Judson Carroll

author & pollinator
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Recent posts by Judson Carroll

https://www.spreaker.com/episode/show-234-watercress-waterleaf-and-bush-honeysuckle--65768242

In this episode I tell you about two great edible plants for spring foraging.  Watercress, especially, is one you have to try at least once. It is delicious and has a somewhat sophisticated taste.  Waterleaf is very mild. Then, we discuss Bush Honeysuckle as a medicinal herb.





Also, I am back on Youtube. Please subscribe to my channel: @judsoncarroll5902   Judson Carroll - YouTube


Tune of the week: Make Me Down A Pallet On Your Floor
This is my version of "Make Me Down A Pallet On Your Floor" by Mississippi John Hurt. I learned it from Doc Watson when I was a kid. It is a fun song to play and not very difficult. ENJOY!
https://youtu.be/ul8dmhijkBM

New today in my Woodcraft shop:

Toasted Holly Cooking Spoon
https://judsoncarrollwoodcraft.substack.com/p/toasted-holly-cooking-spoon

Email: judson@judsoncarroll.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs--4697544/support

Read about The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54


Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:
https://judsoncarroll.substack.com/


Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB


Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Also available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Podcast:  https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: https://rumble.com/c/c-618325 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs--4697544/support.
21 hours ago
Lesson 3: Herbal Spotlight, Juniper and Cedar

In this lesson, I discuss Juniper and Cedar berries and how simply eating them can be powerful herbal medicine. They are free and abundant in most places. And, once again, I mispronounced Fr. Kneipp's name... Southern accents and German names just don't mix well!

https://youtu.be/4qzGY8zEp5o

1 day ago
Make Me Down A Pallet On Your Floor
This is my version of "Make Me Down A Pallet On Your Floor" by Mississippi John Hurt.  I learned it from Doc Watson when I was a kid.  It is a fun song to play and not very difficult.  ENJOY!
https://youtu.be/ul8dmhijkBM

1 day ago



I use Alfalfa interchangeably with Clovers, and truly enjoy it.  However, many modern authors caution against all consumption of Alfalfa.  Honestly, I think their concerns are over-wrought.  I have enjoyed eating Alfalfa sprouts, especially, since childhood…. And have likely eaten my weight in them several times over.  Alfalfa sprouts were a popular health food and salad ingredient in my mother’s generation and she included them in most every salad and sandwich.  The flavor of Alfalfa is not only something I enjoy, but is connected with many food memories.  I continue to sprout my own seeds and to harvest both the tender spring leaves and blossoms of wild plants.

One of my favorite ways to eat Alfalfa sprouts is on a sandwich.  I love a good sandwich and I think this recipe could help set the tone for this book.  I am by no means a vegan… in fact, I live mostly on meat, fish and seafood.  I enjoy vegetables and fruit for nutrition and for the flavor they bring to a dish.  The nice thing about using Alfalfa sprouts on a sandwich is that they press together and act like a sponge for condiments and sauces.  While a traditional turkey club is excellent made with lettuce, it is much better with Alfalfa sprouts and so is a BLT or ham sandwich.  I like to make a mustard vinaigrette for these sandwiches and use home made mayonnaise to get that mix of acidic and rich.



Mustard Vinaigrette

Start with a good Salad oil like olive or walnut oil and a good vinegar such as wine vinegar.

We want a mix of about three to one vinegar to oil and about 1/3 mustard to oil.

You can play around with the proportions, but this is a good ballpark measurement.

On their own, oil and vinegar only mix briefly and then separate.  Mustard, either prepared or dried, will ensure an emulsion that keeps the dressing together and makes it work.  Without an emulsifier, a vinaigrette will simply not stay together and coat the salad.  That said, salads should be dressed fresh, at the table and never left to sit in dressing as fresh dressing has a much better consistency and will cause the greens to wilt if dressed too early.

So, very basically, mix those three ingredients, add salt and pepper to taste and whisk into a dressing.  That is basic, but the dressing will still be exponentially better than anything store bought, especially if you use good oil and a vinegar that really tastes good to you.  I like red wine, sherry and rice wine vinegar most, but I never turn up my nose at apple cider vinegar.  Of course, balsamic is excellent, but expensive.  The one vinegar you want to avoid is distilled white vinegar.  It has acidity but little flavor and can actually irritate the stomach.

To the basic mix, I always add fresh, crushed garlic and some either fresh or dried herbs.  

Parsley is essential for me, as it enhances the flavors of everything to which it is added.  The same is true of either celery salt or fresh celery leaves.  Carrot seeds are similar.

Other herbs I enjoy are oregano, basil, dill, fennel tops, chives, tarragon, sage, rosemary…. Basically anything that smells good and that I have on hand.

While we may use Mayonnaise mostly as a condiment, it is actually a classic French sauce.  Making mayo takes a bit of practice.  While you can make it in a food processor or blender, I prefer to use a bowl and a whisk.  Start by separating two eggs, being careful not to include any of the white with the yolks.  In a bowl, beat the yolks with 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar (I really prefer lemon juice), and ¼ teaspoon of salt.  At this point, you can also add ½ teaspoon or so of dry mustard powder or some Dijon style mustard, if you like.  The mustard makes the mayo a little more “fool-proof”, but it is not essential and you may prefer the flavor without it.  I like a little mustard in my mayo.  Slowly add 1 cup of olive oil or other good oil… and, I do mean slowly!  Like, a drop at a time, and whisk until about a half cup of the oil is entirely incorporated into the emulsion.  Once you have whisked in about half of the oil, and the mayo is getting thick, you can relax a bit on the whisking and add the rest of the oil in a slow, thin stream.  If you add the oil too fast, or use too much oil, the mayo will “break” which means the emulsion has separated.  If that happens, beat another egg yolk with a teaspoon of water and start an emulsion by slowly dripping in 1/4th cup water, then add your broken mayo to that, a little at a time.

You can make dozens of variations on basic mayonnaise.  You can add garlic, any herbs you like… whatever.  I suppose, if you really have to, you could mix it with ketchup to make a sauce some call “special”.



Bread

I usually bake Bread once a week.  I use a modified recipe that I learned from a book called, Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes A Day, by Jeff Hertzberg and Zoe Francois.  I highly recommend that book.  While I do not mind kneading bread, I have had better and more consistent results with their no knead method than most others.  Beyond that, it is remarkably convenient to mix up some dough once a week and leave it in the fridge until ready to bake.  Their “basic master recipe” consists of 3 cups warm water, one packet of yeast, 1 and ½ tablespoons of kosher salt and 6 and ½ cups of AP flour.  You mix it all together, without kneading.  You let it rise at room temp for two hours, then put it in the refrigerator in a lightly sealed container.  When ready to bake a loaf of bread, you pull out about 1/3 of the dough, form your loaf and let it rest on the counter, at room temp, for 45 minutes or so before baking.  You lightly flour the raw loaf, make a few slashes across the top to help it rise, then bake for 30 minutes or so at 450F.

My modifications began with realizing my oven wasn’t accurate.  I found that baking at 425F for  35-40 minutes worked better for me.  Also, rather than baking boules, baguettes and other shaped loaves, I found that using a loaf pan worked best for me.  I shape the loaf simply... sort of a football shape, then I fold the ends under and pinch all the seams to seal.  I put it in a buttered loaf pan and allow it to rest/rise for an hour or so before baking.  You have to shape and smooth the loaf for a good crust.  Dusting and gently rubbing flour on the surface before baking helps, too.  I like a softer crust and a lighter loaf so, I add a little oil to the dough when I'm mixing it together, I also let the loaf rise about 15 minutes longer, in a 150 degree oven, and then I bake the bread in a dry oven – they recommend adding water for steam.  I also found that I like ¼ teaspoon more salt in the dough.  The big thing though, comes down to the yeast.

In the beginning of the COVID lock downs, yeast became almost impossible to buy in my area.  I only had a couple of packets of yeast left.  I thought about how the Fleischmann brothers had figured out how to dry yeast from beer brewers and market that to bakers.  Knowing that yeast multiplies as it digests sugar and starch, I began to wonder if I could use something like George Herter’s sourdough technique to keep the small amount of commercial yeast I had multiplying and usable for baking multiple batches.  While I love sourdough bread, this technique of utilizing wild yeasts requires daily “feeding” of the sourdough starter.  Facing shortages at the store, I was no longer sure I could afford to use flour just to keep the dough starter alive.  So, I made a batch of no knead dough.  After the initial two hour rise, I pinched off a golf ball sized chunk of dough, put it in a jar, covered it with cold water and put it in the refrigerator.  Mr. Herter had written that sourdough starter could be kept refrigerated, and would only need a weekly feeding.  I wondered if this would work.  A week later, I used the refrigerated dough ball to bake the next batch, adding no additional yeast.  The dough had become so saturated in the water that I could stir it together into a slurry.  I counted that slurry as part of the water used in the recipe.  I crossed my fingers and waited…. The dough rose just as if I had used instant yeast!  

That began the cycle of baking and holding back a chunk of dough to start the next batch, and that has continued for around three years so far.  Sometimes, I wait two or three weeks between baking.  So far, the dough starter has worked every time.  The best thing though, is that each batch of bread I bake becomes more flavorful and aromatic as the dough starter ages.  Like sourdough, it has developed rich, tangy, cheesy notes.  Traditional European bakers will know that I did not invent the wheel – they have used such starters called a biga or poolish for generations.  But, I figured it out on my own, in an emergency… and it worked!



To make the Sandwich

It is best to slice your bread a bit more thinly than the pre-sliced bread you buy from a store, because homemade bread is a bit more dense.  Just toast it a bit to firm it up and to melt the butter… I absolutely hate cutting my gums on hard toasted bread!  Butter your bread on at least one side.  If using mayo, you may want to only butter the outside.  Of course, you can also butter and fry your bread as you would a grilled cheese.  I like to sprinkle on a little celery salt on the buttered side; I make celery salt just by adding celery leaves to salt and letting it all dry together.  After that, it is totally up to you. I like to spread mayo on one slice of bread and put sliced tomato on top of that so the tomato juice forms a sauce with the mayo.  Then, I add finely sliced onions or ramps.  Then, comes the meat – bacon, ham, turkey, etc.  On top of the meat I add sliced pickles so the pickle juice soaks into the meat, and a slice of Swiss, provolone or other good cheese.  Then put down my alfalfa sprouts, or a leafy vegetable, and drench them with the mustard vinaigrette.  A few extra fresh herbs, a little extra salt and pepper, and the sandwich is good to go.  BTW, pickled onions are even better than raw onions.  

Of course, sprouts of all kinds are good in stir fries or as a garnish.  You can also mix alfalfa seeds into bread dough to add nutrition.  In a bad, really survival situation, sprouts of all kinds could save your life.  If you are a prepper or a homesteader, or anyone who is trying to have more food security, these little items that were once the domain of hippies and fine dining restaurants are very important.  Our ancestors always faced the “hungry gap”, when the stores of fresh, vitamin rich vegetables were depleted and it was either too early to plant or the seeds just planted would still take weeks or months to grow and mature.  Canned vegetables and fruits and fermented vegetables can go a long way to prevent scurvy, support the immune system, keep the eyes bright and energy levels up.  But, these take planning in advance and some level of skill.  If, today, you were to buy just a few pounds of sprouting seeds like alfalfa, mung beans, lentils, etc., any time you needed a fresh salad or some vegetation with your eggs, within just a few days those seeds could be sprouted and ready to eat.  As little as a tablespoon of seeds will make a full bowl of sprouts.  Microgreens may be grown from the seeds of many vegetables – all the brassicas, salad greens, radishes, beets, etc., as well as amaranth and chia, which produce a ton of seeds from a small plot.  Microgreens may be grown in the light from a sunny window, covered in an additional layer of plastic or glass to create a micro-greenhouse.  Or, they may be grown under grow lights.  We pick them when they are just an inch to a few inches tall, and they are full of nutrition.  What is even better about this “prep” even if you have to buy all the seeds you use, you will rarely spend more than a few dollars per pound of seeds.  Once you have the seeds, save some to plant outside in the spring, and you will have sprouts and microgreens for life!  I certainly would not wish to live on sprouts and microgreens, but they are quite tasty with some salad dressing, maybe some cheese, a hard boiled egg or a few sardines. I would consider them almost as essential as dried rice, beans and canned fish.



Here is a list of seeds to consider for sprouts and microgreens (but this is barely scratching the surface):

Cress, Red Clover, Green Peas, Broccoli, Adzuki Beans, Lentils, Mung Beans, Garbanzo Beans, Sunflower Seeds, Caraway, Parsley, Wheat Grass, Kale, Alfalfa, Mustard, Barley Grass, Chard, Beet, Onion, Radish, Cabbage, Carrot, Fenugreek, Arugula, Chia, Cilantro, Chives, Flax, Quinoa, Amaranth.



Alfalfa also has medicinal uses.  Plants For A Future States:

Medicinal use of Alfalfa: Alfalfa leaves, either fresh or dried, have traditionally been used as a nutritive tonic to stimulate the appetite and promote weight gain. The plant has an oestrogenic action and could prove useful in treating problems related to menstruation and the menopause. Some caution is advised in the use of this plant, however. It should not be prescribed to people with auto-immune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. See also the notes above on toxicity. The plant is antiscorbutic, aperient, diuretic, oxytocic, haemostatic, nutritive, stimulant and tonic. The expressed juice is emetic and is also anodyne in the treatment of gravel. The plant is taken internally for debility in convalescence or anaemia, haemorrhage, menopausal complaints, pre-menstrual tension, fibroids etc. A poultice of the heated leaves has been applied to the ear in the treatment of earache. The leaves can be used fresh or dried. The leaves are rich in vitamin K which is used medicinally to encourage the clotting of blood. This is valuable in the treatment of jaundice. The plant is grown commercially as a source of chlorophyll and carotene, both of which have proven health benefits. The leaves also contain the anti-oxidant tricin. The root is febrifuge and is also prescribed in cases of highly coloured urine. Extracts of the plant are antibacterial.



This article is an excerpt from





The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54





PS. New today in my Woodcraft shop:


Mahoganized Holly Scoop

https://judsoncarrollwoodcraft.substack.com/p/mahoganized-holly-scoop
Read about my other new books:



Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25



Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS



A Daily Catholic Devotional Reflections on the Daily Mass readings July-December, 2025
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/12/a-daily-catholic-devotional-reflections.html

Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK

and

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist's Guide

Read about Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist's Guide: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6: by Judson Carroll


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:

Judson Carroll, Master Herbalist
Herbal Medicine
Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB



Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog:

https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: https://rumble.com/c/c-618325

Disclaimer

The information on this site is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or condition. Nothing on this site has been evaluated or approved by the FDA. I am not a doctor. The US government does not recognize the practice of herbal medicine and their is no governing body regulating herbalists. Therefore, I'm just a guy who studies herbs. I am not offering any advice. I won't even claim that anything I write is accurate or true! I can tell you what herbs have "traditionally been used for." I can tell you my own experience and if I believe an herb helped me. I cannot, nor would I tell you to do the same. If you use any herb I, or anyone else, mentions you are treating yourself. You take full responsibility for your health. Humans are individuals and no two are identical. What works for me may not work for you. You may have an allergy, sensitivity or underlying condition that no one else shares and you don't even know about. Be careful with your health. By continuing to read my blog you agree to be responsible for yourself, do your own research, make your own choices and not to blame me for anything, ever.
5 days ago

https://judsoncarroll.substack.com/p/show-233-dont-try-this-at-home-and

In this episode I tell you about a recent experiment with a very dangerous herb that was necessary for severe pain.  I also discuss two wild edible and two interesting medicinal plants.





Tune of the week: Since I Laid My Burdens Down
Happy Easter everyone! Today I play one of Mississippi John Hurt's gospel songs, "Since I Laid My Burdens Down". It is great song, that will likely sound familiar. It also gives us insight into his unique blues style - watch to the end and I'll explain how.  https://youtu.be/xMOBZ37QnLA

New today in my Woodcraft shop:
Toasted Holly Cooking Spoon - Judson Carroll Woodcraft
https://judsoncarrollwoodcraft.substack.com/p/toasted-holly-cooking-spoon

Email: judson@judsoncarroll.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs--4697544/support

Read about The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54


Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:
https://judsoncarroll.substack.com/


Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB


Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Also available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Podcast:  https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: https://rumble.com/c/c-618325 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs--4697544/support.
1 week ago
Happy Easter everyone!  Today I play one of Mississippi John Hurt's gospel songs, "Since I Laid My Burdens Down".  It is great song, that will likely sound familiar.  It also gives us insight into his unique blues style - watch to the end and I'll explain how.



Sign up for my free newsletter to get weekly tunes from me, history, stories and music instruction. https://judsoncarrollmusic.substack.com/
1 week ago
In this chapter, I will discuss how to turn plants into herbal medicine. I will start with how to make an "herbal infusion." That is an impressive term, isn't it? It really just means tea. Like most every field of study, herbalism has its own jargon. I try not to use jargon, because it creates a barrier to entry. My goal is to make herbal medicine available to normal people, so I try to speak in plain terms, or to define the more esoteric terms as I go. If a clinical herbalist says to a client, "I recommend an herbal infusion of yarrow to act as a diaphoretic," that sounds very impressive. The grateful client will gladly pay the bill of someone who sounds so learned in secret and mysterious knowledge. All that really means though, is a hot tea of yarrow to induce sweating and help "break a fever." Since I am a teacher and not a clinical herbalist, I'll stick with that.



Herbal Infusions

As I said, an herbal infusion is simply a tea. How it is made though, does matter. The two things one should never do in making an herbal tea of the leaves and/or flowers of an herb is to boil the herb, or to let it sit open while it steeps. When we use the tops of herbs, the volatile oils they contain are among their most important constituents. If you boil the herb, or let it steep uncovered... or pour it into your cup and either sip or blow on it to cool it down enough to drink, those oils evaporate and your herbal medicine is substantially weakened.

The correct way to make an herbal tea is to bring the water to a boil, then either toss your herbs into the pot and put a lid on it or put our herbs in a tea pot with a lid and pour boiling water over them. Allow the herbs to steep at least 15 minutes, or until cool enough to drink. If the tea is still steaming when you pour it into your cup, place a saucer or other cover over it. There are actually special herbal tea cups that are marketed; they look like adult sized "sippy cups".... I don't use them!

How much of the herb or combination of herbs you use depends on how much tea you are making. Generally, we use dried "cut and sifted" herbs in making teas, but you can use a fresh herb if it is in season. Drying herbs merely a means of preserving them so you have what you need on hand. Many herbals will recommend something like 1-2 ounces of dried herbs to around a pint of water. That is basically 2-4 tablespoons of the dried herbs. It all really depends on how strong you want the tea. I never measure. I grab a few pinches of the herb or each of the herbs I want to use - about enough to fill the palm of my hand - and just toss them in. It is usually best to have a few sips of the tea every hour, but for a sore throat or to break a fever a cup at a time often works better. In a case of diarrhea, for instance, a few sips taken regularly would be more effective.

Some people also make "cold infusions", which are basically like sun tea. If you were in a situation with no electricity or means of cooking, this would be a viable option. I have a little, alcohol burning stove that is always in my backpack for emergencies, so it isn't really something I do. But, if for some reason you could not have a campfire... like if you are dumb enough to still live in California.... Put the dried herbs in a jar with some water and either set it in the sun or let the herbs steep for a couple of days. Cold infusions do not work well for fresh herbs, because the herbs will begin to rot or ferment. Sometimes, we can use fermentation in our herbal preps, but this is not one.



Decoctions

The third type of infusion is called a decoction. This is simply an herbal tea made with the roots, bark, stems or any woody part of the plant. Unlike the tops of herbs, we are not concerned with volatile oils. We simply need to boil or simmer the herb long enough to extract its medicinal properties. You start by adding your herb/s to a pot of cold, clean water. The measurements are basically the same for the herbs as for tea, but you may want to use more water since it will boil for a while and evaporate. The longer it boils, the more concentrated the medicinal properties of the herb become in the water. It is usually a good idea to allow the herb/s to soak for a while in the water before you turn the burner on. Bring the water to the boil, then turn the temperature down to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the amount of water is reduced to about half. If you reduce the water down to 1/4th the original volume, that is called a double decoction. Either way, don't make more than you can use within a couple of days, or the decoction may begin to ferment or spoil.

Washes and Soaks

Infusions don't have to only be teas. Some very useful herbs should not be taken internally at all. Regardless, herbal washes and soaks are made the same way as infusions. Washes can be very useful for skin conditions, rashes, burns, sunburns, etc., when used cold. You simply bathe the area with the cold tea or decoction. Soaks are excellent to help disinfect and heal deep cuts and puncture wounds, for bruises, strains and sprains and for painful joints. A soak is generally used warm and can be anything from a full bath to a small basin of water in which to soak a smaller body part.

Oil Infusions

Infusions may also be made with oil. As oils are absorbed through the sin, a good, food grade oil is usually best. Coconut oil is very versatile, and olive oil is always nice, but you do not have to use expensive oils. Any kind of oil that you are comfortable cooking with or using in a salad dressing will be fine. The old mountain folks I learned from used lard or bear grease! If you use a fat that will harden or thicken at room temperature, such as coconut oil or an animal fat, you must use a hot infusion method and keep in mind that fats can go rancid. Don't keep such infusions for too long or store them in conditions which may encourage rancidity. Obviously, it is much easier to simply use an oil. But even with a fairly shelf stable oil, be careful to only use fully dried herbs. Fresh herbs can rot. In such a low acid environment, even botulism could be an issue. Generally, oils are used externally and need only common sense to be made and stored safely.

Cold oil infusions are made by simply putting an amount of dried, crushed herbs into a jar and adding oil until the jar is full. Be sure to allow the herbs to settle and keep adding oil until all air has bubbled out. Allow the herbs to infuse in the oil for up to two months. Then, strain out your herbs. If you leave them in longer, it could cause the oil (olive oil for instance) to become rancid. After straining, the infusion should last up to two years - let you nose be the judge.

Hot infusions are made gently warming the oil before adding the herbs. Most herbalists use a crock pot. Some even use heating pads, place the oil on a hot water heater, covered with a towel to hold in heat or use sunlight to warm their oil infusions. Using the sun or placing the oil by a cooking fire was the way it used to be done before electric heat. The key is to keep your oil just warm enough (not hot enough to cook) for about two days to a week. Then, you strain out your herbs and the oil should have the same shelf life as a cold infused oil. Herbalist and teacher Dr. Patrick Jones gives excellent advice, "Deep fried herbs are not good!" Always remember in making infused oils, to keep the oil temperature well below cooking temperature.



Salves, Lotions and Balms

Oil infusions have many uses. Some, like an infusion of Arnica or Saint John's Wort are excellent for first aid or sore muscles, rubbed into injured or sore areas. Arnica should not be taken internally, but many other herbal oil infusions may be made into salves, lotions and lip balms. If you used coconut oil, you already have an oil infusion that can be used as a salve, lotion or a balm as coconut oil solidifies at room temperature. For this reason, I prefer to use coconut oil when possible. Otherwise, the difference between a salve, a balm and a lotion is how much bees wax you use. It really is that simple. Use natural bees wax, melt it at a low temp and begin blending in your infused oil. If you use a little bit of oil, the wax will harden to a Chapstick -like consistency. A little more oil, and you have a softer lip balm. A bit more oil and you have a salve that easily melts and rubs into the skin. If you use more oil and a blender to whip everything to a light, smooth consistency (stick blenders work best) you have a lotion. The best way to find the texture you like is to experiment. I do not find specific ratios helpful for "kitchen medicine". When you get it just right for your needs and preferences, write down how much oil and wax you used for future reference. Water and alcohol-based infusions can also be blended into wax... to a point. Water and oil don't mix, and this yields a "grainy" texture. Oil infusions are much nicer.



Now, we will get into making tinctures with alcohol, starting with liniments.

Liniments

Liniments are simple and very easy to make. A Liniment is simply an herbal extract using alcohol that is intended for EXTERNAL USE ONLY. This is an important point, because while you can make liniments with ethanol alcohol that you could drink, to do so would be a waste of money. Most often, liniments are made with isopropyl rubbing alcohol. The herbs you use are those that are good for rubbing on sore muscles and joints, sprains and bruises. Liniments should not be applied to open wounds or broken skin. To make a liniment, simply put your dried herbs (usually an ounce or so) and add at least enough rubbing alcohol to cover them, but adding twice as much alcohol by volume to the herbs is best. Allow the herbs to steep in the alcohol. How long you let them steep depends on the herbs you are using. Generally speaking, 4 weeks is plenty for most leaves and flowers. Roots and stems often take longer, some even up to six months to fully infuse. The scent and color of the alcohol will tell you when it has extracted enough from the herbs. If you are using leaves or flowers, once they look "worn out", or like you had made a tea from them, they are ready to be strained out.

Tinctures

Tinctures are probably the most common way that clinical herbalists dispense herbs. A tincture is simply an alcohol extraction using ethanol - unusually vodka or brandy. The liquor needs to be at least 40% alcohol, or 80 proof. In the mountains where I grew up, most folks used moonshine, but any store bought vodka that is of decent enough quality not to wreck your stomach or give you a terrible hangover headache from just a drink or two will work just fine for most herbs. 40% alcohol is sufficient to make an extract of most herbs in which you use dried leaves, flowers and roots. You will need a higher proof alcohol for fresh herbs and some roots. The reason is that the alcohol dehydrates fresh herbs, pulling the water out of them until a stasis of alcohol and water is met. This causes the liquor to become diluted by the herbs and the total alcohol content is no longer able to preserve the herbs - they may begin to rot.

With dried herbs, simply follow my directions above for making a liniment, but using a drinkable alcohol. Tinctures may also be made using vinegar or glycerin. However, such tinctures are not as strong and have shorter shelf life. I never use them. Alcohol based tinctures are administered in doses that range from by the drop to maybe a teaspoon full. People who wish to avoid alcohol can put the tincture in a cup of hot water and allow the alcohol to steam off. However, this will only get rid of most of the alcohol. If you are a recovered alcoholic who cannot tolerate even a drop of alcohol, you may want to stick with teas or explore vinegar tinctures.

There are very few herbs that cannot be used in a dried form. Lemon Balm, for instance is a wonderfully relaxing, stress, pain and anxiety relieving herb, that sometimes induces sleep. Most people though, never experience the true potency of fresh Lemon Balm, only having it in its dried form, perhaps in a tea. In the dried form, it is much like its cousin, Catnip. Lemon Balm, harvested fresh, in the morning, while it is full of volatile oils is much more potent if processed immediately. Pour a high proof vodka or neutral spirit (usually Everclear) into a blender, turn the blender on, toss in your lemon balm and put the lid on tightly immediately. Once the herb is completely ground up and liquified into the alcohol, allow the infusion to cool, with the lid still sealed. Then transfer to a jar, screw the lid on tightly and allow the herb to steep and infuse for about a month in a cool, dark place. That will make the difference between a tea or tincture that is mildly calming and one that can literally knock you down.... which can be a good thing if you are in extreme pain, panic or have insomnia.

Percolation

I am not going to really get into detail on percolations, because they are so very rarely used in home medicine, that it would not be practical. Percolations were developed by doctors, chemists and pharmacists back when most medicine was plant based. It uses an inverted glass cone, with a cap on the small end that allows a specific drip rate as alcohol percolates through the herbs. This technique requires specific, high proof alcohol that is usually available only through chemical supply companies. It also requires a lot of math. A specific quantity of the herb is allowed to steep for a specific time in a specific proof alcohol. Then, the saturated herb is packed into the cone. After that, an alcohol of a specific proof is added to the herb, as it is allowed to drip at a specific rate. This allowed pharmacists to be confident in the exact degree of potency of the herb extracted in a specific quantity of an alcohol infusion. Such accuracy was very important when a doctor would prescribe an herb like Digitalis/Foxglove, or Gelsemium, which could be deadly if a drop too much was used. If you want specifics on how to make percolations, the information is available on the late herbalist, Michael Moore's Southwest School of Botanical Medicine website. By the way, I learned the fresh Lemon Balm tincture from Moore's classes, as well.



Capsules, Pills/Pastilles and Lozenges

Capsules are probably the most common way herbs are bought by consumers. They are so simple to make that once you have purchased the supplies, you will wonder why some companies charge so much. The reason is that they are tedious to make at home. Most people simply don't have the patience to grind dried herbs finely and then stuff the powder into gelatin capsules. Empty capsules can be purchased at most any drug store. There are also little trays of forms that make filling them go faster. If you were to need a lot of herbal capsules, you would probably want to invest in a machine to fill them. You will also need a digital scale to measure out the right amount of the powdered herb to fill the capsule.

Traditionally, herbalists have skipped all this and simply mixed their powdered herb into honey, molasses or another sticky, gummy substance. Saps and resins have also been used. Once the desired amount of herb has been mixed with enough of the sticky stuff to form a solid ball, it is left to dry a bit, then given a dry coating. In generations past, our ancestors would frequently buy little tins of such herbal pills or pastilles from apothecaries.

While cough drops or lozenges can be made the same way for home use, you can make your own that rival or exceed the commercial product. Many herbs are good for coughs, sore throats and hoarseness. All you need is a formula you like, some sugar, water, a candy thermometer, a pot and an understand of how sugar behaves at various temperatures. The art of candy making is a bit beyond the scope of this book. But, after sugar melts it will harden when cooled to specific textures depending on the degree it reaches while cooking. Sugar melted down in an herbal tea can be transformed into hard lozenges or candies. Some herbs, like Horehound, Peppermint and Licorice, have a long history of being taken in candy form.



Syrup

Syrups are a similar concept. You simply combine a tea or decoction, a mix of tinctures, or even elderberry juice with a thick, sweet liquid. This can be honey and water cooked down, simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water) or a glycerin base. You can add a bit of alcohol. We have all had Over The Counter (OTC) cough syrup or cold remedies. Syrups are NOT rocket science. Add what you like and make your own formula. Cherry bark is particularly effective to suppress coughs and expectorate mucus congestion. Sugar acts as a preservative, but these are not for long term storage.










This article is an excerpt from

Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25




PS. New today in my Woodcraft shop:


Mahoganized Holly Scoop

https://judsoncarrollwoodcraft.substack.com/p/mahoganized-holly-scoop



The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54

Read about my other new books:



Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS



A Daily Catholic Devotional Reflections on the Daily Mass readings July-December, 2024
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/12/a-daily-catholic-devotional-reflections.html

Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK

and

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist's Guide

Read about Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast An Herbalist's Guide: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6: by Judson Carroll


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Judson Carroll, Master Herbalist
Herbal Medicine
Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB



Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

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Disclaimer

The information on this site is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease or condition. Nothing on this site has been evaluated or approved by the FDA. I am not a doctor. The US government does not recognize the practice of herbal medicine and their is no governing body regulating herbalists. Therefore, I'm just a guy who studies herbs. I am not offering any advice. I won't even claim that anything I write is accurate or true! I can tell you what herbs have "traditionally been used for." I can tell you my own experience and if I believe an herb helped me. I cannot, nor would I tell you to do the same. If you use any herb I, or anyone else, mentions you are treating yourself. You take full responsibility for your health. Humans are individuals and no two are identical. What works for me may not work for you. You may have an allergy, sensitivity or underlying condition that no one else shares and you don't even know about. Be careful with your health. By continuing to read my blog you agree to be responsible for yourself, do your own research, make your own choices and not to blame me for anything, ever.
1 week ago
https://www.spreaker.com/episode/show-232-hawthorn-trailing-arbutus-and-twisted-stalk--65558688

In this episode I discuss two wild edible plants and a medicinal plant.  The first, Trailing Arbutus, is somewhat rare, but you might consider growing it. The second, Twisted Stalk is very abundant where I live. And the medicinal, Hawthorn is super abundant and one of the most important of all medicinal herbs.





Tune of the week: Hesitation Blues
I play my version of "Hesitation Blues" and give a bit of a lesson on the history of the tune and how to play it. If you would like more instructional content in my videos, like I did on this one, please let me know. Or, if you'd rather just hear me pick, sing and tell stories, let me know that. Either way, ENJOY!  https://youtu.be/mufY_YwP0CE

New today in my Woodcraft shop:
Toasted Holly Cooking Spoon - Judson Carroll Woodcraft
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Email: judson@judsoncarroll.com

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Read about The Spring Foraging Cookbook: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-spring-foraging-cookbook.html
Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRP63R54


Medicinal Weeds and Grasses of the American Southeast, an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/medicinal-weeds-and-grasses-of-american.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47LHTTH

and

Confirmation, an Autobiography of Faith
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2023/05/confirmation-autobiography-of-faith.html

Available in paperback on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C47Q1JNK


Visit my Substack and sign up for my free newsletter:
https://judsoncarroll.substack.com/


Read about my new other books:

Medicinal Ferns and Fern Allies, an Herbalist's Guide https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/11/medicinal-ferns-and-fern-allies.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMSZSJPS

The Omnivore’s Guide to Home Cooking for Preppers, Homesteaders, Permaculture People and Everyone Else: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/10/the-omnivores-guide-to-home-cooking-for.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGKX37Q2

Medicinal Shrubs and Woody Vines of The American Southeast an Herbalist's Guide
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/06/medicinal-shrubs-and-woody-vines-of.html

Available for purchase on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B2T4Y5L6

and

Growing Your Survival Herb Garden for Preppers, Homesteaders and Everyone Else
https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/04/growing-your-survival-herb-garden-for.html

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X4LYV9R


The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Bitter Herbs: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-encyclopedia-of-bitter-medicina.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5MYJ35R

and

Christian Medicine, History and Practice: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2022/01/christian-herbal-medicine-history-and.html

Available for purchase on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09P7RNCTB


Herbal Medicine for Preppers, Homesteaders and Permaculture People: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/2021/10/herbal-medicine-for-preppers.html

Also available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B09HMWXL25

Podcast:  https://www.spreaker.com/show/southern-appalachian-herbs

Blog: https://southernappalachianherbs.blogspot.com/

Free Video Lessons: https://rumble.com/c/c-618325 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/southern-appalachian-herbs--4697544/support.
2 weeks ago