Mulled Wine – history, herbs and health

by | Dec 11, 2022 | Health, Herbal Beverages, Herbal Remdies, Herbs in Your Diet, Medicinal Weeds, Plants, Recipes

What is Mulled Wine?

The simple definition of what a mulled wine is, is taking red wine, heating it up and adding spices to it.

But as we all know, we like to “spice” things up and create something with a little more pizzaz.  And so the creation of a multitude of mulled wine styles begins.

Variations include adding spices, such as cinnamon, cloves, allspice, anise, and nutmeg.  Citrus fruits and raisins can also be added to the mixture to enhance its flavor.  And don’t forget other liquors, such as brandy, bourbon and beer are added depending on the recipe.

Mulled Wine has many names

  • Conditum Paradoxum, the Romans version in 20 AD
  • Spicy Wine, from the 12th century in France and Spain
  • Vin à la française in 19th century France
  • Glühwein in Germany
  • Vin Brule in Italy
  • Krasomelo in Greece
  • Glögg in Sweden and Denmark
  • Piwo Grzane in Poland
  • Sıcak Sarap in Turkey

And there are many more cultures and countries that have some sort of mulled wine.

The History of Mulled Wine

Mulled wine has a long history, starting back in 20 AD with the Romans.

By the 12th century, forms of mulled wine were very common in parts of Europe, especially in France and Spain.  Recipes for this “spicy wine” can be found in written works of the time, like Regiment of Sanitat, written by Arnaud de Villeneuve, a doctor and theologian of the time.

This drink became even more popular in the 13th century, spreading further throughout Europe.  The English king, Henry III, was very fond of mulled wine and made sure it was at the table when eating.

As the years went by, mulling was used more as a way to prevent waste of any wine that may have been unpleasant to taste.  By adding herbs, spices and fruits, it made the wine more palatable.

Throughout the years, cultures took the recipes and altered them to suit their own taste.  By adding different spices, herbs and fruits, they all created unique versions of this winter beverage.

Mulled Wine and its Medicinal Uses

In the Middle Ages, people viewed mulled wine as almost medicinal. They believed that the added spices made them healthier. They weren’t exactly wrong.  And, alcohol was at times safer than the water that was readily available to those that lived in cities, especially during the Black Death.

Ancient Greece used spiced wine as a medicinal tonic for warming the body. The Greeks called this elixir hippocras, after Hippocrates of Kos, the physician known as the “father of medicine”.

When taking a dive into the ingredients, one can see how mulled wine is a form of medicine and the health benefits it can provide.

Red wine offers many health benefits.  It supports cardiovascular health and helps fight inflammation.  Because it contains resveratrol, it can help sharpen your mind and fights off free radicals.  Red wine may also help to improve your mood. 

A study, conducted at Curtin University in Australia, found that regular consumption of red wine reduced the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by lowering LDL cholesterol levels in postmenopausal women by 8 percent and increased HDL cholesterol levels by 17 percent.

When used as a sweetner, honey has many benefits.  It is a natural antibiotic and helps to activate the medicinal properties of the other herbs and spices.

Cinnamon brings warmth into the digestive organs and extremities. It also helps to lowers blood sugar levels and helps remove digestive parasites.

Orange peel, which is high in vitamin C, can improve our immune system.  You can learn more about the health benefits of orange in my blog post 21 Reasons to Get Orange Peel Into Your Diet.

Cloves are anti-parasitic and help remove worms from the gut and improve circulation.  But don’t add too many or you will numb your taste buds.

Cardamom brings strength to the digestive tract.

Mulled Wine and Christmas

So why is mulled wine such a popular drink during the holidays and at Christmas?

This tradition appeared in the 1890’s, when outside German markets offered this warming beverage to their shoppers.  Within a few years, it became a contest as to who could create the best tasting mulled wine in the market.

Charles Dickens, the writer, included a passage which mentioned Smoking Bishop, a popular mulled wine of the day, in his classic A Christmas Carol.

And what do you eat with mulled wine?  There is nothing better to serve it with than shortbread, speculoos, or a cinnamon or almond cake.

Even though this is considered a holiday drink, Mulled Wine Day is celebrated on March 3.

Ingredients for Mulled Wine

There are a lot of variations when it comes to the recipes and ingredients for mulled wine.  But here is a list of the most common items needed in making this beverage.

  • Wine – red is most commonly used, but white wine also makes a good mulled wine (see recipe for Pumpkin Spice Mulled White Wine below).
  • Sweetner – any form of sugar can be used, as well as honey.
  • Spices and Herbs – cinnamon, star anise, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, pepper and cardamom pods are the most commonly used. Some people even like to add vanilla for an extra flavor.
  • Fruit – typically recipes call for citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes. However, fruits like apples, raisins and pears are sometimes used as well.
  • Other liquors – one can also add brandy, vodka, orange liqueur, cognac, bourbon or beer.

Recipes for Mulled Wine

There is no shortage of recipes for mulled wine.  Just Google it and see how many pages of recipes pop up.  It’s really no surprise since this beverage has been around for centuries.

Once you start looking, you’ll be amazed at the variety of recipes that are out there.  What is even more amazing is that once you know how to do it, you can start creating your own versions of mulled wine.  There really is no wrong way.

To get you started, I put in a few links to some tasty mulled wines below.  Once you try one, let me know what you think in the comments below.

CHEERS!

Pumpkin Spice Mulled White Wine

Warm Winter Mulled Wine

Spiced Wine

Mulled Wine

Classic Mulled Wine

Resources

https://www.myrecipes.com/how-to/cooking-questions/what-is-mulled-wine

What is Mulled Wine? How to Make it and 5 Easy Recipes.

The mulled wine: origins and preparation advice

The History of Mulled Wine

https://www.optionstheedge.com/topic/food/look-origins-mulled-wine-and-its-interpretations-different-cultures

https://www.nenaturalhealthcentre.com/uploads/2/5/8/6/25863178/mulled_wine.pdf

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/a33145/drink-wine-every-day/

Benefits of Red Wine for the Heart, Body & Mind

 

12 Blog Posts on the Best Herbs for Varicose Veins

by | May 30, 2022 | Health, Herbal Remdies, Medicinal Weeds, Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are a common problem, affecting an estimated 25% of the population. While there are many treatments available, including surgery and compression stockings, some people prefer to try natural remedies first. In this blog, I will share 12 blog posts and articles discussing the benefits of using herbs to treat varicose veins and what those herbs are.

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged and twisted. They can be painful and unattractive. While varicose veins used to be treated with surgery, there are now a number of non-surgical treatment options available. One popular option is herbal support. Herbs can help to improve the function of the veins, reduce swelling and pain, and promote healing.

Benefits of Using Herbs

Herbs have been used for centuries to treat a variety of medical conditions, and varicose veins are no exception.

There are many different herbs that can be used to treat varicose veins, each with its own unique set of benefits.

Herbs offer a natural and affordable way to treat varicose veins. Some of the key benefits of using herbs include:

  • Herbs can help to improve the function of the veins, reduce swelling and pain, and promote healing.
  • There are many different herbs that can be used to treat varicose veins, each with its own unique set of benefits.
  • Herbs are a safe and effective treatment option for varicose veins.
  • If you are considering using herbs to treat your varicose veins, be sure to consult with your herbalist or healthcare professional to ensure that they are right for you.
yarrow

12 Blog Posts on the Best Herbs for Varicose Veins

  1. Varicose Veins – finding natural support: this post explains what varicose veins are and what causes them.  It offers herbal recommendations and what you can do to minimize varicose veins.
  2. Varicose Veins – A Useful Lotion!: Katja Swift talks about her personal experience with varicose veins and what she did to combat them.
  3. Varicose Veins – The Updated Post: Here Katja Swift says that what worked for her, may not work for you. She offers suggestions and recommendations, but you need to experiment to see what works for you in trying to get rid of your varicose veins.
  4. Liniment for Varicose Veins and Muscle Pains: A DIY post on how to make a topical application for treating varicose veins.
  5. Blog Talk Radio – Ask Herbal Health Expert Susun Weed: A Q&A with Susun Weed.  One of the questions she speaks to is varicose veins (at 23 minutes in).
  6. The Best Herbal Remedies for Varicose Veins: Reviews some causes of varicose veins and then lists out some popular herbs to use.
  7. How to Get Rid of Varicose Veins with 5 Natural Remedies: Goes over who gets varicose veins and some ways to treat them, including herbs and exercise.
  8. Heal Varicose Veins With this Natural Paste: Provides a recipe that you can make to minimize varicose veins.
  9. Viva Violets!: Herbalist Lise Wolff calls out violets as a remedy for varicose veins.
  10. Herbs for a Healthy Pregnancy and Birth: Recommends drinking oatstraw to strengthen the capillaries to help prevent varicose veins.
  11. The Multiple Benefits and Uses of Yarrow: Because of its tonifying action, yarrow is widely known for dealing with varicose veins.
  12. Rose Family Medicine: Here Susun Weed recommends a salve or oil made from agrimony to help relieve varicose veins.

Experiment to Find Which One Works for You

Herbs offer a safe and effective way to treat varicose veins, and I hope this blog post has provided a few ideas for you to start with.  

Remember, an herb that works for one person, may not necessarily work for you.  Experiment and try them, one at a time to see where you have the best results.

Exercise, diet and sleep also play a role, so don’t forget about them.  

My Natural Homemade Varicose Vein Cream

I make and sell a natural varicose vein cream that has helped a number of my customers over the years and it is my number one seller.

I grow, forage and wildcraft the yarrow and calendula that I use.  The other ingredients I get from reputable sources, such as Mountain Rose Herbs.

If you are ready to combat your varicose veins, you can purchase it HERE.

Here is what one of my customers had to say:

I have to say my expectations were low when I purchased this, because I suffer from spider veins (not varicose veins) and based on my research, the only remedy was sclerotherapy, a costly procedure. I bought 2 small jars (at a great price btw) with nothing to lose. The first couple of weeks, I did not think it was working. Some days the spider veins looked a little faded, other days, unchanged. About 3-4 weeks into applying the cream 2x a day, my spider veins are nearly INVISIBLE!!! I’m genuinely mind blown. I feel so great knowing I won’t be self conscious wearing short shorts and exposing my spider vein-free thunder thighs to the world. About to purchase some more because I don’t wanna run out of this stuff. A 2 oz jar lasted me 4-5 weeks of 2x day application. If you have spider veins, definitely give this a try!

5 Star review from Aseel (Feb. 24, 2022)

How to Plant a Medicinal Herb Garden

by | Apr 11, 2022 | Health, Herbal Remdies, Herbs in Your Diet, Medicinal Weeds, Plants

And have it be low maintenance!

Gardening is such a relaxing and fun activity, and the whole family can join in.  The best thing about gardening is that you get to reap the food benefits at the end!

If you’re interested in having a medicinal garden that is low-maintenance, there are certain things you should keep in mind to make it succeed. This includes when to plant, what plants to choose and where to put them.  So be prepared to do a little research for your area.

Also, with all the chaos going on in today’s world, now is the perfect time to grow your own and not have to rely on others.  Especially with the prediction of shortages looming over our heads.

Medicinal gardens provide many benefits. Not only do they look beautiful, but they can also be used to create natural remedies and food.

And don’t worry about space.  Even if all you have is a balcony or small patio, you can utilize pots to grow your herbs in.

Don’t take on too much at the beginning. If you are new to gardening, maybe start with 1-4 plants and see how you do, and how the plants do.  The last thing you want to do id overwork yourself and get frustrated and quit.

If you’re interested in starting your own medicinal garden, keep on reading for everything you need to know.

“The kiss of the sun for pardon,
The song of the birds for mirth
One is nearer God’s Heart in a garden
Than anywhere else on Earth.”

Dorothy Frances Gurney

When you should start planting

Many people enjoy planting medicinal herbs and other medicinal plants. The benefits of these plants have been known for centuries, and they continue to be used by many cultures around the world.

While the exact time to start planting will vary depending on the plant and the climate, there are a few general guidelines that can be followed. For most medicinal plants, it is best to start planting in early spring. This gives the plant time to become established before the hot summer months. However, some plants, such as lavender, do better if they are planted in late summer or early fall.

Think about how you want to start out.  Do you want to try growing your herbs from seed or buy seedlings?  Some herbs are very hard to start with seeds, so research before buying.

Many herbs are perennials, meaning they will come up every year, so once you get them started, you won’t have to replant them.  One less thing to do next year!

seed starters

What plants are best for your medicinal garden

When it comes to medicinal plants, there are a variety of different options to choose from.

Some popular choices include herbs such as basil, rosemary, and mint. These herbs can be used to add flavor to food or brew tea. Other medicinal plants include echinacea, which is used to boost the immune system, and ginkgo biloba, which is often taken as a supplement to improve cognitive function.

Determine what and how you plan to use the herbs.  Do you want to just use them in cooking?  Than look into planting culinary herbs, such as thyme and sage.  If you plan on using them for strictly medicinal purposes, what medicinal issues? If you have skin issues, you may want to plant calendula, which is wonderful for healing wounds, rashes, burns, and dry skin.

No matter what medicinal plants you choose to grow, it is important to research how to care for them properly. Make sure you know how much sun, water and space they will need, as well as any other special requirements.

With a little bit of care, your medicinal garden will grow and produce healthy plants.

Where to plant your medicinal garden

Excited about the idea of growing your own medicinal plants and herbs, but not sure where to start? If you’re looking for a spot that is low maintenance and will allow your plants to thrive, here are a few ideas to get you started.

One option is to create a medicinal garden in containers. This can be an easy way to get started, and it gives you the flexibility to move your plants around if necessary. Make sure to choose containers that are large enough for the roots of your plants, and place them in an area that gets plenty of sunlight. You’ll also want to be sure to water your plants regularly, as they can dry out quickly in containers.

Another option is to plant your medicinal garden directly in the ground. If you choose this option, make sure to pick an area of your yard that gets plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. To prepare the soil, mix in some compost or other organic matter to help the plants thrive. Once you’ve chosen a spot and prepared the soil, you can start planting your medicinal garden.

herbs in pots

How to make sure the plants thrive in their new environment

When it comes to medicinal plants and herbs, there are a few things you can do to ensure they thrive in their environment.

First, make sure they have plenty of sunlight. Most medicinal plants and herbs need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Secondly, water them regularly. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering, but don’t let the plants get too dehydrated. Third, make sure they’re in a location with good air circulation. Avoid placing them in overly humid or damp areas, as this can lead to fungal growth. Finally, don’t forget to fertilize your plants every few weeks. This will help them to continue growing strong and healthy.

Don’t get upset if a herb or two die on you. Depending on the time of year, you can always plant it again.  I love a quote by the Farmstead Lady: “Well, that’s why God invented next year”!  Don’t give up on the first try.

If you stay on top of it,  you can help your medicinal plants and herbs stay healthy and thrive.

Ideas for adding more variety to your medicinal garden, like flowers or herbs

While many medicinal plants are herbs, there are also medicinal flowers and trees.

If you’re looking to add more medicinal plants to your garden, there are a few things to consider. First, what do you want to use the medicinal plants for? There are many different types of medicinal plants, each with their own unique properties. Do some research to find out which plants would be best suited for your needs. Second, consider which plants would be low maintenance. Some medicinal plants can be quite finicky, so it’s important to choose ones that will be easy to care for. Finally, think about how you can add variety to your garden. Maybe you could add some herbs or flowers that can also be used medicinally.

If you’re interested in adding more variety to your medicinal garden, consider some of the following low-maintenance options.

One easy-to-grow medicinal plant is lavender. Lavender has a long history of use as a medicinal herb, and it can be used fresh or dried. Lavender is most commonly used to ease anxiety and promote relaxation, but it can also be helpful for headaches, insomnia, and stomach upset.

Chamomile is another easy-to-grow medicinal plant. Chamomile tea is well-known for its ability to soothe nerves and promote sleep. Chamomile can also be used as a topical treatment for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Rosemary is a versatile medicinal herb that can be used in cooking or taken as a supplement. Rosemary is thought to improve memory and concentration, and it has also been traditionally used to treat stomach upset and headaches.

Mint is a refreshing medicinal plant that can be used in teas, salads, or as a garnish. Mint is known for its ability to soothe an upset stomach, but it can also be helpful for respiratory problems and headaches. One thing to keep in mind with any member of the mint family, is that they will take over ground space. If this is an issue, consider planting mint in a pot.

Spiraea Herbs has a wonderful video showing some perennial herbs that you can add to your garden.

These are just a few of the many medicinal plants and herbs that you can grow in your garden. By adding a few of these low-maintenance options, you can create a medicinal garden that is both beautiful and functional.

shephards purse

Tips on harvesting and storing

When it comes to medicinal plants, it’s important to know when to harvest them and how to store them properly. Otherwise, they may lose their potency or go bad before you have a chance to use them. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your medicinal plants:

  • Medicinal plants can be harvested at any time of year. However, they are often most potent when harvested in the spring or summer.
  • Harvest in the morning, after the dew has evaporated but before the sun gets too hot. This is when the plants will be at their freshest and most potent.
  • Use sharp shears or a knife to avoid crushing the plant material.
  • For herbs, hang them upside down in a dark, cool place until they’re completely dry. Then store them in an airtight container.
  • For medicinal plants with woody stems, cut them into small pieces and store them in a cool, dark place.
  • For flowers, press them between the pages of a heavy book. Once they’re dry, store them in an airtight container.
  • Some medicinal plants, such as lavender and chamomile, can be used fresh or dried. Others, such as echinacea and ginseng, are most potent when taken as supplements.
  • You can also make tinctures, oils, or salves from your medicinal plants. These will last for several years if stored in a cool, dark place.

With these tips, you can ensure that your medicinal plants are fresh and potent when you need them.

You are now ready to plant your own medicinal herb garden!

I hope this has inspired you to either start or add medicinal herbs to your garden.

There are many different types of medicinal plants, each with their own unique properties. Do some research to find out which plants would be best suited for your needs.

Second, consider which plants would be low maintenance and survive in your neck of the woods. Some medicinal plants can be quite finicky, so it’s important to choose ones that will be easy to care for. A plant that is easy to grow in California, may need a lot of attention in Minnesota.

Finally, take some time to learn about harvesting and storing medicinal plants. By following these tips, you can create a medicinal garden that is both beautiful and functional.

What medicinal herb are you going to plant?

Garden Lover

Here is a fun video to help get you in the mood!

Sources to get medicinal seeds and seedlings

References

The Top Ten Medicinal Herbs for the Garden: 
How to Grow & Use Healing Plants

15 Medicinal Herbs To Grow, Harvest & How to Use Them

Planting a Medicinal Herb Garden

How to Plan and Plant a Medicinal Garden

Elderberry Syrup Mania

by | Apr 9, 2022 | Health, Herbal Remdies, Herbs in Your Diet, Plants, Recipes

Elderberry Syrup Mania!

Elderberries have been all the craze for some time.  People make syrup, jam, tea and more with these berries.

What I found out in researching elderberries, was that these berries are very special.  They are like the secret remedy for colds and the flu!

There are a few types of elderberry plants, but the black elderberry, Sambucus canadensis, is favored.  Because of its strong anti-viral properties, it a huge defender against colds and the flu.  Thus the reason for being so popular in the fall.

(more…)

How Herbs Can Help in Times of Sadness and Death

by | Feb 11, 2022 | Grief or Stress, Herbal Remdies, Life change, Medicinal Weeds

“There is no pain so great as the memory of joy in present grief.”

AESCHYLUS

Sadness and death can creep up at anytime. I don’t think one can ever be fully prepared for either.

I know I wasn’t.

My father passed away rather quickly just a few weeks ago.  I’m still trying to wrap my head around it and keep asking myself, “Why?”

I also can’t help but wonder if I shouldn’t have done more, taken action, asked more questions, pushed harder, spoken up, made inquiries, etc. Why didn’t I?

These are questions that plague me everyday. I try to convince myself that it was his time.  But was it?

The grief that overwhelms me is constant and heavy.  Day in and day out, I ponder and wonder how I’ll be able to go on.

So I bring back happy memories.  Those days filled with good things, like birthdays and weddings.

“When a cardinal appears in your yard, it is a visitor from heaven”

** Red cardinal I received from a co-worker when my Dad passed away**

Comfort During a Time of Grief

Everyone needs different forms of comfort and support when grieving.  For me, it’s litttle things that don’t otherwise seem to matter.

Take the red cardinal for instance.  A few days after my Dad’s passing, a bright red cardinal came and landed in the snow right outside my patio door.  How it stood out in the snow!

I hadn’t seen a cardinal in the backyard for quite some time, so was pleasantly surprised.

A couple days later when I returned to work, a co-worker gave me the red cardinal, saying she had received one the year before when her father passed away.  What a coincidence! 

The appearance of a red cardinal has the spiritual meaning of a lost one who is thinking about you and sending you a message.  That brought some comfort to me.

 

Using Herbs to Help With Grief

Deep rooted emotions of grief can be hard to cope with for everyone. Grief can affect people emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Grief also has the ability to affect you physically as well as mentally.

In these cases, we may need something more then just comfort to help us move through our grief.  I needed something to help me fall asleep so I wasn’t constantly questioning my actions, or rather, lack of action before my Dad passed away.

So I turned to my plant allies.

Herbs have been around since the beginning of time. They have been used for many different things from illness to helping cope with situations such as loss, sadness and death.

Lets take a look at some herbs that have been used, and still used today as ways to help with dealing with grief and death.

Frankincense

The first herb/plant that came to me when thinking about grief and death, was frankincense.  And for good reason.

 Frankincense was one of the gifts from the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus.  It has been used for over 5000 years in religious ceremonies in a number of cultures and religions. 

Frankincense is a resin that comes from the bark of the boswellia tree that is native to the Middle East and north Africa.  It is extremly fragrant and has a sweet, citrusy aroma.

Spiritually, the smoke from the resin is said to call the angels and send prayers to heaven.

I feel at peace during that time of church, when the incense is burned.  The aroma has a very calming effect for me.

Peppermint

We all know, or should know, the smell and taste of peppermint.  It is all around us, from room sprays to candies.  

Why?  Because it is so uplifting.  

Peppermint works to clear the mind and regain focus.  It helps us to keep going in times of grief.

If you would like to take a little journey with the plant, here is a guided meditation with peppermint from herbalist Correne Omland, from Spiraea Herbs.

Motherwort

This herb is dear to my heart because it grows abundantly on my parent’s farm.

As it’s name suggests, Motherwort is there to comfort and protect.  This is the plant you want to go to when you just can’t do it anymore.

It’s latin name, Leonurus cardiaca, means “lion hearted”.  Strong and heart centered is what this plant offers.

Motherwort is a member of the Mint family, just like peppermint.  It doesn’t have the pleasant aroma like the other mints, but it is strong and robust, and will grow almost anywhere, like most mints.

If you would like to learn more about how Motherwort can help you, check out my blog post, “Motherwort – It’s Uses & Benefits“.

Rose

The rose is probably the most highly recognized plant for uplifting one’s spirit.

It has always been a symbol of love and forgiveness. 

I like how a blog post from the Herbal Academy describes the thorns: “The thorns are not to wall you off from the outside world, but instead, they express the complexity, beauty, and darkness that accompanies grief.”

The rose has the capacity to help us see the love, comfort, compassion and kindness in the world around us.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn is the classic heart tonic remedy in Western Herbalism.

It’s red berries are best known for helping the heart.

It is also known as a mild sedative and can help calm one’s nerves.

Hawthorn encourages one to find hope, love and longevity in the journey forward.

When our spirit becomes weak and frail, hawthorn will help in restoring strength once again.

Hawthorn can bring back the confidence and help one to not live in fear of death.

Here is a short podcast with more info on hawthorn from HerbRally.

Other Herbs

There are many other herbs and plants that can help with grief as well.  The list is rather endless, as all plants support us in so many ways.

Here is a list for you to reference:

  • Skullcap
  • Lavender
  • Tulsi
  • Chamomile
  • St. John’s Wort
  • Wood Betony
  • Borage
  • Bee Balm
  • Lemon Balm
  • Blue Vervain
  • Linden

Handling Grief

Grief enters our lives in so many ways.  It can come as a loss of a loved one, loss of a job, health issues, arguments, etc.

The important thing to learn from grief, is how to handle it in a healthy way.  Know what your limits are and how much you can handle.

Never be afraid to ask for help, or ask someone to just listen to what you have to say.

Taking a walk in nature or meditating can also help take away some of the sadness you may be feeling.

Just know that grief is a part of life and bonds us closer together.

 

Grief is praise, because it is the natural way love honors what it misses.” -Martine Prechtel

References

https://herbandroot.com/blogs/collections/frankincense-myrrh-more-valuable-than-gold

http://www.flowerfolkherbs.com/articles1/frankincense-a-sacred-resin

https://www.happiness.com/magazine/health-body/essential-oils-for-grief/

http://northforestfarms.com/2021/10/07/good-grief/

https://www.evolutionaryherbalism.com/2018/07/13/herbs-for-grief/

Why Stinging Nettles are More Than Just Weeds

by | Jan 4, 2022 | Health, Herbal Remdies, Herbs in Your Diet, Medicinal Weeds

The world is a nettle; disturb it, it stings. Grasp it firmly, it stings not.

Robert Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Earl of Lytton

Stinging nettle has been used for centuries to treat various maladies, including anemia, arthritis and skin diseases. Its leaves are edible in salads or cooked like spinach.

And yet many people see it as a weed and want to pull it up by its roots to eradicate it.

But the benefits of stinging nettle include supporting urination, increasing blood flow and reducing neural inflammation.

Let me show you that this plant is more than just a weed.

The Plant Itself

Stinging nettle is generally considered a weed and can be found growing wild in woodlands and on river banks.  It also prefers disturbed soils, such as on farmsteads, manure piles or near abandoned buildings.

Stinging nettles have long fleshy roots that can grow deep into the ground.  This is important, because this is how the plant becomes so nutritious, by pulling up vitamins and minerals deep in the soil.

The leaves, stems and roots are covered in tiny hairs that release histamine and other chemicals that can sting painfully.  These chemicals cause an itchy, irritating sensation on the skin which only lasts about 15 minutes.

Growing up, my mother called this plant “itch weed”, because it made you itch.  So I highly recommended that you wear gloves when handling this plant.  Or if you want to get the true feeling of stinging nettle, don’t.

This plant is a very fast grower and spreads easily by seed or underground shoots.

For optimal nutrition and medicinal properties, it should be picked before flowers appear.  I like to harvest the tops in early spring when the plants are still young.  They will grow back, so you can get a number of pickings.

Susun Weed says to grasp it by a top leaf and cut just the very top (no more than 8 leaves) and put that in the foraging basket. Since nettles are so fibrous, she says to only pick the very tops. If the scissors have difficulty cutting, it’s too far down.

young nettles

The Nutritional Benefits of Stinging Nettle

The leaves and young shoots of stinging nettle are edible. They have a slightly bitter, nutty flavor that most find pleasant.  Nettle leaves can be a simple substitute for spinach in any dish.

Nettles are rich in vitamins A, C, D and K as well as iron, potassium, calcium and manganese.

One serving of stinging nettle provides almost all of the recommended daily allowance for vitamin K per day.

Nettles are also rich in chlorophyll, which gives them their green color and may be responsible for some of its health benefits.

Two studies published in the “Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry” evaluated the antioxidant activity of nettle extract and found it to be higher than other popular drinks like cranberry juice, grape juice and green tea.  The researchers concluded that the high antioxidant activity may be due to nettle’s chlorophyll content.

The leaves are said to have a beneficial effect on the urinary system because they contain high amounts of potassium, calcium and magnesium. They also can help reduce inflammation in the bladder lining which may prevent chronic infections from developing.

In addition to its nutritional value, some studies suggest that stinging nettle may also have medicinal properties.

Medicinal Benefits of Stinging Nettle

In addition to its nutritional content, stinging nettle is said to have medicinal properties. Its roots and leaves are used in traditional herbal remedies for conditions such as anemia, arthritis and skin diseases. In addition, modern uses include supporting urination and increasing blood flow. Nettle root may also help relieve symptoms of the common cold.

One small study published in the “Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine” found that patients who suffered from frequent colds showed a significant decrease in number of colds after taking nettle root extract daily for 12 weeks. These results were not found with the placebo group.

Another study conducted by researchers at the University of Virginia found that drinking stinging nettle tea reduced the total number of colds by more than one-third among patients who suffered from chronic respiratory infections.

Brigitte Mars talks about how people have used nettles for thousands of years to help with pain from arthritis, fibromyalgia and as an early substitute for Viagra!  By gently brushing a stem of leaves over one’s skin, the irritation causes a huge blood flow to the area (called irtication).   Thus helping with pain, inflammation, etc.

Nettle is a wonderful herb for those with allergies.  A study published in “Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine” suggested that an extract from this plant may reduce inflammatory responses due to allergies, which suggests it may be effective in relieving symptoms of allergies and asthma.

Herbalist Matthew Wood says the seeds in particular, may help get rid of allergies, both food allergies and seasonal ones.  He also recommends the root be taken for prostate problems.

Stinging nettle also helps get rid of mucus in the lungs.

David Hoffman calls this plant the “ultimate green tonic”.  That should tell you something.

powdered nettle

Ways to Get Stinging Nettle into Your Diet

There are a number of ways you can incorporate stinging nettle into your diet.

A very easy way is to cook it like spinach or added to soups and stews for extra nutritional benefit.  Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar likes to saute it with a little olive oil, lemon juice and feta cheese.

Herbal Revolution preserves their nettles like this to to enjoy all year:

  1. Harvest fresh leaves
  2. Blanch them
  3. Measure out a cup and place the cup patties onto a baking sheet (save the liquid for soup stock and to water the plants in the house)
  4. Place the baking sheet into the freezer
  5. Once frozen, store in a bag or glass storage container

These little “patties” can be added to soup, pesto, sautéed, in frittata, scrambled eggs, smoothies, etc.  This could also be done with dandelion greens!

The young shoots may also be eaten fresh or steamed.  But make sure to get the tops of young plants.  Nettles are very fibrous in older plants and growth near the ground.

To make stinging nettle tea, steep one teaspoon of dried herb for eight to 10 minutes in hot water. This makes an excellent substitute for coffee that is high in antioxidants and many other nutrients.

People who suffer from chronic conditions like allergies and arthritis may find relief by drinking stinging nettle tea.

Taking nettle in a tincture form is available if you can’t stomach eating the greens, or don’t like drinking teas.  As a tincture, it is a more concentrated and you can take it as needed.  You can find tinctures in most natural food or wellness stores.

Making a herbal decoction with nettles is another great way to take this plant.  Just follow these simple instructions:

  1. Use one teaspoon to one tablespoon of herbs per cup of cold water.
  2. Add the herbs and cold water to a pot.
  3. Place that pot on the stove and bring up to a gentle boil.
  4. Put a lid on the pan and lightly simmer for twenty to forty minutes.
  5. Remove from the heat and let your decoction cool to drinking temperature.
  6. Finish up by straining out the herbs.
  7. You can often use these same herbs to brew up a new batch of decoction a couple more times as long as the decoction is still strong after brewing.
  8. Refrigerate leftovers and use within 48 hours.

My favorite way to use nettles is by making Nettle Gomasio!  This herbal spice blend can be used on almost everything.  I personally like it on my fried eggs and popcorn.

In the video below, I show you just how easy it is to make your own Nettle Gomasio!

Still Think Nettles are Weeds?

I hope I have shown you just how beneficial stinging nettles are for us.

Not only are they nutritious in terms of the vitamins and minerals they provide, but they also help support our health and body in a number of ways.

Nettles have been around for thousands of years, and I hope they will be around for a thousand more.  Because we need them.

So go and “nettle” up!

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