Herbalism

Well, Cinnamon may not be the cure for everything, but it certainly handles most of what ails us during cold and flu season! Find out how...

Nov 3, 2002 -

Think you've never heard of Pipsissewa? Ever had a root beer? This little herb was a primary ingredient in that beverage for years. Read on to find out the many medicinal uses of this woodland herb...

Sep 23, 2002 -

More on the abilities of this greatly ignorned garnish!

Aug 15, 2002 -

Don’t grimace at that garnish! Snap it up and savor the flavor…and healthy dose of Vitamin C, not to mention a natural breath freshener as well. Read on to discover just how beneficial this overlooked herb can be!

Jul 28, 2002 -

We play on it, feed it, mow it...but have you ever thought of using it as a natural medicine? Find out about the beneficial uses of grasses...

Jun 13, 2002 -

History of Sempervivum and how to plant it in the garden.

May 1, 2002 -

Bane of the South, or beneficial medicine? You'll be surprised at how many ways this vine can work FOR you! Read on to learn more...

Apr 1, 2002 -

With the last winter snow (I hope!) on the ground, Frostwort seemed appropriate...and useful too! Find out more...

Mar 2, 2002 -

Most only know Dill from pickles. Find out how one of the most ancient herbs can also help your health, wealth and love life!

Feb 18, 2002 -

Ancient cure or garden art? Learn more about the medicinal properties of this attractive member of the herb world!

Jan 9, 2002 -

More about the Season's Favorite Evergreen and it's many uses - Holly for the Holly-days!

Dec 25, 2001 -

Explore the history, fact, folklore and modern uses of the Season's favorite evergreen!

Dec 11, 2001 -

Part two of the many other non-ornamental uses for this enchanting evergreen!

Nov 20, 2001 -

Here in the Northern Hemisphere, as the leaves finish their fall and the landscape shows the beginnings of its winter sleep, we can't help but admire the Enchanting Evergreens. This month we'll see how one favorite, the Juniper, offers much more than just ornamental beauty.

Nov 6, 2001 -

More on this Wonderful Woodruff!

Oct 23, 2001 -

If it isn't already, Sweet Woodruff will become one of your favorite herbs both inside and outside the house! Read on to find out why...

Oct 9, 2001 -

More on the medicinal and magical uses of this tangy herbal favorite, plus growing it yourself!

Sep 25, 2001 -

Let's hear it for Horseradish...much more than a condiment, for disorders from digestion to bronchitis, it's a cure! Read on to discover more...

Sep 11, 2001 -

More on this amazing herb as we continue our look at the vitually unlimited uses for Sunflowers! Read on and enjoy!

Aug 21, 2001 -

We can't help but be struck by the presence of the grand, glorious Sunflower! Besides it's beauty, however, we find that this is one of nature's most useful herbs. Discover how...

Aug 7, 2001 -

Part Two in Taro: You know it as Elephant Ear, but did you know it's one of nature's healthiest healing herbs? It's not toxic, it's Taro...read on to find out more!

Jul 10, 2001 -

You know it as Elephant Ear, but did you know it's one of nature's healthiest healing herbs? It's not toxic, it's Taro...read on to find out more!

Jul 5, 2001 -

With common names like Self-Heal and Heal-All, can Prunella Vulgaris really live up to all those expectations? Find out what it *can* do for you and your garden...

Jun 26, 2001 -

Whether you acknowledge the Solstice in your own life, or how you do, may not be something you've yet considered this year. But I urge you to take notice on a personal and spiritual level in some way, and let the following herbal folklore guide your way...

Jun 19, 2001 -

There's nothing basic about Basil! Join us as we continue with Part II of our exploration into this versatile herb

Jun 12, 2001 -

Basil is everyone's favorite kitchen herb, but its uses go far beyond the kitchen! Find out what the ancients knew about the many ways Basil benefits you...

Jun 5, 2001 -

Interested in weight loss? This incredibly common herb is suprisingly beneficial in the nutritional, medicinal and metabolic sense. Read on to find out how it can help you....

May 29, 2001 -

One of the most nutritious (pseudo) grains available, Amaranth is experiencing a resurgence in popularity as Westerners discover its health benefits. Find out why...

May 22, 2001 -

Astragalus, or Huang-Qi, is called by some the "young person's Ginseng". But you don't have to be a youth to benefit from this ancient herb. If you're tired or suffer from stress, this may be for you...

May 15, 2001 -

How can a two million year old herb clean your cabinets, polish your pewter and help what ails you at the same time? Only one can, and that's Horsetail... Read on to see how and why!

May 8, 2001 -

The continuation of last weeks, including the instructions for making those Lavender Wands!

Apr 24, 2001 -

From ancient to modern times, Comfrey has been the comfort of choice in healing breaks, bruises and inflammations. Find out why its strengths have maintained its use even today...

Apr 23, 2001 -

We all know the heavenly scent of this popular herb, but did you know it can heal what ails you as well? Find out why this herb's popluarity has lasted for centuries...

Apr 17, 2001 -

From coughs to combating sleeplessness, the medicinal and magical properties of Agrimony have lasted through the ages. Find out why...

Apr 10, 2001 -

If you suffer from bronchial ailments from cough to asthma, this is one herb you'll want to investigate...

Mar 27, 2001 -

Costmary is one of the lesser known herbs today, interesting considering it used to be one of the most widely used herbs for medicinal, craft, culinary and aromatic uses. See how it can still be used today...

Mar 20, 2001 -

A staple in the Middle Ages for kidney problems, Bearberry is still recommended for urinary tract infections, bladder and kidney problems. Read on if these apply...

Mar 13, 2001 -

Relaxation anyone? Lady's Bedstraw may be your key to resting a tired body, head to toe. Read on to find out how...

Feb 27, 2001 -

Considering the host of minor ailments we can find in the kitchen herb Caraway, they should call it "Cares Away"! Read on to find out why...

Feb 18, 2001 -

In most of my articles, you'll find me saying "This is a wonderful addition to the herbal medicine cabinet!" But I realized I've spent a lot of time talking about "additions" without ever addressing the basics. So I thought I'd put together a list of the Top 20 herbs I would start with...

Feb 13, 2001 -

Ground Ivy has a medicinal history that stretches even farther than this creeper will in your garden. From eye complaints to sciatica, kidney disease to cough and headache, read more about this ancient heal-all....

Feb 6, 2001 -

With Winter well upon us and Spring Fever setting in way before it's time, we take a look at bringing the bounty of fresh herbs indoors with Herbs as Houseplants...

Jan 30, 2001 -

Shepherd's Purse has historically been one of the best natural medicines for stopping internal and external bleeding of all kinds, especially for female issues, but not only so. Read on to find out more...

Jan 14, 2001 -

If you suffer from night blindness, or other eye disorders, Bilberry is one herb you'll want to view more closely!

Jan 9, 2001 -

Betony has been held in the highest regard since the Ancient Egyptians, and its uses in treating heachache, nervous tension and other common ailments are still popular today. See why...

Jan 2, 2001 -

Of course Blackberries are delicious, but did you know they were medicinal as well? Check out the wonders of this magical fruit!

Dec 26, 2000 -

What would the Holidays be like without the sweet spicy scent of Cloves? Find out why this popular spice is a popular herbal remedy as well...

Dec 12, 2000 -

Butcher's Broom made a clean sweep of the Ancient world in both the practical and the medicinal realms. See what it can do for you...

Dec 5, 2000 -

Named for alchemy, this little herb is as important to medicine as it is to magic. Read on to learn its facinating lore...

Nov 28, 2000 -

Many love the subtle woodsy fragrance of Sandalwood and enjoy it in perfumes and aromatherapy, but did you know it has valuable medicinal properties as well? Or that it is fast approaching becoming an endangered species? Read on to find out more...

Nov 21, 2000 -

Ivy is much loved for its ability to add charm to a building or atmosphere to a garden wall, not to mention cover unsightly areas with gorgeous foliage in rapid time. But not many know what a useful medicinal herb this plant can be. Read on....

Nov 14, 2000 -

The place of Marjoram in our modern world speaks clearly to the ways herbs were once regarded, versus how they are taken for granted today. This interesting and multi-faceted herb was once found in high esteem throughout ancient cultures, and it’s uses were many, from medicinal to its inclusion in sacred ceremonies. Today, it can most often be found used to stuff turkey. Let's revisit the past and learn from it today...

Oct 31, 2000 -

Often when we consider herbs and their uses, we think in terms of medicinal, culinary, soothing to the skin or simply aromatic. What we’ve forgotten in our modern times is just how useful herbs were - and are - around the house! And a safer alternative to modern chemical cleansers as well. Here are just a few...

Oct 24, 2000 -

For calming or cleansing, colds or other common ailments, Hyssop makes a valuable addition to the medicinal and magical cabinets. Modern medicine has found even more valuable uses (such as treatment for HIV and AIDS) in this 'Biblical Herb'. Read on to learn more...

Oct 17, 2000 -

Modern science has transported Turmeric beyond it's venerable position as an 'ancient esteemed medicinal' into that of a Modern Medical Marvel. From treating Cancer to Carpal Tunnel, find out what this Wonder of the Eastern Herbs can do for you...

Oct 10, 2000 -

There's no need to Weep for this Wonder of the Herb World. Known for centuries as Nature's Aspirin, this gentle herb can treat headache or prevent heart attack. Read on to find out how...

Oct 3, 2000 -

As highly valued as Elder has been over many centuries, and with such a wealth of folklore surrounding it's many medicinal benefits, you understand why there had to be a Part II... This is the completion of last week's article on Elder Wisdom.

Sep 26, 2000 -

When they told you as a child to listen to your Elders, I think they meant the trees. With such a fascinating history of lore and generations of use, this herbal remedy has a lot to say for itself. Take a moment for a little Elder Wisdom...

Sep 19, 2000 -

If you aren’t already familiar with the work and resulting Natural Medicines of Dr. Edward Bach known as the Bach Flower Remedies or Bach Flower Essences, you should be! Read on as we explore this fascinating system of Herbal Medicine...it's an important side of total healing that should not be overlooked.

Sep 12, 2000 -

Okay, you don't have to be a Heathen to be captivated by the sight and scent of fields of Heather, or to be interested in the many benefits this beautiful herb can provide...some folklore even says Heather can bring rain, and goodness knows some areas could use it! Read on...

Sep 5, 2000 -

They say when you look good you feel good, but when we talk about natural health, we tend to ignore the largest single organ in the body...our skin. Especially the face, which is exposed daily to dozens of harmful effects, from sunlight to pollution. It is certainly worth a little healthy focus...read on to find some ways to look and feel better, naturally!

Aug 29, 2000 -

Are you confusing your kitchen cabinet with your medicine chest yet? You should be! Here’s another of nature’s most beneficial medicinals, and most will have to go no farther than the garden or spice rack to utilize all the benefits of this marvelous little herb.

Aug 22, 2000 -

Okay, I admit it. I’m stretching the category of Herbalism a little this week and including everybody's favorite bath sponge, Luffa. After all, an Herb is just a plant with greater beneficial uses, right? Some of Luffa’s properties are indeed medicinal, but they focus mostly on its benefits as a renewable resource. Let's explore that and much more...

Aug 15, 2000 -

Part Two of "Raving About Rosemary"...Did you ever imagine Rosemary had SO MANY medicinal benefits? Read on to discover them all!

Aug 8, 2000 -

Who rules the roost in your home, wife or husband? Plant Rosemary and find out! LOL Discover more about this bit of fancy as we explore Rosemary, an herb that has a folklore as rich as its flavor, and medical benefits far beyond the limits of the kitchen stove. Read on to find out about what may well be one of Herbalism’s most powerful - and interesting - remedies...

Aug 1, 2000 -

As with so many herbs, some of our most powerful medicines can be found right in the kitchen cabinets. It's time to take Fenugreek out of the cupboard and make it a part of your daily intake...read why!

Jul 25, 2000 -

From the Pharoes to the Bible to the early Kings of England, the value of Anise as a medicinal, culinary and highly fragrant herb has only increased. Read on to find out why Anise is another 'must' for the kitchen and medicine cabinets!

Jul 18, 2000 -

Love the benefits of aromatherapy, but tired of looking for a wider range of natural scents and essences? Look to the garden or kitchen cabinet! There are a great many herbs that can be very easily combined into your own custom - and beneficial - herbal incenses.

Jul 11, 2000 -

Nutritionists have long touted the benefits of including Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, especially for those suffering with - and seeking relief from - inflammatory diseases. But most don't know this essential nutrient exists in the herb world...here's the Facts on Flax!

Jul 4, 2000 -

Eyebright isn't shy, it's one of those herbs that tells you what it does right up front! Long valued as a remedy for eye problems, its uses are just as effective today. See why...

Jun 27, 2000 -

The next time you feel the itch of a mosquito or the sting of a bee, run out to your yard and grab a free remedy...that "weed" *gasp!* HERB called Plantain is your best bet! And that's not it's only benefit...

Jun 20, 2000 -

If you haven't heard of Horehound, your parents have! A regular sight around the candy store as well as the medicine chest, find out why Horehound has an ancient reputation as one of Nature's finest medicinals...

Jun 13, 2000 -

Soapwort does just what you think it does...cleans! But this beautiful perennial herb doesn't stop there, Find out why Soapwort is a must have for the 'natural' household, a beautiful staple in every natural landscape, and much much more...

Jun 6, 2000 -

Lovage was once one of the most widely used herbs, both for medicinal use as well as being a culinary favorite. While it dropped out of favor as more powerful herbs were discovered, it is now experiencing a well-deserved resurgence in gardens and herbal medicine cabinets. It's easy to see why...

May 30, 2000 -

You don't have to be brave to add this bountiful beauty to your list of favorites as a medicinal herb, culinary favorite or garden highlight...see why Borage is one worth foraging for!

May 23, 2000 -

Throughout history it is easy to see the importance various cultures placed on the ritual of the bath. Baths can sooth and relax, or refresh and stimulate. They can ease the body, and calm the mind. The ‘wholistic’ practitioner knows the importance of bringing together mind, body and spirit in the tranquil, centered atmosphere of the bath...and knows that when this power is combined with the natural powers of herbs, we can quite literally wash our physical and emotional troubles away.

May 16, 2000 -

Blessed Thistle (Holy Thistle) is indeed a blessing to the mind, body and spirit...and garden! For those with digestive troubles, nursing mothers, or anyone seeking a bit of renewal or increased vitality, Blessed Thistle may be the herb for you. Read on...

May 9, 2000 -

While the herb Bay (Bay Laurel, or Laurus nobilis) is most known for its culinary use as a standard ingredient in many soups, stocks, Bouquet garni, stew or tomato sauce; Bay has quite an interesting history of folklore and usage outside the kitchen as well! Read on to find out why this is one herb you WON'T want to keep "at Bay"... Bay Laurel

May 2, 2000 -

Iris has long been an object of admiration in the garden, read on to see why Iris (or Orris root) is a valuable herb for the senses as well as the spirit!

Apr 25, 2000 -

Well known to Eastern and Asian herbalists for thousands of years, Western medicine is finally taking note of Gotu Kola and its benefits for a number of common ailments. See why...

Apr 18, 2000 -

Yarrow is one of those herbs you're sure to find in gardens, either hated or cultivated! I, of course, am all for the cultivated manner, as Yarrow is one of nature's best medicines for body and spirit, and your other plants! Read on...

Apr 10, 2000 -

Some herbs provide their greatest benefit externally. Pennyroyal is one of those, and is one herb that's well known and loved by gardeners, pet lovers, and anyone who loves the outdoors in Spring. See why....

Apr 4, 2000 -

Vervain's lore and usage as a medicinal - and magical! - herb was ancient even in Egyptian times, and its value remains just as potent today. See why Vervain is a must for every kind of herbal practitioner...

Mar 28, 2000 -

Yet another of the "It's not a weed, it's a wonder!" topics. Join me as we explore the many uses of Wild Strawberry, including using it to whiten your teeth. Yep, that's right! There's more...

Mar 21, 2000 -

We've long associated luck with the four-leafed clover, but few realize just how lucky they are to have the highly beneficial Red Clover so readily available! Here are some of the medicinal and magical (and more!) properties of this curious clover...

Mar 14, 2000 -

There are SO many benefits to dandelions, of course there's a Part Two! Including the dandelion recipes you've been waiting for....

Mar 7, 2000 -

I can see those eyebrows raising now! Most commentary on this brilliant little yellow gem tends toward ridding ourselves of what is sadly considered more of a pesky presence in the lawn, when in fact, Dandelions are one of the most beneficial plants we could welcome into our gardens! Read on to discover why...

Feb 29, 2000 -

As with so many herbs, we find that throughout Rue’s ancient past, its medicinal and magical uses are so closely intertwined that we are able to learn the most about its current benefits through the tales and lore of its history...

Feb 22, 2000 -

An in-depth look at Mullein including medicinal and magical properties, tips on growing, and the history and folklore surrounding this marvelous herb!

Feb 15, 2000 -

An overview of the uses of Chamomile, including growing the herb, it's history, and it's medicinal and magical uses.

Jan 27, 2000 -