflies-3269684

I would not have thought of River Birch or Sassafras because they don't grown here.
 
Casie Becker
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I suspect the best ones would have flowers that are easy to land on.  Every year my mountain laurel is covered with large butterflies during it's short season.  Another thing to look for in trees and shrubs are host plants for caterpillars.  Oak is a good example.  It doesn't have the most spectacular bloom, but I think I read somewhere that it is an important host plant for more than 20 butterflies and moths.
 
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I would second the comments about using valerian with caution. It is an unpredictable and somewhat heavy-handed herb in my experience, and some people are stimulated by it rather than sedated. Michael Moore's classic book Medicinal Herbs of the Pacific Coast has a brilliant and observant section on valerian and how it interacts with the person's physiology. He points out that apart from its action on the central nervous system, it stimulates the circulatory and respiratory systems, so people with robust systems will react completely differently from someone with low blood pressure or impaired lung function.  For many of us, it causes a morning hangover. For a few of us, it is stimulating and banishes sleep. For some, it fits their physiology and give a good night's sleep. It is certainly a good plant for a butterfly garden, with its big panicles of tiny, honey-scented flowers.

For anxiety, I don't think sedatives per se actually address the problem very well, whether they are herbal or pharmaceutical. You don't want to be just a slower, sleepier anxious person!
Skullcap targets anxiety more directly, in my opinion. It is historically considered a "tonic nervine" meaning that it nourishes and normalizes the brain and nervous system rather than just sedating it. A dose of the tincture helps break the obsessive cycling of ideas that many of us experience when we are anxious. In both chronic anxiety and in situations that are stressful enough to prevent sleep, I have seen skullcap help the people to escape the mental "hamster wheel" and put their mind at rest.

Some herbalists say that the tea or capsules are more sedating than the tincture, and make people sleepy. I have always tinctured it. If I am allowed to say it here, a combination of skullcap and cbd is especially effective at helping people regain balance and dispelling crippling anxiety.


 
Jamie Chevalier
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I suspect the best ones would have flowers that are easy to land on.  Every year my mountain laurel is covered with large butterflies during it's short season.  Another thing to look for in trees and shrubs are host plants for caterpillars.  Oak is a good example.  It doesn't have the most spectacular bloom, but I think I read somewhere that it is an important host plant for more than 20 butterflies and moths.



This is a good reminder that butterflies need more than nectar. Oaks are wind-pollinated and don't make nectar, but their fissured bark provides good overwintering hibernation spots, and the young leaves feed caterpillars. It's important to think of caterpillars as butterfly babies, not pests. The whole umbelliferae family--carrots, parsley, angelica, cilantro etc is outstanding for pollinators of all kinds because of the ease of landing and accessing the nectar. Yarrow is a particularly good plant for this thread, since it is both a good butterfly plant and a reliable medicinal. My kids all knew that when they got a nosebleed, they needed to pick some yarrow leaves and use them to stop the bleeding. It has been used for staunching wounds since prehistory (The Latin name is Achillea, from Achilles, who used it to heal his battle wounds in the Trojan War.) I have seen bees rolling in yarrow leaves over and over, and speculate they may be using the medicinal leaves to rid themselves of mites.

Another great family for butterflies is the silene/lychnis tribe. The best-known for gardens is Maltese Cross. It has clusters of bright red flowers that butterflies love, is perennial, and is hardy pretty much everywhere in the US. It also known as Burning Love. s Another member of the family is Rose Campion, perhaps the easiest garden flower to grow that I know of. It is both drought and deer-resistant, and blooms for a long time. The leaves are silver and persist throught he winter, so it is an easy foolproof choice for the landscape. Neither of these have medicinal uses that I know of, but they definitely pull their weight in flowers and butterflies. Perennials set up reliable habitat that butterfly populations can find and build up in. https://www.quailseeds.com/store/p318/Perennial_Butterfly_Garden_Kit.html

As noted above, it can take some time for butterflies to find you. Big showy flowers in masses are a help in attracting those first explorers to your yard. I like zinnias for this--big flowers, bright colors, and a great place to land, with new little nectar-bearing flowers in the center every day for a long time. Tithonia is another great attractor for your first and second year, when you are waiting for the perennials to size up and bloom well. Fennel is another good annual choice, a favorite of swallowtails. And Western, or Showy Milkweed blooms the first year from seed. https://www.quailseeds.com/store/p210/Butterfly_Garden_Kit.html

 
Anne Miller
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Jamie Chevalier wrote:I would second the comments about using valerian with caution.



Thank you Jamie for your concerns.

I have never grown it so when I tried it Valerian did not do anything for me.  I had a product that really helped that this was listed as an ingredient.  Then that product was no longer available.

Judith did say that she found it relaxing.  Lemon balm works better for me.
 
Anne Miller
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And thanks for the comment about Oaks.  Now I know why I have so many butterflies.
 
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