Improving Your Herb Know-How ~ Joanie Lapic

Rose - Herb of the Year

2012-02-02T19:21:00.000-08:00

Known as the “gift of angels”, Rose essence is one
of the mildest healing substances known.
It is the petals of the flowers which are most often
used. They are distilled for their essential oil and for
rosewater, a delicate flavor excellent in cooking.

Rose fruits are made into jellies, syrups and candies,
also dried and ground to make a supplement high in
vitamin C, called rose hips.

As medicine, Roses possess aromatic, astringent, and
tonic properties, which control bacterial infections,
promote healing and improve emotional states.
It is used internally for colds, bronchial infections,
gastritis, diarrhea, depression and lethargy.
More here...

Get a FREE Pocket Therapy

2012-02-01T19:04:00.000-08:00

February Special

“LIKE” us on FaceBook, and leave a comment.

Order at this link ONLY to get your choice of a
½ oz. Pocket Therapy FREE, as our gift to you.
Please look at our "Pocket Therapy" page to see
a description of our portable, effective
Aromatherapy salves:
Anti-Fungus
Breathe Free
Calm
Cool Flashes
Joint Restore
Memory
My Happy Place

You only pay $5.00 for shipping and handling.
This gift can be obtained until the end of February, 2012.

God Is Never Wrong

2012-01-27T18:11:00.000-08:00

The following was e-mailed to me by a friend,
Pat V., from Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania.
It is a reminder of the extraordinary ways that
God takes care of us:

A king who did not believe in the goodness of God,
had a slave who, in all circumstances would say:
"My king, do not be discouraged, because everything
God does is perfect, no mistakes!"
One day they went hunting and along the way a wild
animal attacked the king. His slave managed to kill the
animal, but could not prevent his majesty from losing a finger.
Furious and showing no gratitude for his being saved,
the nobleman said, "Is God good? If He was good, I would
not have been attacked and lost my finger."
The slave replied only, "My king, despite all these things,
I can only tell you that God is good, and He knows the "why"
of all things. What God does is perfect. He is never wrong!"
Outraged by the slave's response, the king ordered the
arrest of him. Later, he left for another hunt and was captured
by savages who made human sacrifices.
While on the altar, ready to sacrifice the noble, a savage found
that the victim had a missing finger, and so he was released.
According to savages, he was not complete enough to be
offered to the gods.
Upon his return to the palace, the king authorized the release
of his slave, to whom he said very affectionately:
"Special slave, you were right! God was really good to me!
I was almost killed by savages but because I lacked one single
finger, I was let go!
But, I have a question for you: If God is so good, why did He
allow me to put you in jail?"
"My King, if I had gone with you on this hunt, I would have
been sacrificed for you, because I have no missing finger.
Therefore, remember, everything God does is perfect.
He is never wrong."
Often we complain about life and the negative things that
happen to us, forgetting that nothing is random and that
everything has a purpose.
Offer your day to God every morning, and ask Him to inspire
your thoughts, guide your actions, and ease your feelings.
Do not be afraid to do this.
God is never wrong!

The path of God and His word is perfect, without impurities.
It is the way of all those who trust in Him, as He said in
2 Samuel 22: 31

Doctor Christopher’s Burn Ointment

2012-01-26T18:31:00.000-08:00

     This formula has healed thousands of burns, and is unique
in that it is not removed from the site of the injury, but is left
on until the skin is completely healed.
The Wheat germ oil, Comfrey Root and Honey
literally FEED the tissue, soothing and promoting cell
regeneration.
     It must be made fresh at the time it is needed, as it
does not store well (turns into a blob of hard, black ‘goo’).
     Procedure: Stir equal parts Comfrey Root powder,
Wheat Germ oil and Honey together and apply liberally to
the burn. Wrap in gauze to hold it on, replenishing as necessary.
Continue the treatment until the burn is completely healed.
This will likely prevent scarring, especially
if a drop of Lavender essential oil is added to the recipe.
We're having a SPECIAL on essential oils
until the end of January.
BUY TWO, GET ONE FREE

The Rose -- Herb of the Year

2012-01-24T19:53:00.000-08:00

The Rose has been chosen as the Herb of the Year for 2012,

by the International Herb Society.
There is no equal for its lovely fragrance and soft beauty.

Roses have been important since ancient times in medicine,
ritual, cosmetic and perfume uses.
It is the petals of the flowers which are most often used.
Known as the “gift of angels”, Rose essence is one of the
mildest healing substances known.
They are distilled for their essential oil and for rosewater,
a delicate flavor excellent in cooking.

Rose fruits are made into jellies, syrups and candies, also
dried and ground to make a supplement high in vitamin C,
called rose hips.

As medicine, Roses possess aromatic, astringent, and tonic
properties, which control bacterial infections, promote healing
and improve emotional states. It is used internally for colds,
bronchial infections, gastritis, diarrhea, depression and lethargy.
Externally it is used for sore throats, eye irritations
(including puffy and dark eyes), minor injuries, and skin problems.

The essential oil of Rose is used in Aromatherapy for countering
depression, anxiety, grief and negative feelings.
Alone or in combination with other essential oils, Rose makes
a lovely perfume.

Get your Rose essential oil HERE

January Specials

2012-01-23T20:40:00.000-08:00

During January 2012,
we’re offering these four NEW double-sized (1 ounce)
Pocket Therapies for the
INTRODUCTORY PRICE of $12 each (regular $13).

There have been many requests from Everlasting Gardener
customers for larger sizes of our Pocket Therapies.
Most requested have been for Calm, Cool Flashes,
Anti-Fungus and My Happy Place.
Check out the ingredients and how
Pocket Therapies are used HERE.

AND MORE SPECIALS!
ALL essential oils – Buy 2, get one of equal or lesser value – FREE!
Indicate your choice of the FREE essential oil in the instructions
at Check-Out.
See all of our essential oils HERE

Specials are good until 11:59 pm EST, January 31, 2012

Why Herbal Medicine Works

2012-01-22T19:26:00.000-08:00

“. . . the reason the use of herbs in healing the sick

has survived for countless thousands of years is because

herbs are organic and, therefore, are capable of becoming

a part of the living organism;

also because they and they alone,

are the source and origin of all life on earth.”

“Advanced Treatise in Herbology”,
by Edward Shook, N.D., D.C., page 1

Please have a good look through our website
where you will find much more about
Herbs and natural therapies that you can use.
We hope this information will give you the knowledge to
take your health back into your own hands.

Dark Circles and Puffy Eyes

2012-01-22T08:18:00.000-08:00

are an unfortunate occurrence that some of us must face.
It makes one look tired, unhealthy and exhausted.
Some of the causes:
lack of restful sleep & physical activity
poor nutrition
smoking drinking habits.
Though they're stubborn, here are some
natural Herbal remedies
to help eliminate dark circles and puffy eyes.

~ Mix together about 1 Tablespoon graham flour
about 1/8 teaspoon Turmeric powder
1 teaspoon tomato juice
1 drop lemon essential oil
a little water, to make into a paste
Leave it for 10-15 minutes.
Apply 2 to 3 times a week.

THIS IS MY PERSONAL FAVORITE:
~ Make a mug of Green tea.
When it cools, add 2 Tablespoons Rosewater
(Did you know that Rose is the Herb of the Year for 2012?)
Soak flat cotton balls, lightly squeeze out excess liquid.
Apply on the eye area, keeping on for up to 5 minutes.
Rosewater is a wonderful and gentle tonic for any skin
area, and perfectly safe when used around the eyes.
The caffeine and astringents in the tea reduce puffiness
and dark circles.
Ladies, you can apply makeup after this dries
from your eye area.
You can save the extra in the fridge.

~ Soak cotton balls in cucumber juice or lemon juice
and rub under your eyes twice a day.
Or simply use peeled cucumber slices, resting on your eyes,
for about 15 minutes, at least once a day.

~ One of the best ways to eliminate dark circles is to
massage under the eyes with pure almond oil for at
least 10 minutes per day. Best time to apply/massage
is right before sleep.

A few related suggestions: Drink up to 8 glasses of water per day.
Eat lots of fruits and veggies.
Get regular exercise and as much restful sleep as you can.
Don't forget to smile - very helpful !

Need the supplies to make these remedies?
Contact us and we'll help.
Lemon Essential oil can be acquired here.

Natural Help for Laryngitis, Public Speakers

2012-01-17T18:45:00.000-08:00

Maybe you know the frustrating feeling -
you want to say important words, but you open
your mouth and it sounds like 'croak'!
Even though your cold is almost gone, your
throat is sore, and it's difficult to speak.
Essential oils can soothe and restore your
ability to speak.
1. Place hot (not boiling) water in a wide bowl,
put into it 2 drops Chamomile essential oil,
3 drops of Lavender
and 1 drop of Thyme.
Inhale the steam.
2. Mix into 1 teaspoon olive oil:
Ravensara essential oil, 2 drops
Ginger, 1 drop
Thyme, 1 drop
Sage, 1 drop
and Chamomile, 1 drop
Rub all over the neck and sinus areas, including
around & behind the ears.
Reduce soreness of Laryngitis by making a wineglass
full of the following:
2 oz. boiled Rosewater
1 drop Lemon essential oil
1 drop Lavender
and a little honey
Stir together and sip slowly.
This month we have a SPECIAL -
Buy 2 bottles essential oil
GET ONE FREE

Miraculous Lavender - Part 2

2012-01-16T19:59:00.000-08:00

"Lavender" literally means "to wash" or "to be washed".
     It's been thousands of years since the discovery that the
oils from this plant's flowers are remarkably useful. Since
that discovery, Lavender has become one of the most
beloved plants on earth, due to its medicinal qualities and
distinctive aroma.
     My opinion is that Lavender is a Gift from the Almighty,
Who placed us here and gave us everything we need to
survive, even thrive.
     The botanical name of Lavender is Lavandula angustifolia.It is usually referred to as true Lavender. It actually belongs
in the Mint family, Labiatae, because of the shape of the
flower and how it's pollinated.
     True Lavender's main chemical components are Linalol
and Linalyl acetate. These are what makes it so healing.
     Unfortunately, true Lavender essential oil is often mixed
with a cheap 'filler' and then sold on the market. This cheap filler
is another kind of Lavender, a hybrid called Lavandin.
The hybrid Lavandin is a cross between Lavandula angustifolia
and Lavandula latifolia.
     Lavandula latifolia, Lavandin, mixed with true Lavender,
is the most commonly sold essential oil on the market today.
Lavandin is used because it is less expensive, and makes
manufacturers more money.
     But Lavandin does not give the same healing qualities as
True Lavender, even though they're both Lavender.
     The main chemical components of latifolia are Linalol,
Linalyl acetate AND CAMPHOR. Though camphorous
latifolia (Lavandin) has some applications, Camphor is
caustic, and makes skin conditions like wounds and burns
aggravated, actually worsening the injury.
     We at Everlasting Gardener offer True Lavender, made by
Nature's Sunshine.
     Perhaps you can understand why it is very important
that you use high quality Lavender essential oil.
Consider that the skin is the largest organ of the
body, and what you put on it is absorbed straight into your
bloodstream. When inhaled, essential oils travel right to the
brain. It makes sense to use an essential oil that is pure and
therapeutic grade.
     Why risk, at the worst, doing your health some damage,
and at the least, using an ineffective product?
Here's a little recipe:     Since most insects detest the scent
of Lavender, try mixing Lavender essential oil, either by itself
or mixed with Sweet Thyme, Lemongrass and Eucalyptus, to
keep bugs away during outdoor activity, or rid your home of
dust mites. How about deterring bed bugs when you travel
and need to sleep in a hotel/motel?
    Just mix a little rubbing alcohol with water in a ratio of
1 to 3, and add 16 drops of any combination of essential
oils above, including Lavender, to 2 cups of the alcohol and
water base. Put into a spray bottle, mix well, and spritz
around the house, close eyes and spray on skin, on suspect
bedding, etc.
     You'll receive the added benefit of uplifted mood,
de-stressing and relaxing.
You'll find more recipes here . . .
We are having a SPECIAL this month on essential oils:
Buy two, Get one FREE

Miraculous Lavender - part 1

2012-01-13T20:00:00.000-08:00

In the world of Aromatherapy, it is difficult to find
an essential oil any more versatile than Lavender.
Its scent is unique, and well-loved by almost
everyone who smells it.
Lavender oil is complex and causes many effects
on - and in - the body.
It is among the most-researched Herbs in the world,
and all research attests to its remarkable healing abilities.
The research also gives Lavender a great deal of
credibility, which is important support for those folks
who need that kind of proof.
As for me, I enjoy the hands-on approach, finding
my results in the actual application (a method I employ
for most of the Herbs I use).
The majority of Lavender's benefits are considered
to be in the central nervous system. Research studies
find that Lavender essential oil is effectively used
(among its multitude of uses) as a sedative, mood regulator,
pain reducer, digestive aid, anti-carcinogenic, and killer of
bacteria, fungi and insects.
It is successfully used to fully heal a wide spectrum of
disorders and maladies.
Lavender is a mild, multi-use essential oil, used for
hundreds, if not thousands, of years, to reduce nervousness,
promote sleep, heal burns, cleanse the skin, and much more.
It restores both body and soul.
Some healing recipes using my favorite Herb - Lavender.

Fast Virus Control with Aromatherapy

2012-01-12T18:11:00.000-08:00

When you have the flu, you want treatment QUICK.
Fever, exhaustion, coughs, muscular pain -
all these symptoms (and more) are caused by various viruses.
Overcoming the viruses and their symptoms is only part of
your challenge.
You also need to raise your immunity levels.
Aromatherapy to the rescue!
Essential oils from flowers and Herbs is a fragrant,
painless, simple and fast alternative to pharmaceuticals
(which can cause their own problems).
When you're chilled and shivery, take a warm bath,
to which you have added:
5 drops Tea Tree
2 drops Lavender
2 drops Thyme
Go a step further and massage your whole body
with 1 teaspoon of almond or olive oil,
to which has been added:
2 drops Tea Tree
3 drops Eucalyptus
Then go to bed.
Diffuse or spray Thyme and Lavender all around
your bedroom and living areas.
Make a special drink by blending these oils together . . .
1 drop Cloves
2 drops Lavender
then take ONE DROP in a cup of hot water, and sip slowly.
None of these essential oils are all that expensive,
BUT . . . . .
This month at Everlasting Gardener
all essential oils are BUY TWO, GET ONE FREE

2012-01-07T19:06:00.000-08:00

Are You Ready to Grow Your Herb Plants Indoors?
With the mild weather we've been having, we're still
shipping Herb plants from western Pennsylvania!

Would you like to enjoy your Herb plants all winter?
~ enhance the flavor of your food
~ make simple teas and medicines
~ enjoy the lovely scents of the Herbs on your windowsill

Try Thyme, Rosemary, Basil or Chives in your cooking.
Thyme also relieves stuffy sinuses.
Lemon Balm - a wonderful tea - uplifts the mood and is a
           mild decongestant.
Calm an upset stomach with Mint, fight viruses with Sweet Oregano,
soothe a sore throat with Sage, heal skin rashes and injuries
with Rose Scented Geraniums or Aloe,
sleep better with Sweet Marjoram.
CARE OF INDOOR HERB PLANTS:
Herb plants will grow on a windowsill receiving 5 or more hours
of bright sunshine, and supplemental lighting is always an option.
You won’t need to fertilize them much until early February,
when more sunlight returns and growth rates increase.
Inspect your fragrant Herbs every day (no problem there - ruffle them
with your hand - they smell terrific!) to make sure no bugs have
hatched on them. If they do, use a natural pesticide, such as a mild
organic soap solution, Neem based natural spray or alcohol sprayed
on the insects, so you can safely continue to consume the Herbs as needed.

If you want to begin, or add to, your indoor Herb plant collection,
visit our Herb Plants page to find a description of Herbs
and their uses.
You can inquire about prices for the plants you want.
Your plants can shipped to you, if it is not very cold here in
western Pennsylvania. See the Everlasting Gardener
Herb Plants for Sale Policy (on the same web page)

Herb plants suitable for windowsill (or supplemental lighting) growing:
Lemongrass
Rosemary
Lemon Verbena
Thyme - Lemon, Lavender, French or regular
Aloe
Mint – Chocolate, Spearmint, Wooly Garden
Sweet Marjoram
Sweet Oregano
Basil
Chives
Patchouli
French Lavender
Lemon Balm
Sage
Cilantro
Scented Geraniums - Lemon Meringue, Skeleton Rose,
          Gooseberry, Oak Leaf, Lemon-Rose, Lemon Crispum,
          French Lace Lemon, Variegated Lemon-Rose, etc.

Contact Joanie to arrange pick up or delivery of your Windowsill Herbs.

2012-01-06T18:57:00.001-08:00

Saggy Upper Arms

2012-01-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

can be effectively dealt with.
Cellulite also tends to affect this area.
Using a blend of essential oils with the following
massage technique is beneficial in breaking up the
accumulated fats and fluids.
Because lymph glands are located in the armpits,
massaging the upper arms while performing a kind of
lymphatic drainage can be very effective.
Upperarm synergy blend:
Cypress 5 drops
Lavender 10 drops
Fennel 8 drops
Juniper 7 drops
Mix these essential oils together, then mix 3 drops
of the blend with a teaspoon of olive or almond oil.
Massage this oil + essential oil blend into the flabby
part of the upper arm while you raise it above your
head. Rub from the elbow toward the armpit 10 times.
Repeat with the other arm.
Make a water 'splash' with 8 drops of the above
essential oil mixture, 1 tsp. rubbing alcohol and
4 ounces of water. Mix well.
Soak a wash cloth in this 'splash'.
Then massage the upper arms while raised above your head
again, but with the washcloth this time.
Rub from the elbow toward the armpit 10 times.
To get a great price on the essential oils, see our
January SPECIAL

Help for Insomnia

2012-01-05T19:30:00.000-08:00

You may have true insomnia if
you feel tired all day or
are mentally unalert, or
if you are truly worried that
you aren't getting enough
rejeuvenating rest.
The causes of insomnia could be
fatigue, cramps, eating too late in the
evening, or not eating enough, stimulants
(either Herbal or caffienated drinks) too late
in the day, emotional problems and/or anxiety,
even reading or stuffiness in the respiratory tract.
Try listening to relaxing music, not drinking coffee
or tea after 4 pm, removing distracting noises, such
as a ticking clock, quit taking diuretics that
necessitate getting up at night to urinate,
working late in the evening, and ensure adequate
ventilation in the bedroom.
The following essential oils can help with some of these
symptoms. They can be used in the bath before bedtime,
even a footbath, no more than 3 drops in either type bath.
Or rub the oils, 1 drop in a teaspoon of olive or almond oil,
on the bottoms of the feet.
Though calming and relaxing in small doses, too much of
these essential oils can be stimulating.
Here's the combination:
Lavender
Marjoram
Roman Chamomile
Benzoin
Clary Sage
Vetiver
Hops
Valerian

Everlasting Gardener's SPECIAL this month is
Buy 2 essential oils, get one FREE.
Check out our essential oils,
and other Aromatherapy tips

Happy New Year - Happy New You!!!

2012-01-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all our valued customers for a great 2011.
look forward to serving each and every one of you in 2012.

HAVE A HEALTHY AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Everlasting Gardener is offering you some really nice
SPECIALS during the month of January.

Choose one OR choose both Specials and save MORE!

1. There have been many requests from our customers for
larger sizes of our Pocket Therapies.
This month we are adding the NEW ONE OUNCE size of
Calm, Cool Flashes, Anti-Fungus and My Happy Place.
During January 2012, we’re offering these four NEW
double-sized (1 ounce) Pocket Therapies for the
INTRODUCTORY PRICE of $12 each (regular $13).

2. ALL essential oils –
Buy 2, get one of equal or lesser value – FREE!
Indicate your choice of the FREE essential oil in the
instructions at Check-Out.

Take good care of yourself this year!
If there is anything we can do to help,
please don't hesitate to ask.

New Year Resolution - "De-Stress"

2011-12-30T18:16:00.000-08:00

If you want to relieve some of the stress
in your life, you should try these two gift sets.
Not only do you get these great deals, but
you also get a FREE gift -
a Pocket Therapy.
If you're serious about de-stressing, try the
"CALM" or "MY HAPPY PLACE" Pocket Therapy.

Stress Relief Gift Set:
Lavender and Sweet Marjoram Sleep Pillow - Contains two
of the best Herbs for pleasant, restful sleep.
Slip inside your pillowcase, and enjoy a Good Night.
½ cup of Herbs in muslin bag.
Lavender essential oil - ¼ oz. dropper bottle
Lavender Soother Tea - 5 tea bags, each making a large mugful.
Ingredients: Lemon Balm, Lavender flowers, Sweet Marjoram
$14.75
Herb Tea Set:
Lavender Soother – 5 tea bags, each making a large mugful.
Ingredients: Lemon Balm, Lavender flowers, Sweet Marjoram
Summer’s Fragrance - 5 tea bags, each making a large mugful.
Ingredients: Lemon Balm, Monarda, Lavender flowers, Rose petals,
Mint, Sweet Marjoram, Chamomile.
Allergy Relief – 5 tea bags, each making a large mugful.
Ingredients: Lemon Balm, Elderflower, Monarda, Stinging Nettle,
Echinacea purpurea, Dwarf Myrtle, Chocolate Mint and Lavender
flowers.
$6.50
Here's your Free Gift:
Calm OR My Happy Place
Pocket Therapy
To get your gift, order by Dec. 31, 11:59 pm.
And enjoy de-stressing!

Don't Pass Up This Offer

2011-12-27T18:21:00.000-08:00

Because you will never get this low price again.
Prices will go from the regular $6.00 to $7.00
as of January 1, 2012.
But in case you haven't noticed,
Everlasting Gardener is offering each Pocket Therapy
at a special sale price of $5.00 each
until December 31, 2011.
Here's what they are --
Pocket Therapy is Aromatherapy in an easy-to-apply salve.
It's also portable.
Not to mention VERY effective!
Here is a short description of each:
ANTI-FUNGUS: Delivering concentrated therapy
with every application, this all-natural salve overcomes
external fungus and the skin conditions it causes.
Helps kill toenail and fingernail fungus, athlete’s foot, etc.
PT001 $6.00 SPECIAL $5.00

BREATHE FREE: Relieves congestion and pain
in sinuses, lungs, bronchials. Rub on sinuses, nostrils,
throat, chest, bottoms of feet - for better breathing.
PT002 $6.00 SPECIAL $5.00

CALM: Helps relieve headaches, stress,
anxiety, depression. Rub on temples, back of neck, wrists,
nostrils - for feeling peaceful and ‘in control‘.
PT003 $6.00 SPECIAL $5.00

COOL FLASHES: For helping with hot flashes,
mild depression, moodiness. Apply to forehead, neck,
upper chest, pulse points.
PT004 $6.00 SPECIAL $5.00

JOINT RESTORE: Eases pain and tension of joints
and muscles, meant for arthritis, flu, over exertion -
great for gardeners. Rub where needed anywhere on the body.
PT005 $6.00 SPECIAL $5.00

MEMORY: Designed to enhance brain function,
memory and alertness. A favorite with students, teachers,
office personnel and seniors. Used on the temples, wrists,
back of the neck.
PT006 $6.00 SPECIAL $5.00

MY HAPPY PLACE: Relieve stress, anxiety
and congestion. Helps you feel alert, ‘in control’ and
energetic. Rub on temples, back and front of neck, wrists,
elbows, pulse points.
PT007 $6.00 SPECIAL $5.00
Visiting any of the Pocket Therapy links above will
show you the ingredients for each.
Do YOU know anyone who could use:
calming
better thinking
de-stressing
less hot flashes
foot fungus control
joint relief
breathing better
??????????
Get them some Pocket Therapies.
At the never-again Special price of $5.00 each
until December 31, 2011.

No Stress Holiday Gifts

2011-12-17T09:46:00.000-08:00

with IMMEDIATE REWARDS.
All natural, too!
Get a friend or loved one an Everlasting
Gardener Gift Set
AND . . .
Get a gift for yourself for FREE!
Whether they need some pamper time, a pick-me-up,
or help recuperating or de-stressing,
these Gift Sets will do the job.
Choose 2 Gift Sets and get a FREE
$6.00 value
Pocket Therapy
GIFT SETS:
Food Flavorings $6.25
Herb Tea Set $6.50
Recovery $9.50
Herbal Skin Care $13.25
Stress Relief $14.75
All About Lavender $17.50

Order here.
Be sure to tell us at checkout which
Pocket Therapy you want.
Merry Christmas!

Buy these...Get this FREE

2011-12-14T17:50:00.000-08:00

BUY THESE TWO GIFT SETS:
Herb Tea Set
Lavender Soother – 5 tea bags, each making a large mugful.
Ingredients: Lemon Balm, Lavender flowers, Sweet Marjoram
Summer’s Fragrance - 5 tea bags, each making a large mugful.
Ingredients: Lemon Balm, Monarda, Lavender flowers,
Rose petals, Mint, Sweet Marjoram, Chamomile.
Allergy Relief – 5 tea bags, each making a large mugful.
Ingredients: Lemon Balm, Elderflower, Monarda, Stinging Nettle,
Echinacea purpurea, Dwarf Myrtle, Chocolate Mint and Lavender
flowers.
$6.50 GS004

All About Lavender
Lavender Flowers - 1 cup, with recipes
Lavender essential oil - ¼ oz. dropper bottle
Decorated Lavender Bundle - A handful of Lavender
flowers ‘on the stem’, tied up with lavender ribbon and
adorned with a sweet mini flower arrangement.
Lavender Spice Simmering Potpourri – about ½ cup of
a mix of fragrant Lavender flowers, Orange peel, Cinnamon chips,
Licorice root, Rooibos, Cardamom, Anise seed and Clove buds.
$17.50 GS002
GET ONE OF THESE FREE
MANY ALTERNATE GIFT SET SUGGESTIONS and ORDER HERE

Gift-Giving Specials, new Recipes, Great article

2011-12-10T20:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!
I hope you are enjoying this warm time of year
when people care more for each other.

I wish YOU gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Why?
Please read my article on my website Home Page.

Lots of new healthy, herby recipes await you on the Recipes Page,
starting with one of the newest on the Home Page,
Roasted Butternut Squash and Leek Soup.

I am offering FANTASTIC gift-giving SPECIALS this month!
There are many ways for you to save when you give
gifts from Everlasting Gardener.
We’ll be glad to send your gift directly to your recipient,
with a card indicating you as the giver.

Check out all of these new additions to the website at
www.EverlastingGardener.net

And have a blessed Holiday Season!

December Specials

2011-12-07T18:42:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Everlasting Gardener is offering several
SPECIALS this month.
Can you think of someone who might like to have
one or more of these as a Holiday gift?
~ Buy 2 or more Gift Sets from Joanie’s website and
Get a FREE Pocket Therapy.
Indicate your Pocket Therapy choice during Check Out in the
“special instructions to seller” box.
~ Get $1.00 off ALL Pocket Therapies.
~ Buy $50.00 or more in Gift Sets and/or Products,
get FREE shipping.
December Specials are good until 11:59 pm,
December 31, 2011.

FREE Mulling Spices

2011-11-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

Last few days to get FREE Mulling Spices!
November Special:
Buy $15.00 worth of Everlasting Gardener products
from either the Products or Herbal Gifts pages,
Get a FREE Mulling Spices.
check this link to see beautiful Herbal Gift Sets:

FREE gift with $15 order

2011-11-24T19:19:00.000-08:00

Buy $15.00 worth of Everlasting Gardener products from
either my Products or Herbal Gifts pages,
and get a FREE Mulling Spices.
These spices are excellent in Cider, cranapple juice, wine, etc.
Even really good as Chai when you add tea and milk.
Here are some of my products on my Products page:
~ Lavender Goodies
~ Pocket Therapies:
ANTI-FUNGUS
BREATHE FREE
CALM
COOL FLASHES
JOINT RESTORE
MEMORY
MY HAPPY PLACE
Healing Salve
~ Therapeutic Teas
~ Food Flavorings
~ Potpourri and Ingredients
~ Gift Certificates
Here are some of my products on my
Herbal Gift Sets page:
Food Flavorings
Herb Tea Set
Recovery Set
Herbal Skin Care Set
Stress Relief
All About Lavender
CHECK THEM OUT - PICK SOME OUT FOR YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS, AND GET A FREE MULLING SPICES.
Happy Holidays!

Herb Plant FUN!

2011-11-19T21:09:00.001-08:00

Even when there are no Herbs growing in the garden
(after frost/freeze), I can still 'work' with them indoors.
Last week I took cuttings of Patchouli, Rosemary, Scented Geraniums, French Lavender, medicinal Herbs, and many more.
These propagated Herbs will make me happy all winter!
Just watching the little starts take root and grow brings
anticipation of another beautifully scented season
and delicious adventures in the kitchen.
Have you tried the Herbal recipes on my website?
Do you have your windowsill Herbs set up yet?
I wrote an article about Windowsill Herbs.
I also have the plants available and can ship them to you,
as the weather allows.
Contact me and I'll be glad to send some to you.

Herb Harvest CLASS

2011-11-15T19:25:00.000-08:00

PLEASE JOIN ME FOR MY CLASS
Sat. Nov. 19, 2011
Herb Harvest
1 to (approx.) 4 pm

Learn to preserve and use your Herbs during the cold months.
We will focus on the culinary, medicinal, and scent uses of
some Herbs which grow in the western Pennsylvania area.
Discover the preservation and uses of Herbs such as Thyme,
Rosemary, Lemon Balm, Boneset, Comfrey, St. John’s wort,
Mint and Lavender.

We will accomplish 3 projects: Herbal vinegar, potpourri and
a dried Herbs project.

Class fee is $29 per person.
Go here to register.

Harmony Christmas Market

2011-11-10T18:00:00.000-08:00

I'll have lovely scented gift items this Saturday!
Come and see how I put together my Precious Spice Incense Potpourri.
I'll also be assembling my famous Mulling Spices.
Watch while I demonstrate the making of my
beautiful, fragrant Decorated Lavender Bundles
See you then!
Sat., Nov. 12, 11 - 6 pm
Sun., Nov. 13 about 12:30 to 4 pm
You'll enjoy the rest of the Market vendors as well.
Here are the particulars:
Harmony Christmas Market
See you then!

See you this Saturday & Sunday!

2011-11-07T18:53:00.000-08:00

at the Harmony Christmas Market
I will be demonstrating some of my Herbal products
and giving samples of my Pocket Therapies.
I am offering for sale my Herb products that are
suitable for holiday gift-giving.
Come and visit me at my table at the Harmony Museum
in Harmony, Pennsylvania!
Saturday, Nov. 12, 11:0 to 6:00
Sunday, Nov. 13, Noon(ish) to 4:00
Many other exciting and quality vendors display their wares.
Here's more info about Harmony Christms Market

November Class

2011-11-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

Herb Harvest
Sat. Nov. 19, 2011, 1 to (approx.) 4 pm
at Everlasting Gardener
Learn to preserve and use your Herbs during the cold months.
We will focus on the culinary, medicinal, and scent uses of
some Herbs which grow in the western Pennsylvania area.
Discover the preservation and uses of Herbs such as Thyme,
Rosemary, Lemon Balm, Boneset, Comfrey, St. John’s wort,
Mint and Lavender.

We will accomplish 3 projects:
Herbal vinegar, potpourri and a dried Herbs project.
All materials supplied by Joanie.

Class fee is $29 per person.
Go to my website to register using secure PayPal.

Here comes winter!

2011-11-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

Would you like a little help staying healthy for the next few months?
~ Check out my article
“Elderberry and Echinacea, Extraordinary Virus-Fighters”
~ I have posted tasty NEW recipes on my website Recipes page.
The Home page features “Butternut Squash Soup”.
~ My GIFT to you this month is a warming mixture of spices
for your hot Cider or Cranberry drinks.
Receive a FREE bag - see my Specials page for the details.
~ I am teaching a “Herb Harvest” class this month
It’s about preserving and using Herbs during the months when
you can’t grow and pick them fresh from the garden.
We’ll make Herbal projects together.
~ Please visit my FaceBook page - I’d really appreciate if you would ‘like’ it.
I hope you enjoy all the new additions on my website this month -
It is full of information you can use!

Go to www.EverlastingGardener.net to see all the new additions.

New Recipe!!!

2011-10-29T20:33:00.000-07:00

GREEK STYLE COUSCOUS WITH HERBS
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon minced Garlic
1/2 cup pearl (Israeli) couscous
1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes or ½ c. chopped fresh tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
1 cup canned garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 Tablespoon fresh chopped Italian Parsley
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 Tablespoon cider vinegar
1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice
Pour the chicken broth and water into a saucepan, stir in the garlic, and bring to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover the pan, and remove from heat. Allow the couscous to stand until all the water has been absorbed, about 5 minutes; fluff with a fork. Allow the couscous to cool to warm temperature.
In a large serving bowl, lightly toss the couscous, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and garbanzo beans. Mix the Parsley, black pepper, cider vinegar, and lemon juice in a small bowl, and pour over the couscous mixture. Toss again to serve.
lst 2 days to send me YOUR Herbal recipe, and win $5 off any of my products.

GET $5 OFF

2011-10-26T18:43:00.000-07:00

for sending me YOUR Herbal recipe!
(details linked at end of this recipe)
Here's one for you . . .

GREEN TOMOATO CAKE
2 ¼ cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
3 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
1 cup pecans or walnuts
1 cup raisins
2 ½ cups diced green tomatoes
coconut (optional)

Cream cheese frosting (optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F. In mixing bowl, beat sugar, vegetable oil or shortening, eggs and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Sift together the flour, salt, baking powder, cinnamon and nutmeg; slowly beat into egg mixture. Blend well. Stir in pecans, raisins and tomatoes. Pour into greased 9x13-inch pan.
Top with coconut if desired.

Bake for one hour, or until a wooden pick or cake tester inserted in center comes out clean. Frost cooled cake with cream cheese frosting if desired. Serves 12.
Here's how to get $5.00 off for your recipe

Apple Fritters

2011-10-20T19:10:00.000-07:00

Delicious and EASY!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1 1/4 cup milk
2 quarts oil for deep frying
4 large apples, peeled and cored
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar for dusting

The rest of the recipe....

#14 - Best Windowsill herbs

2011-10-18T18:32:00.000-07:00

BASIL
Ocimum basilicum
This herb loves a warm and sunny situation and rich potting soil. You might think that it wants lots of water, but it prefers to grow a little on the dry side. Basil is so much better used fresh-picked. If you don’t have a sunny enough (7 to 10 hours of brighrt sunshine) window in which to grow it in the winter, supplement with spectrum-correct lights.
Basil has many uses - in the kitchen, for skin care and as medicine.
CULINARY
Try Basil in sweet breads, on salads (even potato or macaroni), in vinegars, marinades, marinara sauce and jellies. Its flavor compliments garlic nicely. If you make Pesto with it, you can use that to make savory muffins, or put some in soups and stews.
SKIN CARE
Make a tea, strain, and add to the bath for a refreshing experience.
MEDICINAL
The infusion aids digestion. Basil can be an uplifting, energizing antidepressant. For a head cold, try a mixture of Basil, Eucalyptus and Ginger tea. Basil can also help with headaches and respiratory concerns.
Go here for more info on Basil.
Contact Joanie to buy plants for YOUR windowsill.

The Care and Enjoyment of Scented Geraniums

2011-10-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

Scented Geraniums have beautifully-scented leaves – rose, peppermint, different kinds of lemon, lime, rose-lemon, gooseberry, and many more. The Rose-scented geranium, ‘P. graveolens‘, yields a light rose perfume with fresh green notes. ‘Lemon Meringue’ smells like the pie for which it is named.
The lemon-scented “French Lace” is a petite, variegated, curly-leaved, very ornamental plant, useful for making into a topiary.
Years ago, The Victorians would bring their pots of Scented Geraniums indoors for the winter, and set them on the floor where the sun would nurture them and their skirts could rustle them to release the scent. In the summertime, they placed the pots along walkways to give the same aromatic effect.

Most of them grow within the 10 inch to 2 foot high range, though to keep them at a manageable size, they can be pinched out and used, as described below. To harvest the leaves, pick them at any time, then they can be dried.
Any scent of Scented Geranium will give the effects described below, except as noted.
Scented Geraniums have many uses, including for skin care, scent enjoyment, in the kitchen and for the betterment of health.
Cosmetic
Infuse leaves to make a tea and use to ensure skin healing, increased circulation and soothe many skin conditions.
Aromatic
The highly-scented geranium leaves are great for potpourris, pillows and other crafts needing a variety of scents.
Medicinal
The strong tea can be used the bath or in massage for dermatitis, eczema, herpes and other skin ailments. Or put 2 drops of the essential oil into about a Tablespoon of your favorite lotion, or olive oil. Massage as a boost to the nervous system. The ‘graveolens’ variety (Rose-scented), in particular, has the following properties: relaxant, antidepressant, antiseptic, reduces inflammation and controls bleeding. The ‘tomentosum’ variety - Peppermint Scented Geranium - is used as a poultice for bruises and sprains.
Culinary
Infuse as a strong tea or chop finely, to use in making sauces, custards, jellies, icing, sugars, syrups and vinegars (macerate whole leaves). Crystallize to decorate cakes. Lay leaves under baked apples or cake batter to infuse their lovely flavor.
Check my Recipes page for a super recipe - Chocolate Rose Geranium Pound Cake
You can buy Scented Geraniums from Everlasting Gardener, either at the
Greenhouse or by mail. See the Herb Plants page for availability of plants.
Find out more about Scented Geranium uses and the care of the plants.

Best Windowsill Herbs - # 12

2011-10-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

Oregano
likes to grow in full sun on the windowsill (or be supplemented with artificial light), in well-drained soil, high in organic matter/nutrients, and alkaline. Oregano's flavor IMPROVES with high nutrients, unlike most other herbs.
This savory herb originates in Greece (also Europe), which is where it received its name oros ganos meaning “joy of the mountains”. It is a little bush, usually growing no more than 2 ½ feet high when flowering, and spreads by rhizomatous stems. The oval-shaped leaf grows to no more than 1 ½ inches long.
However, the variegated Sweet Oregano stays a diminutive 8" high and the leaves get about 3/4 inch long.
To harvest, pick leaves for everyday seasoning or medicine. If necessary, preserve them by drying, macerating in oil or vinegar. The flowering tops should be dried.
USES
Culinary
Add the leaves to strong-flavored meat dishes, like chili, and any foods that include Garlic, red wine or other strong herbs. Great in pizza, egg, cheese and tomato dishes. Oregano is often included in ‘bouquet garni’. An important flavoring in Italian, Greek and Mexican cooking.
Household
Leaf and Flower is used in potpourris.
Cosmetic
Make strong tea of the leaves and add to the bath for relaxing. Use the strong tea
as a hair conditioner.
Medicinal
This pungently aromatic antiseptic and warming herb relaxes spasms, increases perspiration, benefits digestion, stimulates the uterus and is a mild expectorant.
Make a tea of the flowering top for coughs, colds, flu, indigestion, gas, stomach and gallbladder issues, nervous headaches and irritability, general exhaustion and menstrual pains. Drink to calm as a mild sedative and as a sea-sickness preventive. Apply tea externally in a poultice for bronchitis, asthma, arthritis, swellings, rheumatism and stiff neck.
For temporary relief of toothache, chew a leaf or two.
CAUTION: Can stimulate the uterus.
See my entire article about the care and uses of Herbs grown indoors.

October CONTEST

2011-10-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

I’m running a CONTEST!
I would love to see your favorite herbal recipes.
Then I'll share them with everyone who visits my website.
Send your recipes that use herbs for flavor by
e-mailing or snail-mailing them to me
Your name will be entered in the contest,
which ends at 11:59 pm, Monday, Oct. 31, 2011
5 people will be randomly chosen to receive a
$5.00 credit for any product that you can order from my website.
Check out some of the delectable recipes - tried and true! -
on my website Recipes page

# 11 Best Windowsill Herbs

2011-10-06T19:22:00.000-07:00

Sweet Marjoram
Origanum vulgare

Sweet Marjoram was introduced to Europe and in the Middle Ages was in demand by ladies “to put in nosegays, sweet bags and sweet washing waters“. The Herbalist Gerard prescribed it for those who “are given to overmuch sighing”. Culpepper, in the 1600s, used Sweet Marjoram for the brain, stomach, chest and phlegm complaints.
It was introduced into North America by the early colonists. Grow Sweet Marjoram in full sun with good drainage. They also like alkaline and high-nutrient soil. It is a tender plant in temperate climates.
Sweet Marjoram can be grown indoors in a very sunny window, for the winter. The
fragrant leaves can be harvested anytime throughout the growing season. The leaves, when not used fresh, are dried or frozen, or steeped in vinegar.
The leaves of Sweet Marjoram are used in cooking. Chop up to put into salads and in
butter sauces for fish. Infuse as an aromatic tea.
Aromatic uses - in potpourris and sleep pillows.
The FLOWERING TOP is used for Medicinal purposes.
Make a tea for colds, headaches, nervous disorders, asthma, coughs, antidote to narcotic poisoning, and upset stomach or digestive tract. Add a strong tea to the
bath, ointments or compresses for relief from rheumatic pains and tension.
The primary nutrients in Sweet Marjoram are calcium, iron, magnesium, niacin, phosphorous, potassium, riboflavin, silicon, sodium, thiamine,
Vitamins A, B 12 and C, zinc.
Go to my Herb Plants page for more information.

Ohhh . . . October!

2011-10-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

The hard work of gardening is over, and we can relax a little.
Check out these changes on my website:

~ Visit my Recipes page for some new, enticing harvest time recipes.
EASY “Apple Fritters” is on the home page.

~ My new article, starting on the Home page, is about the “best of all” Windowsill Herbs.

~ I’m teaching a Reflexology class this month – find out
how you can get $2.00 off the class fee.

~ I’m running a CONTEST!
I would love to see your favorite herbal recipes.
Your name will be entered when you e-mail or send them
to me, and 5 of you will be randomly chosen to receive a
$5.00 credit for any product that you order from my website.

Visit my website to find out more:
www.EverlastingGardener.net
Thanks so much for being interested in the exciting world of Herbs!

10 th in the "Best of Windowsill Herbs" list

2011-09-28T18:14:00.000-07:00

Scented Geraniums
Pelargonium species

The Rose-scented geranium, ‘P. graveolens‘, yields a light rose perfume with fresh green notes. The Victorians used to bring their pots of Scented Geraniums indoors and set them on the floor where the sun would nurture them and their skirts could rustle them to release the scent. In the summertime, they placed the pots along walkways to give the same aromatic effect.
Scented Geraniums make excellent house plants during the cold months, and should be
planted in the ground in the warm months. Most of them grow within the 8” to 2 foot-high range, though to keep them at a manageable size, they can be pinched out and used, as described below. To harvest the leaves, pick them at any time, then they can be dried.
USES
Culinary
Leaf - Infuse as a strong tea or chop finely, to use in making sauces, custards, jellies, icing, sugars, syrups and vinegars (macerate whole leaves). Crystallize to decorate cakes. Lay leaves under baked apples or cake batter to impart the lovely flavor.
The different scented geraniums impart their distinctive flavors to various types of dishes. For instance, the nutmeg-scented one for liver pate, or the intensely lemon-scented “Mabel Grey” for its strong lemon scent in jelly. The lemon-scented “French Lace” is a petite, variegated, curly-leaved, very ornamental plant, useful for making into a topiary.
Cosmetic
Leaf - Infuse as a mild astringent rinse to clean and help circulation of pale, sluggish complexions, and balance out oily skin. All Scented Geraniums can be added to the bathwater for their help in soothing many skin conditions.
Aromatic
Leaf - Use in potpourri and pillows.
Medicinal
Leaf - The poultice or strong tea can be used in massage for relif of PMS and fluid retention, dermatitis, eczema, herpes and dry skin ailments. Massage as a boost to the nervous system. The ‘graveolens’ variety (Rose-scented), in particular, has the following properties: relaxant, antidepressant, antiseptic, reduces inflammation and controls bleeding. The ‘tomentosum’ variety - Peppermint Scented Geranium - is used as a poultice for bruises and sprains.
Last two days to get a FREE Scented Geranium with my "Buy One, Get One FREE" SPECAIL!

Special Event

2011-09-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

Joanie is associated with impressive
Glade Run Lutheran Services,
as their part-time Therapeutic Horticulture instructor.
Glade Run invites all community members to
their Fall Festival Open House and Celebration
Saturday, October 1
1 to 4 pm (rain or shine)
at Glade Run Zelienople campus, 70 Beaver Rd., Zelienople, PA 16063

It will be an afternoon of fun activities, including
~ tours of the cottages
~ new education building
~ historic agency landmarks
~ raffles, prizes and snack food
~ their exciting therapeutic animal and horticulture program
~ many more family-friendly activities

Plenty of free parking available.

Joanie will be conducting tours of the Gardens and Greenhouse
throughout the afternoon.
The Glade Run therapeutic Adventures program includes both the
Horticulture and Animal program.
In addition to the tours of the Gardens and Greenhouse,
there will be a Fall Plant Sale of Mums, Perennials, Herbs and
Houseplants, and exciting raffles which support the therapeutic
Adventures Program.
The Animal Program will be giving Hayrides, and showing folks
the Horses, Heirloom Chickens and other small animals.
To find out more about Glade Run Lutheran Services, check out
their website: http://gladerun.org/
If you can attend, please RSVP to 724-452-4453, ext. 1108
or e-mail at foundation@gladerun.org

See you then!

Windowsill herb # 9 - MINT

2011-09-25T19:38:00.000-07:00

Mentha species

The name Mint comes from Minthe of Greek mythology, a nymph beloved of Pluto, who transformed her into this aromatic plant when his wife threatened action against her. Mint has been valued ever since, reference being made to it in the Bible. The Hebrews scattered it on synagogue floors, and it was used centuries later in the same way in Italian churches, then in Medieval times, also as a ‘strewing’ herb. The Romans flavored sauces and wines with Mint. In Japan, people valued the invigorating scent so highly that they made little scented balls of it to hang around their necks. By the 9 th Century hundreds of Mint varieties had been introduced to Europe, as the plant readily self-hybridizes. The more well-known and commonly-grown mints are: Chocolate, Corsican, Eau de Cologne, Spearmint, Peppermint, Curly, and Variegated Apple. Most people just smell the plants in order to pick the variety they want to grow or use, rather than choose a plant by name. The plants can be grown indoors, in a sunny, cool window. The leaf-stems are the part used, and can be dried, frozen or infused in oil or vinegar, to preserve.
USES
Decorative
Leaf - Use in herb posies and bouquets for invalids.
Culinary
Leaf - Mint makes a refreshing tea, especially when different kinds are blended. Use in mint sauces, vinegars, syrups, and with chocolate in desserts. Crystallize as a sweet for decoration. Add fresh leaves to veggie dishes, such as new potatoes and peas, and to fruit salads, sun tea and punch. Use sparingly in soups and stuffings.~
Household
Leaf - Mice detest mint, so scatter the leaves around food to discourage them. Lay Pennyroyal in pet beds to deter fleas.
Cosmetic Leaf - Make a strong tea to heal chapped hands. Add to bathwater for an invigorating bath. (Eau de Cologne Mint) Makes a refreshing bath.
Aromatic
Leaf - Use in potpourris and herb bags.
Medicinal
Leaf - (Spearmint) Inhale drops of essential oil sprinkled on a handerchief, for relief from colds’ congestion. (Peppermint) Make a tea to help heal indigestion, colds and flu. Sip cold tea for relief of flatulence and hiccups. (Spearmint and Peppermint) Soak leaves in oil to massage into the head where migraine pain appears, or for facial neuralgia (KEEP AWAY FROM EYES!), and rheumatic and muscular aches, especially during winter.
Buy one windowsill Herb, GET ONE FREE!!!

8 th in series...Windowsill Herbs

2011-09-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

Aloe vera
Many households keep a plant on a nearby windowsill, to deal with kitchen burns or scrapes and wounds. Aloe is also used in cosmetics such as hand creams, suntan lotions, skin care products and shampoos. But the fresh sap is the very best at healing.
The plant is happily grown on a windowsill - one of the best indoor plants - in full or part sun. Indoors, Aloe enjoys well-drained potting soil.
How to use:Break a larger, bottom leaf from the plant and mash it. You will notice it makes a sticky, clear gel which is a soothing and healing moisturizing cream, suited for all
skin types. For itchy, dry scalp, mix the sap into shampoo. For a healing, soothing effect, add to suntan lotion.
For Medicinal Uses - For burns, eczema, dermatitis or chapped skin, use either the sliced leaf or the crushed sap as a poultice. For small burns, break a leaf and apply the sap. For large burns, split a leaf, open it up and lay the sappy side on the injured skin. Lightly bandage so it stays on. Renew often. Make sure to see a health care provider for serious burns.
WHOLE Aloe leaf may be used internally when a cathartic is needed (a cathartic is a
substance that purges the body, usually the intestine, and cleanses the system). In a small dosage it increases menstrual flow, when it should be combined with carminatives (which stimulate the peristalsis of the digestive system and relax the stomach), to reduce griping.
Many naturalists recommend the use of a drink containing the juice of the INNER leaf to soothe stomach ulcers, and the entire digestive tract, as when the colon is extremely aggravated.
Get an Aloe FREE by participating in my Sept. SPECIAL

Part 7 - Windowsill Herbs - Thyme

2011-09-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

The genus name probably derives from
the Greek ‘thymon’, which means courage.
The Egyptians used it as a powerful
antiseptic and preservative, especially
for their embalming, which is
one of its present-day uses, as well
as a preservative for anatomical
and herbarium specimens.
Sprigs were clasped by nobility to
protect themselves from disease and odor.
Thyme likes to grow in full sun in well-drained, alkaline soil, just like it
does on the sunny hillsides of their native Mediterranean lands. The plant adapts well to indoor growing conditions but must be in a very sunny situation.
USES~
~ Decorative
WHOLE PLANT - Grow the shrubby varieties as low hedges, and the creeping varieties as aromatic carpets.
FLOWER and LEAF - Include with summer posies or tussie mussies.
~ Culinary
LEAF - Mix with Parsley and Bay in ’bouquet garni’. Add sparingly (due to strong, pungent flavor) to stocks, marinades, stuffings, sauces and soups. Aids in the digestion of fatty foods. Foods like poultry, shellfish and game, when cooked slowly in wine, will benefit from the use of Thyme. This is a flavor in Benedictine liqueur.
Lemon Thyme is particularly well-suited to chicken and fish dishes, hot vegetables,
fruit salads and jams.
~ Household
FLOWER - This herb is loved by bees, and the honey made from it is excellent.
LEAF - Make a strong tea for use as a household disinfectant.
~ Cosmetic
LEAF - Make a strong tea to stimulate circulation, and use in baths, facial steams and ointments for spots. Infuse with Rosemary as a hair rinse to help prevent dandruff.
~ Aromatic
LEAF - Use in potpourri.
~ Medicinal
LEAF - English wild Thyme has the strongest medicinal qualities, but any Thyme can be used. Make a tea to use as a digestive tonic, for respiratory and digestive infections, and for hangovers. Mix the tea with honey to quell convulsive coughs, colds and sore throats, for bronchitis, whooping cough and asthma. Thyme may also relieve insomnia, poor capillary circulation, muscular pain and stimulate the production of white corpuscles to resist infection.
If you'd like to get a Thyme plant for your windowsill FREE, go here....

Part 6 - Windowsill Herbs

2011-09-20T18:49:00.000-07:00

Lemon Verbena
Aloysia triphylla
Lemon Verbena, native to South America,
got its name from the Princess of Parma,
Maria Louisa, who died in 1819.
The plant traveled from Chile to Spain
in the 18 th century.
The Spanish
cultivated Lemon Verbena for its use in
PERFUMERY, especially the citrus cologne
eau de verveine. In the Victorian era
it was called "THE LEMON PLANT".
I like to describe the scent as "lemon lollipop".

The LEAVES of the plant is what is used: they retain their scent well in potpourris, and the FRESH LEAVES flavor tea, jelly, stuffing, salad and dressing.
MEDICINALLY, its action is similar to that of Lemon Balm. Lemon Verbena is known to calm digestive upset and is a very mild sedative. It is a tonic for the nervous system and helps to alleviate depression.
COSMETIC USES --
Soak the leaves in almond oil to use in massage. Try adding lavender or rosemary for added therapy. Easier yet, use the essential oil of Lemon Verbena and/or the other two, in combination.
Use this same oil to make lotions and creams. To help get rid of puffy eyes - make a tea of the Lemon Verbena leaves, let it cool, soak cotton pads with the tea, and lay on your closed eyes for 15 minutes. Make a strong tea, strain and put about 2 cups into your bath water, for its help for the nerves and mood. Make a vinegar that is skin softening and refreshing.
AROMATIC USES --
Besides using the leaves in a potpourri, try different types of herbal sachets, for the linen drawer, sofa and bed pillow. Use the essential oil in your own personal perfume blend.
(Joanie has the essential oils and will help you make a personalized perfume - just ask!)
MEDICINAL USES --
Make a tea that is good for calming, and also soothes bronchial and nasal congestion. It can also help take away indigestion, gas, stomach cramps, nausea.
Owing to its tenderness, the plant must be kept indoors until at least the end of May, here in western Pennsylvania.
In the fall "Pot up" the plant into a bigger pot, adding compost and some pelleted 20-20-20 fertilizer. Sometimes, even when kept in a brightly-lit, sunny window (at least 6 hours of full sun) your Lemon Verbena plant can go into a semi-dormant stage over the winter. With the warming and sunny days, new leaves have begin to sprout out of the stems. Sometimes, not being outside in the sun and warmth makes the plants somewhat stressed, and it may get aphids or mealybugs. Use an organic Neem spray. Spray it about twice a week, keeping it out of direct sun for a day after you spray it with the neem mixture (which could burn the leaves if you put it in full sun right away). Do this for a week or two, and soon you will find a healthy plant. You can also begin fertilizing the plant when you see that it has resumed full growth. A good 20-20-20 fertilizer, with a small amount of seaweed emulsion, makes the plant grow lustily.
Check my Buy One get One FREE Sept. SPECIAL

Bouquet garni

2011-09-19T18:59:00.000-07:00

is a mix of Herbs used to
flavor soups and stews,
braised dishes and other
liquid-based foods.
You can place the Herbs in a
tea ball, tie Herb sprigs
together at the base of the
stems (a real bouquet!),
or enclose dried or minced
fresh or frozen Herbs in a
little bag of muslin or
cheesecloth.
Put the Herbs into the dish during the last
30 minutes or so of cooking. Pull them out
when the dish is finished cooking, leaving
the savory scent and flavor behind.
Traditionally, Bouquet garni includes Parsley,
Sweet Bay, Thyme and Basil.
Rosemary is often added.
When making your own, you can vary the mix
using any of the above with the substitution of
Savory, Celery or Lovage.
You could experiment and adapt the blend of Herbs
according to what you’re cooking.
If you'd like me to send you a bundle of Bouquet garni
for $4.00 each, please Contact Me

Another Excellent Windowsill Herb

2011-09-18T19:21:00.000-07:00

ROSEMARY
is one of the most popular of
all Herbs that can be cultivated
on your sunny windowsill.
Here are some uses for this aromatic
plant's leaves:
~ Chop it up and add it to your stew,
meats or marinara sauce.
~ Lay some sprigs on top of broiled, barbequed, boiled or baked chicken, fish, roasts
~ Research indicates consumption of Rosemary helps prevent Altzheimer’s disease.
Due to its circulatory stimulant properties, it has been known to increase memory retention.
It’s best to consume some each day.
~ OR, to help prevent dementia/Altzheimer's use the ESSENTIAL OIL, inhaled.
~ Wherever you have an ache or stiff joint, massage the essential oil into your arms, shoulders, knees (about 3 drops with a teaspoon of olive oil). It eases pain by increasing circulation to the area

~ Make a delicious tea with Rosemary leaves.
~ More Culinary uses: put the delicate flowers in salads, or crystallize them for garnish – they look like little orchids! The leaves make an excellent herb butter to use on veggies. Lay rosemary leaves on lamb and pork to impart a distinctive flavor because it aids in digesting fats.
~ Cosmetic uses: make a tea with the leaves and put in the bath to stimulate blood circulation.
Its essential oil stimulates hair follicles, useful for treating premature baldness.
~ Medicinal uses: the fresh leaves or the essential oil is inhaled to lift some types of depression.
The essential oil (about 3 drops with a teaspoon of olive oil) can ease muscular pain, sciatica and neuralgia, when rubbed into the painful area.
~ Rosemary can also be used as an antiseptic gargle and mouthwash.

Are you curious about Rosemary's origin and uses over the ages?
Get more info about cultivating and harvesting Rosemary HERE

Herbs that Grow Indoors in the Winter - Part 4

2011-09-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

Lemon Grass
Cymbopogon citratus
This lemony herb is a grass from
the tropics, native to S. India,
Sri Lanka. It grows its arching,
linear leaves to around 3 feet tall,
in temperate climates.
On a sunny windowsill or greenhouse,
it likes full sun and a minimum of
55 degrees.
The parts of Lemongrass that are used
are the leaves, stems and oil.

USES ~
Culinary ~ Stalks and Leaves - chop into salads. Infuse leaves
as stomach-settling tea. The base of the leaves are used in
SE Asian cooking, especially with fish, meat, sauces and curries.

Medicinal ~ Use the tea in a skin refreshener to clean oily skin
and as a relaxant in bath water. It is also used for children’s
digestive problems, and minor feverish illness. For skin health,
it is used for ringworm, lice, athlete’s foot, arthritis and scabies.
See more windowsill Herbs and my Sept. 'Buy one get one FREE' special.

Wild Mustard

2011-09-13T19:34:00.000-07:00

Cruciferea
Sometimes cultivated as a
salad ‘green’, Mustard can
also be gathered from the wild.
It grows almost everywhere on
earth. Mustard is so fast
growing, it was said you could
grow the salad for dinner while
the meat was roasting.
The leaves are oval, pointed and dark green
and have yellow flowers. The young leaves
are best eaten fresh in salads. The older
leaves are boiled as a pot herb, added to
soups and stews, etc. They are delicious
tossed in salads, as are the leaves.
White Mustard seeds are used in pickling as
a preservative. You may have heard (or used)
the old-time remedy of using the crushed
seeds in a paste on the skin for de-congesting
the lungs.
Applied to joints, they ease arthritis, and
in a foot bath they warm and deodorize feet
and relieve colds.
Try the vitamin-filled leaves in your salad
or vegetable soup soon!

Here's a great way to enjoy your wild Mustard -

Braised Leeks and Mustard Greens
Ingredients -
4 leeks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cups washed, dried and chopped mustard greens
2 tablespoons chicken broth, or as needed
salt and ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Directions -
Trim leeks so that about 1 1/2 inches of green leaves
remain, and slice the leeks in half lengthwise.
Separate leaves and pull the leeks apart to rinse
away any dirt and sand in the layers, then chop
leeks into 1 1/2-inch pieces.
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, and cook
and stir the leeks until they begin to separate and
soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in mustard greens, and
pour in enough chicken broth to just cover the bottom
of the pan and prevent leeks from browning. Cook the
leeks and mustard greens until the greens turn bright
green and start to soften, another 2 to 3 minutes.
Season to taste with salt and black pepper, and
sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Check this for more Herbal recipes.

Beet Salad with Greens and Almonds

2011-09-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

REALLY DELICIOUS . . . .
1 bunch beets (any type), both tops and roots
Olive oil
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 ounces goat (OR Feta) cheese, crumbled
2/3 cup toasted almond slivers
1-2 tsp. balsamic vinegar

Heat oven to 425°F. Use heavy foil, large enough to completely
enclose the beet roots. Lightly rinse the beet roots to remove
any really clumpy dirt and pat them dry. Place them in the foil
and lightly drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with
salt and pepper. Fold up the foil and crease to seal.
Bake the beets for 60 minutes or until they can be just pierced
with a fork. Set aside to cool.

Meanwhile, wash, then chop the beet greens into bite-size ribbons.
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat
and add the garlic. Cook on low for about 2 minutes or until the
garlic is golden and fragrant. Add the chopped leaves and stir to
coat with the garlic. Cook on medium-low for 5 minutes, then cover
and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the leaves are soft and
tender. Remove from the heat.
When the beets are cool, remove the skins. Chop into bite sized
pieces and toss with the cooked greens, goat cheese, vinegar and
almonds. Taste and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm or cold.
Go here for more delicious recipes using HEALTHY Herbs.

Herbs for Your Windowsill

2011-09-07T18:14:00.000-07:00

Part 3
You'll be glad you chose
Germander
Teucrium chamaedrys
to grow indoors for the winter.
A trim little evergreen bush with glossy green foliage,
it has small, two-lipped, tubular, purplish-pink flowers.
When they’re rubbed, the leaves smell pleasantly spicy.
Germander grows 1 to 2 feet high and prefers full or part
sun in well-drained soil.
Use Germander as medicine:
A strong tea of the leaves was an olden-day remedy for
gout and painful limbs, such as from rheumatism, because
it reduces inflammation. It is used as a diuretic and
stimulating tonic and recommended for coughs and
asthma because it is decongestant. It stimulates digestion,
and is also used to encourage weight loss.
Externally, a strong germander tea is used as a mouthwash
for gum disease, skin eruptions and injuries.
The leaves are used to flavor liqueurs, vermouths and
tonic wines.
Be careful not to consume excessive amounts of Germander.
Dried Germander is used in potpourri.
You could get Germander for FREE.
Here's how.

Herbs that Grow GREAT on a Sunny Windowsill

2011-09-06T19:40:00.000-07:00

Part 2

BAY
SWEET BAY/LAUREL
Laurus nobilis
Bay is a tender perennial, and when
temperatures get below 40 degrees,
flourishes indoors in high-sunlight
window or under supplemental lighting.
It’s the leaves which are used,
and they can be harvested any time
of the year.
A wreath of Bay leaves adorned poets
and athletes of excellence, as bay
was the ancient symbol of wisdom and
glory.
Laureate means “crowned with laurels”
and so came the names poet laureate
and baccalaureate.
Bay is associated with Aesculapius,
Apollo’s son, the Greek god of medicine,
and has been used against the plague
for centuries.
USES . . .
DECORATIVE - The whole plant can be trimmed as a
topiary, the leaves for making wreaths.
CULINARY - Use in a little bag of herbs called
“bouquet garni”, with other herbs, each appropriate
for stews, soups and sauces. Add bay to marinades,
stocks, potato soup, stuffing, pate, curry, game
and poached fish liquid.
The leaf is removed before serving, as it is
leathery-stiff and has sharp edges, thus is
capable of cutting the mouth or throat.
Boil in milk to flavor custard or rice pudding.
To flavor rice, put bay leaves in its storage container.
Bay leaves, when used in cooking foods, have a positive
effect on digestion and absorption of food.
Like spearmint and rosemary, Bay helps break down heavy,
fatty foods.
MEDICINAL - Make a tea to help with digestion and
stimulate the appetite.
Use in a massage oil (in a very dilute 2% concentration)
for helping sprains and rheumatic joints. Make a strong
tea, strain and add to the bath to soothe aches and pains.
ALL LAURELS EXCEPT SWEET BAY ARE POISONOUS.
SPECIAL on windowsill Herb plants

Herbs that Grow GREAT on a Sunny Windowsill, Part 1

2011-09-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

1. MYRTLE
Myrtus communis
If you choose to cultivate Myrtle,
it will reward you with its dark
green, shiny leaves that smell of
spicy orange sweetness, its pretty
white flowers and purple-black
berries. Not only that, but it has
a multitude of uses in the kitchen
and household, for skin care and
medicine.
From ancient times the Greeks
and Romans revered it as a symbol
of love and the goddess Venus.
The Greek physician Dioscorides
described it as “a friend to the
stomach”. The Romans use it lavishly at weddings and
other celebrations. John Parkinson, the apothecary,
felt that “we nourish Myrtles with great care for
their beautiful aspect, sweet scent and rarity.”
Myrtle, especially the dwarf variety, adapts
well to growing indoors during the cold months. It
does not tolerate temperatures below 41 degrees F,
and enjoys Mediterranean-like conditions. Grow it
in your sunniest window, or with supplemental
lighting. You can use the branches, leaves, flowers
and berries.
Here’s how:
The BRANCHES are laid under pork roast or when
grilling lamb to impart great flavor. They are also
used to make a strong tea to add to furniture polish,
increasing its effectiveness. You can make a beautiful
wreath with them as well.
FLOWERS: For a fragrant addition to fruit salads,
remove the green parts.Pulverize them and use in
ointments to fight skin blemishes. They add fragrance
to potpourri.
LEAVES: To diminish skin blemishes, crush the
leaves and add to lotions. Potpourris take on a spicy
citrus fragrance when Myrtle leaves are added.
Make a tea with them to use as an antiseptic and
astringent, to fight sinus ailments and heal psoriasis
and wounds. Make a compress and apply them to bruises
and hemorrhoids. Drink the tea to remedy digestive and
urinary complaints.
BERRIES: Grind them and use in foods when you need
a juniper-berry flavor.Make a strong tea to rinse dark hair.
CAUTION though the essential oil of Myrtle can be rubbed
on the skin as a decongestant and to help clear other
respiratory ailments such as bronchitis, it should never
be taken internally unless under a professional’s care.
Go here to see my SPECIAL on windowsill Herb plants

New for September, 2011

2011-09-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

~ SPECIAL price on Herb plants for indoor use -
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE!
~ delectable new Recipes, like
Swiss Chard with Orzo and Chervil
~ interesting new article
~ Sept. class "Preparing and Using Medicinal Herbs"
you've gotta see my website changes for this month!

Dandelion

2011-08-30T20:09:00.000-07:00

(Taraxacum officinale)
got its name from the French
“dent de lion”, referring to
its saw-toothed leaves.
It’s often disparaged as a weed
found in our lawns.
Dandelion grows wild in most
parts of the world, and is
actually cultivated in Germany
and France.
Its leaves can be picked to make
inexpensive and very nutritious salad greens,
containing vitamins A, B, C and D, and minerals
including potassium.
The leaves also have diuretic action.
Dandelion’s root has very effective detoxifying
action. It works mainly on the liver, also the
kidneys, to help remove waste products due to
pollution or infections in the body.
Because it works to remove toxins through the
liver, Dandelion relieves skin conditions like
acne, psoriasis, and arthritis, osteoarthritis
and gout.
We all ought to take advantage of this
free gift of nature.
More info on wild Herbs, and Garden Herbs, here.

Rosemary Chicken Salad

2011-08-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

Try this high-protein, tasty salad:
Into a saucepan, place about 1/3 c. water and
1 large Chicken breast.
Lay 2 or 3 4” long Rosemary sprigs on top.
Cover, bring to the boil, then simmer about
an hour, until tender.
Cool in the pan, then cut the chicken into small pieces.
Freeze liquid to use as soup stock.
Add to the chicken:
2/3 cup diced celery
2 Tbsp. minced sweet onion
4 Tbsp. dried cranberries
about 2/3 c. Miracle Whip
Stir well, refrigerate an hour or overnight, to
let the flavors blend.
Serve as is, atop greens, or put into a sandwich.
More Herbal recipes here

Goldenrod

2011-08-23T12:50:00.000-07:00

genus Solidago
is found mainly in meadows in
North America, and blooms this
time of year through September,
in western Pennsylvania.
You can use the leaves and flowering
tops for healing. The genus name
derives from the Latin solidare
‘to make whole’. The herbalist John
Gerard (circa 1597) regarded it highly
"above all other herbes for the
stopping of bloud in bleeding wounds".
Goldenrod is antioxidant, diuretic and astringent.
S. vigaurea , as well as many other species of Goldenrod,
reduces inflammation, stimulates the liver and kidneys, promotes
healing and has anti-fungal effect.
Drink the tea made of the above-ground parts (or take as an
extract or as dried powder in capsules) for urinary infections,
bladder and kidney stones, chronic mucous (especially nasal,
for which it is an excellent remedy), diarrhea, skin diseases,
the flu, and Candida infections.
Make a strong tea and wash the skin with it, to treat wounds,
insect bites and ulcers. Gargle for sore throat and yeast
infections of the mouth. Douche for vaginal yeast infections.
An added bonus, besides its cheery mustard-yellow flowers -
in the garden Goldenrod flowers attract beneficial insects
like ladybugs and lacewings.
See my website for other "wild Herbs" such as Agrimony, Bloodroot,
Burdock, Monarda and St. John's Wort.

Fresh Tomato Salsa

2011-08-19T19:12:00.000-07:00

SO tasty!
Here's how to make it . . .
Put into your food processor or veggie chopper:
3 medium tomatoes (preferrably heirlooms,
as they have the most flavor)
1 small sweet onion
1 small sweet pepper
1 to 2 Tbsp. Italian Parsley OR Cilantro
1 tsp. cider vinegar (or lime or lemon juice)
1/2 tsp. sea salt
Process/pulse until coarsely or
finely chopped, to your taste.
If you want some 'bite' in the salsa,
de-seed and add 1 hot pepper.
For more recipes using Herbs from your garden

Fried Zucchini

2011-08-16T18:41:00.000-07:00

This is different!
Coat the Zucchini with pancake batter
seasoned with Italian dressing & Herbs.
Sprinle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Prepare batter:
2 c. flour
1 tsp. sea salt
2 tsp. non-aluminum baking powder
pinch baking soda
½ tsp. dried pizza herbs
up to 1 ½ c. milk
1 Tbsp. Italian dressing
2 small eggs
1/3 c. sugar
Mix batter well. Coat thinly sliced zucchini with batter.
(Mix more milk into the batter until it is somewhat runny.)
Heat olive oil on medium-low heat in frying pan.
Fry the zucchini for about 5 min on each side.
Set on paper towel to cool a little.
Sprinkle lightly with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
More recipes with Herbs

Chicory

2011-08-15T18:13:00.000-07:00

pretty neat "wild Herb"!
Cichorium intybus
Found along roadsides and
dry fields, Chicory
shows off its sky-blue
daisy-like flowers in
July and August in western
Pennsylvnia.
Its roasted root is commonly
used as a coffee substitute,
but it has many more uses.
The young root can be boiled
and eaten like parsnips.
Tea made from the leaves and flowers settles
the digestion. Some folks claim that the
beautiful blue flowers, eaten raw in salads,
etc, helps cure cancer. Chicory root has
historically been a therapy for rheumatic
conditions and gout, and is a mild laxative.
Endive (C. endiva), a related species,
has similar but milder effects.
The ancients used Chicory juice mixed with
Rose oil and vinegar as a remedy for headaches,
Pliny the Elder (AD 23-79) wrote in his Natural History.
If you’d like to prepare Chicory for making ‘coffee’,
dig up the roots, clean, chop, dry and roast,
then brew half and half with your favorite
coffee grounds.
To make the tea for improvement of digestion and
other ailments: put about 2 Tbsp. fresh or dried
flowers and leaves into a mason jar, pour boiling
water into the jar, steep for ½ hour and drink,
sweetened if you like.
Here's another "wild Herb" to look into.

Pizza with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil

2011-08-14T18:46:00.000-07:00

Tastes even better than it sounds!
Prepare your favorite Pizza shell, pre-baked.
Drizzle Olive Oil on it.
Mince 1 to 2 cloves of Garlic, place atop the oil.
Lay fresh Basil leaves on top, to cover.
Top with shredded mozzarella chese.
Last layer is thinly sliced ripe Tomatoes.
Bake at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes.
Enjoy with fresh garden salad, with torn Basil leaves
and Thyme flowers.

Sweet Joe Pye

2011-08-11T19:37:00.000-07:00

Eupatorium purpurea
Blooming in tall clouds of rose-violet,
Sweet Joe Pye makes its appearance beginning
in August (in western Pennsylvania).
A North American Indian named Joe Pye cured
a New Englander of typhus, so this special
plant was given his name.
Native North Americans use the root of this
plant to break a fever, relieve gout and rheumatism.
Sweet Joe Pye also helps remove stones from the
bladder caused by uric acid, presently its main
medicinal use, thus one of its
common names “gravel root”.
The plant, which can grow to six feet, makes an
impressive garden border plant in part shade in rich,
slightly alkaline soil. In the fall, after blooming
is over, the root and rhizome is dug up, sliced and
dried. For breaking up kidney stones or gravel, make
a tea with 1 teaspoon of the Herb in 1 cup of water,
bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
Strain and drink 3 times a day.
Contact Joanie for more information and other ways
to use this medicinal plant.

Mugwort

2011-08-10T18:31:00.000-07:00

Green on top and silver underneath, the leaves
of Mugwort have an aromatic, fresh scent
and slightly bitter flavor.
The leaves, as well as the tender young stems,
are used dried or fresh for medicine.
Foremost among its qualities is that the tea
contains high amounts of Calcium,
helping to maintain good bone density.
Mugwort also improves and eases digestion.
It reduces high fevers by promoting sweating.
In a sleep pillow, its aroma induces dreams by
stimulating the limbic system.
Not to be used in pregnancy, as it may
stimulate contractions.
Recipe for 'vivid dreams' sleep pillow:
Fill a small muslin bag
(Joanie sells for $1.00 each)with
2 Tbsp. dried Mugwort leaves
2 Tbsp. dried Lavender flowers
1 Tbsp. dried Sweet Marjoram herb
Place this little bag inside of your pillowcase.
Enjoy!
Want more recipes?
I have plants.<
Next 3 people to CONTACT ME
gets one FREE
If you can't come to my Gardens to pick it up,
(888 Tulip Dr., New Brighton, PA 15066)
you'll need to pay shipping.

Sweet Violets

2011-08-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

These wild herbs can be found in semi-sunny,
moist, rich areas of the yard.
They are related to Pansies and Violas, which
have similar properties.
Violet flowers, which bloom in mid-spring in
western Pennsylvania, can be crystallized to decorate
pastries and eaten fresh in salads.
The leaves are an excellent, nutrient-rich addition
to salads, soups and stews. They contain Vitamins A
and C, and flavonoids.
The leaves are also used medicinally.
Drink Violet tea for bronchitis, colds and coughs.
Use the tea (applied with a cloth) for boils,
acne, sunburn and scrapes. Several studies have
found that the Violet has antitumor effects in mice.
In Britain it is used as an adjunct therapy for
breast, lung and stomach cancers.
Make a gourmet sweetener,
"Violet Flower Honey":
add 1 cup fresh flowers to 2 cups warm honey, simmer
10 minutes and pour into sterilized jar.
Keeps for 2 to 4 years.
Want to know about its cousins,
the Violas and Pansies?

Herbed Spaghetti Squash

2011-08-08T19:31:00.000-07:00

THIS IS WONDERFUL FOOD!
Ingredients:
1 large spaghetti squash
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion OR leek, chopped
1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
3 tablespoons sliced black olives
2 to 4 tablespoons chopped fresh Basil
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and lightly
grease a baking sheet.
Place spaghetti squash on the baking sheet
and bake 60 to 75 minutes,
until a sharp knife or fork can be inserted
with only a little resistance.
Remove squash from oven, and set aside to
cool enough to be easily handled.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onion in oil until tender.
Add garlic, and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.
Stir in the tomatoes, and cook only until tomatoes are warm.
Cut the squash in half, remove and discard the seedy center.
Use a large spoon to scoop the stringy pulp from the squash,
and place in a medium bowl. Toss with the sautéed
vegetables, feta cheese, olives, and basil.
Serve warm.
Would you like more recipes using Herbs?

Natural Bug Repellants and Flea Killers

2011-08-07T06:29:00.000-07:00

Many insects do well in the warmth of summer.
Some grow and reproduce as unwanted guests in
our homes.
There are Herbal helps for such plagues as
fleas and moths.
If you want natural remedies to keep bugs
at bay while you are enjoying the outdoors,
stay with me until the end of this article.
A friend recently reported to me:
“Thought I'd pass this on to you in case anyone
you know ever needs some help ridding the house
of fleas.
Sprinkle Borax all over the carpet.
Use a broom to brush it in deeply.
Then vacuum every day diligently until they are gone.
The Borax kills the eggs and larva.
Vacuuming gets rid of the adults.
Borax is fine enough that it won't all be vacuumed up.
Eventually they are gone from the house.
As for pets, I just kept combing them and bathing them.
Fleas will drown in soapy water.”
This method is much less toxic than chemical
flea sprays and/or flea baths.
Other sources report relief using
the addition essential oils.
This not only makes the formula more effective,
but also smells wonderful.
HERE'S MORE INFO . . .

CAPRESE!

2011-08-03T16:41:00.000-07:00

This is the perfect time of year to serve it!
What better time to enjoy fresh, flavorful Basil
and the ripe tomatoes right out of your garden,
or from the Farmer's Market.
Ingredients:
4 ripe tomatoes, cut into pieces
14 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
1 red onion, sliced
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 tsp. sea salt and cracked
black pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
Toss and serve immediately.
(Do not chill, as this may change the
flavor of the tomatoes.)
For best visual enjoyment, serve in a
wide, clear bowl.
For more recipes using Basil and other Herbs . . .

Plant Food from Herbs

2011-07-31T18:38:00.000-07:00

Many are familiar with composting,
gardeners’ favorite recycling technique.
There is another way to recycle plant
material that makes other plants, including
Herb plants, flowers and vegetables, grow
stronger and faster.
You can make a high-powered compost for
any garden plant or houseplant by using
certain Herbs. Or, you could make a
beneficial ‘vitamin’ tea
FOR plants FROM plants
which are high in nutrients.
If you grow these Herbs in your garden,
some of them are prolific growers, so
you’ll have plenty with which to
make fertilizer.
The following Herb plant’s leaves yield
Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium and some
trace minerals that plants crave.
Tansy (Potassium and other minerals)
Nettle (a treasure of minerals, including
Nitrogen, Iron, and several minerals and
trace elements)
Mint (calcium, choline, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, selenium and zinc)
Hops (calcium, chromium, magnesium, potassium, and trace minerals)
Comfrey (nitrogen, phosphorous, potash, several trace elements and minerals) (used since the ninth C)
Raspberry (calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, and trace minerals)
Dandelion (copper) (in use since the 11 th C)
Coltsfoot (sulphur and potassium)
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower)
Soapwort
Sage (boron, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, and trace minerals)
Garlic (calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, and trace minerals)
To find out how to prepare and use these
nutrient-rich Herbs in your garden or potted plants,
watch for my article, coming soon
on my website.

Use Herbs for FERTILIZER?

2011-07-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

Yes!
Many Herbs are so high in minerals that when
they decompose, they are food for other plants,
as well as for humans.
The Comfrey that I used to fertilize my tomatoes
today are high in nitrogen, phosphorous, potash
and trace minerals.
To prepare Comfrey for fertilizer, I chopped up
the leaves and stems when they had grown tall
and finished blooming.
Then I simply lay the pieces on the ground
underneath the plant that I want to fertilize.
Comfrey can be cut back 3 times in western Pennsylvania,
and I am about to harvest for the second time.
Alternatively, one could also make Herb tea fertilizer
by soaking the plant parts in water for a couple of weeks.
Dip out the liquid and water your plants with it.
Other Herbs with high nutrient value inclde
Coltsfoot (sulphur and potassium)
Dandelion (copper)
Dill (potassium, sulphur, sodium, trace minerals)
Horsetail (silica)
I'll have more on Herbs as fertilizer in my next blog.
To learn more about Herbs which are used
as nutrients for people, visit my Herb Plants

Slow-Cooker Zucchini Lasagna

2011-07-23T09:23:00.000-07:00

What a delicious and easy way to use up
some of your abundant zucchini!
Here's the recipe . . .
You will need 6 to 8 lasagna noodles,
the "No Boil" variety.
And you will need 2 small or 1 large zucchini
1. Prepare meat (or vegetarian) sauce of your
preference, as you normally would for lasagna,
using at least 1 jar of marinara sauce, and
adding 1/3 cup water.
2. Mix together in a bowl:
15 oz. ricotta or cottage cheese
1 Tbsp. chopped fresh Parsley
1 egg
1 c. shredded Italian blend cheeses
To the cheese mixture you could add freshly snipped
Oregano and/or Chives.
3. INSTRUCTIONS:
Spoon in sauce to cover bottom of slow cooker.
Top with 2 or 3 noodles, broken to cover.
Top noodles with 3 or 4 slices (sliced the long way)
of zucchini, to cover noodles.
Top zucchini with 6 to 8 Tablespoon dollops of the
cheese mixture.
Repeat layers, ending with sauce.
Cover and set slow-cooker on low for about 4 hours.
(Depending on the size of your slow cooker, you may
need to adjust the temperature of your slow-cooker,
and the time it takes to cook the lasagne.)
Enjoy with a fresh-from-the-garden salad.
GO HERE for more recipes using Zucchini and many Herbs.

Andrographis paniculata

2011-07-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

Amazing Herb plant from the east . .
It fights colds, flu & upper respiratory
infections, boosts the immune system,
battling infection.
It is anticancer, a bitter tonic and antioxidant
that protects the liver.
In China & India this Herb is used often to treat
infections: hepatitis, herpes & throat infections.
Andrographis paniculata is an easy-to-grow annual
in western Pennsylvania.
It enjoys moderately fertile soil with a little
extra nitrogen, in part sun or light shade, and
grows in a great variety of soils and climates.
Start the seeds in April or May in temperate areas.
Transplant outside in early June, or after last frost.
Keep watered when the weather gets dry.
Harvest the whole of the above-ground parts when
the plant reaches 2 to 3 feet high and begins to flower.
It can be dried in the shade, powdered and put into
capsules. Or it can be made into a tincture or glycerite.
Since it is a 'bitter', it can be used as a tea.
Expect the flaver to be bitter, too.
I have plants growing in my Gardens - stay tuned
on how they did this season.

July Updates on my Website

2011-07-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

are exciting!
Would you like to know how to deal with
pesky pests like Flea, moths and mosquitos?
Read my article " Natural Bug Repellants".
What to do with all that Swiss Chard - I have
a yummy new recipe on my home page . . .
and MANY MORE on my "Recipes" page
Did you miss out on my Lavender Days?
You might want to attend my class
"Making a Small Lavender Wreath"
Last but not least, my SALE
on Herb plants.
Don't miss it!

Elecampagne

2011-07-09T05:56:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite Herb for bronchial congestion
and allergy-induced asthma.
The tea is so soothing when my respiratory
system is not able to deal with an allergen
such as woodstove smoke, mold in a building,
or chicken dander.
(If you're curious about how I contact any
of the above allergens,
please feel free to 'Contact Us' me at my website.)
The plant is a member of the sunflower family,
and likes to grow in a sunny place,
well-drained but with good moisture,
and good amounts of compost.
It is a native of SE Europe and W Asia, but
also now in various locales in the USA.
To use Elecampagne root, dig them up in the fall,
chop into pieces and dry at relatively high temps,
around 200 degrees.
Some of its uses over the centuries have been:
Expectorant
Cough-soother
Eliminates worms
Antiseptic
It seems to help with preventing sinus infections
also - a result of its antiseptic action, no doubt.
So the next time you, or those you know, complain
of chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma,
flu, chronic coughing or tonsillitis,
please suggest Elecampagne.
To make the tea (in this case, a decoction),
place about 1/3 cup of the chopped, dried root
into a saucepan, pour 4 cups water over them
and bring to the boil. Gently simmer about 15 minutes,
strain, add honey (which is also soothing and tonic
for the body) and drink as needed, up to 6 times a day.
I ran out of my own stash of Elecampagne, just when
I really needed it this past winter, when experiencing
a nasty allergic reaction to baby chickens.
I had a long recovery, because the company from which
I ordered it, delayed my order for 3 weeks.
I vowed I would always have my own, and ordered seeds.
They germinated easily, and now I have beautiful
plants, ready to put into the ground.
Because the plants can get 3 feet or so high, I'm
having difficulty deciding where to plant them,
but it will happen soon.
I hope you try Elecampagne, should you need it.
Here's more info on Elecampagne

Lilies and Alpine Strawberries

2011-06-26T08:54:00.001-07:00

-- so abundant in my
Gardens this year!
The Lilies began
growing early, as
they always do.
But instead of the usual, beging nipped
by a late frost this Spring, it eluded them, and
I've never seen so many glorious Regale Lilies
in my Gardens!
The scent is HEAVENLY!
God is so good to me . . .
While I was out collecting St. John's wort
flowers to make my anti-depression tincture,
and Mullein flowers to make earache-soothing
infused oil, I spied many a ripe Alpine strawberry
peeking out from under their diminutive leaves.
What a delicious few handfuls of those I enjoyed!
Those are only some of the many reasons
I labor to maintain my Gardens.
You should come by sometime, and become
acquainted with the many culinary and medicinal
Herbs that I host in my Gardens.
Give me a call or e-mail to make an appointment
and I'll see you then

LAVENDER FAIR MINI-CLASSES

2011-06-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

Would you like to take a little bunch
of dried Lavender spikes, decorate it
with dried rosebuds and other colorful
dried everlastings and a lovely lavender
ribbon?
FOR FREE, as part of your admission
to my Lavender Days?
Have you tasted Lavender jelly on a
soft, tasty English scone?
Come and enjoy some at my Lavender Fair,
while you watch me demonstrate how I
make the fragrant, tasty jelly.
Or would you like to discover why
Lavender vinegar is especially healthy,
or the many benefits of the essential
oil of Lavender?
Get details here...SEE YOU AT THE LAVENDER FAIR!

Lavender Days, 2011

2011-06-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

This event is at the Greenhouse and Gardens
June 23 and 24 this year.
It's a "must attend" event that includes:
~ FREE tours of the Gardens,
~ FREE Lavender Lemonade
~ The opportunity to purchase
Lavender plants and products and much more!

Admission is $7.00 per person
BUT - - -
if you take advantage of my June SPECIAL -
Two for the Price of One at either or both of
the Lavender Days events.
You and a friend attend together - and one
of you doesn’t pay admission.

With price of admission you'll also receive:
~ attendance at one of the two mini classes
~ 10 % discount on all Herb plants purchased

Mini-Classes
Thursday: 6:45 pm - mini Decorated Lavender bundle
7:45 pm - Learn how to make Lavender Jelly and
enjoy it on a scone
Friday: 6:45 pm - Making Massage oil using
Lavender essential oil
7:45 pm - The many uses of Lavender vinegar +
make and take a bottle home
RESERVATION REQUIRED, get details here.

Lavender Days

2011-06-01T19:38:00.000-07:00

at Everlasting Gardener
This year will be . . .
June 23 and 24, 6:30 to 8:30 pm

Admission $7.00 per person
Take advantage of my June SPECIAL -
Two for the Price of One at either or both
of the Lavender Days events.
You and a friend (or mother, child, sister-in-law, etc.)
attend together - and one
of you doesn’t pay admittance.

With price of admission you receive:
~ Free parking
~ tour of the Gardens
--(7:15 and 8:15 pm, both evenings)
~ attendance at one of the two mini classes
being offered
(if you wish to attend both classes, the cost
of the additional one is $3.00).
~ Free Lavender Lemonade
~ 10 % discount on all Herb plants purchased
More on the Classes and how to attend the event

MORE De-Stressing . . .

2011-05-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

Strive for excellence not perfection.
Stretch.
Know you limitations and let others know them too.
Exercise every day (walking is my favorite!).
Get to work early - I know this does much to
start my day right.
Clean out one closet.
Write a note (or e-mail) to a distant friend.
Remember that stress is an attitude.
~ Did you know that the definition of stress is CHANGE?
And there's good stress and bad stress,
but it all puts a strain on us.
Learn to go with the flow.
O.K., do yourself a favor and pick three
of the above to do in the next three days.
Let me know how that works for you.
Here's one more suggestion...Joanie

Stress Busters, set # 3

2011-05-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

Try some of these - I think they'll help. . . .
~ Visualize winning
~ Believe in yourself
~ Ask a friend for a hug
~ Have goals for yourself
~ Practise relaxed breathing
(HERE'S HOW: Slowly inhale, over 10 seconds,
until your lungs feel 'full', hold for 10 seconds,
then slowly exhale for the same amount of time.
Do this twice or three times.
Practise until you can inhale, hold and exhale
for longer periods of time, and more repetitions.)
~ Visualize your 'happy place' while relaxed breathing.
~ Whistle
~ Buy your self flowers - or a new Herb plant!

More "Coping with Stress"

2011-05-19T20:24:00.000-07:00

More suggestions for keeping your life CALM . . .
~ Make copies of important papers
~ Repair anything that doesn't work properly
~ Ask for help with jobs you dislike
~ Un-clutter your life
~ Smile
~ Pet a friendly dog or cat (or any other pet)
~ Schedule play time into every day.
FEEL LIKE YOU CAN'T INCORPORATE THESE
ALL AT ONCE?
Pick 2 or 3 to work on each day.
You'll be surprised how well these sometimes
simple activities help you feel less stressed.
Want more suggestions for your well-being?
Try this Health Analyzer to determine what you
really need instead of spending money on
Vitamins and Herbs that might be a waste of
your time and money.

Ways to Cope with STRESS

2011-05-17T19:08:00.000-07:00

Stress Stress is responsible for causing
~ illness
~ disease
~ premature aging
~ inability to effectively manage
situations, tasks and relationships.
WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT STRESS?
Start working on these -
I guarantee some of them
will help you reduce your stress levels!
~ Prepare for the morning the night before
~ Avoid relying on chemical aids -
instead use natural means, such as Herb teas,
supplements or Reflexology
~ Don't rely on your memory - write it down
~ Set priorities in your life
~ Avoid negative people
MORE to COME in the near future...
If you'd like to know more about
Anti-stress supplements or Reflexology,
please visit my website

May Herb Plant Special...

2011-05-13T19:04:00.000-07:00

Are you thinking about growing new
Herb plants in your garden this season?
How about Goldenseal (for upper
respiratory infections, and many other
uses (please see my 5/5/11 blog on Goldenseal),
Elecampagne for respiratory congestion and
specifically bronchial problems (see my
Elecampagne page to learn more),
Boneset, Chervil, Angelica, Ashwaganda,
Marshmallow, Bloodroot, or any number of
other medicinal Herbs.
Or add to your culinary garden with
Sweet Oregano, Bay, Cilantro, Stevia,
Lemongrass, Winter Savory, etc.
My SPECIAL this month is
Buy 3, get one FREE - ANY Herbs I have in stock!
They can be mailed to you, or picked up at
Everlasting Gardener - by appointment.
Consider attending my May 21
"Growing Your Own Vegetables and Herbs" class.
See the SPECIAL HERE.

FOXGLOVE "CANDY MOUNTAIN"

2011-05-09T20:16:00.000-07:00

For those who love that beguiling
cottage garden look...
Foxglove (Digitalis) is a must.
I have beautiful plants ready to bloom
this summer.
'Candy Mountain' is a flamboyant bright rose-pink.
Each pot has multiple crowns.
The sturdy flower spikes sport upturned florets
about 3 to 4 feet tall.
I also offer Digitalis purpurea,
which can vary in color through purple
and pink shades.
These are in smaller pots and may not
bloom until mid to late summer.
Want to know more?

GOLDENSEAL

2011-05-05T19:25:00.000-07:00

is a native North American plant
that I'm very fond of.
It is often used to help heal
upper respiratory congestion and infection.
It's one of my favorites for sinus issues.
It is used primarily to calm acute inflammation
of mucus membranes, both respiratory and digestive.
Goldenseal also lowers blood sugar.
Some diabetics have weaned themselves
from insulin with this Herb.
There are cautions with Goldenseal's use.
Please contact Joanie to find out what they are.
Joanie has many of these beautiful plants
for sale. Contact her to come to
Everlasting Gardener and purchase them,
or have them sent to you.
She's running SPECIAL on Herbs during May.
Here is more info about Goldenseal Herb.

Are You Planning Your Herb Garden?

2011-04-24T20:07:00.000-07:00

Are you thinking about what to plant in
your garden this season?
Perhaps planting some Herbs with your vegetables?
You might use Herbs for cooking, like Basil,
Parsley, Rosemary, Chives, Sage,
grown yourself and used fresh from the garden.
Maybe try Herbs for medicine, like Mint or
Lemon Balm tea for an upset stomach or colds,
Echinacea for your immune system,
Chamomile for soothing digestion,
Bee Balm for sore throat,
Sage to fight viruses.
Be sure to see Joanie’s April SPECIAL to
get a free Herb plant when you buy 3.
There’s another terrific reason to
(READ MORE OF THIS ARTICLE . . .)

BASIL

2011-04-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

Essential Oil -
used to treat anxiety, headaches,
respiratory problems.
Helps concentration,digestion.
It blends well with Bergamot, Geranium,
Hyssop, Neroli,Marjoram, Melissa,
Lavender.
1 drop soothes wasp sting.
More than 3 drops may irritate some skins.
I include Basil in my Memory Pocket Therapy.
Want some essential oil recipes?

Herbs Help You Be Prepared

2011-04-15T20:45:00.000-07:00

If your medicine shelf was bare, and
economic conditions made it difficult
to obtain them, what would you do
if the responsibility for your
health care was in your own hands?
One option for keeping your family healthy
is to use natural alternatives.
Since our foods no longer contain the
nutrients they did years ago,
supplementation is pretty much necessary.
As of now, you can pick up your vitamins
and Herbal remedies at a health food store,
Joanie’s office, a pharmacy or department
store.
Or you could make a phone call and have
your supplements delivered to you.
But what if transportation difficulties
prevented you from getting your health-giving
Herbs and vitamins?
Do you have the ability to care for your well-being?
Read more HERE.

Using the Herbs in Your Garden

2011-04-10T18:12:00.000-07:00

This class will be held on April 30, 2011,
at Everlasting Gardener's Gardens and classroom.
* plant some Herbs seeds
* take 2 Herb plants home with you
* learn how to use simple Herbal extracts
for natural skin care
* have a light lunch with fresh greens salad,
and fresh-baked bread with Herb dip
* learn to use Herbs in your kitchen
and medicine cabinet
HERE'S how to get registered.

My April perennial Herb plant SPECIAL

2011-04-08T19:39:00.000-07:00

Here are a few examples --
You could buy a Chives, a Bay , and a Hyssop,
and get a FREE Ladies Mantle.
Or how about these plants?
Ashwagandha, Bloodroot and French Tarragon
and get a FREE Comfrey?
Want to check out all the Herbs I have
to offer this season?
GO HERE
Here's the SPECIAL on my website.
Make your appointment by phone or e-mail and
come get your plants.
Or they can be shipped to you.
Happy Spring!

MY HAPPY PLACE

2011-04-04T18:48:00.000-07:00

You should try my newest Pocket Therapy.
It was developed in response to the needs of
some hard-working women I taught in one
of my recent Aromatherapy classes.
The new Pocket therapy is called
"My Happy Place"
because it gives a person a sense of peace,
clear-mindedness, calm and healing.
It is especially helpful in the working
environment.
My Happy Place contains essential oils of
Bergamot, Frankincense, Lavender, Peppermint,
Pink Grapefruit, Rosemary and Ylang Ylang.
Here's the info on the
APRIL INTRODUCTORY OFFER

ROSEMARY

2011-03-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

is another Herb you might want to plant
in your garden this season.
It is well-known for its culinary uses.
Many cooks use it, though sparingly, for
its fresh, tantalizing, distinctive flavor.
It's good with many kinds of meat, especially
chicken, and red sauces.
Research is being done to find out how
Rosemary improves memory, which it certainly does.
Making leaves into tea and straining them into
your bath stimulates circulation and eases aching
joints. Rosemary tea, used as a hair rinse,
stimulates hair follicles to treat premature baldness.
Grown outdoors in warm weather, Rosemary can grow
into a bush when given the right conditions.
Check out how to grow and use Rosemary HERE
Watch for my complete article "Seven Basic
Herbs" on my website at the beginning of April.

BASIC SEVEN HERBS

2011-03-27T20:41:00.000-07:00

to start with in your garden.
These Herbs have the greatest variety of uses
in cooking, in healing, and in scenting your
home, office, classroom, etc.
First -
CHIVES - have a mild onion flavor,
and are very versatile.
They are usually one of the first Herbs
to sprout up in the Garden.
Chives are used in a variety of dips,
dressings, egg and cheese dishes, marinating
any kind of meat, and for flavoring butter
and sauces.
They are wonderful in cream cheese + yogurt (or
sour cream) as a dip.
Make Chive tea to spray on plants to get
rid of aphids. About mid-Spring, you can
add Chive’s mild-tasting flowers to your
salad of fresh greens.
Need plants?
Joanie has them!

How to Use Lavender Essential Oil

2011-03-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

Many people know that Lavender essential oil
is good against stress, is very calming
and could even take away some kinds of
headaches.
What else can it do?
Lavender essential oil is also helpful for insomnia,
circulation issues, indigestion, infections, burns,
muscular pains, and cell renewal.
Essential oil of Lavender is used externally
on the skin, when combined with lotion or massage oil.
It can also be inhaled to do its therapeutic work.
Lavender essential oil is wonderful in the bath,
and in many types of cosmetic products, especially
those used by men.
Its properties are: calming, anti-inflammatory,
refreshing, soothing antiseptic, insect-repelling,
and powerful tonic for the entire system.
Did you know that I'm running a SPECIAL on Lavender
essential oil in March?
Here's how to get some for FREE!

New Herb Plants

2011-03-19T19:26:00.000-07:00

I'll be offering two Herb plants
for the first time this season:
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
and Elecampagne (Inula helenium)
There will be more detailed descriptions of these
plants when they are posted on my website.
Ginger - native to Asia,
the root is used internally for motion sickness,
indigestion, coughs, bronchitis, colds and flu.
Externally it is used for rheumatism, cramps
and sprains.
Elecampagne - native to Europe,
these cousins of the Sunflowers grow to an
impressive height, making a statement in
the back of the ornamental garden.
The root and flowers are used internally
as a very effective expectorant.
It relaxes spasms, cleanses toxins and
stimulates the immune system.
Elecampagne is helpful for the following
conditions: bronchitis, hay fever,
irritating coughs and asthma.
Take a look and see what you might
be able to use in your medicine or
culinary Garden this season.

Alfredo with Herbs Sauce

2011-03-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

The first culinary Herb which
has sprouted in my Garden is CHIVES!
That means - Spring is here!
Here's a really good recipe
using Chives:

4 Tbsp. butter
1 1/2 Tbsp. unbleached white flour
1 1/2 c. Half and Half
1/2 tsp. sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese
2 to 4 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh Herbs:
Chives, Rosemary, Basil, Parsley, etc.
Melt butter on low heat, then whisk in the flour.
Turn up heat to medium, add salt and pepper,
then, while whisking constantly, slowly add
the Half and Half, and stir constantly until
thickened. Whisk in cheese and Herbs and simmer
another 5 minutes.
Serve over freshly-made pasta.

Why Reflexology Is Good for You

2011-03-13T20:16:00.000-07:00

Do you know the benefits of
REFLEXOLOGY ?

Though Reflexology should not be substituted
for orthodox medical attention, it can
alleviate many common conditions and contribute
to overall good health, thus possibly
forestalling many devastating diseases.
Among the common ailments that Reflexology can
soothe, here are some:
headache, digestive issues, arthritis, insomnia,
respiratory congestion, menstrual problems,
backache, circulatory conditions, liver congestion,
sinus problems, stress, and many more.
Benefits of Reflexology:
1. Induces relaxation -
75 to 80% of unhealthy conditions are attributable
to stress, and Reflexology can bring about tranquility.
2. Is preventive health care -
the natural healing forces of the body are released.
3. Improves circulation -
blood flowing freely through the body carry
essential oxygen and nutrients to the cells.
4.Detoxifies the body -
Lymph, kidneys, colon, skin and liver are
enabled to function better by eliminating
waste deposits.
5. Revitalizes energy -
opens and regenerates energy pathways.
6. Improves mental function -
by calming the mind and helping to remove
clutter "mind fog" can disappear.
7. Stimulates emotional release -
negatives state of mind, blocking the flow
of life force, can be the cause of disease,
and Reflexology can adjust these emotional
imbalances.
Schedule a Reflexology session with Joanie
soon.
Better yet - book a relaxing, health-giving
Reflexology get-together for you and friends,
either at Joanie's office or YOUR place!
And learn a little about Aromatherapy
at the same time.
SEE MORE ABOUT REFLEXOLOGY HERE

ANDROGRAPHIS PANICULATA

2011-03-08T18:35:00.000-08:00

I am becoming acquainted with a
multi-faceted Herb
Andrographis paniculata.
It is contained in an Herbal supplement
called IF Relief
meant to overcome muscular pain and
inflammation, and is also an antioxidant.
Andrographis paniculata is widely cultivated
in southern Asia, where its leaves and roots
are used for medicinal purposes; to treat
infections and some diseases.
It is an annual Herb, extremely bitter in taste.
The plant is known in north-eastern India as
Maha-tita, literally "king of bitters".
In Siddha medicine, Andrographis paniculata
is used widely to treat fevers swine-flu,
typhoid etc.
It is also known as Bhui-neem, meaning "neem
of the ground", since the plant, though being
a small annual herb, has a similar strong
bitter taste as that of the large
Neem tree (Azadirachta indica).
The plant extract exhibits antityphoid and
antifungal activities.
It is also reported to possess
antihepatotoxic, antibiotic, antimalarial,
antihepatitic, antithrombogenic,
antiinflammatory, anti-snake venom, and
antipyretic properties to mention a few,
besides its general use as an
immunostimulant agent.
A study conducted at Bastyr University showed
a significant rise in the mean CD4 lymphocyte
level of HIV subjects after administration of
10 mg/kg andrographolide (the chief constituent
extracted from the leaves of the plant).
Andrographis paniculata plant extract is known
to possess a variety of pharmacological activities.
The results suggest that andrographolide has
anticancer and immunomodulatory activities
and hence has the potential for being developed
as a cancer therapeutic agent.
You can read a description of this superior
anti-inflammatory pain reliever and immune
system booster called IF Relief HERE

SECOND MARCH SPECIAL

2011-03-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

Here are details about my other March, 2011
SPECIAL
Buy 1 Herbal Skin Care Gift Set,
Get 1/6 oz. bottle of
Lavender essential oil FREE.
What's in the Herbal Skin Care
Gift Set?
1. Herbal Bath Bag
with skin refreshing Rose Geranium,
lovely Lemon Verbena, healing Calendula,
Patchouli for renewed skin and the
ultimate perfumed cleanser -
Lavender flowers!
2. Herbal Masque Kit -
make your Masque fresh, with a 2 oz. jar
of French Green Clay, nutritive oil and
essential oils of Lavender, Lemon and
Rose Geranium.
The enclosed tea bag makes a
skin-rejuvenating tea, to add to the clay.
3. Joanie’s Healing Salve -
A highly emollient, therapeutic salve.
Heals most skin conditions: dry skin,
rashes, cuts, diaper rashes, eczema,
bruises and burns.
Also can be used to soothe headaches.
4. Summer’s Fragrance Tea -
A calming, refreshing combination of Lemon Balm,
Monarda, Lavender flowers, Rose petals, Mint,
Sweet Marjoram and Chamomile.
Get more DETAILS HERE.

Lavender Flowers BONUS

2011-03-02T16:35:00.000-08:00

Buy 1 Recovery Gift Set,
Get a 1 cup bag of Lavender flowers
plus recipes) FREE
This is an ideal gift for someone
who has the Winter blahs,
has Allergies, or a flu/cold.
The products in this Gift Set will
help folks breathe better, feel
less congestion and inflammation,
and have peaceful, restful sleep.
Try one yourself, or give it away!
As a bonus, you get a bag of
Lavender flowers
to use in scented stress therapy,
to cook or make tea with.
I'll even give you recipes.
What's in the Everlasting Gardener
Recovery Gift Set?
Allergy Relief Tea
Breathe Free Pocket Therapy
Sweet Sleep Bath Bag
To ORDER or get more INFO.

Enjoy!