The Lessons

[GEBS]

Lesson 1 - History

Long before records were kept, man was using wild Herbs for both medicines and food.
Over the years, we learnt what was safe to eat, and what caused poisoning, -even death. It must've been a matter of trial and error.
Mandrake root was one of the first medicinals to be used, widely as a painkiller. Most of the Herbs first used were native to the Middle East.
It was in about 2000BCE in Babylon that the first documented account of Herbs appeared, describing tried and tested medicinals, and even included some well known Herbs, such as Bay tree,Thyme,Caraway, and Coriander.
Detailed instructions were given for their preparation and administration.
The Ancient Egyptians imported many of ytheir Herbs, Spices and Aromatics from distant India, learning and indeed assimilating many traditional methods.
Anise,Caraway,Fenugreek,Opium and also Thyme ans Saffron were amongst others, in great demand for food use,Medicines,Cosmetics and Perfumes.
They were also used for Dyes and Disinfectants and in the highly skilled Art of Embalming.
In turn the Greeks built upon the Knowledge of Herbs gathered over the years, and added greatly to it.
Most famous, were the writings of Hippocrates, the 'father of Medicine', who was both Physician and Teacher.
Roughly around 400BCE his students were learning the value of Herbs in healing, in easing pain and curing many diseases and ailments.
His valuable Teaching and methods of practise, set the pattern for modern Medicine.
In the first century, ACE, the Greek Physician Dioscorides listed over 500 plants and Herbs in Materia Medica. This book was the standard work on the subject.
A century later, Galen also a Physician in Imperial Rome went on to write many more books on Herbal Medicine, which remained in use for about 1500 years. The old word 'Galenical' describing a Medicinal preparation, was in fact derived from his name.
When the Romans conquered most of Europe, they took with them a vast knowledge of Herbs. Such was their faith in the accuracy of appliance by Herbs to disease and ailments, that they would often carry them and the seeds to plant, cultivate and use.
Over 200 different Herbs were introduced to Britain for example, by the invading Romans, amongst them: Fennel,Sage,Borage,Betony,Parsley,Rosemary and Thyme.
During the 400 years of Roman occupation,many Herbs they had cultivated became carefully naturalised and now grow wild in many places today.
Monastries wer used to school and teach in Medicine and even cultivated gardens of Herbs.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Herbal folklore flourished in the towns and villages. During all this time they had known relatively little about Herbs, as most of the information was passed down through word of mouth.
As we became literate, more and more people learned to read and write, and books were published on the subject.
In 1551 ACE Steven Mierdman published the first part of William Turner's
'New Herball' which described some 238 British plants and was the first scientific study of plants.
The two most famous Herbalists, wer John Gerard, and Nicholas Culpepper.

[GEBS]

Lesson2 - History continued

In 1557 Gerard, an Apothecary to James I, produced his well known 'Herball'
It was based on the work of the Flemish Physician Dodoens,but included many of the plants growing in America, 'that new lande'.He mentioned both the potato and tomato, which he called 'apple of love', together with those Herbs growing in his own Physic garden.
In 1653 Culpepper, a Physician, brought out a Herbal in which he disagreed with much written by Gerard and other Herbalists.Culpepper made exaggerated claims for the Medicinal power of some Herbs.
He also linked Herbs to Astrology, to such an extent, that though this was popular in England at the time, it damaged his own credibility of his work in the eyes of other scholarly Physicians.
The first Herbal known in America, was published in 1569 by a Spanish Doctor called Nicholas Monardes.
He wrote of the Herbs found by the earliest settlers. The Herb Bergamot, Monarda didyma, commemorates him.
Amongst their few belongings, those first settlers of America took with them treasured seeds and roots of their favourite Herbs. Many Herbs quickly flourished in their new environment and became native plants.
These included: Soapwort, Comfrey, Yarrow, Chamomile, and Coltsfoot.
At the endof such a long sea journey, the pioneers badly needed to eat fresh green food and soon after their arrival, set saladvegetables, such as Sorrel, Parsley, and Good King Henry to grow.
Friendly Indians showed the new inhabitants many plants already growing in the country that had culinary and Medicinal properties and uses.
The best known of these was Bergamot, the leaves of which could be used as a tea, the Indians called Oswego tea.
The cultivation of Herbs in America, reached its peak in the 18th Century with the emergence of the Shakers, so caled, because of their religious dances.
These people dedicated to the celibate lifestyle and were a small group of people.Simplicity was the Key to their way of life and living and they strongly believed that 'beauty rests on utility; the highest use possesses the greatest beauty.'
Shaker economy was based on agriculture:they became America's professional Herbalists, the first ot grow and also the first ot sell Herbs on a large scale.The Shakers cultivated a wide variety about 150 species in all and were soon well known for their high quality of their plants.Among the Herbs sold, were Basil, Tansy, Sage, Horehound, Hyssop and Thyme. They made the herbs into Ointments, Salves, Medicines of all kinds, Pills, and Powders.
The influence of the Shakers lasted for over 100 years, and as a result the interest in Herbs continued in America without interruption.
In Britain, however, the custom of growing Herbs for use in the home had largely died out by the mid-19 th century. The Industrial Revolution brought people flocking from everywhere into towns in search of work.Small terraced houses in the quickly growing towns offered no space for gardens. Much of the knowledge for culinary and Medicinal Herbs use, declined as patent Medicines and table condiments rose in popularity.
In less intensively industrialized countries like France and Italy, the use of Herbs, particularly in cookery has never ceased.
In Europe, where Herbs grew vigorously in the wild, the commercial collection and cultivation of them was organized on a wode scale. Medicinal plants were imported at relatively low cost by Britain. Some dried culinary Herbs were also available, but the quality was poor and as time went on people ceased to use more than the familiar ones, those being: Thyme,Parsley,Sage and Rosemary.
The advances in scientific knowledge during the 20th century, enabled scientists to studt and isolate the chemical substances of the plants, and to also synthesize its peoperties. This then meant that accurate dosage could be administered, and instant medicine from the drugstore became available to all.
Synthetic flavourings sold in little bottles were simple to use in the kitchen.
Modern manufacturing techniques meant that there was no longer a need for the ailing and expensive Herb industry to continue in Britain.
In the countryside, however and particularly in Mediterranean countries, knowledge of the uses of Herbs survived.
During the last 40 years, there has been a dramatic revival in the interest
of the uses of Herbs
on both sides of the Atlantic. Bulk processing and the addition of preservatives to food has resulted in loss of natural flavour,colour and aroma.
The palate is dulled by these artificial agents.
Many people, anxious to use the Herbs again in order to taste the delicious natural flavourings, and to benefit from their nutritional value, are seeking out recipes for meals which include Herbs. Others, sensitive to the possible side effects of certain synthetic products including Medicines, are looking towards the natural therapies, like Herbal Medicines, which can be used to treat many ailments and illnesses.
Thankfully, the values of this knowledge of Herbs and plants are again being recognised.

[GEBS]

Lesson 3 -50 most popular herbs

NAME LATIN/BOTANICAL

BORAGE-borago officinalis-

COMFREY-symphytum officinale

HOP-humulus lupulus

ELDER-sambucus nigra{EU}sambucus Canadensis{USA}

CHAMOMILE-matricaria chamomilla

MARIGOLD-calendula officinalis

SOUTHERNWOOD-artemisia abrotanum

TARRAGON-artemisia dracunculus{FR}dracunculoides {RUS}

YARROW-achillea millefolium

HORSE-RADISH-cochlearia arammoracia syn. Amoracia rusticana

WATERCRESS-nasturtium officinale

APPLE MINT-mentha rotundifolia

BASIL-ocimum basilicum{sweet}ocimum minimum{bush}

BERGAMOT-monarda didyma

HYSSOP-hyssopus officinalis

LAVENDAR-lavandula spica

LEMON BALM-melissa officinalis

LEMON THYME-thymus x citriodorus

MARJORAM-origanum onites{pot plan}majorana{sweet}vulgare{wild}

PENNYROYAL-mentha pulegium

PEPPERMINTmentha piperita

ROSEMARY-rosmarinus officinalis

SAGE-salvia officinalis

SPEARMINT-mentha spicata

SUMMER SAVOURY-satureia hortensis

THYME-thymus vulgaris

BAY-laurus noblis

CHIVES-allium schoenoprasum

GARLIC-allium sativum

MARSHMALLOW-althaea officinalis

JUNIPER-juniperus communis

PURSLANE-portulaca oleracea

SALAD BURNET-poterium sanguisorba

ROSE-rosa canina{wid dog}rosa rubiginosa{syn}R.eglanteria{sweetbriar}

WOODRUFF-asperula odorata{syn}galimum odoratum

EYEBRIGHT-euphrasia officinalis

NASTURTIUM-tropaeolum majus

ANGELICA-angelica archangelica

ANISE-pimpinella anisum

CARAWAY-carum carvi

CHERVIL-anthriscus cerefolium

CORIANDER-coriandrum sativum

CUMIN-cuminum cyminum

DILL-anethum graveolens

FENNEL-foeniculum vulgare

LOVAGE-levisticum officinale

PARSLEY-petroselinum crispum

SWEETCICELY-myrrhis odorata

VALERIAN-valeriana officinalis

LEMON VERBENA-lippia citriodora


TASK
I would like you all to try and find out one use for each of the Herbs given, using all your resources to hand.

[GEBS]

Lesson 4-glossary of some useful words or phrases


ACID-a term applied to soil with a pH content of less than 6.5 and which contains no free lime.


ALKALINE-a term applied to soil with a pH content of more than 7.3.some Herbs actively prefer an acid soil, but most will thrive in alkaline soil.


ANNUAL-a plant that is grown from seed, flowers, then dies all in one growing season.


ASTRINGENT-a substance that contracts living tissue.


AXIL-the angle between the upper side of the leaf stalk and its stem.


BIENNIAL-taking two growing seasons to complete a life-cycle.


BRACT-a small, modified leaf at the base of a flower.


COMPRESS-a piece of linen or cloth soaked in a Herbal infusion or decoction and applied externally.


CORDIAL-a warming, reviving drink.


COUMARIN-a compound present in certain plants which, in large amounts can cause haemorrhage.


CROWN-the base of a Herbaceous perennial plant from which the roots and shoots grow.


CULINARY- a word to describe use of in food or cooking.


CULTIVAR-a cultivated variety of plant.


CUTTING-a leaf, bud or part of the stem or root which is removed to form the basis of a new plant.


DEADHEAD-to remove withered flowers, often to prevent seeding.


DECIDUOUS-a plant, especially a tree or a shrub that sheds its leaves at the end of the growing season.


DECOCTION-a Herbal dose obtained by boiling or indeed simmering.


DISTILLATION-extraction of component parts of a liquid by evaporation and condensation.


DIURETIC-a substance which promotes the flow of urine.


EMETIC-a substance which causes vomiting.


EMMENAGOGUE-plant substitutes for hormones that stimulate the pituitary gland to produce more gonadotropic hormones.can promote and initiate menstrual flow.uterine tonics.


EMOLLIENT-a softening substance.


EVERGREEN-a plant that bears living foliage all year round.


EXPECTORANT-a substance which promotes and encourages phlegm to be coughed up from the lungs.


GENUS-the botanical name for a group of closely related plants.


HALF HARDY-may not survive the frosts.


HARDY-capable of surviving the frosts outside with little or no protection.


HERBACEOUS-usually refers to perennial plants whose stems are not woody and which die down at the end of each growing season.


INFUSION-a Herbal dose obtained by steeping a Herb in a liquid.


MACERATION-the extraction of a drug from a Herb by steeping it in a solvent.


MUCILAGE-a gelatinous substance occurring naturally in some Herbs.


MULCH-a soil laid down to protect roots of the plant.


NARCOTIC-a substance which, in small doses deadens pain but in large doses can damage the nervous system.


NERVINE-a substance or remedy used to treat nervous disorders.


PERENNIAL-living year to year.


Ph SCALE-a system devised to measure the acid-alkaline content of soils.


POULTICE-crushed Herb or plant extracts heated and applied to inflamed or bruised skin.


PROPAGATE-to increase or reproduce plants.


PROSTRATE-growing flat over the surface of the soil.


PURGATIVE-a strong laxative.


RHIZOME-a horizontally creeping, underground stem storing food.


ROOTSTOCK-the crown and root system of perennial herbaceous and suckering shrubs, also a plant onto which another is grafted.


RUNNER-a stem that spreads along the soil surface, rooting when it comes into contact with moist soil.


SALVE-a soothing ointment.


SELF-SEED-a term applied to plants that drop their seed around them, from which new plants grow.


SHRUB-a perennial whose branched stems are woody.


SPECIES-a classification applied to a plant or plants within a genus.


STAMEN-the pollen-bearing part of a flower.


SUBSHRUB-a low-growing shrub with a woody base, but that has soft stems.


SUCKER-a shoot which grows up from below ground level.


TINCTURE-a solution of extracts of Medicinal plants obtained by steeping
the plants in alcohol or in a solution of alcohol and water.


TOPIARY-the clipped shaping of evergreen trees and shrubs.


TUBER-a swollen root or underground stem storing food.


UMBEL-a flat-topped mass of small flowers on stalks that radiate out from a central point.


VARIEGATED-a term used to describe leaves that have markings in a secondary colour.


VARIETY-originally a naturally occurring variation of species, now also a cultivar.

[GEBS]

Lesson5-how to make….

DECOCTIONS
INFUSIONS
OINTMENTS/SALVES
POULTICES
TINCTURES
WASHES


DECOCTIONS-just like an infusion, except you are using pieces of root or bark, instead of the Herb.
Boil for 30 mins, with the lid on, up to 1 hour. Can be refrigerated for up to 3 months. Store in a dark glass bottle.

INFUSIONS-this process draws the properties you want, out of the Herb for Healing. An infusion is rather like a strong tea.
1 pint of water to ½ oz of the Herb, steep for 30 mins, minimum time. Can be refrigerated for up to 3 months. Store in a sealed jar or bottle,

OINTMENTS.SALVES-heat petroleum jelly of vegetable fat until warm and add ground herbs to it. Strain and allow to cool. Store in jars. Keeps for 1 up to year.

POULTICES-pour boiling water over the Herbs, just enough to cover them. Remove with a strainer and place between two pieces of fine cotton{muslin is also good} –apply externally to the affected areas. Throw away after use. Wash out the cotton or muslin using no soap-just boiling water. Place in a saucepan with more boiling water and boil the cloth for 5-10 mins, to sterilize it. Using a pair of tweezers, remove the cloth and place in a sealable sandwich bag, until next use.

TINCTURES-these are used for long term storage of Medicines.
1-4 oz of the Herb you require,
8 oz Vodka/Brandy/Whiskey,
4 oz of Mineral water,
1 dark Medicine bottle, airtight and leak proof.
Add all the ingredients together, place in a dark bottle, and store in a dark room for two weeks. Shake the contents every day for 30 secs, to blend the ingredients. Release the build up of gasses every day, after shaking.
At the end of the two weeks, strain the contents and replace the liquid back into the dark bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 year.

WASHES-made exactly like an infusion, except this is applied externally to the skin.

NOTE WELL- ALL THESE SHOULD BE DATED AND THE CONTENTS OF EACH CLEARLY WRITTEN AND THE BOTTLES LABELLED. AN EXPIRY DATE SHOULD ALSO BE WRITTEN DOWN, ON THE LABELS.

[GEBS]

LESSON 6

DIRECTORY OF PLANT NAMES {A-H}

ENGLISH/AMERICAN/BOTANICAL/LATIN/OTHER NAMES KNOWN BY

AGRIMONY-tall agrimony-agrimonia eupatoria-liverwort,church steeples,cocklebur,{sticklewort}


ALLSPICE-carolina allspice-calycanthus floridus-jamaica pepper{strawberry/pineapple shrub}


ANCHUSA- no USA name-pentaglottis sempervirens syn.anchusa sempervirens-alkanet


ANISE-no USA name-pimpinella anisum


ANGELICA-no USA name-angelica archangelica


APPLE MINT-pineapple mint{when variegated} mentha rotundifolia var. suaveolens-rounded-leaved mint, Egyptian mint


BALM{see LEMON BALM}


BANEBERRY-no USA name-actaea spicata,herb christoper,toadroot,bugbane


BASIL/BASIL BRUSH- sweet/bush basil-ocimum basilicum ocimum minimum


BASIL THYME-no USA name-calamintha acinos-calamint,mountain balm.mother of thyme


BAY-sweet bay-laurus noblis-true laurel,roman laurel


BERGAMOT-oswego tea-monarda didyma- bee balm,scarlet monarda,{Indian plume}


BETONY-no USA name-stachys officinalis-wood betony,bishopswort,{woundwort}


BLACK BRYONY-no USA name-tamus communis-blackeye root


BORAGE-no USA name-borago officinalis-bee bread,herb of
gladness,burrage, cool tankard


BURDOCK-cockle-burr-arctium lappa-beggar’s buttons,fox’s clote,love leaves{clot-bur


BURNET-no USA name-poerium sanguisorba-salad burnet


BUTTERCUP-no USA name-ranunculus acris-gold knots,batchelor’s buttons


CALAMINT-no USA name-calamintha spp.


CARAWAY-no USA name-carum carvi


CARAWAY-SCENTED THYME-no USA name-thymus herba-barona


CATMINT-catnip-nepeta cataria-catnep


CENTUARY-no USA name-centuarium minus-red centuary,christ’s ladder


CHAMOMILE,ROMAN-chamomile-anthemis noblis-common
chamomile,maythen,manzanilla{bowman}


CHAMOMILE,WILD-no USA name-matricaria camomilla-scented mayweed


CHERVIL-no USA name-anthriscus cerefolium


CHIVES-no USA name-allium schoenoprasm


CINNAMON-no USA name-cinnamon zeylanicum


CLOVES-no USA name-eugenia aromatica


CLOVER, RED{see RED CLOVER}


COLTSFOOT-no USA name-tussilago farfara-coughwort,horsehoof,bullsfoot


COLUMBINE-garden columbine-aquilegia vulgaris-culverwort{European crowfoot}


COMMON BUCKTHORN-no USA name-rhammus catharticus-highway thorn,hartsthorn,rams thorn


COMFREY-common comfrey-symphytum officinale-knitbone,boneset,ass ear,consound{healing herb}


CORIANDER-no USA name-coriandrum sativum


CORSICAN MINT{see MINT}


COSTMARY-alecost-chrysanthemum balsamita-balsam herb,balsamita{mint geranium}


CUMIN- no USA name-cuminum cyminum


CURRY PLANT-no USA name-helichrysum augustifolium


DAISY-no USA name-bellis perennis-bruisewort,{English daisy}


DANDELION-common dandelion-taraxacum officinale-priest’s crown,peasants clock,swines snout{blowball}


DEADLY NIGHTSHADE-belladonna-atropa belladonna-devil’s cherries


DILL-no USA name-anethum graveolens


DOCK-no USA name-rumex obtusifolius-broad-leaved dock, butter dock


DWARF ROSEMARY{see ROSEMARY}


EAU-DE-COLOGNE{see MINT}


ELDER{see AMERICAN ELDER}-sambucus nigra-pipe tree, bore tree, sweet elder


ELECAMPANE-no USA name-inula helenium-horseheal,scabwort,velvet dock{yellow starwort}


ENGLISH MACE-no USA name-archillea decolorans


EYEBRIGHT-no USA name-euphrasia officinalis


FENNEL-no USA name-foeniculum vulgare-fenkel


FENUGREEK-no USA name-trigonella foenum-graecum-bird’s foot,greek hayseed


FEVERFEW- no USA name-chrysanthemum parthenium-featherfew,featherfoil,flirtwort.


FIGWORT-no USA name-scrophularia spp.-throatwort, fiddlewood


FOOL’S PARSLEY-no USA name-aethusa cynapium-lesser hemlock,dog poison


FOXGLOVE-no USA name-digitalis purpurea-witches’ gloves, dead men’s bells,fairy thimbles, bloody fingers


FRENCH TARAGON{see TARAGON}


GARLIC- no USA name-allium sativum-poor man’s treacle


GENTIAN-yellow gentian-gentiana lutea


GERANIUM

GERANIUM,NUTMEG –SCENTED-pelargonium x fragrans


GENTIAN,PEPPERMINT- SCENTED- p. tomentosum


GINGER MINT{see MINT}


GOAT’S RUE- no USA name-galega officinalis=-italian fitch


GOLDEN BALM-no USA name-melissa officinalis var.aurea


GOLDEN MARJORAM{see MARJORAM}


GOLDEN SEAL-no USA name-hydrastis Canadensis-orange root,yellow puccoon


GOLDEN THYME{see THYME}


GOOD KING HENRY-no USA name-chenopodium bonus-henricus-all-good, fat hen,smearwort


GRAPE HYACINTH-no USA name-mascari botryoides-starch hyacinth


GROUNG IVY-no USA name-nepeta
hederacea-alehoof,gill-go-over-the-ground,haymaids,lizzy-run-up-the-hedge{field balm, creeping Charlie}


HAMBURG PARSLEY-no USA name-petroselinum crispum fusiformis-turnip-rooted parsley


HAWTHORN- no USA name-crataegus
oxyacantha-may,quick,thorn,ladies; meat,bread and cheese tree


HEMLOCK-poison hemlock-conium maculatum-beaver poison,poison parsley,kex,kecksies,{spotted hemlock}


HENBANE-no USA name-hyoscyamus niger-hog’s bean,cassilata{stinking nightshade}


HONEYSUCKLE-no USA name-lonicera periclymenum-woodbine,goats’ leaf


HOPS- no USA name-humulus lupulus


HORSE-RADISH-no USA name-cochlearia armoracia syn. Armoracia rusticana-mountain radish,red cole


HORSE-TAIL-no USA name-equisetium spp.-shave grass, bottle-brush,paddock-pipes,pewterwort


HYSSOP-no USA name-hyssopus officinalis



part two


Lesson continued


1} highlight the Herbs that can be used as Emolients.

Borage chamomile yarrow hyssop summer savoury

2}highlight the Herbs that can be used as expectorants.

Hyssop comfrey lavender peppermint sage thyme

3}highlight the Herbs that can be used as washes.

Lemon thyme peppermint rosemary angelica fennel

4}what is the Latin/botanical name for the following herbs:

sweet rocket
hops
marigold
angelica
yarrow
lady’s mantle
sweet joe pye
sweet woodruff
lemon balm
evening primrose

5} true or false-
there is a way to pick stinging Nettles, without them stinging your hands.
True or false-
You can eat rose hips
True or false-
The word biennial translates to the following-that every two cycles, the plant will die off.
True or false-
The word sub-shrub translates to the following-a species applied to plants within a genus.

6}describe how you would make a tincture.

7}go to the alphabetical herb game thread, and each of you write in one Herb name.

[GEBS]

LESSON 7

DIRECTORY OF PLANT NAMES {I-T}

NAME/AMERICAN NAME/BOTANICAL/OTHER KNOWN NAMES

IVY[see GROUND IVY}


JACOB’S LADDER-no USA name-polemoneum coeruleum-charity,greek valerian


JASMINE-no USA name-jasminum officinale


JUNIPER-no USA name-juniperus communis-{hack matack,horse savin}


LABURNUM-no USA name-laburnum anagyroides-golden chain

LADYS’ BEDSTRAW-no USA name-galium verum-yellow bedstraw,our lady’s bedstraw,cheese rennet,maid’s hair


LADYS’ MANTLE-no USA name-alchemillia vulgaris-lion’s foot, bear’s foot,nine hooks


LARKSPUR-no USA name-delphinium ajacis-lark’s heel,knight’s spur


LAVENDAR/FRENCH LAVENDAR-english/french lavender-lavandulaspica L.stoechus-spanish lavendar


LEMON BALM-no USA name-melissa officinalis-balm,sweet balm


LEMON THYME-no USA name-thymus x citriodorus-{golden-edged thyme}


LEMON VERBENA-no USA name-lippia citriodora-herb louisa


LILY-OF-THE-VALLEY-no USA name-convallaria majalis-may lily,our lady’s tears,ladder to heaven


LIME{FLOWERS}-linden-tilia spp.-linden flowers


LIQUORICE-no USA name-glycyrrhiza glabra


LOVAGE-no USA name-levisticum officinale-italian lovage


MACE-no USA name-myristica fragrans


MANDRAKE-no USA name-mandragora officinarum-devil’s apples,satan’s apple


MARIGOLD-pot marigold-calendula officinalis-golds,mary’s gowles,marigold,ruddes


MARJORAM-no USA name-origanum officinalis


MARJORAM,GOLDEN-no USA name-o.vulgare aureum


MARJORAM,POT-no USA name-o.onites

MARJORAM,SWEET-no USA name-o.majorana-knotted majoram

MARSHMALLOW-no USA name-althaea officinalis-mallards,mauls,schloss
tea,cheeses,mortification root


MEADOW SAFFRON-autumn crocus-colchicum officinale autumnale-naked ladies


MINT-no USA name-mentha spp.


MINT,APPLE{see APPLE MINT}


MINT,CORSICAN,-no USA name-m.requienii


MINT,CURLY-no USA name-m.crispa


MINT,EAU-DE-COLOGNE-orange mint-m.citrata-bergamot mint


MINT,GINGER-no USA name-m.gentilis


MISTLETOE-no USA name-viscum album-birdlime mistletoe,lignum crucis


MOCK ORANGE-no USA name-philadelphus coronarius


MONKSHOOD-aconite-aconitum napellus-blue rocket,friar’s cap


MUGWORT-no USA name-artemisia vulgaris-felon herb,st.john’s plant


MULLEIN-great mullein-verbascum thapsus-great mullein,Aarons rod,hag
taper,torches,adam;s flannel,Jacob’s staff,shepherd;s club,blanket leaf


MYRTLE-no USA name-myrtus communis tarentina-tarentum myrtle


NASTURTIUM-no USA name-tropaeolum majus


NETTLE-stinging nettle-urtica dioica


NUTMEG-no USA name-myristica fragrans

OPIUM POPPY-no USA name-papaver somniferum


ORRIS {ROOT}no USA name-iris florentina


PANSY-no USA name-viola tricolor-heartsease,wild
pansy,love-in-idleness,pink-of-my-john,love-lies-bleeding,call-me-to-you,kit runabout, herb constancy


PARSLEY-no USA name-petroselinum crispum-curly parsley,petersylinge


PENNYROYAL-english pennyroyal-mentha
pulegium-run-by-the-ground,lurk-in-the-ditch,pudding grass


PEPPERMINT-no USA name-mentha pipireta-brandy mint


PINEAPPLE SAGE{see SAGE}


PINK-no USA name-dianthus plumarius


PLANTAIN-no USA name-plantago spp.-ripple grass,waybread,cuckoo’s bread,englishman’s foot,jackstraw,wendles


PURPLE SAGE{see SAGE}


PURSLANE-no USA name-portulaca oleracea


RED CLOVER-no USA name-trifolium incarnatum-crimson clover,trefoil


ROSE-no USA name-rosa spp.


WILD DOG ROSE-no USA name-r.canina

SWEETBRIAR-no USA name-r. rubiginosa syn.-eglantine


ROSEMARY-no USA name-rosmarinus officinalis-polar plant,compass weed


DWARF ROSEMARY-no USA name-r. lavandulaceus


RUE-no USA name-ruta graveolens

SAFFRON- no USA name-crocus sativus


ST. JOHN’S WORT-no USA name-hypericum perforatum


SAGE-no USA name-salvia officinalis


SAGE, GOLDEN-no USA name-s.aurea


SAGE, PINEAPPLE-no USA name-s.tricolar var.


SAGE,PURPLE-no USA name-s. purpurascens


SAGE,VARIEGATED-no USA name-s.tricolar


SALAD BURNET{ see BURNET}


SANTOLINA-lavendar cotton-santolina chamaecyparissus-cotton lavender,{grey’s santolina}

SAVOURY{see SUMMER SAVOURY/WINTER SAVOURY}


SILVER QUEEN THYME{see THYME}


SKULLCAP-virginian skullcap-scutellaria galericulata-skullcap,helmet flower,{madweed}


SLIPPERY ELM-no USA name-ulmus fulva-moose elm,red elm, Indian elm


SOAPWORT-no USA name-saponaria officinalis-bouncing bet,fuller’s herb,wild sweet William,bruisewort


SORREL-garden sorrel-rumex acetosa-green sauce,sour sabs,cuckoo sorrow,cuckoo’s meat


SOUTHERNWOOD-no USA name-artemisia abrotanum-old man,lad’s love


SPEARMINT-spear mint-mentha spicata syn. M.virdis-garden mint,mackerel mint,sage of Bethlehem,spire mint


SPINDLE TREE-no USA name-eonymus
europaeus-fusoria,skewerwood,Indian arrowroot,burning bush,{wahoo}


STINKING MOTHERWORT-no USA name-chenopodium vulvaria-stinking goosefoot,wild arrach


SUMMER SAVOURY-no USAQ name-satureia hortensis


SWEETBRIAR{see ROSE}

SWEET CICELY-no USA name-myrrhis odorata-british myrrh,anise,great chervil,smooth cicely,shepherd’s needle


SWEET MAJORAM{see MARJORAM}

TANSY-no USA name-tanacetum vulgare-buttons
TARRAGON

FRENCH TARRAGON-no USA name-aremisia dracunculus-little dragon


RUSSIAN TARRAGON-no USA name-a.dracunculoides-false tarragon


THYME-no USA name-thymus spp.


THYME,COMMON/GARDEN-english thyme-t.vulgaris-{French thyme}


THYME,GOLDEN-no USA name-t.x citriodorus ‘aureus,’ {golden-edged thyme}


THYME,LEMON-no USA name-t.x citriodous


THYME,SILVER-no USA name-t.x citriodorus ‘silver queen’


TOADFLAX-no USA name-linaria vulgaris-fluellin,patterns and clogs,flaxweed,churnstaff,eggs and bacon,buttered haycocks


TONKA{BEANS}-no USA name-dipterix odorata-tonquin bean

[GEBS]

LESSON 8

DIRECTORY OF PLANT NAMES {U-Z}

NAME/AMERICAN NAME/BOTANICAL/OTHER KNOWN NAMES

VALERIAN-garden heliotrope-valeriana officinalis

VANILLA-no USA name-vanilla fragrans

VARIEGATED SAGE{see SAGE}

VERBASCUM{see MULLEIN}

VERVAIN-european vervain-verbena officinalis-herb of the cross,pigeon's grass,herb of grace{simpler's joy}

VIOLET-english violet-viola odorata-sweet violet,wood violet

WATERCRESS-no USA name-nasturtium officinale

WELSH ONION-no USA name-allium fistulosum

WHITE BRYONY-no USA name-bryonia dioica-english mandrake,wild vine,ladies; seal,tetterbury

WHITE HELLEBORE-false hellebore-veratrum viride

WHITE HOREHOUND-common horehound-marrubium vulgare-hoarhound

WILLOW, BLACK AMERICAN-pussy willow-salix nigra-pussy willow

WILLOW, WHITE-no USA name-salix alba-european willow

WINTERGREEN-no USA name-gaultheria procumbens-mountain tea,checkerberry,teaberry

WINTER SAVOURYtana-no USA name-satureia mon

WITCH-HAZEL-no USA name-hamamelis virginiana-spotted alder,winterbloom

WOOD BETONY{see BETONY}

WOODRUFF-sweet woodruff-asperula odorata syn. galium odoratum-wuderove,woodrova

WOOD VIOLET{see VIOLET}

WOODY NIGHTSHADE-bittersweet nightshack-solanum dulcamara-bittersweet,felonwood,violet bloom

WORMWOOD-common wormwood-artemisia absinthium-old woman,green ginger{absinthe}

YARROW-no USA name-achillea millefolium-nosebleed,milfol,old man's pepper,staunchweed,devil's nettle{toothache weed}

YEW-english/western yew-taxus baccata/t.brevifolia

[GEBS]

LESSON 9
COMMON REMEDIES FOR COMMON AILMENTS

GOLDENSEAL

This herb is known for its antibiotic properties.
Tea: add ½ to 1 teaspoon of powdered root goldenseal for each cup. Steep ten minutes. Use in up to two cups daily.

CHAMOMILE

This herb is known for relieving stomach distress, calming nerves, fighting infection, speeding healing processes, and preventing ulcers.
Tea: Add 2 to 3 teaspoons per cup. Steep for 10 to 20 minutes. Use in up to three cups daily.

GARLIC

Garlic is a strong natural antibiotic in chopped or chewed form. It helps reduce cholesterol and the risk of heart attacks as it prevents the forming of blood clots. Garlic also contains anti-viral properties.
Use in food: season to taste. Tea: for six hours, steep six cloves in a cup of cool water.

SLIPPERY ELM BARK

Buy this herb in the form of throat lozenges, cough drops, or the raw herb. Slippery elm bark provides relief for upset stomachs, coughs, and sore throats.
Tea: Boil and simmer 1 to 3 teaspoons of powder in a cup. Take in up to three cups daily.

GINSENG

Ginseng is used to provide liver protection from harmful substances, and stimulates the immune system.

DANDELION

This herb helps alleviate premenstrual bloating and may provide anti-inflammatory results.
Tea: Steep ½ ounce dried leaf in each cup for ten minutes. Take up to three cups with dandelion daily.

FEVERFEW

Feverfew is used to help prevent migraines.
To use: Take an 85 milligram capsule or pill of leaf material. Tea: add ½ - 1tsp per cup. Steep for 5-10 minutes. Drink in up to 2 cups daily.

RASPBERRY LEAF

This herb is widely used to treat uterine irritability, morning sickness, and to help prevent miscarriage in pregnancy/induce labour.
Tea: add 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to three cups daily.

PEPPERMINT

Provides indigestion relief
. Tea: add 2 teaspoons dried or 1 teaspoon of fresh per cup. Steep for 10 minutes. Can be reheated. Drink up to 3 cups daily. Bath: place a few handfuls of fresh or dried leaves in a cloth bag and run it under water for a relaxing bath.

COMFREY

This herb aids in new cell growth and helps heal wounds .it contains a product called allantoin.
To use: Cover scrapes or clean cuts with a bruised leaf. Hold in place with a bandage. WARNING: Not for internal use.

SENNA

Senna is a strong laxative with a terrible taste.
A tincture is recommended. Take only as much as the package directs to prevent abdominal distress.

UVA URSI

This herb is used along with other medical treatments. Uvi Ursi is bitter and provides urinary antiseptic and diuretic results.
Tea: Add one teaspoon per cup and boil for ten minutes. Drink up to three cups daily.

GINGER

Ginger may reduce the risk of heart attack by preventing internal blood clots. Also used for motion sickness.
To treat motion sickness, 30 minutes before departure take 2 or 3 500 milligram capsules. Tea: add 2 teaspoons of grated or powdered ginger per cup. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups daily.

EPHEDRA , CHINESE

This herb is often used to treat asthma and colds. However, it can cause problems including insomnia and raise blood pressure.
WARNING: Do not take Chinese ephedra until consulting with your health care provider, especially if you are nursing or pregnant. Do not give to children under 13 years of age.

LICORICE

This herb is used to relieve ulcers and soothe sore throats.

For ulcers: add ½ teaspoon of powder per cup and boil for 10 minutes. Drink up to two cups daily. Sore throat: mix a pinch of the root with tea. WARNING: taking large amounts of licorice can be harmful.

[GEBS]

LESSON 10-household herbal


HERBAL HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS part 1


HERBS FOR CONTROLLING PESTS

Herbs can be used effectively to keep unwanted insects or mice for example, at bay.
The advantage is that they are safer than chemical poisons, which is especially important in the kitchen and rooms where food is kept.

ANTS
Place sprigs of Pennyroyal, Rue or Tansy on shelves or in cupboards to deter ants.
Disturb the leaves occasionally to release the scent. This will not kill them, but will encourage them to avoid the area.

FLIES
Many herbs help to deter flies, including Elder, Lavender, Mint and Mugwort, Peppermint, Pennyroyal and Rue and Southernwood. Use them in arrangements, wreaths, or pot pourri- hang pieces of sticky Elecampane root around doors and windows.

MICE
Mint and Tansy in your store cupboard/pantry will deter these little things.

PRESERVING : WRAPS
Wrap dried leaves of nettle around stored apples and pears, root vegetables and moist cheeses to preserve them and keep away pests. The wraps will keep vegetables and fruit skins smooth and moist for up to 3 months.

STREWING
In the Middle Ages, herbs were oftern strewn on the floor to repel fleas, lice, moths and insect pests. They also masked unsavoury smells and provided insulation against the cold in Winter, and the heat in Summer. Today, this practice would be unsuitable, but sprigs of herbs can be placed under doormats or carpets, or even perhaps hung from the porch.
Here are some examples of things you may want to use:
Alecost, Balm, Basil, Chamomile, Cowslip, Daisy, Fennel, Germander, Hop, Marjoram, Meadowsweet, Mint, Pennyroyal, Pine, Rose, Rosemary, Sage, Southernwood, Sweet Flag, Sweet Woodruff, Tansy, Thuja, Thyme, Sweet Violet or Winter Savoury.

WASPS/HORNETS
Burn dried leaf of Eupatorium Cannabinum L. {Hemp Agrimony} to drive away wasps and hornets.



WEEVILS
Bay leaves in flour and rice bins, and also in dried pulses will deter weevils.

CATS : SPRAYING THEIR TERRITORY
Rub the walls down with the following mix:
1x handful of fresh lavender heads,
orange peel of 1 orange
½ lemon peel
3 pinches of rosemary
splash of vinegar, boiling water to cover it all.
Leave to infuse for half an hour,
allow to cool , strain the bits out
and place in a spray bottle.
Spray the corners and skirting boards, frames and any area the cat may be tempted!!
It will prevent them from doing so, and may also prevent them from scratching at those places, whilst keeping fleas at bay.
This is my own remedy –my 3 in 1 spray.
Plus it makes the home smell fresh and clean.

[GEBS]

LESSON 11-herbal household products part 2

HOUSECLEANING


Traditionally, it is said that Spring is a time to give the home a good cleaning and a fresh look.



Below are some effective herbal cleansing ideas.


Why not make Spring cleaning of furniture, floors, walls, closets and ovens a fragrant pleasure instead of a toxic chore?!


Your home will be clean and smelling wonderful.


Many herbs actually have beneficial cleaning properties:


Disinfectant Herbs: - these include: basil, chamomile, clary sage, eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, rose geranium, thyme.

Fungicide: -these include: chamomile, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, savory, tea tree, thyme.

Bactericide:-these include: bay, cinnamon, eucalyptus, lavender, oregano, patchouli, rosemary, savory, tea tree, thyme.

Antiseptic:- these include:{ all bactericide herbs above}, plus basil, clary sage, clove, lemon balm, peppermint, rose geranium, sage, spearmint.

Insect Repellants: - these include: basil, bay, chamomile, coriander, tansy, thyme, rosemary, peppermint, lavender.


Basic Kitchen Cleanser:

In a metal or glass bowl (not plastic or wooden). To 1/2 cup baking soda, add 5 drops each, of the following essential oils:
rosemary, thyme, cinnamon, and a citrus oil of some kind. Shake it up or blend it.
Leave it a day or two before using. {Store in a glass container.}
{Dried herbs may also be used.}However - this will not be as potent as essential oils.

You may also use fresh herbs, instead of concentrated oils:
Use 9 tablespoons chopped (each herb) to replace oil. Grind them up thoroughly with pestle and mortar or food processor.
{This will not be as potent as essential oils.}
Use as a powdered cleanser, wiping well with clean cloth after cleaning. Or, add a bit of water, strain, then use to make liquid cleanser.


All-purpose Liquid Cleanser:

Use fresh herbs by filling a quarter of a jar of hot water with your chosen herbs.
Then add some oils perhaps pine or orange{a few drops will do} and-3x tblspn’s of salt, and 5-7 drops of vinegar.
Allow to steep for 2 days in a sunny spot. – Then strain.
Cleans hairbrushes and combs, and also good for walls, refrigerators, floors, china, crystal, and counters.
NOTE WELL: - Do NOT use pine essential oil on painted surfaces as it sometimes removes paint!


Basic Citrus or Herbal Vinegar:

Fill a quarter of a jar with the herb of choice, this could even be citrus peels.
Cover with some white vinegar. Allow to stand for two weeks.
Strain and discardiscard herbs or peels.
{Any citrus can be used}
For example: grapefruit, orange, lemon, and lime.

Excellent for cleaning ovens.
Spray or pour vinegar on burned-on areas. Close oven door. After about two hours, wipe the vinegar off with a sponge or cloth dipped in some warm water. { Repeat if necessary. }
Also good for ridding the mineral deposits{lime-scale} and soap scum in the bathroom.
Cover the area with vinegar. Leave for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse. Will also remove mildew , etc. from shower curtains.
Can also be used to remove stains from carpets. Test in an inconspicuous place first to be sure that the vinegar does not lighten carpet color!


Degreaser and Glass Cleaner:
Method:-
To some warm water, in a bucket or bowl:
add 10x tablespoons citrus or herbal vinegar (recipe above).



Carpet Deodorizer:
Method:-
Also in a bowl or bucket, NO WATER:
Mix 3x cups baking soda, 5x teaspoons ground cloves, 5x teaspoons ground cinnamon, 5x tablespoons ground mint, 5x tablespoons ground rosemary, 5x tablespoons ground lavender, and 5xx tablespoons ground thyme.
Dried herbs must be ground finely, using a pestle and mortar /blender or processor.


Mix well. Sprinkle over carpet. Allow it to remain on the carpet for about 1 hour, then vacuum thoroughly.
It is safe to walk on during the hour-long waiting period.

Toilet cleaner
1x cup vinegar.
Pour in and allow to soak for several hours or overnight. Scrub with brush.



PART 3

Problem/solution page :

{using simple items you can find about the house}


Dish Detergents, Laundry Detergents, and All-Purpose Cleaners


Problems
Most conventional dish and laundry detergents are made from petroleum, a nonrenewable resource. Some detergents contain alkyphenol ethoxylates, which are suspected hormone disruptors that don't readily biodegrade and can threaten wildlife after they go down your drain.
Ethoxylated alcohols in liquid detergents can contain carcinogenic.

The fragrances in detergents and fabric softeners can contain phthalates, chemicals that have been linked to cancer and reproductive-system harm in animal lab tests.
Fragrances may also trigger asthma and allergic reactions, with symptoms including:
skin and respiratory irritation, headaches, and watery eyes. Although phosphates, which choke waterways, are no longer used in most dish and laundry soaps, they can be found in dishwasher detergents. Phosphates are highly caustic and can be fatal if swallowed.

Other ingredients turn dangerous when combined:
Diethanolamine and triethanolamine can react with nitrites (an often undisclosed preservative) to form carcinogenic nitrosamines.

Solutions
To remove stains from clothing, try soaking fabrics in water mixed with borax, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, washing soda, or white vinegar.

Problems

Chlorine bleach, a common disinfectant frequently found in scouring powders and cleaning solutions, is highly caustic, meaning it can burn skin and eyes -- plus it can be fatal if swallowed.
When it travels from your drain into the natural world, it can create organochlorines, which are suspected carcinogens as well as reproductive, neurological, and immune-system toxins.

And be warned:

Bleach (also known as sodium hypochlorite and sodium hydroxide) should never be mixed with any product containing ammonia or quaternium compounds.
Doing so creates highly toxic chlorine gas. Many conventional scouring powders and cleaning solutions contain chlorine bleach.

Solutions

White vinegar helps kill bacteria, mold, and viruses.
However, the only foolproof way to kill food-borne pathogens such as salmonella or E coli is to use hot, soapy water to wash all cutting boards, dishes, knives, and surfaces that have touched raw meat or eggs.
Scrubbing sinks, tubs, and countertops with a paste of baking soda and water effectively removes dirt rings and some stains.
For cleaning windows, fill your own spray bottle with water and either one-quarter cup white vinegar or one tablespoon lemon juice to cut grease.

Furniture and Metal Polishes


Problems

These are corrosive and may cause eye, skin, or respiratory tract irritation.
They can also contain nerve-damaging petroleum distillates or formaldehyde, a carcinogen.

Solutions

silver can be kept clean with toothpaste. Copper can be polished using a cloth dipped in white vinegar or lemon juice with salt dissolved in it; just rinse with water when you're done. You can shine your brass with a paste made from one teaspoon salt, one cup white vinegar, and one cup flour.

Air Fresheners and Other Perfumed Products


Problems

Aerosol propellants contain flammable and nerve-damaging ingredients as well as tiny particles that can lodge in your lungs.
Fragrances of all kinds can provoke allergic and asthmatic reactions.

Solutions

Cedar blocks or sachets of dried flowers and herbs provide gentle scents.
Or-
If the air outside is clean, open your windows and ventilate the natural way. An open box of baking soda removes odors.


These were a few things that you can try out using things that are usually found already in your cupboards!! -Failing this, the ingredients are cheap as chips to buy.

[GEBS]

Lesson 12-cultivation of herbs




SOIL PREPARATION


Many Herbs can survive on poor stony ground, but few can survive water-logged soil.
Ideally, they prefer a light open soil which is well aerated {exposed to plenty of air}, yet able to retain moisture and nutrients.
To help them thrive, prepare the soil early in Spring, before sowing or planting.
Dig deeply and rake to create a smooth level surface.
Allow the soil to settle at least one week before planting your seeds.






IMPROVING DRAINAGE

To increase air spaces and drainage in heavy soils, first dig over in early Winter, as the frosts will help to break down the solid clods of Earth.
In early Spring, mix coarse grit, horticultural sand or something called vermiculite into the top {45 cm} roughly.
Add compost to supply a more fibrous texture and to add more nutrients.

Aromatic Mediterranean herbs, such as: rosemary, sage, thyme, lavender or savoury, tend to like drier sunny conditions and limey soil with plenty of drainage.
When planting these herbs, add a childs bucket of grit to each cubic foot {30cm} of planting space, to help with the drainage.
If the soil is particularly water-logged, you can improve it for a few years by building a rubble drain. Dig an 18 in- 2ft {45-60 cm} deep ditch angled toward an existing ditch or drainage facility.
Half fill with coarse rubble and cover with a 3 in {8cm} layer of gravel, clinker or ash, replacing the top soil.
For a more permanent solution, make the ditch 2 ft 6 ins-3ft {75 cm – 1m} deep with plastic drainage pipes along the bottom leading to a soakaway and proceed as before.
Alternatively, if the soil is prone to being water-logged, consider making raised beds.






ELIMINATING WEEDS

While preparing the soil for planting, it is important to get rid of those irritating weeds, such as bindweed {convolvulus arvensis} couch grass {agropyron repens} and ground elder {aegopodium podagraria} which can take over a herb bed very quickly….{unless you want them}.
Dig up weeds taking care not to break the roots, or it will re-grow.
Fork out longer strangling roots over a period of one month. Dig thoroughly through the soil at weekly intervals.
Don’t throw uprooted weeds on the compost heap-they will grow!!!






ENRICHING THE SOIL

A light, free-draining sandy soil does not hold moisture and is usually low in nutrients.
Although the Mediterranean herbs can thrive on such a soil, and respond badly to excess moisture, manure or fertilizers, others, such as: mint and chives, may benefit from such additions.
These are best worked in after Winter rains so that most of the nutrients will be available to aid Spring growth. Peat helps to retain moisture but it does not contribute any nutrients and may make the soil too acidic if used in large quantities.
Most herbs are like vegetables in their preference for a slightly more alkaline soil. If your soil is acidic, add a sprinkling of lime, not as a plant-food, but as a catalyst to help the plants take up the nutrients, present.
Use the lowest amount recommended,- ashes from wood fires contribute lime and potash to the soil.
Avoid using artificial fertilizers, as these can make growth too lush, which could result in a plant with a poor flavour. Use only if growth is poor or mineral deficiencies are apparent.






MULCHING

Once herbs are established, they will benefit from a mulch- a covering of organic matter, which you can spread over the soil.
The mulch helps to stop the soil drying out and provides extra nutrients.
Applied during the growing season , it boosts lush growth in salad herbs, such as: sorrel and purslane, and in shade-and moisture –loving herbs, such as: mint, angelica and sweet cicely. It can also protect plant roots from frosts.
Mulching is usually most beneficial after heavy rain, apparently. Spread light, organic matter over the soil and around plants in a layer up to 3 ins {8 ins} deep.
The Mediterranean herbs such as those listed above, may benefit from a layer of gravel or clinker if the soil is very moist. Mulching also helps to control weed growth by blocking out the light.

[GEBS]

Lesson 13-cultivation of herbs

PROPAGATION

Many herbs will grow from seed and readily self-seed once established.
A large proportion can also be grown from cuttings and division.

SOWING SEED ON SITE

Annual plants of the Umbelliferae family {anise, chervil, dill, coriander and cumin and also the biennial parsley} are best sown on site, where you wish them to grow, as any root disturbance in transplanting, may send them into seed before they have produced a useful crop of leaves.
Parsley seed is exceptionally slow to germinate, so have patience!!!
As a rule, sow seed in mid-to late Spring after the soil has been prepared and warmed up. Sow seeds thinly and in shallow drills.
If the soil feels heavy and lumpy, spread a layer of fine sand along the drill to give seeds a better start. Barely cover seeds with a fine sprinkling of soil and tap down gently. Water with a fine spray, then mark each row with the name of the herb and date of seed sowing.
Covering the soil with cloches gives seeds a head start and provides protection from late frosts and wildlife. Lay the cloches in a position a few weeks prior to sowing, so that this warms up the soil.
Thin out the seedlings when they have reached a certain height of 2-4 in {5-10 cm}. Water the soil before you remove them, and using a trowel or your fingers to lift them gently out of the soil, handling them with care when you replant them.

SOWING SEEDS OUTDOORS

Draw a shallow drill-1/4-1/2 in {6-13 mm} deep. S ow seeds thinly-2 or 3 per inch {2.5 cm}. If they are overcrowded there will be less chance of the seeds sprouting.

GROWING SEED INDOORS

It is better to grow expensive or rare seeds indoors, where they may be protected and all the conditions can be carefully controlled.
Buy a proprietary loamless seed-growing mix with your own 2 parts of sterilized loam-one part coarse sand, and a dash of fertilizer. Blend well and pass through a 3/8 in {8mm} sieve.
A shallow seed tray 2 in {5 cm} deep is good for sowing small seeds. Small pots can also be used and are better if you only wish to sow a few seeds.- I f you are using deeper containers, fill the lower section with clean drainage material, such as gravel or small stones, perlite or broken crocks. Add growing mixture to within ¼ in {6 mm} of the top.
Give the tray, or pot a sharp downward tap, and press lightly on the surface of the soil.
If the mixture is very dry, you can lightly water and leave to drain. Sow seeds again, thinly, mixing fine seeds with sand so they spread out evenly.
Sprinkle over a fine layer of potting mixture to hold the seeds in place, and cover the larger seeds with a layer of potting mixture as deep as the seed.
Water with a light hose, beginning and ending the length of the tray. Label and date and cover them with a glass/plastic lid. This gives it a greenhouse effect. Cover with newspaper to keep it dark.

PREPARING POTS AND TRAYS

A shallow tray is best for small seeds, but use small pots for a few seeds only.


GERMINATION

Seeds germinate faster in warmer weather or environment, like indoors or in a greenhouse-even in the airing cupboard! They need to be watched carefully, daily.
If extra watering is required, stand the pot bases in water, until the top becomes damp.
When sprouting begins, move the trays into the light, lifting the covering of newspaper at one edge so you are gradually introducing it to the light. Shade the seedlings from the bright sun for several days, so they may adjust.

TRANSPLANTING SEEDLINGS

As soon as plants are large enough to handle, thin them out into or transplant them into a larger box or pot, to prevent overcrowding. Wait until the first pair of true leaves has formed {after the cotyledons-two seed leaves which are a completely different shape}.
Handle young seedlings by a leaf, rather than by their stems and remove them carefully from the soil to avoid breaking or indeed bruising of their tiny new roots and stems.
Make a hole with your finger and insert the seedling. Firm down the compost, water and place in a light location but out of direct sunlight.
Once the seedlings are growing well, remove and lesser well grown ones and leave the strongest behind.
You can replant the lesser well grown plants to another container, and hope they take off.

PLANTING OUT

Plants propagated indoors should move outdoors gradually. Set them out in a sheltered position during the day, and take them in over the night time.
After several days, you can leave them out overnight as well. Plant out after approximately one week, making sure that the soils is moist and prepared. Make a hole, which can accommodate the size of the root system. Carefully insert, and fill the hole with soil and firm down.

TRANSPLANTING A SEEDLING

Firm in a seedling after careful transplantation.

OTHER FORMS OF PROPAGATION

Herbs can also be grown easily using vegetative means of propagation; cuttings, dividing and layering.
With these methods, you may be more certain with resulting in flowering and better leaf shapes and colours of the new plant, whereas plants grown from seed are often much more variable.

PROPAGATING FROM CUTTINGS

There are three main types of stem cuttings which are suitable for herbs: softwood {from new shoots which have not yet hardened} semi-hardwood {from new growth when it has started to harden at the base} and lastly, hardwood {from woody shrubs and trees}.
Softwood cuttings are taken in late Spring from strong new growth, or in late Summer after it has flowered.
Semi-hardwood cuttings are taken from Midsummer to mid-Autumn, from herbs such as Myrtle and Rosemary.
Hardwood cuttings are taken in mid-to late Autumn.

PLANTS FOR CUTTINGS

The following will grow well from cuttings taken from a healthy parent plant:
Aloes {Aloe Vera}
Curry plant
Hyssop varieties
Lavender varieties
Lemon verbena
Majorams
Myrtle
Pelargoniums
Rosemary varieties
Rue varieties
Sage varieties
Santolinas
Tarragon, French
Thyme varieties
Winter Savory
Wormwood varieties

PLANTING CUTTINGS

To plant cuttings in open ground, choose a warm sheltered spot. Spray leaves lightly with a water spray, and frequently in drier weather.
When planting in containers, follow these directions….
1}plant cuttings to one third of their depth in potting compost.
2}plant several cuttings from one species in a pot and cover with a plastic bag, raised by using a small stick in the middle of the pot. {this keeps off the bag from the leaves}.

Open the bag every few days, to prevent mould building up. As soon as any signs of cuttings-growth, place them in a sheltered, sunny position and you may wish if you like to add some nutrients.

HERBS WORTH GROWING FROM SEED

A large amount of herbs both common and rare can be grown from seed, but below are the easiest to grow….

ALL THE ANNUALS

Anise
Basil
Borage
Calendula
Chamomile-annual
Chervil
Coriander
Cumin
Dill
Mustard
Nasturtium
Orach
Purslane
Salad Rocket
Summer Savory
Sweet Marjoram

BIENNIALS

Angelica
Caraway
Parsley
Wild Celery
Woad

PERENNIALS

Catnip
Chamomile-flowering
Chives
Fennel
Feverfew
Good King Henry
Hyssop
Lovage
Marjoram, French
Marshmallow
Onion, Welsh
Oregano
Rue
Sage
Salad Burnet
Sorrel
Sweet Cicely
Thyme
Winter Savory
Wormwood

HOW TO TAKE A CUTTING

This is difficult to explain without practical diagram, but I shall do my best….

Following what I said in the three types of cutting: for softwood cuttings, take sturdy pieces 2-4 in {5-10 cm} long, with plenty of leaves.
For semi-hardwood cuttings, take pieces 4-6 in {10-15 cm} long, and for hardwood cuttings, take pieces 6-15 in {15-38 cm } long.
Take cuttings from just below a leaf node, or joint, using a sharp pair of cutters or scissors, or secateurs, making sure that the plant has no raw edges, but only clean cut edges. If the cutting is torn from the stem, this may damage the plant.
Strip the lower few leaves, perhaps a third of them, taking care not to rip the stem or damage it before planting.

[GEBS]

Lesson 14-cultivation-plant division, layering and Winter protection


PLANT DIVISION

Several herbs benefit from being divided. This method keeps them hardier.
Dig up the plant, preferably in the Autumn or in early Spring when the plant is still dormant.
Remove old flower stems and carefully separate the plant by hand, into their own individual sections, each of those sections having a growing point with attached roots.
Re-plant and water these sections until the roots have re-established themselves and there are signs of re-growth or new growth.

HERBS SUITABLE FOR DIVISION

Alecost
Bistort
Chives
Cowslip
Elecampane
Good King Henry
Lawn Chamomile
Lemon balm
Lovage
Lungwort
Marjorams
Meadowsweet
Primrose
Skirret
Sorrel
Sweet Joe Pye
Sweet Violet
Tansy
Tarragon
Thymes
Wall Germander
Wormwood

ROOT CUTTINGS

Herbs, like Horseradish, Comfrey and Skirret can be propagated from thick pieces of root, that are cut aprox. 2-3 in {5-8 cm} long, by cutting the thick root into shorter pieces, and inserting them upright standing just below the surface of the soil in potted compost.



LAYERING

If cuttings are difficult to root, you could always try this method. The idea is to try to encourage new sections of a plant to grow whilst still attached to the parent plant.
This is how a lot of shrubby plants grow and spread in the wild, like Thyme, for instance.
Peg a stem gently on the ground so that the underside of the plant is in contact with the soil.
Once new roots have developed enough, {5 cm aprox} you can now separate the new shoot from its parent plant. If the soil is heavy, add some sand or peat before you start.
Another method, is mound-layering, done in Spring.
Pile soil over the centre of the plant until only the young shoots show, and by late Summer, roots would have formed on many of the shoots, and they can now be separated from the parent plant and now transplanted.

ROOT SECTIONS

This has to be, by far, the easiest form of propagation.
Dig up the plant in either Spring or in Autumn and take 2-4 in {5-10 cm} pieces of roots, each with growing buds, and plant these about 1 in {2.5 cm} deep in a pot of compost. You can use longer pieces if you are planting them straight into the ground.

The following are spreading plants with creeping roots:
Bergamot
Dwarf Comfrey
Mints
Soapwort
Sweet Woodruff

WINTER PROTECTION

A lot of herbs may not survive a cold Winter, but you can always bring them inside!
When the first chill is in the air, bring herbs such as Basil inside. Paler, mottled or generally unhappy looking leaves on plants are an early indication that the plant is distressed, due to the colder evenings.
Things like salvia rutilans or Pineapple Sage, Lavender {L.dentata} , pelagoniums, balm of Gilead and also Crete Dittany, should be brought indoors too.
They may even give a Winter blossom, if youre vey lucky. But it will definitely make your home smell interesting! LoL
Also, if your climate is particularly cold , and you have longer frost periods and snow, even, it is advised that Rosemary, Sage, Winter Savory, Curry plant and also Lavendar are brought inside in order to survive.
Maturer plants can be protected by throwing extra layers of soil around them or even straw around the roots and bases.
When transferring a plant indoors, try and make sure the temperature inside is similar to that of outside, so as to not send the poor plant into shock!!

[GEBS]

Lesson 15-cultivation-growing herbs inside and care/cleaning.

GROWING HERBS INDOORS

Sun-loving herbs need around 6 hours of sunlight every day to thrive, and that is mainly why a lot of herbs do not do so well indoors.
If they have poor lighting or inadequate lighting, the plant will show signs of distress, such as thinning out or elongated, narrow leaves, and will become dull and lifeless looking. The aroma may even disappear from the plant altogether.
Remember to get the position right in the home or wherever indoors you are going to have the plants, -it needs to be understood that they should not be in direct sunlight as the glass may magnify this causing the plant to burn, unless your windows have the reflective property in them. Turn them a few times each sunny day, so that the sun hits the plant equally.
You could if you like {if you want to cheat a bit} use some artificial lighting, I guess, but I think that proper sunlight is much better and more beneficial to the plant.

TEMPERATURE

Many herbs prefer a warm comfortable temperature of around 60-70 F {15-21C} maybe a drop of 10 F at night or 5 C.
You may want to keep them away from any draughts too, as this will certainly affect their growing.
Try to position them in a place where the temperature is minimal in changing. Although they dislike the draughts, they definitely will appreciate some fresh air each day.
This will make sure the plant remains healthy and happy and removes stale air, hinders airborne diseases and helps to rid the remnants of pollution from gas central heating or oil fumes.

WATERING

Plants that are potted, are probably more vulnerable than plants outside, and need more T.L.C.
They can dry out extremely quickly, so during the warmer days, check them at least once.
Use a spray bottle to keep the leaves and soil moist and drain them on a gravel tray.
In Autumn, water them only when the soil is dry, but seedlings need more watering. The herbs with larger leaves, that are in active growth need regular watering.
Never over-water them as this will drown them, make sure too that they have adequate drainage.
Also if you over-water them it could deplete vital air pockets in the soil around the roots, thus causing the nasty root fungus. This will then slowly rot the plant and it will die.
Moisture in the atmosphere is also good for the plants.
Growing plants together may help to create a humid area, or you could put some Sphagnum moss on the surface of the soil, then spray the area with a mist spray atomizer, in more hotter weather.

FEEDING

Herbs which are regularly harvested, need to be fed with a mild or weak liquid fertilizer, every 14 or so days in the Spring and the Summer, but reduce to 28 days as the growth slows, and do not feed at all during the Winter.
Never over-feed or use more than is necessary, and if it is a non herbal or manufactured fertilizer, always read the label.

CARE/CLEANING

Use a small to medium round-tipped paint brush {a soft one} to clean furry leaves such as Clary Sage. Gently brush them from stem to tip in sweeping movement.
To prevent the dust from clogging the pores, use a mist spray bottle to lightly cover the plant.
If you have high lime content in your water supply, it will manifest itself as white gritty deposits on the soil’s surface.

FERTILIZERS

Liquid fertilizers dissolved in water, can be fairly reliable, if you must use a manufactured one. Don’t forget to apply it as directed.
If you have ever bought large plants or herbs from a shop, you may have noticed the little
White globules that are mixed in the soil. This is a slow-release fertilizer that provide up to a whole growing season of feed.

HERBAL-YES, HERBAL FERTILIZERS

COLTSFOOT- tussilago farfara-provides sulphur and potassium.
COUCH GRASS- agropyron repens- rich in minerals, potassium and silica.
DANDELION- taraxacum officinale- an excellent source off copper.
DILL- anethum graveolens- rich in minerals, potassium, sulphur and sodium.
FAT HEN- chenopodium album- contains iron and other minerals.
FENUGREEK- trigonella foenum-graecum- the sprouted seed heads are rich in nitrates and calcium.
HORSETAIL- equisetum hyemale- contains a high concerntration of silica.
NETTLE- urtica dioica- described as a treasure-house of iron and nitrogen, as well as other minerals and trace elements.
SUNFLOWER- helianthus annuus –the ash of the sunflower stalks is high in potash.
TANSY- tanecetum vulgare- rich in potassium and other minerals.
TEA LEAVES- contain nitrogen, phosphoric acid, manganese and potash, but these elements remain locked within the tannin, until brewing.
YARROW- achillea millefolium- provides copper and is a good general all round fertilizer.



HEALTH IN PLANTS

As said before, it is important to keep an eye on your plants so that if disease is there, you may get to it quickly. Just gently observe their condition and check regularly the underside of the leaves and stems for nasties.
A great way to rid and prevent the nasties, is to plunge the plant top first into a bucket of mild washing up liquid solution. This will remove them if they are already present.
If however, you do have insect problems, you can try to combat them with an organic or herbal insecticide. Derris is a vegetable insecticide, taken from the roots of a tropical plant called Derris elliptica. Usually available in a ready mix from organic suppliers, again you must ensure you read the instructions, properly.
Removing scale insects is easy, -just scrub the leaves with a soft scrubbing brush using a strong detergent solution.

Next lesson {monday}will be diseases-prevention and cure and harvesting your herbs, then we shall return to healing with herbs!!!

Task:

find out the description of the following…..

1}althaea officinalis.
2}calendula officinalis.
3}monarda didymus.

Complete the following…

1} ___________ is good for headaches.
2}____________ is good for nausea.
3}____________ is good for eye infections.
The plant Boneset, is an emetic in high doses. Its latin name is eupatorium ___________.

[GEBS]

LESSON 16-diseases In Plants-prevention And Cure/harvesting/storing your herbs

DISEASES:PREVENTION/CURE

Avoid if you can, using harmful chemicals on any edible herb.
Instead try spraying your plants with one of these…

CHAMOMILE FLOWERS SPRAY:- this helps prevent moulding in seedlings.
Method: pour 2 pints of boiling water over a handful of the fresh or dried herb, cover with a lid and steep for 10 mins, allow to cool and use as necessary. Can be stored in the fridge in a dark bottle.

COUCH GRASS RHIZOME:- The tea sprayed onto the leaves of a plant can help to prevent mildew and fungus diseases.
Method: again refer to the above, is the same method.

HORSETAIL{equisetum hymale}:- this is a useful concoction when treating against mildew, rust, and other fungus diseases.
Method: for this use a handful of fresh Horsetail or the dried herb, to 2 pints of cold water-boil for 20 or so minutes covered, and allow to stand 24 hours before straining and using directly.

COMPANION PLANTING:-you will notice that a lot of gardeners do this. For instance:
Some people place garlic or chive under rosebushes to prevent green fly, nasturtium prevents aphids from apple trees, and some tagetes are known to secrete chemicals that are known to kill ground elder and bindweed.
Your local gardener shop will have more information on what is best.


HARVESTING YOUR HERBS

You can pick fresh leaves mostly anytime, and these can be used immediately. Evergreen herbs, like thyme can be picked throughout the year, although new growth should be allowed to settle before the Winter sets in, allow the plants to harden.
Place cut leaves and flowers gently into a basket or wooden box lined with newspaper.
Never put them somewhere where they may sweat or bruise, as they will be noo good then.
If you are collecting these from the wild, PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE CORRECTLY IDENTIFIED THE PLANT!! –IT IS EXTREMELY EASY TO MISIDENTIFY A PLANT.
You may also want to observe the legalities, as some species are endangered and must NOT be taken. Only ever take what you need, no more. Never pick the plants by the side of roads, or where there may have been pollution or chemicals sprayed, this will affect the plant.

LEAVES
Collect in the morning after the dew has evaporated from the leaves. Leaves are best taken young up to the flowering time. After the plant flowers, most of the plants energy is taken up in trying to reproduce.
Pick sorrel leaves, bistort, good king henry and angelica and all the salady type herbs when they are young.
Dry the leaves, then store and use as necessary. You can store them fresh in oil or vinegar.
Pick the leaves that appear healthy and without bruising or blemish or insect damage.
Leaves which are from aromatics, like rosemary, sage, thyme and savory can be collected throughout the year, but for the maximum results, take before flowering. With tall plants such as marshmallow, collect the top growths only.

WHOLE PLANT

You can harvest the whole plant just before the flowers open. If you want only the green parts, then you can cut back annuals 3 in {8 cm} above the ground, but don’t take anymore that about a third from the perennials.

FLOWERS

Collect these at midday, in dry weather, picking them just as they open fully.
Avoid the flowers that are looking wilted. Once picked store in an open spacious container, not overlapping them. They bruise and damage very easily, so care is needed.

SEEDS AND FRUITS

You can pick the seeds on a warm day when the seed is fully ripe, but before it has dispersed them. It should look ripe when there is no green left, only the brown or black and should be hard to the touch with paper-dry pods.
You can shake the seeds gently into an envelope, label and date. Keep all the seeds separate.

ROOTS AND RHIZOMES

Harvest the roots in Autumn time, when the plant parts above the ground are starting to wither and die. At this time, it is said that the greatest concerntation of the therapeutic compound is stored within the roots.
Dig up the annuals when their cycle of growing has completed, and gather the perennial roots in their second or third year of growth, when they are most developed.
Dig up the whole root, taking care not to damage them, separate the required amount and replant the remainder.
Most roots such as horseradish and comfrey can be scrubbed clean, but others such as valerian should not be scrubbed as their constituents are contained in the epidermis, or surface cells{their skin}.
In Britain it is ILLEGAL to dig up roots from any other land than ones own without permission, so take this under advisement!!


BARK

This peels off readily in the damper weather and should be collected from the younger branches on trees preferably already cut down.
WARNING: you can kill a tree if you take too much of its protective skin, especially if you take from the trunk in a circular direction, so please don’t!



Lesson 16-part 2-STORING, DRYING AND PRESERVING{actually this is lesson 17, but i was running slightly behind, apologies}


Most herbs will probably wilt fairly soon after cutting, so store them in a plastic bag filled with air and tightly secured. Place in the refrigerator where they should remain good for a few days.
Many herbs keep their flavour well when drying, and some flavours even improve.
Some herbs will require specific methods of drying, so be advised of this fact.

DRYING HERBS

As soon as a leaf or flower has been taken, metabolic type changes occur, and individual cells start to die as their supply of moisture and nutrients ceases. Enzymes which before helped to create active constituents, will begin to break down these substances.
This is decomposition, and as such some of the medicinal values may with the flavour start to decline or be reduced.
Therefore, the sooner drying is begun, the better the quality of the herb will be, even down to the flavour and colour.
Moisture must be removed gradually, so there can be no ‘’rushing’’, it will take as long as it takes. Drying herbs via the microwave or oven is a sure way to make the herb void, as it removes the properties, and does the herb no good. Essential oils may too be lost.

DRYING LEAVES

Wipe or gently brush off any soil still on the leaves, but avoid washing unless absolutely necessary. Keep the sunlight off them as this extracts and evaporates their oils also.
Choose a warm dry dark room or area for drying, with adequate ventilation,{I hang mine from a rack that I made using twig branches, bound together with some thin rope or string could work, in a triangular, or pyramid shape. I used the rope to bing around it giving the appearance of layers or shelves, to this rope I attach my herbs for drying and it is hoisted up to the ceiling in my kitchen. The smell is fantastic-I even use this home-made rack to dry any of my flowers{I get a lot of those! Lol} theyre then made into my wreaths I use for Midsummer and the like. It took about 20 minutes to make but it is strong and has lasted me for over 8 years now!
You could also use an airing cupboard, for the drying, or a loft or outhouse, for example.
A drying temperature of about 90F {32C} is ideal for the first 24 hours, with perhaps a reduce temperature of 75-80F {24-26C} thereafter.
Leaves which are not unduly thick, may take around 4-6 days to dry at these temperatures.
Hang the stems so that the plant appears to be hung upside down, from your rack or you may even use a wooden coat hanger{I used to do this before I made my rack, it works!}
Bunch no more than 10 stems together and tie them off with sewing cotton or similar.
When small quantities are needed to be dried, I use a vegetable box that I have lined with newspaper, and I spread them out so that nothing is overlapping, I then cover the box with an old net curtain that keeps insects/flies etc out of the way. Muslin material may also be used. Again make sure that they are kept out of direct sunlight, and make sure you are storing them in a well ventilated area.
When they are fully dry, you will be able to pick one of them up and crumble it effortlessly in the palm of your hand. This tells you that they are ready for storing.
Avoid placing lots of types together that have strong scents or flavours, as these could overpower or cross contaminate the others. Keep those separate! I hang them on different sides of the pyramid-shaped rack.

STORING DRIED LEAVES

One dry, remove them form the stems if you haven’t already, keeping them whole, to retain their scent and goodness for as long as is possible. Break them up only if you must fit them into jars. Crush them before using.
Leaves for example would be best stored in airtight bottles made from dark glass, again store out of sunlight. Plastic and metal containers are not suitable as this could affect the chemistry of the herb. Try to handle these as little as possible also, try wearing some thin latex gloves{make sure you are not allergic to latex please!!!} um…if in doubt-leave them out!
Always label your bottles with the name of the contents and the date, -you will know that they weren’t dried properly if you see a build-up of moisture and condensation in the bottles. Remove them immediately and further dry them.
Some herbs are ‘’hygroscopic’’ which means that they absorb moisture from the air, -this can reactivate enzymes and can cause chemical breakdown. So always periodically check your stores of herbs, as they wont last forever. 6-12 months is what I say, then throw them out or better still crush them all up and throw back over the garden.
Marshmallow and Lady’s Mantle are ‘’hygroscopic’’ .

DRYING FLOWERS

Pretty much the same method here,- when the flowers are dried properly, they should retain their colour, although white or yellow flowers may appear almost cream or opaque, after drying. For individual flower heads without stems, dry them flat.
For petals, remove fro instance from the Marigold, and store in a box, so they are again separate and not overlapping, turn them every day.
Keep plants like Chamomile, lavender, and other small headed flowers intact.


DRYING SEED/FRUIT

After removing your seed heads of annuals and culinary{suitable for cooking}, like
Dill and fennel, hang them over a box to allow the seeds to drop onto some paper, so that they may be collected. Berries and others such as rosehips may take longer. Turn them frequently.


ROOTS


All need to be clean with fibrous parts removed before drying. Cut large thick roots in half, lengthways and then into smaller pieces to facilitate drying. Roots may need longer or higher temperatures of around 120F {50C}-even up to 140F {60C}.
Turn them occasionally and you will notice they will get spongey and then go hard, and will break easily.
Peel the roots of marshmallow and the rhizomes of licorice before drying.
Once dried, store them again in a dark, airtight, labeled bottle or jar. Roots of parsley or angelica will re-absorb moisture from the air, so keep an eye on them, and discard as soon as they become soft and limp.

BARK

Drying bark is the same method as flower heads, make sure that they are flattened out, clean and are in a dry warm area, with ventilation. Ensure insects are removed, and that the bark is healthy. When completely dry, they should break easily.
Store in a dark labeled jar.

FREEZING

Use freezer bags that are sealable, and wash before freezing, and allow the water to drip off them before placing them in the bag to freeze. Frozen herbs retain their colour and their flavour, and nowadays, it is convenient and fast. You can use icecube trays to store smaller pieces in water, for freezing. An average cube should hold approximately 15ml of the chopped herb, and a tablespoon of water. Use spring or mineral water to place them in for a better result and taste, rather than a chloriney or chalky taste.

You can even place your herbs such as rosemary into oils or vinegars to preserve them, fresh.

[GEBS]

Lesson 17-herbs And Categories Of Use A-c

A
Alteratives

Gradually restore proper function of the body and increase vitality. At one time in history, they were known as ‘blood cleansers’.
Bladderwrack, blue flag, bogbean, burdock, cleavers, Echinacea, figwort, fringetree, fumitory, garlic, guaiacum, goldenseal, mountain grape, nettles,pasque flower, poke root, queen’s delight, red clover, sarsasparilla, sassafras, wild indigo, yellow dock.

Analgesics

Herbs that reduce pain and are either applied externally or taken internally.
Hops, Jamaican dogwood, lady’s slipper, passion flower, red poppy, skullcap, st. john’s wort, valerian.

Anthelmintics

Will destroy or expel worms from the digestive tract. Since the medicine’s act 1968, the most affective are not allowed to be listed, lol {what a joke} as they were deemed ‘’unsafe’’ in high dosage. But here are the ones I am allowed to tell you..
Aloe vera, garlic, pomegranate, pumpkin seeds, tansy, thuja, wormwood, rue.

Anti-bilious

These remove excess bile from the body, particularly beneficial in jaundice.
Balmony, barberry, dandelion, fringetree, goldenseal, mugwort, vervain, wild yam, wormwood.

Anti-catarrhal

These remove excess catarrh build-ups, whether sinal or otherwise.
Cranesbill, bearberry, boneset, cayenne, coltsfoot, Echinacea, elder, elecampane, eyebright, garlic, goldenseal golden rod, hyssop, Iceland moss, irish moss, marshmallow, mullein, peppermint, sage, thyme, wild indigo, yarrow.

Anti-emetics

These reduce the feeling of nausea, and can help prevent vomiting.
Balm, black horehound, cayenne, cloves, dill, fennel, ginger, lavender, meadowsweet, peach leaves.

Anti-inflammatories

Helps the body to combat inflammations and swellings. Herbs mentioned under the demulcents, emollients and vulneraries {we will get to those} will often act in this way when applied externally.
Black willow, bogbean, chamomile, devil’s claw, marigold, meadowsweet, st. john’s wort, white poplar, witch hazel.

Anti-lithics

These prevent formations of stones or gravel in the urinary system and can help in aiding their removal.
Bearberry, buchu, corn silk, couchgrass, gravel root, hydrangea, parsley piert, pellitory of the wall, sea holly, stone root, wild carrot.

Anti-microbial

Helps the body to destroy or resist pathogenic micro-organisms.
Aniseed, bearberry, caraway oil, cayenne, clove, coriander, Echinacea, elecampane, garlic, gentian, juniper, marigold, marjoram, myrrh, peppermint, rosemary, rue, sage, southernwood, thyme, wild indigo, wormwood.

Anti-spasmodics

These prevent or ease spasms and/or cramps.
Black cohosh, black haw, chamomile, cramp bark, lady’s slipper, lime blossom, lobelia, mistletoe, motherwort, pasque flower, skullcap, skunk cabbage, thyme, valerian, vervain, wild lettuce, wild yam.

Aromatics

Have strong and often pleasant odours. Can stimulate digestive system, and add aroma and taste to other medicines.
Angelica, aniseed, balm, caraway, cardamom, celery, chamomile, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, dill, fennel, hyssop, ginger, meadowsweet, pennyroyal, peppermint, rosemary, valerian, wood betony.

Astringents/styptics

Contract the tissue by precipitating proteins and thus reducing secretions and discharges. They contain tannins.
Agrimony, American cranesbill, avens, bayberry, bearberry, beth root, bistort, black catechu, bugleweed, eyebright, golden rod, ground ivy, kola, lungwort, mouse ear, oak, periwinkle, pilewort, plantain, raspberry, red sage, rhubarb root, rosemary, slippery elm, st. john’s wort, tormentil, wild celery, witch hazel, yarrow.

B
Bitters


Herbs that taste bitter can act as a stimulant for the digestive system too, believe it or not, through a reflex via the taste-buds.
Barberry, boneset, centuary, chamomile, gentian, goldenseal, hops, rue, southernwood, tansy, white horehound, wormwood, yarrow.

C
Cardiac tonics

These are good for the cardiac system, and affect the heart, and circulation.
Hawthorn, motherwort, night blooming cereus.

Carminatives

These are rich in volatile oils, and their action is to stimulate the peristalis of the digestive system, relaxing it and preventing a build-up of excess gasses.
Angelica, aniseed, balm, black mustard, caraway, cardamom, cayenne, cinnamon, chamomile, coriander, dill, fennel, galangal, garlic, ginger, hyssop, juniper, peppermint, sage, thyme, valerian.

Cholagogues

These stimulate and release secretions of bile from the gall-bladder,
{btw-a marked benefit in gall associated problems}. These have a laxative type effect also.
Balmony, barberry, black root, blue flag, boldo, dandelion, fringetree, fumitory, gentian, goldenseal, mountain grape, wahoo, wild yam.

[GEBS]

Lesson 18-herbs And Categories Of Use d-f

D
DEMULCENTS

Rich in mucilage and can soothe and protect irritated or inflamed internal tissue.
Coltsfoot, comfrey, corn silk, couch grass, flax seed, irish moss, lungwort, licorice, marshmallow, mullein, oats, parsley piert, slippery elm.

DIAPHORETICS

These aid the skin in the elimination of toxins as they promote perspiration.
Angelica, bayberry, boneset, buchu, cayenne, chamomile, elder, fennel, garlic, ginger, golden rod, guaiacum, lime blossom, peppermint, pleurisy root, prickly ash, thuja, thyme, white horehound, yarrow.

DIURETIC

These increase the secretion, or expulsion, of urine from the body.
Agrimony, bearberry, blue flag, boldo, boneset, borage, broom, buchu, bugle weed, burdock, celery seed, cleavers, corn silk, couch grass, dandelion, elder, gravel root, hawthorn berries, juniper, kola, lily of the valley, lime blossom, night blooming cereus, parsley and parsley piert, pellitory of the wall,
Saw palmetto, sea holly, stone root, wild carrot, yarrow.

E
EMETICS

These cause vomiting in high doses, so take care. {a lower dosage may be considered}.
Blood root, boneset, elderflowers, ipeccacuanha, lobelia, senega, squill.

EMMENAGOGUES

These stimulate and regulate menstrual flow.
Beth root, black cohosh, black haw, blessed thistle, blue cohosh, chamomile, chaste tree, cramp bark, false unicorn root, fenugreek, gentian, ginger, goldenseal, juniper berries, marigold, motherwort, mugwort, parsley, pasque flower, pennyroyal, peppermint, raspberry, red sage, rosemary, rue, southernwood, squaw vine, tansy, true unicorn root, vervain, wormwood, yarrow.

EMOLLIENTS

Applied directly or in lotions to the skin, they will soothe, soften and protect. They act in a way that demulcents act internally.
Borage, chickweed, coltsfoot, comfrey, elecampane, fenugreek, flax seed, mallow, marshmallow, mullein, plantain, quince seed, slippery elm.

EXPECTORANTS

These support the body in the removal of excess amounts of mucous from the respiratory system.
Aniseed, balm of gilead, balsam of tolu, blood root, coltsfoot, comfrey, elderflower, elecampane, garlic, goldenseal, grindelia, hyssop, Iceland moss, irish moss, licorice, lobelia, lungwort, marshmallow, mouse ear, mullein, pleurisy root, senega, skunk cabbage, squill, thuja, vervain, white horehound, wild cherry.

F
FEBRIFUGES/ANTI-PYRETICS

These help to bring down fevers, and fight them.
Angelica, balm, blessed thistle, boneset, borage, cayenne, elderflower, feverfew, hyssop, pennyroyal, peppermint, Peruvian bark, pleurisy root, prickly ash, raspberry, red sage, thyme, vervain.

[GEBS]

Lesson 19-herbs and categories of use G-O

G

GALACTOGOGUES

These increase the flow of milk { encourage milk flow } in nursing mothers.

Aniseed
Blessed Thistle
Centuary
Fennel
Goat’s Rue
Vervain

H

HEPATICS

These aid the liver, and their use tones and strengthens it, also increasing bile flow.

Agrimony
Aloe Vera
Balm
Balmony
Barberry
Black Root
Blue Flag
Boldo
Bogbean
Cascara Sagrada
Celery
Centuary
Cleavers
Dandelion
Elecampane
Fennel
Fringetree
Fumitory
Gentian
Golden Seal
Horseradish
Hyssop
Motherwort
Mountain Grape
Prickly Ash
Wahoo
Wild Indigo
Wild Yam
Wormwood
Yarrow
Yellow Dock

HYPNOTICS

These will induce sleep {not a hypnotic trance!! Lol}

Chamomile
Californian Poppy
Hops
Jamaican Dogwood
Mistletoe
Passion Flower
Skullcap
Valerian
Wild Lettuce

L

LAXATIVES / APERIENTS

Promotes healthy movement of the bowels, evacuation of fecal matter, and prevents toxin build-ups.{edited cos i forgot a very important word out, apologies}

Balmony
Barberry
Buckthorn
Burdock
Cascara Sagrada
Cleavers
Dandelion
Flax Seed
Fringetree
Mountain Grape
Pellitory of the Wall
Rhubarb Root
Senna
Wahoo
Yellow Dock

N

NERVINES

These have a beneficial effect on the nervous system and strengthen it.
However some may act as stimulants, others may act as relaxants.

Balm
Black Cohosh
Black Haw
Blue Cohosh
Bugleweed
Chamomile
Cramp Bark
Damiana
Ginseng
Hops
Kola
Lady’s Slipper
Lavender
Lemon Balm
Lime Blossom
Lobelia
Mistletoe
Motherwort
Oats
Pasque Flower
Passion Flower
Peppermint
Red Clover
Rosemary
Skullcap
Valerian
Vervain
Wild Lettuce

O

OXYTOCICS

These stimulate contractions of the uterus. WARNING- these may induce abortion or labour. Take cautiously.

Beth Root
Blue Cohosh
Golden Seal
Squaw Vine

[GEBS]

Lesson 20- herbs categories of use P-V

P

PECTORALS

These have a general strengthening effect on the respiratory system and help to heal it.

Angelica
Aniseed
Balm of Gilead
Balsam of Tolu
Blood Root
Coltsfoot
Comfrey
Elder
Elecampane
Garlic
Golden Seal
Hyssop
Iceland Moss
Irish Moss
Licorice
Lungwort
Marshmallow
Mouse Ear
Mullein
Pleurisy Root
Senega
Skunk Cabbage
Vervain
White Horehound

R

RUBEFACIENTS

When applied to the skin, they cause a deliberate gentle irritation to stimulate dilation of the capillaries, increasing the blood flow, to the area.
Often some internal pains can be relieved as they draw blood from deeper parts of the vbody.

Black Mustard
Cayenne
Garlic
Ginger
Horseradish
Nettles
Peppermint Oil
Rosemary
Rue

S

SEDATIVES

These will slow the nervous system and reduce some stress, whilst calming the nerves. Take care though.

Black Cohosh
Black Haw
Blue Cohosh
Boldo
Buglewood
Chamomile
Cowslip
Cramp Bark
Hops
Jamaican Dogwood
Lady’s Slipper
Lobelia
Motherwort
Pasque Flower
Passion Flower
Red Clover
Red Poppy
Skullcap
St.John’s Wort
Valerian
Wild Cherry
Wild Lettuce

SIALOGOGUES

These stimulate the secretion of saliva from the salivary glands.

Blue Flag
Cayenne
Centuary
Gentian
Prickly Ash
Senega

STIMULANTS

These quicken or liven the physiological functions of the body.

Angelica
Blam of Gilead
Balmony
Bayberry
Black Mustard
Caraway
Cardamon
Cayenne
Cinnamon
Galangal
Garlic
Gentian
Ginseng
Ground Ivy
Horseradish
Juniper
Pennyroyal
Peppermint
Prickly Ash
Rosemary
Rue
Sage
Southernwood
Tansy
White Horehound
Wormwood
Yarrow

T

TONICS

Strengthen and invigorate the body’s specific organs or the whole body.

Agrimony,
Angelica,
Aniseed
Balm
Balmony
Bayberry
Bearberry
Beth Root
Black Cohosh
Black Haw
Black Mustard
Black Root
Bogbean
Boldo
Boneset
Buchu
Bugleweed
Burdock
Calumba
Carline Thistle
Cayenne
Centuary
Chamomile
Cleavers
Coltsfoot
Comfrey
Condurango
Couchgrass
Damiana
Dandelion
Echinacea
Elecampane
EyeBright
False Unicorn Root
Fringetree
Fumitory
Garlic
Gentian
Ginseng
Golden Seal
Gravel Root
Grindelia
Hawthorn
Horse Chestnut
Hydrangea
Hyssop
Iceland Moss
Irish Moss
Lady’s Slipper
Lime Blossom
Marigold
Motherwort
Mountain Grape
ETC ETC…..
{YOU GET THE GENERAL IDEA.}

V

VULENARIES

These are applied externally and may aid the body in healing wounds and cuts.

Aloe Vera
Cranesbill USA
Arnica
Bistort
Black Willow
Burdock
Chickweed
Cleavers
Comfrey
Daisy
Elder
Elecampane
Fenugreek
Flax Seed
Garlic
Golden Seal
Greater Plantain
Horsetail
Hyssop
Irish Moss
Marigold
Marshmallow
Mullein
Myrrh
Shepherd’s Purse
Slippery Elm
St. John’s Wort
Thyme
Witch Hazel
Wood Betony
Yarrow

[GEBS]

Lesson 21- ailments and useful herbs A-C

A
ABSCESS
Echinacea, garlic, marshmallow, myrrh, wild indigo, blue flag, cleavers,
Coltsfoot, fenugreek, goldenseal, mallow.


ACNE
Blue flag, cleavers, Echinacea, garlic, poke root, wild indigo.


ADENOIDS
Cleavers, Echinacea, garlic, golden seal, marigold, poke root, wild indigo.


ANGINA PECTORIS
Hawthorn, motherwort.


ANXIETY
Californian poppy, chamomile, mistletoe, motherwort, pasqueflower, st. johns wort, skullcap, valerian, wild lettuce, balm, betony, cowslip, damiana, hops, hyssop, oats, passion flower, vervain.


APPENDICITIS
Agrimony, cranesbill USA, golden seal, wild yam.


APPETITE LOSS
Calamus, centuary, condurango, gentian, mugwort, wormwood, balmony, blessed thistle, cardamom, galangal, white poplar.


ARTERIOSCLEROSIS
Lime, hawthorn, mistletoe.


ARTHRITIS
Black cohosh, bogbean, celery seed, guaicum, prickly ash, wild yam, bittersweet, daisy, juniper, silver birch.


ATHSMA
Elecampane, ephedra, grindelia, lobelia, pill-bearing spurge, sundew, wild cherry, balsam of tolu, black cohosh, black haw, blood root, blue cohosh, butterbur, coltsfoot, mullein, pasqueflower, senega.

B
BLOOD PRESSURE {HIGH}
Hawthorn, lime blossom, mistletoe, yarrow, balm, black haw, cramp bark, garlic.


BOILS
Blue flag, Echinacea, garlic, myrrh, pasque flower, poke root, coltsfoot, comfrey, figwort, flax seed, greater plantain.


BRONCHITIS
Blood root, coltsfoot, Echinacea, elecampane, garlic, grindelia, lobelia, mouse ear, mullein, pill-bearing spurge, pleurisy root, senega, sundew, white horehound, angelica, balm of gilead, balsam of tolu, ground ivy, irish moss, squill, sweet violet.


BRUISES
Arnica, elder, chickweed, cucumber, lady’s mantle, marigold, st. john’s wort.


BURNS
Aloe vera, elder, marigold, greater plantain, st. john’s wort, chamomile, chickweed, cucumber, quince seed.

C
CATARRH
Echinacea, elder, eyebright, garlic, golden rod, golden seal, mouse ear, mullein, pine, coltsfoot, daisy, sweet violet, myrrh, wild indigo.


CHILLBLAINS
Cayenne, ginger, prickly ash, black mustard, rosemary, horseradish.


COLDS
Angelica, cayenne, elder, garlic, ginger, golden rod, golden seal, hyssop, peppermint, yarrow, avens, bayberry, lime blossom.


COLIC
Angelica, boldo, calamus, condurango, cramp bark, gentian, ginger, valerian, wild yam, allspice, aniseed, blessed thistle, blue cohosh, coriander, dill, licorice, jambul, wild lettuce, tormentil, wormwood.


COLITIS
Agrimony, cranesbill USA, bayberry, comfrey, marshmallow, bistort, black catechu, meadowsweet, oak, tormentil.


CONJUNCTIVITIS Chamomile, eyebright, golden seal, marigold, fennel.


CONSTIPATION
Balmony, barberry, buckthorn, carscara sagrada, rhubarb root, sennega, yellow dock, aloe vera, black root, bogbean, boldo, butterbur, figwort, flax seed, wahoo.


CRAMP
Black cohosh, cramp bark, pasque flower, skullcap, valerian, wild lettuce, wild yam, cayenne, ginger, woundwort.

[GEBS]

Lesson 22- ailments and useful herbs D-I


D
DEBILITY
Balmony, blessed thistle, cayenne, dandelion, damiana, golden seal, kola, rosemary, agrimony, barberry, betony, calamus, ginger, life root, mugwort, oats, true unicorn root, wormwood.


DEPRESSION
Damiana, kola, oats, skullcap, wormwood, balm, celery, chamomile, mistletoe, mugwort, rosemary, southernwood valerian, vervain.


DIARROHEA {IN ADULTS}
Agrimony, cranesbill USA, bayberry, bistort, black catechu, comfrey, lady’s mantle, meadowsweet, oats, greater plantain, rhatany, silverweed, tormentil, avens, blessed thistle, burr-marigold, ground ivy, jambul, self-heal.


DIARROHEA {IN CHILDREN}
Meadowsweet, cranesbill USA, lady’s mantle.


DIVERTICULITIS
Wild yam, comfrey, chamomile, marshmallow.

E
EAR ACHE
Penny wort pasque flower, mullein.


ECZEMA
Blue flag, burdock, chickweed, cleavers, figwort, goldenseal, nettles, clover, yellow dock, balm of gilead, bittersweet, comfrey, mountain grape, sarsasparilla.


EPILEPSY
Hyssop, skullcap, passion flower, valerian.

F
FEVER
Boneset, catmint, cayenne, angelica, ginger, Peruvian bark, pleurisy root, borage, feverfew, carline thistle, chamomile, vervain.


FIBROSITIS
Cayenne, ginger, ragwort, wintergreen, horseradish, rosemary, peppermint, vervain.


FLATULENCE
Angelica, calamus, caraway, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, gentian, coriander, cayenne, fennel, allspice, balm, mugwort, marjoram, cloves, juniper, parsley, pennyroyal, peppermint, valerian.


FUNGAL INFECTIONS
Marigold, goldenseal, greater celandine, myrrh.

G
GALLBLADDER {PROBLEMS OF}
Balmony, black root, dandelion, fringetree bark, milk thistle, vervain, wahoo, wild yam, barberry, bogbean, boldo, goldenseal, marshmallow, greater celandine.


GASTRITIS
Cranesbill USA, calamus, comfrey, slippery elm, chamomile, irish moss, licorice, mallow, peach leaves, quince.


GINGIVITIS
Bistort, Echinacea, goldenseal, myrrh, oak bark, poke root, rhatany, wild indigo, black catechu, self-heal, tormentil.


GLANDS {SWOLLEN}
Cleavers, Echinacea, poke root, marigold, wild indigo.


GLANDULAR FEVER
Echinacea, myrrh, poke root, wormwood, garlic, wild indigo.

H
HALITOSIS
Dill, fennel, peppermint.


HAYFEVER
Ephedra, goldenseal, elder, eyebright, garlic, peppermint.


HEADACHES
Betony, lavender, feverfew, skullcap, valerian, cowslip, rue, hops, st. john’s wort, mistletoe, peppermint, chamomile.


HEARTBURN
Comfrey, marshmallow, meadowsweet, Iceland moss, irish moss, mallow, slippery elm. Thyme, fennel.


HAEMORRHOIDS
Bistort, horseradish, lady’s mantle, pilewort, silverweed, tormentil, cranesbill USA, balmony, comfrey, greater plantain, ground ivy, oak, rhatany.


HYPERSENSITIVITY
Ephedra. Lavender, chamomile.

I
INCONTINENCE {URINARY}
Ephedra, horsetail, agrimony.


INDIGESTION
Balm, calamus, cayenne, centuary, chamomile, condurago, fennel, ginger, dill, peppermint, valerian, wild yam, wormwood, agrimony, catmint, gentian, true unicorn root, quassia, red sage, thyme.

INFECTIONS {GENERAL}
Cleavers, Echinacea, garlic, goldenseal, myrrh, wild indigo, cayenne, fenugreek,, ginger, thyme, nasturtium, wormwood.


IN{FLU}ENZA
Boneset, cayenne, Echinacea, garlic, goldenseal, pleurisy root, angelica, balm, black mustard, carline thistle, elder, ginger, horseradish, lime, nasturtium, yarrow, white poplar.


INSOMNIA
Californian poppy, hops, Jamaican dogwood, passion flower, valerian, wild lettuce, chamomile, cowslip, lime blossom, pasque flower, skullcap, valerian, lavender.


ITCHING
Chickweed, oats, goldenseal, marigold, cleavers, cucumber, peppermint, aloe vera, st. john’s wort.

[GEBS]

LESSON 23- ailments and useful herbs J-N

NIGHTSHADES WARNING:

JUST TO BE PERFECTLY CLEAR, {I KEEP SAYING IT I KNOW, BUT!! }

I ADVISE YOU TO SEEK ADVICE BEFORE SELF MEDICATING WITH ANY HERBS, AS THEY CAN INTERFERE WITH OTHER MEDICATIONS. ALWAYS GO TO A REPUTABLE HERBALIST THAT WILL SPEND TIME IN FINDING OUT WHAT IS BEST FOR YOU. AND NEVER ASSUME THAT IT IS PERFECTLY SAFE. IT MAY NOT BE. HERBS MUST BE USED IN SPECIFIC WAYS, AND CAN HARM YOU IF THEY ARE MISUSED. -USED CORRECTLY, THEY ARE SAFE AND VERY REWARDING. HERBS MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR YOU, ASK A MEDICAL EXPERT FIRST.

HOWEVER, IF ONE HAD A HEADACHE, USING A LITTLE LAVENDAR FOR INSTANCE IS NOT GOING TO KILL YOU OR HARM, BUT TAKE CARE THAT IF YOU DO NOT KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING TO ASK SOMEONE THAT DOES!!!




J
JAUNDICE
Balmony, barberry, black root, dandelion, vervain, wahoo, yellow dock, bittersweet, centuary, goldenseal, mountain grape, wild yam.

K
KIDNEY STONES
Bearberry, cornsilk, couchgrass, gravel root, hydrangea, pellitory of the wall, stone root, dandelion, sea holly, wild carrot, yarrow.

L
LABOUR PAINS {FALSE}
Black cohosh, cramp bark, valerian, motherwort, blue cohosh, wild lettuce.


LARYNGITIS
Balm of gilead, blood root, Echinacea, goldenseal, myrrh, oats, red sage, thyme, agrimony, bayberry, bistort, caraway, chamomile, fenugreek, tormentil, lady’s mantle.


LEUCORRHEA
Cranesbill USA, bayberry, beth root, goldenseal, lady’s mantle, life root, myrrh, nasturtium, avens, ground ivy, oak, black catechu, wild indigo.


LIVER TONICS
Balmony, black root, blue flag, centuary, dandelion, wahoo, yellow dock, bogbean, burdock, garlic, goldenseal, wild yam, mountain grape.


LUMBAGO
Black mustard, cayenne, ragwort, wintergreen.

M
MENOPAUSE
Blue cohosh, chaste tree, false unicorn root goldenseal st. john’s wort, beth root, life root.


MENSTRUATION {DELAYED}
Blue cohosh, rue, pennyroyal, chaste tree, false unicorn root, southernwood, wormwood, marigold, motherwort, thuja, yarrow.


MENSTRUATION {EXCESSIVE}
Cranesbill USA, beth root, periwinkle, goldenseal, lady’s mantle.


MENSTRUATION {PAINFUL}
Black cohosh black haw, cramp bark, Jamaican dogwood, pasque flower, st. john’s wort, skullcap, valerian, wild lettuce, chaste tree, wild yam.


METRORRHAGIA
Cranesbill USA, beth root, goldenseal, periwinkle, lady’s mantle.


MIGRAINE
Feverfew, Jamaican dogwood, kola, mistletoe, peppermint, skullcap, wormwood.


MILK STIMULATION {NURSING MOTHERS}
Goat’s rue, milk thistle, borage, carawaqy, dill, fennel, fenugreek.


MISCARRIAGE {THREATENED}
Blue cohosh, false unicorn root, black haw, cramp bark.


MOUTH ULCERS
Myrrh, red sage, bistort, lady’s mantle, oak.





TASK: A -

TASK A AND B ALL TO BE COMPLETED BY JANUARY 29TH

WRITE UP A LIST OF WHAT YOU MIGHT USE THE FOLLOWING HERBS FOR--- {AS MANY AS YOU CAN}---YOU MAY USE ALL THE INFORMATION PROVIDED THAT WE HAVE COVERED.:)

1}LAVENDAR
2}HOPS
3}BORAGE
4}PERIWINKLE
5}BLACK COHOSH
6}BLUE FLAG
7}WAHOO
8}MYRRH
9}MILK THISTLE
10}BURDOCK
11}TRUE UNICORN ROOT
12}GARLIC
13}ECHINACEA
14}GOLDENSEAL
15}FEVERFEW

TASK: B

STILL USING THE INFORMATION PROVIDED, IN YOUR OWN WORDS :TELL ME THE HISTORY OF HERBS, AND HOW IT HAS CHANGED OVER THE YEARS. {I KNOW ITS BORING, BUT IT IS IMPORTANT I THINK TO KNOW ABOUT THIS}
_inabox_

[GEBS]

LESSON 24- ailments and useful herbs.N-S

N
NAUSEA
Black horehound, chamomile, meadowsweey, peppermint, ginger, avens, galangal, cloves, marshmallow.


NEURALGIA
Betony, black cohosh, Jamaican dogwood, mistletoe, passion flower, st. john’s wort, skullcap, valerian, hops, pasque flower.


NOSE BLEEDS
Lady’s mantle, witch hazel, marigold, tormentil.

O
OVARIAN {PAIN}
Jamaican dogwood, pasque flower, valerian, passion flower, st. john’s wort,
Skullcap, wild yam.

P
PAIN {GENERAL}
Black cohosh, black willow, Jamaican dogwood, valerian, wild lettuce, cramp bark, guaiacum, hops, rosemary, skullcap.


PALPITATIONS
Motherwort, skullcap, valerian.


PHLEBITIS
Hawthorn, horsechestnut, lime blossom, mistletoe.


PREGNANCY {SICKNESS}
Black horehound, false unicorn root, meadowsweet, blue cohosh, peppermint.


PEGNANCY {TONIC for end of }
Raspberry leaf, sqauw vine.


PRE-MENSTRUAL TENSION
Chaste tree, skullcap, valerian, lime blossom, pasque flower.


PROSTATE
Damiana, horsetail, hydrangea, saw palmetto, corn silk, couch grass, sea holly.


PSORIASIS
Blue flag, burdock, cleavers, figwort,, mountain grape, red clover, sarsasparilla, yellow dock, balm of gilead, chickweed, flax seed, sassafras, thuja.

R
RHEUMATISM
Angelica, black cohosh, bogbean, celery seed, guiacum, meadowsweet, wild lettuce, prickly ash, burdock, cayenne, gravel root, couchgrass, daisy, wintergreen, scots pine, elder, fennel, sarsasparilla, silver birch, thuja, wild carrot.

S
SCIATICA
Blue cohosh, Jamaican dogwood, st. john’s wort, yarrow.


SHINGLES
Jamaican dogwood, mistletoe, passion flower, flax seed, st. john’s wort, hops, skullcap, wild lettuce, wild lettuce, wild yam.


SINUSITIS
Elder, eyebright, garlic, golden rod, goldenseal, flax seed, hops, wild indigo, poke root, chamomile, myrrh.


SORE THROAT
Balm of gilead, Echinacea, garlic, goldenseal, oak, agrimony, bayberry, cayenne, chamomile, myrrh, poke root, silverweed.


SPOTS {NOT ACNE}
Blue flag, cleavers, Echinacea, figwort, garlic, poke root.


STRESS{EVERYONES FAVOURITE EMOTION IM SURE…..NOT!!! LOL
Damiana, lime blossom, mistletoe, st. john’s wort, skullcap, balm, betony, borage, chamomile, oats, valerian, wild lettuce.


SUNBURN
Aloe vera, marigold, st. john’s wort, comfrey, eyebright.

[covenofkeys]

Lesson 25-ailments and useful herbs T-Z





T
TENSION {PREVENTION}
Betony, cowslip, Jamaican dogwood, lime blossom, mistletoe, motherwort, pasque flower, st. john’s wort, skullcap, valerian, wild lettuce, Californian poppy, damiana, hops.


TINNITUS
Black cohosh, goldenseal, golden rod, ground ivy.


TONSILLITIS
Cleavers, Echinacea, garlic, goldenseal, myrrh, poke root, red sage, thyme, wild indigo.


TOOTHACHE
Cloves /oil of cloves


TRAVEL SICKNESS
Ginger, black horehound, galangal, peppermint.


TUMOURS
Cleavers, comfrey, elder, fenugreek, greater celandine, red clover, sweet violet, thuja.



U
ULCERS {PEPTIC}
Cranesbill USA, comfrey, marshmallow, meadowsweet, slippery elm, calamus, goldenseal, Irish moss, licorice, mallow.


ULCERS {SKIN}
Chickweed, oats, comfrey, goldenseal, marigold, Echinacea, marshmallow.




V
VARICOSE ULCERS
Goldenseal, horse chestnut, marigold, comfrey, marshmallow.


VARICOSE VEINS
Horse chestnut, hawthorn, lime blossom, st. john’s wort, witch hazel.


VOMITING
Black horehound, meadowsweet, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, peppermint, comfrey, false unicorn root, Iceland moss, rosemary.



W
WARTS
Greater celandine, thuja, banana skin.


WATER RETENTION
Bearberry, broom, buchu, dandelion, gravel root, juniper berries, pelitory of the wall, wild carrot, burr-marigold, carline thistle, celery seed, corn silk, horsetail, parsley, sea holly, silver birch, stone root, yarrow.


WHOOPING COUGH
Coltsfoot, grindelia, lobelia, mouse ear, black cohosh, ephedra, garlic, mullein, pansy, red clover, sundew, wild cherry.

[covenofkeys]

lesson 26-WINTER WILD COLLECTABLES


Avens, root
Barberry
Bearberry
Bayberry
Birch, silver
Blessed thistle
Blood root
Boldo
Chaste tree
Chickweed
Coltsfoot, flowers
Coltsfoot, leaves
Cowslip, root
Dandelion
Ephedra
Greater celandine
Horseradish
Pine, Scots
Poke root
Shepherds purse
Sweet violet
Wild yam



Short lesson again.

Task:
Go to the alphabetical herb game thread, and like before, and each of you add in 3 herb names and their latin names.
!} what herbs would you use to help you if you have
a} headache b} nausea c} fever
2} describe how you would use these hebs, what type of for eg.preparation , etc.
3}describe the following::
a} Borage, b} daisy c} chamomile d} boneset
{{{to be completed as soon as you are ready.}}}


NOTE
Always wash thoroughly any plants you have collected, and check your local laws.

_______________________________________________________

[covenofkeys]

LESSON 27-collectables: SPRING



SPRING WILD COLLECTABLES

Avens, root
Barberry
Bayberry
Bearberry
Birch, silver
Blue cohosh
Bogbean
Boldo
Borage
Broom, aerial
Buchu
Butterbur, rhizome
Butterbur, leaves
Chamomile
Chickweed
Coltsfoot, flowers
Coltsfoot, leaves
Comfrey
Couchgrass
Cowslip, flowers
Cowslip, root
Cramp bark
Daisy
Dandelion, flowers
Elder, bark & berries
Fringetree, bark
Hawthorn, berries
Horsetail
Iceland moss
Irish moss
Lilly of the valley
Lungwort
Marjoram
Marshmallow, leaf
Mistletoe
Mouse ear
Nettles
Oak, bark
Pansy
Pasque, flowers
Passion, flowers
Peach, bark
Periwinkle
Pilewort
Pine, scots
Pleurisy, root
Poke root
Raspberry
Red clover
Red poppy
Red sage
Rue
Shephard’s purse
Squaw vine
Sweet violet
Thyme
White poplar
Wintergreen
Witch hazel
Wood sage
Wild yam



Tomorrows lesson continues with summer collectables.:)




AS ALWAYS, PLEASE RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT, AND TAKE HEED OF ANY LAWS.



:cheers:

[covenofkeys]

LESSON 28-collectables:SUMMER





Agrimony
Angelica, root
Angelica, leaves
Avens, aerial
Balm
Balmony
Bearberry
Beth root
Birch, silver
Bistort
Black horehound
Blessed thistle
Blood root
Bogbean
Boldo
Boneset6
Borage
Broom, aerial
Buchu
Burr-marigold
Butterbur, rhizome
Butterbur, leaves
Calif. Poppy
Caraway
Catmint
Celery
Chamomile
Chickweed
Coltsfoot, flowers
Coriander
Couchgrass
Cudweed
Daisy
Dandelion, flowers
Dandelion, root
Dill
Elder, bark& berries
Elder, flowers
Eyebright
Fennel
Figwort
Fumitory
Goat’s rue
Golden rod
Greater celandine
Ground ivy
Hops
Horsetail
Hyssop
Iceland moss
Irish moss
Lady’s mantle
Lavender
Life root
Lilly of the valley
Lime blossom
Lobelia
Lungwort
Mallow
Marigold
Marjoram
Marshmallow, leaves
Marshmallow, root
Meadowsweet
Motherwort
Mouse ear
Mugwort
Mullein, flowers
Mullein, leaves
Mustard
Nasturtium
Nettle
Oats
Pansy
Parsley piert
Passion, flowers
Peach, leaves
Pelitory of the wall
Pennyroyal
Pilewort
Plantain
Queen’s delight
Ragwort
Raspberry
Red clover
Red poppy
Red sage
Rosemary
Rue
St. john’s wort
Self heal
Shepherds purse
Silverweed
Skullcap
Soapwort, leaves
Sqauw vine
Sundew
Tansy
Thuja
Tormentil
True unicorn root
Valerian
Wahoo
White horehound
Wild carrot, aerial
Wild carrot, seeds
Wild lettuce
Wintergreen
Witch hazel
Wood sage
Wormwood
Yarrow
Yam, wild
Yellow dock






{thank goodness that one is over! My poor hands!! LOL}:lol:



continues next lesson with collectables :AUTUMN/FALL

[covenofkeys]

LESSON 29-collectables: AUTUMN/FALL



Angelica, leaves
Aniseed
Balm
Balmony
Barberry
Bayberry
Beth root
Bistort
Bittersweet
Black haw
Black cohosh
Black root
Blessed thistle
Blood root
Blue cohosh
Blue flag
Boldo
Boneset
Borage
Broom, aerial
Buchu
Burdock
Burr-marigold
Butterbur, leaves
Calif. Poppy
Caraway
Carline thistle
Catmint
Celery
Chickweed
Couchgrass
Cranesbill USA
Dandelion, flowers
Echinacea
Elder, bark and berries
Ephedra
Eyebright
False unicorn root
Fennel
Flax
Fringetree, bark
Fumitory
Gentian
Goat’s rue
Gravel, root
Greater celandine
Ground ivy
Hops
Horse chestnut
Horse radish
Horsetail
Hyssop
Iceland moss
Irish moss
Juniper berries
Life root
Lime blossom
Lobelia
Lungwort
Male fern
Mallow
Marshmallow, root
Motherwort
Mountain grape
Mugwort
Nasturtium
Nettle
Pellitory of the wall
Pleurisy root
Pumpkin, seeds
Quince
Ragwort
Raspberry
Red clover
Rosehips
Rosemary
St. john’s wort
Senega
Shepherds purse
Skullcap
Soapwort, roots and rhizome
Sundew
Stone root
Thuja
Thyme
True unicorn root
Vervain
White horehound
White polar
Wild carrot, seeds
Wild cherry
Wild indigo
Wintergreen
Witch hazel
Wood sage
Wormwood
Yarrow
Yam, wild
Yellow dock

[covenofkeys]

Lesson 30-preparations and Ingredients



USEFUL EQUIPMENT FOR HERBAL COSMETICS


Avoid using aluminium, copper and non-stick pans, as the chemical content within may alter the beneficial properties.
Always use clean sterilized equipment. To do this boil or put in a hot oven for 10 minutes. Wash as normal.
n.b before you use any product, perform a little skin test, particularly if you have ever had a reaction to anything skin-wise before. Leave in place for 24 hours.


Equipment




Heatproof glassware, or pottery cookware
Enamel double boiler
Wire or electric whisk
Measuring spoons
Measuring jug
Small glass {25 ml} measure
Small funnel
Sieve {nylon}
Pestle and mortar
Measuring / weighing scales
Electric blender/ grinder
Juice extractor thingamybob lol
Glass or plastic dropper
Glass rod
Spatula
Clean dark glass assorted bottles and or jars {with airtight lids}
Wooden spoon
Labels, calendar and marker pen
sharp knife
cutting board.




SOME BASIC HERBAL PREPARATIONS


Infusing




Put one and a half handfuls of the fresh herbs or 1oz {25 g} of dreid, into a heatproof container.
Bring 1 pint {570 mls} of distilled water to the boil. Pour over this the herband immediately cover, allowing to steep for 30 mins aprox.
Strain and store in your refridgerator for up to 5 days. Keep in a dark glass container.



Macerating



You can use this way of doing things for herbs likely to lose some of their value if heated.
Pack a glass jar with the crushed fresh herb, covering with vegetable oil.{ you could also use instead, cider vinegar or pure alcohol}
Seal and leave for two weeks, shaking the jar every day. Strain and top up with fresh herbs.
Repeat this process until the concoction smells strongly herbal. Strain and seal, again in a dark glass bottle or jar.
{this keeps well and keeps its scent}
replace when it begins to smell less herbal !! lol



Decocting




This is usually used for more tougher parts of herbs, such as stalks and stems or bark etc.
Put 1 oz of the herb into a saucepan {remember not aluminium or copper!!}
Add 1 pint of distilled water and simmer for 30 mins {rather like the infusing}
If , after half an hour of simmering, the liquid has evaporated to half what it was, top up with water to make it half pint. Allow this then to cool, then strain into a bottle and again store within your refrigerator for up to 3 days.



Pulverising



A lot of you may actually find this to be stress relieving believe it or not! {yup, many a time have I been having a rough day, and I have found that this process might allow one to out with their frustrations!!!} lol

For this you will need your pestle and mortar and perhaps even an electric blender if you are lazy and don’t want to spend 40 or so minutes cutting and tearing before grinding!! ~giggles~ yes I’m guilty of this one too sometimes!
Grind, bruise or mash plants or fibres or seeds using your pestle and mortar, or with your electric whisk.


NON-HERBAL INGREDIENTS WHICH HAVE KNOWN TO BE USED


You may acquire these from most pharmacies.


Agar agar {derived from seaweed}- use it to make gels.


Alcohol {possibly ethyl alcohol}- used to preserve and is less irritating to the skin than normal alcohol.


Beeswax {from bees}-this acts as an emulsifier and is used in oils and water in creams.


Benzoin –a preservative and astringent and also is an antiseptic.


Borax –a white crystalline mineral powder, used as an emulsifier.


Bran- used in facemasks, and body scrubs as a cleanser.


Buttermilk- {mostly available from health food shops now}-soothing and an astringent.


Calamime lotion {mostly used in chicken pox or measles or where the skin has some problems.} soothing and an alkaline.


Castile soap / pears soap-a pure non-perfumed soap with no added colour.


Cocoa butter- a thick like fat from the bean of the cocoa, which is a rich emollient in creams and lotions.


Distilled water- only pure water is suitable for making cosmetics.


Emulsifying wax- a wax used to emulsify oil and water in creams.


Fuller’s Earth- a fine grey powder {derived from single-cell algae, found on sea beds} –its absorbent and mineral riuch properties make it an excellent facemask.


Gelatine- {a colourless, odourless, tasteless glue, derived from boiling animal bones}
Used in eye ointments and for hardening lotions. Agar Agar is its vegetable substitute.


Glycerine- a thick colourless odourless syrup, and is derived or is a by-product of soap manufacturing. Mixes in water and has softening properties.


Honey- {from bees} –softening, healing and binds other ingredients together.


Iodine- used as an antiseptic.


Kaolin- {purest clay} useful in facemasks.


Lanolin- a thick sticky fat obtained from sheeps wool. Softens and nourishes the skin.


Liquid paraffin- - a mineral oil which is not absorbed by the skin and is useful in barrier creams.


Oatmeal {see bran}.


Oils- almond, avocado, wheatgerm, carrot , coconut, and nut kernel oils are particularly skin – enriching.


Petroleum jelly- a pale yellow translucent mineral like jelly, which is insoluble in water. Used in salves.


Vinegar- used in cosmetics to soften cleanse and soothe the skin.


Vitamin capsules- a fairly convenient way of adding vitamins to skin creams.


Zinc oxide-a white powder derived from zinc with mild antiseptic and astringent qualities . usually available as an ointment..


_______________________________________________________

[covenofkeys]

Lesson 31-skin creams and lotions.




Most skin creams are based on a combination of melted waxes, oils and scented waters.



What type of skin do you have?


Normal skin-soft and transleucent- requires only a simple care routine.

Dry skin-taut and dry without any shine. Requires moisturisation at the earliest signs, and should be treated with mild cleansers and gentle care to avoid further drying out.

Oily skin-this has a shiney look and is supple, the pores are open and they can become blocked easily, resulting in more blemishes and even acne. Skin may look coarse also.
Needs thorough cleansing, however gently, to avoid stimulating the sebaceous glands further.

Combination skin-this is the most common skin type, by where some parts, perhaps near to the hairline, or eyebrows is drier, and near the chin creases and around the nose are much oilier than the rest. This type of skin needs separate cleansing for each type. Refer to the above.






Cleansing creams:
These are much more efficient than soap and water at removing heavy dirt or makeup. Massage into the skin then gently dab off using cotton wool.

Toners:
These are important for tightening the skin pores, and refreshing the skin.

Moisturizing creams:
After the skin has been cleansed and toned, you can moisturize it to maintain the skins softness and natural level of moisture. Use it as a protective shield from the weather and temperature changes. If you have oily skin, avoid during the warmer months.




Proportions of ingredients:
These will govern the cream’s consistencies and are fairly easy to adjust.

For a firmer creams:
Add more bees wax.

For softer creams:
Add more oil.

For lightness and fluffier creams:
Add more water, however it may well separate the ingredients,-this is fine, however shake before use or stir with a rod.

For scents:
A few drops of essential oils or some perfume of your choice.

Additions of emollient mucilages:
{a sticky substance found within the plants-roots, stems and buds and leaves etc}
these will usually make the cream spongey in effect.


Glycerine and lavender water cleansing cream

Most recipes will follow this one basically.

Waxes are melted in one container, whilst oils are warmed in another.
All ingredients must be at approximately the same temperature when it comes to mixing them together.
{it may curdle like milk otherwise. This is a trial and error learning thing, believe me, its not nice to use curdled cleanser! } lol
you may substitute any herbal infusion for the lavender water.



You will need:
4tbsp {60 mls} lanolin
2 fl. oz {50 mls} almond oil or if allergy to nuts use a base oil
1 tbsp {15 mls} glycerine
1/8 tsp {0.65 mls} borax
3 tbsp {45 mls} lavender water {or whatever you are choosing}
1 tsp {5mls} zinc oxide ointment
6-8 drops of essential oils or if using perfumes, half this amount.

Method:
1} melt the lanolin and gently heat the almond oil and glycerine together.
Slowly pour the oil and glycerine into the lanolin beating it together continuously.
2} dissolve the borax into the warmed lavender water and add gradually to the lanolin and oil mixture, continuing beating together. Allow to cool.
3} when cool and creamy in appearance, beat in the zinc oxide and your scent oils.
Spoon into your containers and label. Use within 3 months.



The following are great to use in creams and lotions:


Use half the quantity of dried herbs to fresh herbs, for the equivalent strengths.

Aloe vera- the sap from this plant is soothing and healing.
Avocado- a brilliant food and great for the skin too, high in vitamin E and A content.
Borage- a great healing herb good for dry sensitive skin types.
Calendula- a wonderful herb ideal for rough or course skin or some problem skins.
Chamomile- a gentle and soothing herb which also softens and nayurally bleaches the skin.
Comfrey- soothing and great for damaged skin, chapped skin {not lips} –contains allantoin which is a protein that can speed upcell growth and skin re-newal.
Cucumber- an excellent cleansing agent and toner. Soothing and healing.
Dandelion- this contains a rich emollient that is useful in cleansing lotions foir dry skin.
Elderflower- a great tonic, which is reputed for skin softening and may be able to smooth out some of those wrinkles{ladies attention!! Lol} also known to fade the freckles {for those of us who HATE the damned things} and known to soothe sunburn.
Fennel:- cleansing and soothing. You could add the crushed seeds to some face packs. Known to purify the skin if you have oily skin.
Houseleek {often grown in peoples gardens}- this is again softening, and especially good for dry or sensitive skin types.
Ivy-this is known to relieve sunburn and is also renowned for its dispersion of trapped fluids and toxins in the fight against that disasterous cellulite!! Grrr lol
Lady’s mantle- for dry sensitive skin and is an astringent for large open pores.{by large I mean easily visible to the eye}
Lavender-a gentle cleanser wonderfully scented and beautifully coloured and is a great tonic for all skin types.
Lemon- an astringent which can restore the skins natural ph level.
Lime tree blossom- softens and is a deep cleanser.
Lupin seed- a pore cleanser and refiner for oily skin.
Marshmallow- a healing softener for dry lifeless skin types, can be used on those chapped hands, feet and can soothe and aide in the healing of sunbun.
Nettle{yes, as in stinging nettle, note: it will not sting you I promise}lol – great for oily skin types.
Orange flower- an excellent skin tonic, which is great in restoring the skins natural acidity balance{ph level} also it treats broken skin andstimulates skin re-newal.
Parsley- this conditions dry and sensitive skin types, and generally troubled skin.
Peppermint- an astringent which aides in clearing the complexion.
Rose/rose water- a soothing and mild cleanser which has softening effects on the skin.
Rosemary- an antiseptic which boosts circulation and is invigorating. Great for deep cleansing.
Sage- a cleansing, stimulating astringent which will help to tighten pores.
Thyme- a gentle antiseptic cleanser.
Violet-a very gentle astringent.
Watercress- the expressed juice is renowned for helping to clear blemishes.{of course one would need a whole lot of this stuff!! Lol}
Witch hazel-soothing and a useful astringent.
Yarrow- a healing and cleansing astringent, which is great for oily skin.






Sensitive skinned people:

You may wish to avoid the following, as these have been known and recorded to have caused some skin irritation from mild to severe reactions. Some have even caused breathing problems and hospitalization. So please be ever cautious, and if you must use any of these, place one small drop on the inner wrist part or the armpit and leave for 24 hours, this should not be enough for a major skin reaction, if anything you may have some slight reaction to that immediate area. If you have any reaction-discontinue right away and seek medical attention if need be. All reactions from this test shouls subside within a few days to one week completely.



Here are the ones to watch out for:


Agrimony
Almond oil {nuts}
Cocoa butter {nuts}
Cowslips
Cucumber
Glycerine
Henna
Ivy {this is a common cause of reaction, even if you do not have sensitive skin}
Lanolin
Lime blossom lovage
Nettles {if not prepared thoroughly}
Primrose
Violet leaves.


_______________________________________________________

[covenofkeys]

Lesson 32-more recipes for skin creams and lotions




Orange-flower cleansing cream
{for dry and normal skins}

neroli oil is the oil extracted from this flower, and is known to stimulate the loss of skin cells and have the ability to re-generate new ones.


You will need:
1 fl. oz {25 mls} soya oil
1 fl. oz almond oil
1 oz. {25 mls} cocoa butter
1/8 tsp {0.65 mls} borax
1tbsp {15 g} beeswax



method:
1} mix and warm the oils. Melt the cocoa butter and stir into the oils. Melt the beeswax and beat it into the oil mixture, a little bit at a time.
2} warm the orange-flower water and dissolve the borax into it. Beat this into the main mixture, leave it to cool. {it should thicken}.
3} as this mixture begins to thicken, stir in the essential oil. Once completely cool, spoon into your container or jar, and label.





Lemon cleansing cream
{for oily skin types}



lemon has a very good reputation for clearing greasey skin and reducing pimples, as well as having a good antiseptic quality.




You will need:
1 tbsp {15 mls} beeswax
1 ½ tbsp {22 mls} petroleum jelly
3 tbsp {45 mls} mineral oil
1 tbsp {15 mls} witch hazel
1 tbsp {15 mls} lemon juice
1/8 tsp {0.65 mls} borax
6-9 drops of lemon or citrus essential oil

method:
1} melt the beeswax and petroleum jelly together over a low heat. Warm the mineral oil and gradually you can now add it to the wax mix, beating for around 5 mins. {yes im afraid this takes some hard work !! lol}
2} add the witch hazel to the lemon juice, warm gently then stir in the borax until it has dissolved. Slowly add this to the wax mixture beating steadily until it appears creamy and cool.
3} once cool, stir in the lemon oil mix, spoon into your containers and label.





Rosewater toner
{for dry skins}



the soothing properties of rose, makes this a wonderful tonic for dry, sensitive and maturer skins.



You will need:
Just over ¼ pint {160 mls} rosewater
6 drops of glycerine
just under ¼ pint {140 mls} witch hazel



method:
this is simple-blend all the ingredients together, put into your container ans shake well and before each use.




Sage astringent
{for oily skins}



you will need:
4 tbsp {60 mls} dried sage
4 tbsp ethyl alcohol {or 6 tbsp // 90 mls vodka}
¼ tsp {1.25 mls} borax
3 tbsp {45 mls} witch hazel
10 drops glycerine





method:
1}drown the sage in alcohol and leave there for two weeks. Strain. Keep both the liquid and herbs.
2} dissolve the borax into the witch hazel, then stir into the alcohol. Mix the glycerine and put into a bottle , label and always shake before use.




Comfrey and calendula cream
{great for all skin types}



especially good for dry and rough skin. Makes a wonderful hand cream , for sore or chapped hands. Comfrey is renowned for aiding in the renewal of cell growth.





You will need:
1 tbsp {15 mls} beeswax
1 tbsp lanolin
1 tbsp cocoa butter
1 ½ tbsp calendula oil
1 tsp {5 mls} glycerine
¼ tsp {1.25 mls} borax
2 tbsp {30 mls}comfrey leaf infusion, warmed.
6 -9 drops essential oil of petitgrain




method:
1} melt the beeswax, then separately melt the lanolin and cocoa butter, then gradually stir them {lanolin and cocoa butter only} into the beeswax.
2} warm the calendula oil and glycerine and slowly stir this into your first mixture {beeswax}.
3} dissolve the borax into the warm comfrey infusion and then add this to the main mixture, stirring well.
4} continuing the stirring until thick and cool, mix in the essential oil. Spoon into your container, label.

[covenofkeys]

LESSON 33-HERBAL BATHS

Cleansing of the skin is important to rid it of impurities that would cause bacteria’s or infection. It is a primary activity for external skin care.
Herbs may be added to the bath to invigorate and stimulate the body’s circulation, or to simply relax and soothe those aching muscles, or even to promote a peaceful night’s sleep.
Choose your herbs of choice according to the effect you want: to help a skin complaint, perhaps, or simply for a nice relaxing and pleasurable aroma.

Herbal bath bags

The best way to add herbs to a bath is by hanging some of these from the taps. Not only will it prevent the herby-bits from entering the water, but the water will heat the herbs, releasing the therapeutic properties in an almost infusing sort of way.

Method:

You will need some square pieces of muslin type material, {actually, I have indeed used spare netting from curtains, and it works just as well!}
Add your herbs, you can use one to four different types, as you wish. Place these herbs in the muslin squares, and gather up the corners and tie off with some ribbon or even some cotton sewing thread, leaving enough to form a hanging loop for the taps.
{if you wish to make a body scrub, then you can add a little oatmeal or bran to the herb bags, later you can rub this bag over the body near the end of bathing.

Skin-softening milk baths

Method:

Add 3 tbsp {45 mls} of powdered milk {not skimmed as it does not contain the same healing qualities} to a gauze or muslin bag, along with 2 oz {50 g} dried or 4 oz {110 g} fresh elderflowers, chamomile or fresh lime blossom. Place actually into the water as you bathe.

Therapeutic oil baths:

The addition of between 5-10 drops of essential oil to your bath will allow you to feel their beneficial qualities, whilst being able to relax in a wonderful fragrant scent.

Method:

Sprinkle the oils into hand-hot water and gently stir them around the water. Do not add oils to overly hot water, or they will evaporate before you have a chance to get in the bath!!
The temperature of the water, will affect you as well. A relaxing sedative bath should be just under blood-heat, or for a stimulating bath, use a temperature below 85 f {29 c}.
If the temperature is too low, the oils will not evaporate readily.
For dry skin: add the oils in a tbsp {15 mls} almond oil {beware nut allergy}
For a more dispersable preparation: add the oils with a tbsp {15 mls} dried powedered milk.
For a bubble bath: add the oils with a tbsp of mild liquid soap.

Therapeutic bath herbs:

Relaxing bath herbs:
Chamomile
Hops
Jasmine
Lime flowers
Meadowsweet
Valerian

Stimulating bath herbs:

Basil
Bay
Eucalyptus
Fennel
Ivy
Lavender
Lemon balm
Lemon verbena
Mint
Pennyroyal
Pine
Rosemary
Sage
Tansy
Thyme

Healing bath herbs:

Calendula
Comfrey
Houseleek
Lady’s mantle
Spearmint
Yarrow



Spring tonic bath herbs

Blackberry leaves
Dandelion
Lawn daisies
Nettles


_______________________________________________________

[covenofkeys]

Lesson 34-face packs

You can use a face pack to draw impurities to the skin’s surface. It stimulates the circulation and tightens and firms the skin.

A little bit about face packs:

You could use cucumber for the eyes, or cotton pads, soaked in a herbal infusion to increase absorption. Leave the mask on for aprox. 20-30 minutes, before removing with warm water, not cold.
Cleanse the skin afterwards with a pore-closing infusion such as elderflower water, then use a non-greasy moisturizer.

Never apply a face mask before you go out on the town –it flushes the skin!! Best used after a bath, before bed.

Herbs that can be used in face packs:

For normal skin:
fennel,
juniper berries
lady’s mantle
lime flowers
mint
nettle

for dry and sensitive skin:
comfrey
houseleek
marsh mallow
pounded flax or quince seed

for oily skin:
sage
yarrow
pounded fennel or lupin seed.

Non-herbal ingredients for face packs:

Milk products have softening and mild bleaching properties
Substitute 1 tbsp {15 mls} of creamy milk, for 1 tbsp of the herbal infusion.
>> add 1 tsp {5 mls} honey for its healing properties.
>> a few drops of lemon juice to help aide in the restoration of the skins acidity balance.
>> add an egg yolk for dry skin, or a beaten egg-white for oily skin.
>> mash up some cucumber, strawberries, tomatoes and lemon juice to make a good astringent.
>> avocado and ripe peach are great moisturizers.


Green man’s mask:
{not only for men lol}

method:

take your green herb fresh 2 handfuls, add 30 mls of distilled or mineral water and liquidize at speed for a few seconds.
To thicken you may wish to add fuller’s earth or ground almonds or oats until the desired consistency is met.

Paste face packs:

Ground oatmeal or fuller’s earth or even ground almonds can be a perfect base for a paste face pack.
Each has the ability to draw impurities from the skin.

Method:

To 2 tbsp {30 mls} basic carrier, add 2-3 tbsp {30-45 mls} of a strong herbal infusion, or the juice of the herbs, obtained by pulverizing or using a juice extractor.

A deep pore cleansing mask:

You will need:

1 tsp {5 mls} beeswax
1 tbsp {15 mls} lanolin
2 fl. oz {50 mls} lavender water
1 sprinkle of fresh rosepetals
1 tbsp {15 mls} fuller’s earth
1 tsp {5 mls} Irish moss or pounded quince or flax seed.

Method:

1} melt the wax and lanolin together over a gentle heat, stirring continuously.
2}remove from the heat and add the lavender water, stirring until cooled.
3}mix in the fullers earth and the Irish moss or quince or flax seed, stirring still now also add in the fresh rosepetals.
4}keep on stirring until it is a smooth paste.
5}place into your airtight container. Use within 3 months. might need stirring before use.
Preferably made and used within the first couple of days.

[covenofkeys]

http://www.mysticwicks.com/images/icons/icon4.gif some poisonous plants...lesson 35

A-F


COMMON NAME


Aconite (wolfbane, monkshood)-
Anemone (windflower)
Anthurisum
Atamasco lily
Autumn crocus
Azalea
Baneberry
Black locust
Bloodroot
Boxwood
Burning bush (strawberry bush, spindle tree, wahoo
Buttercup
Butterfly weed
Caladium
Calla (calla lily)
Carolina jasmine (yellow jasmine)
Castor bean
Cherry laurel
Chinaberry (bead tree)
Christmas rose
Clematis
Daffodil
Deadly nightshade (belladonna)
Death cannas (black snakeroot)
Delphinium (larkspur)
Dogbane
Dumbcane
Elephant ears
False hellebore
Four o'clock
Foxglove



MORE TO COME-STAND BY WILL BE POSTED SHORTLY.

[covenofkeys]

http://www.mysticwicks.com/images/icons/icon7.gif some edibles.....lesson 36

some yummy edibles for you to chew on:lol:




AGRIMONY Agrimonia eupatoria
ALOE VERA Aloe vera - genus
AMARANTHUS Amaranthus hybridus
ANGELICA Angelica archangelica It has a celery-like flavor. It is very good with fish
ANISE Pimpinella anisum Use to mix into fruit salads
ANISE HYSSOP Agastache foeniculum The flower has a delicate anise or licorice flavor, often remembrant of root beer. Use it in Chinese-style dishes or as a garnish.
APPLE BLOSSOMS Malus species It has a delicate floral flavor. It is a nice accompaniment to fruit dishes and can be candied. NOTE: eat in moderation, it may contain cyanide precursors ARUGULA Eruca vesicaria It has a nutty, spicy, and peppery flavor. The flowers are small, white with dark centers. Use it in salad for a light piquant flavor.
BASIL Ocimum basilicum Depending on the variety, the flowers can be either pale pink, delicate lavender, or a bright white. It has a flavor that is similar to the leaves but on a milder scale. Use it to sprinkle over pasta or salads.
BEGONIA, TUBEROUS Begonia X tuberosa NOTE: only hybrids are edible This flower has a delicious sour, citrusy taste with juicy crunch. They are good in salads or used as a garnish. BERGAMOT, BEE BALM Monarda didyma The flowers have a minty flavor. Wild bee balm taste similar to oregano and mint. Use it anywhere you would use oregano. Use it chopped in salads. It is also caleed Oswego Tea and was used by the Oswego tribe of Native Americans as a drink. BETONY Stachys baicalensis
BORAGE Borago officinalis These lovely blue flowers have a cool, cucumber flavor. You must remove the bitter black pistils before eating. Use it to sprinkle in salads, decorate wine cups, use in gin tonics and lemonade, chilled soups, sorbets, cheese tortillas, dips and as a garnish. It can be crystallized and used for decorating cakes.
BURNET Sanguisorba minor The taste is generally like cucumber and can be used anywhere you would use borage flowers.
CARNATIONS Dianthus Caryophyllus Remove the bitter, white base of the flower. Use this surprisingly sweet flower for candy, cake decorations, or steep in wine.
CATNIP Nepeta cataria
CATTAIL Typha davidiana
CHAMOMILE Chamaemulum nobile The apple-like flavor of these small daisy-like flowers is good in fruit salads, beverage garnishes, or cake decorations.
CHICORY Cichorium intybus Use it in salads. The buds are oftened pickled and used as a caper substitute.
CHIVE Allium schoenoprasum The pinkish-purple blossoms of chives have a spicy, onion-like flavor. Use them to make vinegar, chopped in salads, or as a garnish.
CHIVES, GARLIC Allium tuberosum These white, umbel type flowers have a very mild garlic flavor. Remove them from the stems and use in vinegar or chopped in salads. They can be used whole as a garnish.
CHRYSANTHEMUMS Chrysanthemum coronarium This flower has a tangy, bitter taste, faint peppery to a mild cauliflower flavor. Blanch the flowers first and scatter the petals on salads. Be sure to remove the bitter flower base and use only the petals.
CILANTRO Coriandrum sativum This flower has a strong herbal flavor - a pungent mix of cumin, sage, anise, and orange. Use it raw because the flavor quickly fades when cooked. Use it on salads, bean dishes, and cold vegetable dishes.
CITRUS BLOSSOMS (includes grapefruit, kumquat, lemon, lime, orange) Citrus - genus These highly waxed petals should be used sparingly. They will have a citrus, lemony flavor. Orange blossoms water is a characteristically used in Middle Easter pastries and beverages.
CLARY SAGE Salvia sclarea.
NASTURTIUM Tropaeolum majus The cress-like flavor of these blossoms add bit to salads and sandwiches. The buds are pickled in vinegar and resemble capers.
OKRA Abelmoschus aesulentus (Hibiscus esculentus) The taste is similar to squash blossoms and used in much the same way.
ORCHIDS This very beautiful and delicate flower can be difficult to grow. The flavor is crisp and warm and the texture is soft.
OREGANO Origanum vulgare The taste of the flower is milder than the leaf. Use this as you would the herb.
ORNAMENTAL CABBAGE Brassica oleracea capitata
PANSY Viola X wittrockiana These flowers have a slightly sweet green or grassy flavor. If you eat the whole flower you will find a wintergreen overtone, but the petals have a very mild flavor. Use them for garnishes, in fruit and green salad, in desserts or in soups.
PARSLEY Petroselinium crispum Use in salads.
PASSION FLOWER Passiflora incarnata
PEA Pisum - species The edible garden peas' bloom is mostly white, but may contain other pale colors. These blossoms are slightly sweet, crunchy, and taste like peas. DONOT USE SWEET PEAS - they are poisonous.
POPPY, CALIFORNIA Eschscholzia californica The petals have a slight crunch and the taste can vary from bland to bitter. Use them in salads or as a garnish.
PORTULACA - commonly known as purslane Portulaca oleraces The blossoms are used in salads along with the leaves.
PRIMROSE Primula bulgaris The flowers can be eaten raw in a salad or crystallized for decorations. At one time they were used in jams and as an ancient dessert with rice, almonds, honey, saffron and ground flowers.
PYRETHRUM Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium (Pyrethrum cinerariifolium) C. coronarium is the edible yellow chrysanthemum used in Chinese recipes. Add this to oriental dishes. C. leucanthermum is the white mum and toss these petals into salads.
RADISH Raphanus sativus The flowers may be white, yellow or pink, depending upon the variety. They have a distinctive spicy bite (a radish flavor). Use in salads or on sandwiches.
RED CLOVER Trifolium pratense This sweet flavored bloom can be used in teas, salads, or as a garnish.
.

[covenofkeys]

this Thread Is Not For Posting Comments.