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Astragalus

POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 BY ANN MARIE IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES, PLANT OF THE WEEK22

Milkvetch (Astragalus spp.) is one of the most revered herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, so much so that it is included in the 50 fundamental herbs in China. There are many species of astragalus, some of which are toxic. Identifying the appropriate variety is important to ensure the safe use of the herb in many medical and health conditions.

Astragalus has been studied for its effect on people suffering from simple illnesses such as common colds to more complex diseases like breast and lung cancers. Though more studies are required, preliminary studies already suggest that humans can benefit from this plant. Astragalus supplements like pills and capsules have made their way into the commercial market. But some other preparations such as decoctions and tinctures can be conveniently done at home. These preparations ensure that you get the best advantages that astragalus roots can offer.

Astragalus is believed to have the capacity to prolong human life. Aside from oral intake, some hospitals also give astragalus via injection or through intravenous fluids. But before taking astragalus in any form, make sure to talk with your attending physician first since it can interact with other drugs you might be taking.

The plant was introduced in North America by the USDA’s Plant Introduction Office in 1925 and has then circulated worldwide. Several studies conducted in various countries also offer an overview of the benefits we can get from this plant. Studies from the United States show that it may help people with weak immune systems caused by radiation therapies.

Where The Plant Is Found

Astragalus usually grows in a place with full sun to partially shaded and dry areas. It prefers well-drained, sandy loam soil with neutral to alkaline pH. The plant thrives best in places categorized under zones 5 to 9 of the USDA hardiness zone.

It is also wildly cultivated in Asian countries, particularly in China, where it is used as part of folk medicine. It also grows in mountain thickets, meadows, coniferous forests, and steppes.

Related: I Stopped Spending Money At The Pharmacy By Growing These 10 Plants (Video)

How To Identify Astragalus

Astragalus is an herbaceous perennial. It is one of the members of the Fabaceae or pea family, which is the third-largest plant family overall. This herb grows up to 4 feet or 1.2 meters in height. There are many varieties of astragalus as well. Hence, you need to know which is which.

• Leaf. Most plants in the Fabaceae family have pinnate leaves. However, the astragalus flower only has one pinnate leaf that contains several smaller leaflets. This distinctive trait can help you differentiate astragalus better.
• Flower. Astragalus produces yellowish flowers that closely resemble that of the peas, which turn into egg-shaped beans once they mature. Members of the pea family also have distinctive “papilionaceous” flowers. This means that the flowers look like a butterfly. The flowers usually bloom from the middle of the summer to late fall.
• Roots. The fibrous roots have yellow color on the inside. That is why the name of “yellow leader” came to be.
• Stem. The astragalus stem is short and hairy. The raised stem is covered with imparipinnate leaves.

Related: Plant Identification Guide – 400 Wild Plants That You Can Forage For (Video)

There are more than 3,000 species of astragalus. Some species are toxic. Hence, you need to be aware of the variety you want to grow if you plan on using it medicinally. Two varieties of astragalus often used in supplements are:

• Astragalus membranaceus
• Astragalus mongholicus

How To Grow Astragalus

Some find it easy to grow astragalus, while some find it hard. To grow astragalus, preparing the seeds beforehand is a must. You also have to ensure that the soil medium has the proper pH level since astragalus is somewhat finicky about the soil’s pH.

Prepare The Seeds

Before you can plant the seeds, it needs to undergo certain procedures. Astragalus seeds are covered with a hard coat, which you need to scrape and remove. Lightly rub the seeds on sandpaper to get rid of the hard coat. This step is essential because it helps with faster germination. But, make sure that you do the scraping carefully and gently. Otherwise, the seeds may get damaged.

Soak The Seeds

Soak the seeds overnight in warm water.

Some others prefer the cold stratification method (intended for plants that need to thrive on cold winter grounds) for at least 3 weeks. In this method, the seeds are soaked for 12 to 24 hours before putting them inside a sealable container with proportioned amounts of sand and peat. The container is sealed and placed inside the refrigerator for 21 days. Check the seeds after the given time to see if they have sprouted already. Some seeds, however, may take up to 9 weeks to sprout.

Plant

After the soaking or cold stratification method, plant the seeds in small pots or seed trays for at least 2 inches deep. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, approximately ¼ inch.

Maintain The Growth

Germination usually takes 3 to days after sowing. When watering, water slowly and deeply. Astragalus thrives better in moist soil, but not too damp. You can transfer the plants to bigger pots once they are a few inches tall.

As soon as the plants are big enough and stable, bring the plants outside every day for a week. Gradually increase the length of time daily. Do not leave the plants unattended for long periods during the first few days they are exposed outside. This will shock the plants and won’t allow them to adjust accordingly to the external factors outside the house.

Transplant Outside

After the last frost, it is now safe to plant the potted astragalus outside. If you have several astragalus plants you want to transfer to outside grounds, make sure to evenly space them 8 to 16 inches apart.

You may opt to keep the plants in containers too. Just make sure that the pots you use are light-colored to prevent fluctuating temperatures. The pots also need to have plenty of room for the roots to grow well.

Related: 10 Plants That You Should Never Plant Together (Video)

Things To Remember

Growing astragalus is easy if you know what to do. Keep these things in mind:

• Choose a planting location that is partially shaded or with full sun.
• Always check the pH level. Astragalus thrives best in soil with pH levels over 7.
• Sandy soil is the best choice for astragalus growth.
• Keep the plant moist, especially during hot summer days.
• Make sure to prune the plant since astragalus is a fast grower and can be invasive if not dealt with properly.

How To Harvest Astragalus

Roots of any age from astragalus can be harvested at any time. However, it is best to wait for a few years if you want a potent medicine. Astragalus needs to grow for 2 to 4 years before you can make use of its root for medicinal purposes. The older the roots are, the more effective they are.

The best time to harvest astragalus is during fall. Remove the foliage and the stems first. Gently dig the base of the stem to reveal the taproot. Dig and twist until a good portion of the root comes out. If you want to keep the plant alive, only harvest 30% of the smaller roots. Leave the main taproot untouched.

After harvesting the roots you need, wash them using warm water. Remove all dirt and clean them thoroughly. Once cleaned, slice and dry the roots accordingly. Store the roots in a dark container with an airtight lid.

What Astragalus Is Good For And Natural Remedies Made From It

Astragalus is one of the most powerful herbs in the world. It acts as both an immunostimulant and immunomodulant. It stimulates the immune system and adjusts the immune response when pathogens attack. This herb is also considered an adaptogen that protects the body against diseases and stress.

Astragalus is also useful in preventing senility in older people. Additionally, few studies suggest the use of astragalus to help lessen the side effects of chemotherapy in cancer patients such as the loss of appetite.

Some other conditions that may benefit from astragalus include:

• Anemia
• Anorexia nervosa
• Blood sugar problems / Diabetes
• Colds
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fibromyalgia
• Heart diseases
• Hepatitis
• Influenza
• Kidney problems
• Seasonal allergies
• Upper respiratory infections

Astragalus is often made into decoctions and soups rather than made into tinctures. That is because hot water draws out the antioxidant-rich polysaccharides found in astragalus. But if you want an astragalus tincture, you can still make one since other astragalus compounds are best extracted through the use of alcohol.

Astragalus is considered an important part of Traditional Chinese Medicine. However, more studies may be required to provide proof of its usefulness in the Western market.

What Parts Of Plants Are Used For Remedies

Astragalus root is the primary medicinal component of plants. When harvesting, you can discard foliage and stems since they do not hold any medicinal value at all.

Astragalus Decoction

Ingredients

• 2 tsp dried astragalus root
• 1 ½ to 2 cups water

Steps

1. Combine water and astragalus root in a small pot. Bring to a boil in medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes. Astragalus root is hard. Thus, preparing it as a decoction instead of tea is the best way to release its therapeutic properties.
3. After simmering, remove the pot. Set aside for 20 to 30 minutes more.
4. Strain the liquid to remove the roots before drinking.

How To Use The Remedy

Drink the decoction as you would with tea. You can drink the preparation 1 to 3 times a day if desired.

Related: Ancient Japanese Tonic Melts 54 LBS Of Fat (Video)

What Plants Resemble Astragalus

Feature	Mongolian Milkvetch (Astragalus membranaceus)	Lambert’s Locoweed (Oxytropis lambertii)
Size	48 inches tall	18 inches tall
Leaves	Leaves have 12 to 18 pairs of leaflets; pinnate	Basal leaves in tight rosettes; 9 to 10 stalkless leaflets
Flowers	Forms in clusters; purple; pea-like	Spike cluster containing up to 25 flowers; pea-shaped; deep pink to purple; ¾ inch long
Stem/Trunk	Hairy and raised vertically	Hairy and leafless
Scent	Earthy and sweet smell	Flowers have a sweet smell like carnation

Showing 1 to 6 of 6 entries

Warnings And Cautions

• Pediatric use of astragalus should be administered with much caution since scientific evidence of its effect on children are few. Though the herb is widely used in TCM, they have advised not to use astragalus in children with fever as the herb might increase the temperature or make the fever last longer.
• Astragalus should not be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women. Some research on animals shows that it might be harmful to the mother and the fetus. So, be on the safe side and do not use.
• People with autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and the like should not use astragalus too. Since astragalus is an immunostimulant, it can worsen symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
• Do not use astragalus for a long period as an adaptogenic. Rotate among other adaptogenic herbs such as Siberian ginseng,  Reishi mushrooms, and ashwagandha, among others. Change the herbs you are taking every 2 months.
• Astragalus may also interact with the medications you use. Ask your doctor if you are taking immunosuppressant drugs, lithium and cyclophosphamide.

Astragalus, just like any other herbs, should be taken safely and accordingly. It is important to talk with your attending physician first before starting any astragalus intake.

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22 Comments

• ALLISON DENNIS POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 5:44 PMYou mention the hot water extraction method to capture the polysaccharides, and also state alcohol extraction is beneficial for other components. It sounds to me that perhaps a dual-extraction similar to how one approaches medicinal mushrooms might be good here? Is that so?Reply
• MIRCEA POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 6:25 PMRead again, it is about the rootsReply
  • FLYOVERCINDY POSTED JANUARY 17, 2022 3:51 AMYou still must identify the correct plant to correctly and safely use the roots.Reply
  • J POSTED JANUARY 26, 2022 11:54 PMTo be fair, Carol has a good point. The article says:
    ” Flower. Astragalus produces yellowish flowers that closely resemble that of the peas, … “
    But I think that is an error that can be correctedReply
• OZZY POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 6:57 PMI read it in the beginning of the article, but at the end it says the right color. I guess they turn more to pink later before they form the seed pod.
  Flowers: Forms in clusters; purple; pea-like
  Spike cluster containing up to 25 flowers; pea-shaped; deep pink to purple; ¾ inch longReply
• BARB S. POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 7:16 PMI thought the same thing while reading the article. Going to look into it further.Reply
• JEFF POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 7:20 PM^ ^ 2nd sentence says: “there are MANY varieties” lolReply
• THORSTEN POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 8:30 PMLook here. Astralagus can have many colours.
  https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8a/Astragalus_K%C3%B6hler.jpg/800px-Astragalus_K%C3%B6hler.jpgReply
• KASEY THOMASON POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 10:33 PMIt very well could just be a typo. I’m sure if you look up astragalus on the internet you can find even more information. She is human and everyone makes mistakes in one way or another. I do hope that this one mistake does not ruin your view towards her.Reply
  • LAURA WESTBROOK POSTED JANUARY 19, 2022 7:47 PMEveryone makes mistakes, and I view part of this forum as a good place to point out the mistakes so the author can correct and/or clarify any confusion and misconceptions created by the way the information has been presented.Reply
• FLYOVERCINDY POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 10:34 PMI agree with Carol – the picture next to the description does NOT resemble the flower, hairy stem or pinnate leaf described. The picture below the handful of seed picture looks closer, but is not a very good detail illustration.
  We are here to increase our arsenal of herbal knowledge (especially at a time when we are looking for immune-boosting herbs), and there is a lot of conflicting and incomplete information here. The ads at the right seem to cover up some of the article, and I can only see 2 of the 6 look-a-like examples. It also should be mentioned that the Lambert’s Locoweed shown is toxic to livestock, for those of us who have animals that could possibly ingest some.
  Sorry, not a very helpful article.Reply
• AINSLIE POSTED JANUARY 15, 2022 12:04 AMThere are native species of Astragalus, so your blanket statement that “Astragalus spp” was introduced is not correct in North America.Reply
• DARRYL TRIMBLE POSTED JANUARY 15, 2022 2:45 AMActually there are plenty of color variations. A quick Google image search will turn up white varying shades of yellow and the pins to purple spectrum. I look at these posts as the opening of the door … After that it is up to me to study the particular herb and to get to know it inside and out; in all its nuances.Reply
  • LAURA POSTED JANUARY 19, 2022 7:34 PMI agree that further research is necessary. Here’s the deal. The article says there are toxic forms and medicinal forms. Googling images doesn’t help because no expert is reviewing and removing incorrect images. Trying to get to know an herb utilizing a book that purports to give me the information, and then doesn’t give me the details for how I might do that safely I find disingenuous.Reply
• DARRYL TRIMBLE POSTED JANUARY 15, 2022 2:51 AMIn my above comment, I made a typo. I wrote, “pins to purple.” I meant Pink to purple. Typos or missing information is why we need to study for ourselves. Every teaching we receive should be proven.Reply
• LAURA POSTED JANUARY 15, 2022 3:18 AMJust to clarify (it isn’t mentioned in the article); does mongolian milkvetch (Astragalus membranaceus) have pink flowers (as pictured) and does the other medicinal – Astragalus mongholicus have the yellow flowers?Reply
• M. BROWN POSTED JANUARY 15, 2022 1:47 PMThere are many different types of Astragalus plants, this is mentioned throughout the article (3000 species) and flower colors will vary since there are different species (from yellow, pink, purple) depending on the species. As we read the articles we can supplement our knowledge by doing additional research. Hope this helps the confusion.Reply
• MIMI POSTED JANUARY 15, 2022 3:58 PMExactly!Reply
• KENDRA POSTED JANUARY 16, 2022 3:42 PMIf you go back and look, there is a small pea sized yellow flower blooming on it… just as was mentioned in the description.Reply
• MALCOLM SMITH POSTED JANUARY 17, 2022 3:05 PMfascinating how to buy the bookReply
  • ALISON E MINER POSTED JANUARY 18, 2022 3:00 AMGo to Nicole’s website to buy the book: on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dr.-Nicole-Apelian/e/B07WX1319L%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_shareReply
    • LAURA POSTED JANUARY 19, 2022 7:28 PMI already have the book

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Blood-Cleansing Herbs

POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 BY MINDY IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES, RECIPES17

Your blood is responsible for transporting all sorts of materials throughout your body, from oxygen to hormones, clotting factors, sugar, fats, and the cells of your immune system.

There’s no need to invest in an expensive cleanse diet or buy tons of detox supplements to help keep your blood clean and free of toxins and waste. Your liver and your kidneys already do a great job of purifying your blood by removing and breaking down waste.

Vegetable And Fruits:

• Cruciferous vegetables are often recommended for people with kidney disease. They’re high in antioxidants and extremely nutritious. They have been shown to reduce the risk of many types of cancer, including kidney cancer. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. You can eat them raw, steamed, baked, grilled, or as part of a soup or casserole.
• Blueberries are incredibly high in antioxidants, which can protect the liver from damage.
• Cranberries are often touted for their urinary tract benefits. They have been shown to prevent bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract, which in turn keeps your kidneys free from infection.
• Grapefruit is high in antioxidants and may help control inflammation in the body. These studies have found that antioxidants contained in grapefruit can help protect the liver from injury and the harmful effects of alcohol.
• Apples contain a high amount of a soluble fiber known as pectin. Soluble fiber helps regulate your blood sugar levels. Since high blood sugar can damage your kidneys, anything that helps keep it in check will have an indirect, positive effect on kidney health.

Cleansing Herbs

In the past, bitter-tasting plant material was used to flush out the system of toxins. These plants were consumed on a seasonal cycle that maximized the purpose of these plants. As an example, nettles were consumed in the spring. The reason for this was two-fold. One, the greens were tender and you did not have to worry about the “needles” getting stuck in your throat. Another reason is that this is what the human body needs at this time. What do I mean about this? Well, nettles are known to be a wonderful spring toxic or detoxifying agent after the long winter.

Nettles

Nettles are known to support the skin, aid joints, and all-around body detoxifier. When it comes to using nettles, you do have a couple of choices. One is to simply make a salad of the young greens as you would lettuce. Another choice is to sauté the young greens as you would spinach or kale. Another choice is to make a nettle tea. While the first two recipes require young greens due to the “needles,” the tea on the other hand can be made with both young and older nettle leaves.

Before I move on to the nettle tea recipe, keep in mind that you have a few choices when it comes to getting your nettles. One choice is to simply purchase nettle leave tea bags, which are easily found in the grocery store. Another choice is to order dried nettle leaves, but you can easily grow and pick your own, giving you a source to dry your own for winter use.

If you are using fresh leaves or loose leaf nettle tea you will need to experiment with the strength that you enjoy. In doing so, the recipe below provides general directions for the nettle tea.

Nettle Tea

Ingredients

• 1 cup of nettle leaves, dried or fresh
• 2 cups of water
• Optional: honey, cinnamon

Steps

1. Place nettle leaves in a saucepan.
2. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and place on the stove.
3. Bring water to a boil.
4. Once the water has come to a boil, turn off the heat and allow it to steep for five minutes.
5. Strain the liquid and place it in a mug.
6. Add flavoring if you like it to your drink. Enjoy

Burdock

Burdock root is known to be a great eliminator for the body, in the sense that all paths of elimination are triggered. Since bad stuff is removed, it makes room for nutrient use and absorption. Now, you may be thinking that burdock root is a far-out idea but it is common in Japanese cooking.

So where do you start if you would like to try burdock root? Do not worry; the recipe below is a simple and tasty way to try out burdock root and detox.

Burdock Stir-Fry

Ingredients

• Burdock roots
• Soy sauce

Steps

1. Remove any dirt from your burdock roots. If they are large, you may want to peel them a bit.
2. Cut the roots into thin strips.
3. Place in a saucepan with water and soy sauce. Now you may note there are no amounts. The key is to add enough water to make sure the roots are covered. As far as the soy sauce goes, the amount is strictly determined by your taste.
4. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not worry about the water evaporating. This process will infuse the soy sauce flavor into the roots.
5. After the period has passed, the burdock roots are ready enough as a snack or as a side dish.

Dandelion

In a nutshell, the dandelion stimulates the liver and the body’s natural way of detoxing. Now, you may have seen dandelion greens in the grocery store lately. The interest in this green has increased over the years to a point that this plant is being bred to produce leaves that the consumer likes better for greens. So, one approach is to buy a bunch of dandelion greens, take them home, and cook them like sautéed spinach. Another approach is to make a simple dandelion tea with greens. Dandelion tea can be a bit strong in flavor but I do have a tastier way of consuming your dandelion and that is through the root. So, check out the recipe below for making a delicious and detoxifying drink from dandelion root.

Roasted Dandelion Root Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon of ground, roasted dandelion root
• 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice
• 1 cup of milk
• Honey

Steps 

1. Place all ingredients in a saucepan.
2. Place on the stove and bring to a simmer. Cook for three to five minutes.
3. After the time has passed, remove from the heat and pour into a mug.
4. Sweeten with honey if you like. Enjoy.

Schisandra

You may have never heard of this detoxifier but it is well known in Traditional Chinese medicine. It is referred to as the “five flavor fruit” because it teases the five tastes. In Traditional Chinese medicine, it is known to balance the qi and has been proven to support the liver.

When it comes to using these delightful berries, the first thing one must do is soak them. Why you may ask? Well, the Schisandra berries are high in tannin along with malic acid and tartaric acid. To reduce the amount of these substances, it is advised to soak them.

Another hint I have to offer when it comes to using these berries is to sweeten whatever you are using them in. Even soaking them to remove certain substances does not lessen the lip-puckering flavor of these berries.

Schisandra Tea

Ingredients 

• 1 1/2 Tablespoons of dried Schisandra berries
• 2 cups of water
• 1 Tablespoon goji berries
• 1 ½ teaspoon astragalus root
• 1 ½ teaspoon Rhodiola root
• 1/8 teaspoon licorice root pieces
• ½ teaspoon fresh ginger root
• Sweetener of choice

Steps

1. Place dried Schisandra berries in a saucepan and cover with water.
2. Allow the berries to soak for several hours or overnight.
3. Drain berries and place them in a saucepan.
4. Add the 2 cups of water to the saucepan.
5. Place the remaining ingredients into the saucepan.
6. Put the saucepan on the stove and bring it to a simmer.
7. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
8. Strain and sweeten liquid. Enjoy.

Red Clover

You may be surprised to know that red clover growing in your lawn is also a detoxifier. Now, you can use fresh or dried red clover flowers to make the tea below.

Red Clover Tea

Ingredients

• 1 cup of red clover blossoms
• 2 Tablespoons of mint
• 4 cups of water
• Sweetener of your choice

Steps

1. Pick your red clover in the morning and go through the blooms to make sure there are no bugs.
2. Place water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
4. Place the red clover blossoms and mint of your choice in the saucepan. Allow steeping for 10 minutes.
5. After 10 minutes, strain the liquid and sweeten as desired. Enjoy.

If you would like to supply yourself with red clover for winter, I do have a tip. Harvest your red clover in the morning and hang it upside down in a dark room to dry. Once the flowers have dried, remove them from the stems and store them in paper bags.

Takeaway:

There’s no need to buy expensive detox supplements or embark on any drastic detox cleanses to keep your blood clean. The body is equipped with a detox system of its own. All you really need is a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, herbs, and enough water. You should also limit your alcohol intake. This will ensure that your liver and kidneys are operating at their best.

Of course, things can go wrong with your liver and kidneys that can’t be controlled with this alone. If you’ve been diagnosed with a liver or kidney condition, talk to your doctor about any special dietary changes, herbal teas, or lifestyle changes you need to make in order to manage your condition.

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17 Comments

• JERRY BONO POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 3:48 PMTHANK YOU FOR THE DETAILS ABOUT DANDYLIONS I TEND TO EAT THEM IN A SALAD JUST AS A SORT OF REVENGE AND A DELICIOUS SPRING SALAD WITH OIL VINEGAR ONION AND RAW GARLIC CUT UP FINE. GOOD STUFF.Reply
• LAURIE POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 4:19 PMI adore dandelions! They are the first forage for bees in the early spring here in zone 7. They have such cheerful and nutritious flowers. The roots are my favorite tea and even the greens are delicious. Our society as a whole is suffering with NAFLD and has completely demonized one of Mother Nature’s kindest gifts to us. Food for thought…Reply
  • EILEEN GAVIN POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 6:27 PMYes, agreed. Some if the most powerful plants are considered weeds and exterminated (or made illegal)Reply
  • JOHN POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 4:00 AMWhat is NAFLD?Reply
    • SHIRLEY POSTED JANUARY 18, 2022 3:35 PMNAFLD = non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• SONIA JUANITA BRINDLEY POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 5:45 PMCan you please tell me when it says dandilion root you mean you have to dig the root out of the grass?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 4:35 PMHi Sonia,Yes, and it is best to harvest dandelion roots from late fall through early spring when the plant is dormant and has stored up energy in the root. To dig roots, you can use a dandelion digger or a sturdy fork.You want to break/damage the root as little as possible so you don’t lose much sap, which is where the medicinal properties lie.You can also find the dandelion root for sale in many online health food stores, for example:
    https://mountainroseherbs.com/dandelion-root?sku=11-00196-14
    https://www.iherb.com/pr/starwest-botanicals-organic-dandelion-root-raw-c-s-1-lb-453-6-g/22564Many blessings and good health!Reply
• ASHLEY CAPLE POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 6:19 PMI make roasted dandelion root every morning. I’m in an apartment so I buy organic raw dandelion root & roast myself. I always loved it! Way better then when people buy packets of the pre packaged stuff. This resembles coffee more & Is as dark as coffee when I make it. Top it off with a slash of grass-fed raw milkReply
  • JOY POSTED JANUARY 17, 2022 6:54 AMPlease excuse my asking, but how do you roast dandelion roots?Reply
    • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 4:44 PMHi Joy,Wash and dry them. Lay the pieces on a baking pan and roast in a 350° oven for 40 minutes, turning occasionally, until dry and toasted.I hope this helps!
      Many blessings and good health!
• LERATO POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 8:19 PMWhere n South Africa can I find Nettles?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 4:57 PMHi Lerato,Urtica dioica is widespread throughout Europe and North America. It can be found now also in North Africa and parts of Asia. However, it is not so common in South Africa.You may be able to find the seeds and grow them in your garden.
    https://www.seedsforafrica.co.za/products/stinging-nettle-herb-urtica-dioica-10-seedsMany blessings and good health!Reply
• RORY MACRAE POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 9:02 PMHang fire on the nettle advice. Nettles have long been a foodstuff here in the highlands of Scotland. The sting is in them even when tiny at ground level. A quick blanching softens the hairs to remove sting. Fresh nettle salad is not an option although I have heard of nettle eating competitions for the slightly deranged haha. I do love the wealth of info provided here too every day.Reply
• PAM POSTED JANUARY 14, 2022 3:44 PMDirections for roasting dandelion root, please? I do not own grill so my only resource would be an oven.Reply
  • JOE JONES POSTED JANUARY 17, 2022 2:14 PMNon-Alcoholic fatty liver diseaseReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 5:16 PMHi Pam,Wash and dry the dandelion roots, then remove any small scraggly or hair-like pieces, as these will burn. Lay the pieces on a baking pan and roast in a 350° oven for 40 minutes, turning occasionally, until dry and toasted.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• ELIZABETH LIGHTFEATHER POSTED JANUARY 16, 2022 12:26 AMThere is a plant we use with the change of season winter to spring. This plant cleanse/detox your lymphatic system. The name is Cleavers, you can use as a tea or as we use as a tinctures.Reply

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50 Uses For Ginger

POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 BY MINDY IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES31

I do not know about you but I love the taste of candied ginger with a nice cup of tea and homemade gingerbread cookies in the winter. I also love ginger for its numerous health benefits. So join me with a cup of ginger tea and let’s talk about the many uses ginger can bring into your life.

1. Ginger Contains Gingerol

The ingredient that provides all the goodness in ginger is called gingerol. This substance is both an anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant.

2. Aids In Oral Health

Consuming ginger can reduce oral bacteria that is linked to gingivitis and periodontitis. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory since both of these can cause the gums to become inflamed.

3. Helps With Respiratory Infections

If you find yourself suffering from a respiratory infection especially Respiratory Syncytial Virus then you may want to eat some fresh ginger root. While other disorders used any type of ginger, treatment for this virus is only effective with fresh ginger.

4. Reduces Brain Inflammation

Due to the anti-inflammatory nature of ginger, it is believed to reduce age-related decline in the brain, which includes oxidative stress and inflammation. Beyond being able to think better, consuming ginger could be a way of protecting the brain from Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Preventative Measure For Colorectal Cancer

One of the many benefits of ginger is the fact that it can act as an anticancer treatment for some cancers, such as colorectal. The key to this approach though is you need to have an average chance of developing this type of cancer. Those with a high chance did not have the same results.

6. Potentially Lowers Cholesterol

Studies continue but currently, results show that consuming ginger has the potential to drastically lower LDL or bad cholesterol, total cholesterol, and blood triglycerides.

7. Can Reduce Menstrual Pain

If you suffer from menstrual pain then you need to consider taking ginger before the start of your cycle. Believe it or not, this humble spice has been proven to be as effective as any over-the-counter treatment.

8. Preventative Approach To Breast Cancer

If you have a family history of breast cancer, you may want to consider consuming some ginger. Large amounts are required but research is showing that ginger can act as an anticancer type of treatment that prevents the formation of cancer cells.

9. Helps With Chronic Digestion

First, what is chronic digestion? This is a type of digestion that is felt in the upper part of the stomach. It is characterized by pain and discomfort. It is believed that this is caused when the stomach does not completely empty. To help this process along, it has been found that consuming ginger speeds up this process and in turn reduces the discomfort.

10. Reduces Blood Sugar Levels

Those with type 2 diabetes who consumed ginger saw a decrease in fasting blood sugar levels. They also saw a reduction of Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoproteing A ratio and a lowering of malondialdehyde levels. This latter is a byproduct of oxidative stress.

11. Improves Heart-Related Risk Factors Of Those With Type 2 Diabetes

Individuals with type 2 diabetes have other factors due to their disease that can cause heart problems. This includes high levels of malondialdehyde and Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotien A. Consuming ginger has been shown to reduce these levels so that the chances of heart disease problems are decreased in people with this health issue.

12. Can Reduce Symptoms Of Osteoarthritis

Two of the symptoms of osteoarthritis that ginger has the potential to address are swelling and pain. Many who suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee report relief from pain and decrease inflammation when they consume ginger in any form.

13. Aids In Weight Loss

When one thinks of ginger and weight loss, what has been discovered is it improves on measurements that are used to prove weight loss. This includes body measurement and weight. How it works is not completely clear but it is believed to come from reduced inflammation and the increase of burned calories.

14. Treats Different Types Of Nausea

Ginger is known to help with nausea that includes morning sickness, nausea after surgery, and nausea from chemotherapy. While it does settle the stomach, it does not prevent vomiting.  Do not take it if you are close to your delivery date because it can cause vaginal bleeding.

15. Helps With Acne

Did you know that consuming ginger can help with your acne? While it will not cure it, the anti-inflammatory characteristics of this spice can reduce the inflammation of the skin. If you are looking for instant help, you can make a mask of equal parts of grated ginger and apple cider vinegar. Apply to acne and leave on for a few minutes.

Once you rinse it off you will notice a reduction in skin inflammation.  Remember to check on a small patch of skin for any allergic reaction.

16. Wards Off Germs

Beyond improving the body’s immune system, ginger also causes sweating when you have a cold. If you consume ginger during this time, your body will send out a germ-fighting chemical called dermcidin through the sweat glands. This chemical provides protection against E. coli and Candida albicans.

17. Acts As A Sore Muscle Treatment

Looking for a tasty way of dealing with post-workout pain? Well, if the answer is yes then fix you a cup of ginger tea or a snack containing ginger. The fact that ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties will reduce the soreness from your workout.

18. Provides Relief From Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Oh, the pain from the swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis can be crippling but consuming ginger can help. Eating food with ginger along with drinking ginger tea will reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. To get the most out of the ginger, one must consume this spice in some form every day.

19. Protects The Body’s DNA

Believe it or not, lipids in the body can go rancid and this is true with the fat coating that protects DNA. The antioxidant properties of ginger attack the free radicals that can cause the lipid layer to go bad, which would expose the DNA to damage.

20. Aids In Colic

An old-time remedy for colic is gripe water. Ginger is one of the ingredients due to its ability to reduce gas in the stomach. Before giving your baby and ginger, make sure to check with your doctor.

21. Reduces Gas

If you have ever had a bad case of gas, you understand how uncomfortable one can be. Consuming ginger before a meal and drinking a cup of ginger tea after a meal can help with the gas problem. How? Gas can be caused when the stomach has not emptied yet. Ginger can speed up that process, which will reduce the discomfort from gas production.

22. Boosts Your Body’s Immunity

An easy way of improving your health is by enjoying ginger in any form. It improves your body’s natural immunity by reducing inflammation, which causes stress on the body. This stress in turn can reduce the effectiveness of your immune system.

23. Helps Fight Colds

Since ginger is not only anti-inflammatory but an antimicrobial and antifungal, it is a great treatment to help fight the common cold or flu. When using ginger to treat colds, make sure to use fresh, which in this case is the best.

24. Improves Skin Health

When ginger is applied to the skin, it can improve the appearance of the skin by reducing the oiliness of the skin and reducing pore size. Eating more ginger and applying it to the skin can also aid in the healing process.

25. Preventative Treatment For Ovarian Cancer

While more research needs to be done, early studies are showing that ginger can act as an anticancer treatment for those who are of an average chance of developing this type of cancer.

26. Increases Hair Growth

Yes, ginger can increase hair growth. How you may ask? Since ginger is an anti-inflammatory, it has the potential to reduce the inflammation of the hair follicle that can cause the hair to fall out but this is not the end of the story. It seems that fresh ginger and onion need to be mixed with oil and applied to the scalp for this treatment to work.

27. Improves Asthma

Asthma is a chronic disease that can be fatal. While ginger should never be used in place of an inhaler without the consent of your doctor, it is showing positive results as an alternative to asthma medication. How does it work? Well, it works in two ways. First, the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-releasing nature of ginger prevent a particular enzyme to be produced that causes the lungs to restrict. This restriction is what makes it hard to breathe. Once this enzyme is stopped, ginger stimulates the production of another enzyme that relaxes the lungs, which makes breathing easier.

While consuming ginger offers other health benefits, never solely depend on this approach if you suffer from asthma.

28. Treats Migraines

Before talking about ginger as a migraine treatment, let’s understand how a migraine occurs.  When a migraine begins prostaglandins are first produced, which causes muscle contractions and pain. Blood vessels become inflamed and certain hormones are triggered to cause nausea. Taking ginger when you first feel the twitch of a migraine coming on will prevent the cascade started by prostaglandins. It will also provide pain relief and help settle the stomach.

29. Acts As A Treatment For Dandruff

Yes, there are many treatments for dandruff. Some simply conceal the flakes, while others treat them. Ginger is one of the ingredients that treat dandruff because it is an antiseptic. When this is added to hair products, it can naturally address your dandruff.

30. Treats Fine Lines

There are many causes for fine lines but one that creeps up is the decreased production of collagen.  Increasing your consumption of ginger is one way of promoting collagen production from the inside. Another approach is to rub fresh ginger on the skin three times a day to protect your skin’s collagen.

31. Fights Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is caused by many different types of bacteria that can cause an upset stomach and diarrhea.  Consuming ginger tea will aid in killing the bacteria, which in turn will settle the stomach while reducing the trips to the bathroom due to diarrhea.

32. Increases The Libido

This may seem like a weird use of ginger. The science behind this approach is the fact that ginger increases circulation all over the body. In a nutshell, if you improve the circulation in those certain areas then you increase your libido.

33. Improves The Results Of A Massage

Due to the anti-inflammatory and warming characteristics of this spice, it is used both internally and externally for pain relief. But did you know that it can also be used as part of a massage? Well, the answer is yes. Adding ginger essential oil to massage oil can provide relief from pain.

34. Improves Eyesight

Inflammation of the eye will affect your ability to see properly. This is especially true if you suffer from glaucoma. Taking ginger in any form will aid in reducing the inflammation so that you can improve your sight.

35. Helps With Heartburn

If you have ever had heartburn, you know the need to make it stop hurting but before you reach for an antacid give ginger a try. This can be in any form, which includes tea, sprinkled on food, or even pickled ginger. How does this work? Ginger works to calm the stomach and naturally neutralize some of the stomach content that is causing heartburn.

36. Helps The Body After A Detox

It seems that everybody is doing a detox but why? The reason is that everyone consumes and absorbs toxins in their everyday life. These toxins can come from the food we eat, the air we breathe, and even the type of work we do. A detox is a way of helping the body get rid of these toxins. While a ginger detox is not a thing yet, the process of detoxing will help the body process all the healthy benefits that ginger has to offer.

37. Energizes You

Many things can cause one to have less energy and not be able to think clearly. The lack of clear thinking is referred to as “brain fog.” While this used to be viewed as an excuse by medical professionals, it is now viewed as a true symptom that can indicate certain disorders. Before taking ginger to energize you, make sure to have a checkup with your doctor to make sure that is not suffering from anything serious. Once you get clear, take up a healthier lifestyle, which includes eating healthier, getting exercise, and adding ginger to your diet.

38. Adds Flavor To Food

While this is a simple benefit that everyone knows about, ginger does go with about anything. This makes taking ginger as a preventative measure simple. All it requires is to add it to what you consume, which can be food or drink.

39. Helps With Sagging Eyes

While ginger will not give your eyes a lift like a face-lift, an ointment that contains this spice can give your eyes a pick-up that looks like you got a wonderful night’s sleep. The reason this works has to do with the increased circulation and anti-inflammatory aspects that ginger brings to the area.

40. Helps With Symptoms Of Raynaud’s Syndrome

You may have never heard of Raynaud’s Syndrome but it is one that many people suffer from when they work in an industry that causes a lot of vibration in the hands, such as construction or factory work. The symptoms of this syndrome include a red, white, or blotchy appearance to the hands or feet. The reason for this is the constant vibration causes damage to the circulation of these areas. Another symptom that appears when one has Raynaud’s Syndrome is a change of skin temperature, which can be either hot or cold. When these symptoms occur, ginger can improve the situation by increasing circulation in the whole body.

41. Reduces Stomach Bloating

Everyone has experienced that bloated feeling when one consumes too much food. Ginger can calm the stomach and encourage the stomach to empty quicker. This process will reduce the bloated feeling. While it is better to start your meal off with some fresh ginger and then end it with a cup of ginger tea, this is not always possible. If you find yourself bloated, sip a cup of ginger tea to start your journey to relief.

42. Can Reduce The Appearance Of Cellulite

Ginger increases the circulation and mixing a grated fresh herb with ginger juice and sea salt creates a wonderful scrub that can be used on those problem areas once a week. Now, keep in mind that the results from this treatment will be gradual.

43. Strengthens Nails

Adding ginger oil to hand lotion that is rubbed into the nails can strengthen them over time.

44. Can Reduce The Formation Of Blood Clots

Consuming ginger tea three times a day has the potential of reducing the occurrence of blood clots forming.

45. Protects The Lungs From Chronic Disease

The simple process of eating ginger can aid in lung care by reducing inflammation and increasing circulation. It also thins out mucus so that the lungs can expel it easier.

46. Dissolves Kidney Stones

Drinking ginger tea can help dissolve and prevent kidney stones. Why does this work? Beyond the many anti-benefits that ginger has, it is also high in vitamin C and magnesium along with other ingredients that aid in this process.

47. Acts As A Renal Tonic

If you have ever drunk ginger tea you understand that you will be going to the bathroom a lot. This constant flushing of the kidneys helps in removing toxins that can build up and cause a long list of problems.

48. Protects The Liver From Toxins

Just like the kidneys, the liver can accumulate toxins. Drinking ginger tea several times a day will help flush out those harmful ingredients.

49. Can Reduce The Chances Of Developing A Fatty Liver

Having a fatty liver can cause many problems but drinking ginger tea throughout your day can be a positive step toward reducing the chances of developing a fatty liver.

50. Has The Potential To Reduce Stress

A simple cup of ginger tea can ease the stress of the day and improve the mood. How this works is due to the numerous bioactive compounds that can aid in improving your spirits.

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31 Comments

• KARISE LEWIN POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 4:25 PMThank you for this informative email. I will use many of the ginger remedies you mentioned. I appreciate the emails you send. They always have actionable info.
  Thanks again, KariseReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 5:28 PMHi Karise,Thank you for your continuous trust and support. It brings us great joy to hear that you find our emails informative and helpful.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• CAROL POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 4:32 PMWow! Does anyone have a recipe for the candied Ginger and/OR the gingerbread cookies? Wondering if they are made with a sweetner other than sugar?? Trying to avoid sugar, so although ginger has many benefits, wouldn’t the sugar be counter productive? Honey…..maybe? ThanksReply
  • PAM POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 6:06 PMTry using Monk Fruit instead of sugar/honey. It does not raise your glycemic index and it tastes as good as sugar.Reply
  • MIKE E POSTED JANUARY 12, 2022 7:59 AMWe use sorghum molasses for gingerbread men.Reply
• CAROL FIELDING POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 4:33 PMWow! Does anyone have a recipe for the candied Ginger and/OR the gingerbread cookies? Wondering if they are made with a sweetner other than sugar?? Trying to avoid sugar, so although ginger has many benefits, wouldn’t the sugar be counter productive? Honey…..maybe? ThanksReply
  • LUCY POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 4:38 PMhttps://www.food.com/recipe/swedish-ginger-cookies-with-crystallized-ginger-274251Reply
    • CAROL FIELDING POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 10:49 PMThanks Lucy, will give that a try!
• SHARON POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 4:44 PMThankyou for sharing your knowledge. I am thrilled with all you teach and share…God Bless <3Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 5:31 PMHi Sharon,Thank you so much for your comment.
    It is a pleasure to have you as a reader and your support is much appreciated.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• TERRY INGRAM POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 4:49 PMI have been making homemade fermented ginger ale with fresh ginger, honey, a bit of lemon juice and water. I drink 8-16 ounces daily. Do you think this is giving me the same benefits of eating fresh raw ginger? The ginger ale has a cup of fresh cold pressed ginger juice per gallon and more ginger in the ginger bug (starter) used to activate fermentation.Reply
  • D POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 8:47 PMCan you post your recipe for ginger ale? Sounds delicious.Reply
    • TERRY INGRAM POSTED JANUARY 12, 2022 8:38 PMI use the recipe shown in these videos except I use honey instead of sugar. One video is how to make the Ginger Bug (starter) and the other is the recipe for the ginger ale that requires the starter.
  • JUANITA POSTED JANUARY 12, 2022 6:55 AMCould you share your recipe for fermenting with us please TerryReply
    • TERRY INGRAM POSTED JANUARY 12, 2022 5:38 PMhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtb1BvRUWmI&t=90s
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsMUuMmKwpsI use the recipe shown in these videos except I use honey instead of sugar. One video is how to make the Ginger Bug (starter) and the other is the recipe for the ginger ale that requires the starter.
• CINDY POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 5:22 PMHi, you tell what ginger is for but got most you don’t tell what to do. I mean like recipes. Thank you for the information though.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 5:40 PMHi Cindy,There are a plethora of recipes that include ginger, and each provides a flavor profile like no other. We mentioned shortly in the article how to use it (like tea, oils, fresh, etc) however we cannot always include detailed recipes in such short articles.And it’s also a matter of preference how you want to incorporate ginger in your diet. Just be aware that while it is safe to eat ginger every day, doctors and nutritionists recommend limiting daily intake to a maximum of 3-4 grams.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• SUSAN POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 5:33 PMI’d love to know the best ways to use ginger when addressing the different issues. Also, I’ve tried just slicing fresh ginger and keeping it in my water bottle all day. Would this have any benefits?
  Thank you for the information!
  SusanReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 5:43 PMHi Susan,There are a plethora of recipes that include ginger. And ginger water is one of them.
    The benefits of ginger water are wide-ranging. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory. Ginger-infused water drinks can also act as natural anti-nausea and digestive aids, as well as help to balance blood sugar levels and promote natural weight loss.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• FRAN POLITI POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 5:43 PMI wish you would follow this up with an explanation of HOW the ginger should be consumed to get the benefits!! This information is just as important as stating all the benefits! Does cooking diminish the benefits?? Is raw ginger more potent??? Ple3ase answer these questions.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 5:53 PMHi Fran,Your feedback is very important to us. It means that we can better understand what we are doing well, and where there are areas where we need to make improvements.There are a plethora of recipes that include ginger, and each provides a flavor profile like no other. We mentioned shortly in the article how to use it (like tea, oils, fresh, etc) however we cannot always include detailed recipes in such short articles.Like with almost all vegetables and herbs, to make the most of ginger’s properties, it is best to consume it in its raw, fresh form.
    When ginger is cooked, its gingerols are transformed into zingerones, which do not have quite as potent medicinal properties but are still effective in easing pain and nausea.
    Also, when cooking with fresh ginger, keep in mind that cooking mellows the flavor. So if you want to really taste it, add some ginger at the beginning of cooking, and a bit more at the end.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• MARSHA MOON POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 7:32 PMI can’t tell you how much I appreciate the option we have now of viewing and downloading the pdf. They are so much easier to view than the ones loaded with ads. Can’t wait for all your articles to include this option…archives included.Reply
• DONNA POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 8:51 PMGreat article!! Lots of useful info. I’ve often had my ginger root go bad in the fridge (it does take a while). To prevent I started dehydrating slices from ginger root. Now I put slices in hot water and make tea or rehydrate for a recipe. Glad to know all of these benefits. Thanks!!Reply
• MICHAEL POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 9:45 PMCan anyone tell me what to use to relieve the symptoms of HAYFEVER. My daughter suffers from chronic hay fever all year. Her sinuses are continually blocked.Reply
  • BETH H POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 11:03 PMFor immediate clearing of the sinuses, boil a cup of water and put one drop each of peppermint oil and oregano oil in the steaming water. Drape a towel over your head and breathe in the steam from a few inches above the cup. One or 2 deep breaths should make your nose start to drain.Reply
  • DEB POSTED JANUARY 12, 2022 5:26 AMHi Michael
    If you go out in the mornings with a bag and pick the tops of nettles.. fill the bag.. get home., stuff them into a tea pot, fill with boiling water and steep for an hour, let it cool or not, drink a tea cup of it 2, 3 or more times a day it will vastly reduce the histamine reaction in the body. My husband used it and swore by it. Tastes fresh and green.Reply
• ROSEMARIE POSTED JANUARY 12, 2022 2:04 AMI also thank you for your very informative articles. Just like some of the others, I would like to have information about best ways to use ginger to relieve some of the issues. I also make cold brewed ginger tea by putting ginger slices in my water all day. Does this have any benefits?
  Thank you!Reply
• ROBERTA POSTED JANUARY 12, 2022 3:57 AMPersonal consumption of local honey on daily basis. ( within 50 miles from source to home) In cups of tea, on oatmeal etc, or 2 teaspoons. Putting into the system in small quantity the offending substance will overide the allergic reaction in most cases. Check with a naturalist or your family provider.Reply
• FRED POSTED JANUARY 12, 2022 1:53 PMThe information you share is needed now more than ever. Being born and raised in West Africa, I saw my mother grandmother use different types of wild herbs for medicine or food. Even my grandmother would be thrilled about this information if she was alive today. Thanks again.Reply
• WENDY PITRE POSTED JANUARY 13, 2022 3:40 PMI need a recipe for ginger tea and how to use it on skin for fine lines and eye area pleaseReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 5:56 PMHi Wendy,The antioxidants in ginger can be used to help preserve your skin’s collagen, making it an all-natural ingredient for anti-aging routines. You can reap the benefits by cooking with fresh ginger or adding it to your teas.For more targeted results, rub a small slice of fresh ginger on the skin, up to three times a day.Many blessings and good health!Reply

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Alfalfa

POSTED JANUARY 7, 2022 BY ANN MARIE IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES, PLANT OF THE WEEK12

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), or purple medick, is a perennial legume and a flowering plant that grows in the prairies with temperate climates. The young plant looks similar to clover. However, it grows elongated leaves and purple flowers as it matures. It is popularly cultivated as fodder for grazing flocks, but also holds a notable contribution as herbal medicine. Sprouted alfalfa seeds are an excellent addition to salads and wraps. It also adds texture and distinct flavor to foods. This invasive herb is beneficial to most plant growers because of its ability to improve the nitrogen fertility in the soil. It may further help prevent soil erosion owing to its deep root system.

When it comes to foraging plants, alfalfa is one of the most cultivated plants and is considered the Queen of Forages. People today cultivate them for their leaves, seeds, and sprouts. Alfalfa seed sprouts are available in many grocery stores around the world.

Short History Of Alfalfa

Alfalfa is a plant native to South-central Asia, specifically in ancient Iran.  It was widely used as fodder for the horses that were brought from Central Asia. This wild and indigenous plant spread to Arabia where its name “alfalfa” was coined, which translates to “the best forage.” I

People also began to explore other uses of the alfalfa, not just as fodder. The tender shoots and leaves of the plant were utilized as vegetables. The seeds were ground and used as flour, while sprouts were added to salads and soups. The United States, Australia, and New Zealand are large consumers of alfalfa sprouts as a salad ingredient.

Traditional medicine also makes use of the plant as tea or tonic for various ailments. It is used as a treatment for arthritis, diabetes, hay fever, and digestive problems. It is also a diuretic or water pill for improving kidney and bladder conditions.

To this day, many people are consuming alfalfa sprouts with their many vitamins, fiber, and mineral content. They are also commercially processed into an herbal supplement form.

Where The Plant Is Found

Alfalfa is tolerant to many climates and thrives almost anywhere – from the arid deserts, cold plains, and rich temperate regions. Presently, the United States is the largest producer of alfalfa in the world. California, South Dakota, and Wisconsin are the states that hold the widest cultivation of the herb. Alfalfa is the third most valuable crop in the United States as of 2017 data released by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) of the US Department of Agriculture.

Alfalfa plants adapt pretty well in both man-made and disturbed habitats. They also flourished in open meadows and fields with wide distribution across many regions in the United States. In fact, it is a widely known plant in every state in the US. However, as they are almost hardy for growing anywhere, leaf and root diseases may delimit their proliferation. Some areas in the southeastern United States may not grow alfalfa well like in the north and northwestern parts.

Related:  The Complete Map of Edible Plants: Find Out What You Have in Your Area! (Video)

How To Identify Alfalfa

Alfalfa is a member of the Fabaceae family of peas. It is also known as lucerne or purple medic with a distinguishing blue to purple flower. Young alfalfa resembles its close family, the sweet clover with their tiny serrated leaves. But as they mature, alfalfa leaves elongate, giving it its distinct characteristic.

• Leaf. Mature alfalfa has three narrow leaflets that are alternate and scattered along the stem. These leaflets are ovate with a symmetrical base that tapers into serrated edges. It is green with a dull and slightly shiny appearance.
• Flower. Alfalfa bears purple flowers, and some varieties may either have a blue or white bloom. They grow on a one-sided cluster with about ten to twenty leguminous flowers each. The petals and sepals of the alfalfa flowers are joined in a cup or tube. These petals look thin and delicate. They are oblong-shaped with rounded ends.
• Roots. Like the legumes of the Fabaceae family, alfalfa has deep and extensive taproots. It can grow up to 3 up to 15 meters below the soil, making them resilient to drought and excellent for soil erosion prevention. A tough crown with small buds will eventually grow on the top of the root that enables it to re-grow after harvest.
• Seeds. Small seeds that are shiny and kidney-shaped are produced from the alfalfa flowers. Its color ranges from yellow to greenish-yellow and browns as it ages.
• Stems. The alfalfa stems are upright and angled upward. It is round at the bottom and roughly square-shaped at the top and can grow from 30 to 100 cm tall.

Related: Plant Identification Guide – 400 Wild Plants That You Can Forage For (Video)

Alfalfa has many varieties and brands that are a product of many years of research and development. There are dormant and non-dormant varieties that were engineered for better adaptation within the region they are cultivated. There are also genetically modified alfalfa varieties but were regulated by the USDA because of their environmental impact.

How To Grow Alfalfa

The alfalfa plant can adapt well to various environments and growing conditions. It prefers full sunlight and well-draining soil as too much wetness and moisture may cause mold growth. They can easily grow and propagate through cuttings or seeds.

Growing Alfalfa From Seeds

You can easily purchase alfalfa seeds from the grocery or any feed supply shop. If you live in regions with a cooler climate, you can grow your alfalfa plant in spring. For milder regions, fall is the best time for sowing alfalfa seeds.

Prepare the seedbed by removing debris and moist the soil at 1 to 3 inches below the planting surface. Moisture at the surface area is not always necessary and an inch of rain is enough to germinate the seeds.

Sow the seeds at only about half an inch deep, two to three inches apart. If planting directly on a field, sprinkle seeds evenly into the soil at about ¼ pounds for every 25 square feet. Alfalfa will sprout sometimes in seven to ten days after sowing. When the seedlings are about 6 to 12 inches, thin them to avoid overcrowding.

If you are growing the plant as forage or decoration, there is no need for thinning the field. Let the plants thrive and cover the ground.

Related: 10 Plants That You Should Never Plant Together (Video)

Growing Alfalfa From Cuttings

Propagating alfalfa from cuttings is ideal if you want only a small patch of ground for it to cover. Cuttings are also more stable if you already have a healthy growth of established plants available. Planting the alfalfa cuttings is best done at least a week before the frost.

Select healthy plants to cut that are no less than six inches tall. Trim it two inches from the soil. Alfalfa has tough crowns on top of its roots that will easily re-grow once the stem is cut down. Trim the leaves off the cutting leaving only three leaves at the top. Soak the cutting overnight in a glass of water.

Plant the cuttings in a shallow well-draining container with pre-moistened potting soil. Space the cuttings at about two inches apart and place the container near an area with filtered sunlight. Moisten the soil but do not make it soggy.

Transplant the new alfalfa plants when new leaves are starting to grow.

Proper Care Of The Alfalfa Plants

Alfalfa is a low-maintenance plant but it will thrive better in the following conditions:

• Give it plenty of full sun.
• A well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.8 to 7.5.
• Keep the plants free of weed until they are at least four inches tall.
• Give them supplementary irrigation only when the climate is too dry.

How To Harvest Alfalfa

If you grow the seeds merely for food and your salad greens, harvest the sprouts that emerge within 7 to 10 days. For your tea, gather the leaves when they are dry and let them air dry for a day before storing.

When growing alfalfa as livestock feeds, it is necessary to time the harvest before the flowering stage. Mature plants are harder to digest, so you should bundle the plants before the early bloom stage. Gather the crop only when they are dry and there is no danger of rain over the day. Moisture encourages the growth of molds that will damage the crop.

In large plantations, harvesting often begins by cutting the alfalfa using a swather and arranging them in rows to dry. Sometimes, a mower-conditioner is used to hasten the drying process. A tractor will then collect the dried alfalfa and bundle them into bales as hay.

Related: I Stopped Spending Money At The Pharmacy By Growing These 10 Plants (Video)

What Alfalfa Is Good For And Natural Remedies Made From It

The alfalfa leaves are rich in minerals and amino acids, which promote many medicinal attributes. Many people take alfalfa because of its high vitamin A, C, E, and K4 content. It also has potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. All of these are essential for the body’s proper functioning.

Alfalfa is beneficial in promoting normal blood clotting due to its vitamin K content. Vitamin K serves as a natural anticoagulant. It can also purify the blood and help in detoxifying the body. This herb is highly effective in the treatment of the following conditions:

• Water retention
• Arthritis
• Laryngitis
• Anemia
• Acid reflux
• Alcoholism
• Kidney conditions
• Diabetes
• Upset stomach
• Bleeding disorder

What Parts Of Plants Are Used For Remedies

Alfalfa sprouts, in no doubt, are microgreens that are a tasty addition to foods. Its tender leaves and young shoots are edible and carry many nutritional values. All the above-ground parts of the herb are used for various natural remedies. Its leaves can be consumed either dry or as a fresh extract for treating many ailments. But while young sprouts are palatable, established leaves have a bitter tang in them.

Alfalfa Tincture With Vinegar

Ingredients:

• Dried alfalfa leaves (or stems)
• Unfiltered organic apple cider vinegar

Steps:

1. Fill the jar halfway with the chopped herbs.
2. Fill it with vinegar leaving about an inch of space from the brim. Take note that using vinegar as a menstruum is not as potent as using alcohol. However, it is a nice alternative for those people who are avoiding alcohol and for little children as well. Vinegar is also the most suitable menstruum for herbs such as alfalfa because it allows the best possible extraction of nutrients.
3. Before closing the lid, put parchment paper in between the metal lid and the glass jar. This protects the tincture from any residues of metal corrosion that might happen due to the vinegar’s acidity.
4. Properly label the jar with the herb and date of infusion.
5. Shake the infusion and make sure that all herbs are soaked. Leave the mixture to infuse in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Regularly shake the tincture daily for six weeks. After at least six weeks, strain the infusion into a glass container.

How To Use The Remedy

Herbs have unique dosing and schedule depending on their concentration. You can take 3 to 5 drops of the tincture diluted in a glass of water twice or thrice a day or as prescribed by your physician. It is best to consult a qualified herbalist for the proper dosage, especially if you have any underlying medical condition. Vinegar-infused tinctures have a shelf-life from one to two years.

Related: Ancient Japanese Tonic Melts 54 LBS Of Fat (Video)

What Plants Resemble Alfalfa

Feature	Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)	Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis)

Size	1 to 3 feet	4 to 6 feet
Leaves	Alternate; long, ovate, with serrated tip; trifoliolate when young	Alternate; oblong or obovate with fine-tooth; trifoliolate (three-leaf)
Flowers	One-sided cluster; purple, blue or white-colored	Yellow; densely crowded at the top
Stem/Trunk	Round to angular; upright	More or less erect and angular; sometimes sprawl on the ground
Scent	Pungent and slightly earthy scent	Sweet scent

Showing 1 to 6 of 6 entries

Warnings And Cautions

All herbs, although natural, should be consumed in moderation. Alfalfa is mostly safe in adults but is possibly unsafe in pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Alfalfa may also decrease the effectiveness of estrogen pills if taken in large amounts. Excessive use of the herb can decrease potassium in the blood or cause lupus disorder.

The plant may also cause kidney transplant rejection based on one study. The immune-boosting property of alfalfa may have an effect on the anti-rejection drug used.

If you are taking medications for your health condition, consult with your health practitioner before using alfalfa supplements. It may interact with drugs and enhance its effect that can only worsen the condition.

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12 Comments

• MARK POSTED JANUARY 7, 2022 5:51 PMDoes Alfalfa grow in western parts of Europe eg Ireland  🤔 It looks a wee bit like lupins but different 🤔.
  Kind regards
  Mark.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 6:55 PMHi Mark,Yes, you may find Alfalfa in Ireland as well. However, Lucerne (or luzerne) is the name for alfalfa in Britain, Australia, France, Germany, and a number of other countries.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• JANICE POSTED JANUARY 7, 2022 9:06 PMIt is sometimes called for in tea recipes. is making tea with alfalfa a good way to consume it?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 6:50 PMHi Janice,Tea from alfalfa leaves is made by steeping 1 teaspoon of alfalfa leaves in 2 cups of boiling water for approximately 10 minutes. The tea is bland, so adding flavoring may enhance the taste.Talk to your doctor about taking alfalfa tea if you are taking other medications or supplements.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• CHARLES POSTED JANUARY 7, 2022 10:45 PMI bought the book, and then I bought another one to give to our adult son. Wonderful. I really appreciate these emailed articles, which almost always get my attention.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 7:03 PMHi Charles,Thank you for your interest in our work.
    We’re delighted that you like our emails and that you were able to find what you were looking for.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• KIM POSTED JANUARY 8, 2022 11:11 AMI appreciate all that you do in sharing and educating us.What is your thought about microdose Somatropin in helping boost HGH levels?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 7:15 PMHi Kim,This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. However, we cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this blog or website.Thank you for your understanding and continuous support.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• ROSE YORKE POSTED JANUARY 9, 2022 9:19 PMI wanted to order The home doctor but I was unable to order it as I do not live in the USA i tried on AMAZON they do not have it. Any ideas how to get it roseyorke@liveco.ukReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 7:18 PMHi Rose,Thank you for your interest in our work.
    I am sorry about this, however, The Home Doctor can be purchased in digital copy only at the moment, if you live outside of the US.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• KATHLEEN POSTED JANUARY 9, 2022 9:24 PMWith Alfalfa, having such a deep root system it seems planting it on a bank or hillside subject to erosion, might be helpful. And, many moons ago, I had a persistent sinus infection. Alfalfa tablets cleared it right up.Reply
• CARLO PODRECCA POSTED JANUARY 11, 2022 1:52 PMShaklee makes an alfalfa tab that taking ten of them three times a day with your meals would, in three to five days bring on what was called the alfalfa blues! I don’t remember much snot, but I couldn’t believe how much liquid could flow out of my sinuses it got to the point of putting a paper towel one up each nostril, now I’m no dr. I have no idea if this was dangerous, but I have a typical Italian nose, on top of that I spent the years of 8 to 16 as a competitive swimmer with all that chlorine and a ph level that often times led people to call me Christmas tree as my eyes were red and my hair was green and my sinuses were always stuffed. Anyway one needs at least a week off once the flow stops say four to seven days you tapper down on the number per meal until you get the sniffles but not too long a time I was down to five per meal! Probably six months latter I hardly ever took them again. I can say that the next forty some years of my life I’ve been a normal nose breather! I also never met a dog that wouldn’t eatShaklee’s alfalfa tabs right off the palm of my hand after one sniff. I don’t know why I felt I needed to share that with you all but I’d gotten pretty used to being miserable stuffed up most of the time til my sister introduced me to alfalfa all those decades ago I’ve met plenty of mouth breathers I don’t think a one of them believed how I was cured of it, I guess that’s why I had to tell the story here!Reply

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What Happens If You Eat A Carrot In The Morning?

POSTED JANUARY 4, 2022 BY STACY FILTON IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES7

The humble carrot, or Daucus carota subsp. Sativus is undoubtedly not to be dismissed as one of the most potent super- ingredients!

Grown beneath the earth, the common carrot houses some powerful antioxidants that can help you towards excellent health in one little orange vegetable, which we will go into shortly!

Carrots are part of the root vegetable family and are known to be the orangest orange in color, which is unique for a vegetable! However, the carrot didn’t always start this way!

They can be found in many different colors, such as purple, yellow, red, and white, with the early varieties of carrots being purple or yellow.

Why Consume Carrot In The Morning?

When it comes to digestion in the morning, consuming carrots as the first food of the day may have some increased benefits for optimum vitamin and mineral absorption in the stomach versus consuming a carrot in the evening, for instance.

When it comes to the uptake of essential vitamins and minerals, the stomach is likely to be empty first thing in the morning so will absorb everything it’s given more efficiently.

However, the carrot may be better juiced in the morning, as opposed to just eating it raw!!

Try it whizzed up with a thumbnail of ginger and a small amount of pure orange juice for a superfood shot.

What Do Carrots Contain That’s So Good For You?

It is no surprise to learn that these tiny orange powerhouses pack an awful lot of health benefits into such a small vegetable!

One serving of carrots (which is around a half-cup measure) contains approximately:

• 25 calories
• 6 grams of carbohydrates
• 2 grams of fiber
• 3 grams of sugar
• 0.5 grams of protein

Carrots have an abundance of vitamins and minerals too. The same half-cup measure can give you:

• Up to 73% RDA of vitamin A
• Uo to 9% RDA of vitamin K
• Up to 8% RDA of potassium and fiber
• Up to 5% RDA of vitamin C
• Up to 2% RDA of calcium and iron

(Data referenced From Web MD)

Carrots are also a powerhouse ingredient when it comes to containing antioxidants. With a high proportion of beta-carotene and lutein, they are a fantastic power ingredient when it comes to protecting the body

What Are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants can be found in an abundance of certain whole foods where the compounds are naturally occurring (sometimes the natural compounds of health benefits are so large that the foods will be considered “Superfoods”).

Any foods that have a plethora of antioxidants may prevent a proportion of the damage caused by free radicals, as the antioxidants can neutralize them and reduce the severity of oxidative stress on the body’s organs.

Nutrient antioxidants are the ones that are derived from foods such as carrots and include:

• Vitamins A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Copper
• Zinc

Antioxidants are crucial for a well-balanced and healthy diet, as they provide those essential vitamins, minerals, and, as you can see, protection from free radicals that accumulate into oxidative stress on your organs.

Apart from the neutralization of free radicals, and abundance of antioxidants may provide other benefits for the body, such as:

• Improved memory recall
• Reduced chance of inflammatory diseases and ailments
• An improvement in the condition and clarity of your skin
• Improved sleep and more alert waking hours.

What Can A Daily Portion Of Carrots Do Specifically For My Health?

Apart from the elements mentioned above, eating carrots can help you with specific aspects of your overall health.

• They Can Help Keep Your Heart Healthy: Antioxidants are super good for your heart, as they not only protect against oxidative stress from free radicals but may also aid in repair and healing to any heart damage.
• They May Help Keep Your Blood Pressure Under Control: Carrots have a high percentage of your RDA of potassium which may help to keep your blood pressure within normal ranges.
• Carrots May Help To Keep Your Weight Balanced: Carrots have an abundance of fiber, which may help you maintain a healthy weight and, in turn, may lower your chances of developing heart disease.
• They May Help Your Eyesight: Eyesight health is one of the ultimate carrot superpowers! Carrots are incredibly rich in beta-carotene, which your body will convert into vitamin A, which keeps your eyes healthy. Paler-colored carrots also contain lutein, which is also a great compound to improve your eye health as you age.
• Carrots May Lower Your Risk Of Cancers: As we have seen, antioxidants have been proven to fight off harmful free radicals, which may lower your chances of developing cancers. Carrots contain antioxidants called carotenoids and anthocyanins, which are incredibly powerful in the antioxidant stakes.
• Carrots Can Improve Your Digestive Habits: Raw carrots have a high fiber and water content, meaning they may help in easing digestive complaints such as constipation.
• They Can Improve Your Immune System: Carrots contain an abundance of vitamin C which may help your body develops potent antibodies that protect and strengthen your immune system. Vitamin C is also necessary to properly convert iron, which is great for your red blood cell proliferation and may help to prevent seasonal ailments and infections.
• Carrots Can Support Good Bone Health: Carrots contain both calcium and vitamin K, and both of these elements are crucial for strong bones and improved bone health.
• They May Help To Control Blood Sugar Levels: The fiber present in carrots as a non-starchy vegetable can help keep blood sugar levels within more normal ranges, which is especially helpful for people who have diabetes. With an abundance of vitamin A and beta-carotene, carrots may also help to lower the risk of developing diabetes.

How To Prepare Carrots

Carrots are one of the simplest vegetables to prepare and can be used in so many ways, including some sweet treats!

They can be eaten raw or cooked, but beware that the more they are cooked, the more nutrients they will lose during the heating process, so it’s always wise to cook them to al denté and no further, to get the most nutrients per serving.

Carrot Serving Ideas

• Carrot & Ginger Soup is a heartwarmingly rich and deep soup that is great for cooler months that involves carrots, vegetable stock, seasoning, garlic, and ginger blitzed up into a smooth and soothing soup.
• Carrot & Spinach Side Salad With Pine Nuts is a super simple side salad that works perfectly with tofu dishes. It simply involves taking a peeler to a carrot or two and finely shaving them onto a bed of spinach, topped with toasted pine nuts gives the salad another dimension of crunch.
• No-Bake Carrot Cake Bites: You can try these naturally sweetened carrot cake bites with dates, carrots, walnuts, cinnamon, and coconut flour! Optional: you can add chia seeds.
• Wholemeal Carrot Breakfast Muffins- While we don’t often associate muffins with breakfast, these are the ultimate mix of savory with a touch of sweet but are light and fluffy to enjoy with eggs. Create a wholewheat muffin mix and grate up half a cup of raw carrot finely and pop into the mix, adding seasoning and a touch of cumin, and bake until light and fluffy.

Conclusion

All in all, carrots are indeed a super ingredient, regardless of the color you may find or grow them in!

They are full of antioxidants which can be incredibly useful to combat the damage caused by free-radical oxidative stress within the body, potentially reducing your chances of developing some life-altering conditions and diseases such as cancers and heart disease.

The high fiber content found in carrots can be incredibly helpful for those who suffer from digestive complaints such as constipation and may help reduce blood sugar levels in those who have diabetes or those who have blood sugar fluctuations.

And let’s be honest, carrots taste great! They have a perfect sweet and savory balance and can be prepared raw or cooked and is one of the most versatile ingredients you will find in any kitchen. They are supported in soups, stews, salads, and sweet dishes such as muffins and carrot cake.

Be mindful of the number of carrots you eat, as there is a truth too much of a good thing! Eating too many carrots can make your skin tinge a little bit yellow due to the amount of beta-carotene in them, so make sure you don’t consume too much!

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7 Comments

• VIRGINIA C POSTED JANUARY 4, 2022 4:03 PMWhich is more beneficial, baby carrots, full grown carrots or cooked carrots?Reply
  • MICHELLE G AMNONY POSTED JANUARY 4, 2022 4:08 PMWell baby carrots are not babies, just broke off pieces of the big ones. And raw is good as the article says and cooked u loose some vitamins.Reply
• TOMMY LAURENT POSTED JANUARY 4, 2022 8:59 PMGreetings, Dr. Apelian
  I had ordered your Foragers Guide to Wild Foods and The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies. Both of them have sufficiently helped and motivated me by giving me guideposts, and a much clearer map as I continue my journey to better health.
  I am 46 years old with 4 autoimmune conditions, along with 8 herniated discs, and a plethora of other health problems as a result.
  Thank you for giving me a renewed will to face and fight my conditions through natural means as I depend on pharmaceuticals less and less!
  Also, thank you for the continuing information sent to my E-mail as it is also very helpful! Sometimes in life we need someone stronger, to give us a helpful and lifting hand.
  Your work is not in vain.Kind regards, TomReply
• RONALD JONES POSTED JANUARY 5, 2022 4:05 AMit was a great articleReply
• JOHN L. MOESCHE POSTED JANUARY 5, 2022 6:08 PMEveryone knows that carrots are good for the eyes, because, you never see a rabbit with glasses 🤓Reply
• GWEN POSTED JANUARY 6, 2022 4:49 AMWhat about the carrot greens?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 1, 2022 7:38 PMHi Gwen,Carrot greens and tops are edible.Carrot greens contain alkaloids, but so does nearly every leafy green vegetable. Alkaloids are chemical compounds that serve as the plant’s defense mechanism against pathogens. While some alkaloids can be toxic to humans in gross amounts, the amount of alkaloids found in many of our foods (including carrot greens) is not enough to be effective.They can be enjoyed raw or cooked, and add an earthiness to a recipe. They are ideal in soups, salads, and sandwiches in small quantities.Many blessings and good health!Reply

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Cabbage Juice

POSTED SEPTEMBER 9, 2021 BY CRISSY JOSHUA IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES, HOW TO, RECIPES10

Cabbage juice is a great drink because it’s not only nutritious but cabbage is usually one of the cheaper vegetables and readily available. There are a couple of ways that you can make cabbage juice: by fermenting it or preparing a fresh juice.

I’ll share the recipes after, but first, let’s look at why it’s good for you.

Medicinal Benefits Of Cabbage Juice

Cabbages are packed full of nutrients. Thought to have been used in Europe somewhere before 1000 BC, today they are grown in more than 90 countries across five continents. The most famous health condition they’re scientifically known for treating is ulcers. Human studies have even proved that cabbage juice can be a more effective remedy than conventional treatments.

Here are how they help ulcers and some of the other medical conditions they can prevent and/or treat:

• Digestive Ulcers – the amino acid called glutamine helps prevent and heal ulcers, as well as Vitamin C which can prevent and treat infections.
• Cholesterol – the phytosterols can reduce bad cholesterol by blocking its absorption.
• Neurodegenerative Disorders – thanks to anthocyanins and Vitamin K, they improve brain function and improve concentration as well as helping to ward off neurodegenerative disorders.
• Cancer – the polyphenols prevent oxidative stress, fighting free radicals. The glucosinolates also help by altering the way some compounds are broken down by the body making them less likely to cause cancer.
• Blood Pressure – due to the potassium found in cabbage, it helps relax blood vessel walls, having the positive effect of reducing blood pressure.
• Bone Strength – thanks to the Vitamin K that it contains, cabbage can improve bone health and reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.

Consuming cabbage also has overarching positive effects by boosting immunity, keeping us healthier and less prone to illness. The glucosinolates help to detox the body too.

When choosing whether to make your cabbage juice fermented or fresh, it will probably come down to taste. Some people just don’t enjoy the tartness when it’s fermented. For this reason, it’s fine to make it fresh and add other fruit and veg (I add carrot and apple) if you want to mask or dilute the flavor. You will still enjoy the health benefits that cabbages deliver, plus additional nutrients from whatever you choose to add. However, fermented cabbage juice is loaded full of probiotics and promotes healthy gut flora (as do all probiotics).

Potential Side Effects Of Cabbage Juice

While cabbage has many medicinal benefits, there are certain groups of people who should avoid it. The first group is people taking blood-thinning medications, due to the Vitamin K content in cabbage. If you have hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid gland, it should also be avoided or limited.

Other potential side effects that can occur from eating cabbage or drinking its juice include flatulence and diarrhea.

Unless you are experiencing a lot of physical discomfort, many experts say that experiencing flatulence is perfectly normal when we consume certain foods and may even be necessary and beneficial by reducing the volume of air.

As with all foods, moderation is key and I’ll talk about quantity shortly.

How To Make Cabbage Juice: 2 Ways

As I mentioned, I’m going to show you two different ways to make cabbage juice. The first is using just cabbage and water (fermented juice) and the second is fresh cabbage juice with apple and carrot.

1. How To Make Fermented Cabbage Juice

Each glass will contain approximately 45 calories but will help you feel full so can be useful for weight management on top of the nutritional value it brings. The great thing about this recipe is you can make large batches if you plan on drinking it every day and always have some on the go. Whereas, fresh juice is best to make at the time of drinking.

Ingredients

• 10 oz white cabbage (285 grams)
• 1 cup of filtered water

Utensils

• Blender
• Glass/mason jar + lid (airlock lid if you have one)
• Fine mesh strainer
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Kitchen scales
• Container

Method

1. Peel off the top couple of layers of leaves from the cabbage and discard those. Wash the rest of the cabbage well under running water.
2. Chop your cabbage into small chunks so it makes it easier to blend and place these in your blender.
3. Add 1 cup of filtered water.
4. Blend until you have just a few small pieces of cabbage leaves floating around.
5. Pour the mixture into your jar and top up with an extra splash or two of water so it just covers the cabbage. Close your lid and store it in a dark place at room temperature for 3 days. If it’s cold where you are you may need to leave it for up to 5 days for maximum benefit. If you’re not using an airlock lid, slightly undo your lid once a day without removing it then seal it tight again. This is to “burp” the mixture so too much pressure doesn’t build up.
6. When it’s finished fermenting, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a container and you can drink a glass straight away. Store the rest in an airtight container in the fridge.

You can reserve the pulp and use this in food dishes as a condiment. It will last up to 1 week in the fridge.

How To Drink It

You can drink up to 1 glass per day. If you are drinking this as a remedy for ulcers, pour half a glass of cabbage juice into a glass in the morning and evening and top it up with filtered water and drink it. Drink it for up to three weeks or until your ulcer has healed.

2. How To Make Fresh Cabbage Juice

Each serving (using the portions below) will have approximately 212 calories. Since it is a fresh juice, you want to drink this as soon as possible after making it. Like I mentioned earlier, I used apple and carrot which work very well and add a lovely flavor, but you could choose to add just one of these or make the juice with just cabbage and water.

Ingredients

• 10 oz white cabbage (285 grams)
• 1 apple
• 1 carrot
• 1-2 cups of filtered water

Method

1. Peel off the top couple of layers of leaves from the cabbage and discard those. Wash the rest of the cabbage well under running water.
2. Chop your cabbage into small chunks so it makes it easier to blend and place these in your blender (or juicer).
3. Wash your apple then chop it up into small chunks then add them to the blender (or juicer).
4. Wash your carrot and chop it finely and add this to the blender too (or juicer).
5. Add 1 cup of water and start blending at a low speed. Once the cabbage has started mixing down, change the speed to high. You may need to add more water depending on how powerful your blender is to get a smoother result. If you’re using a juicer, you don’t need to add water.
6. If you’re using a blender, strain your mixture through a fine-mesh strainer and catch it in a container. You may need to press it down to squeeze all of the juice out. Your juice is ready to drink.

How To Drink It

Feel free to add some ice to chill it for a refreshing drink. The recipe calls for 10 oz (285 grams) of white cabbage and you can drink this quantity up to one time per day. You can add as much water as you like to get the consistency you like. If you are drinking it to heal an ulcer, split the quantity in half and drink half in the morning and make the other half in the evening. Drink it for up to three weeks or until your ulcer has healed.

Adding cabbage to your diet is often easier by taking it as a juice because you can consume more. A little bit goes a long way with this vegetable and you will be enjoying its health benefits in no time.

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10 Comments

• JOHN LACOMBE POSTED SEPTEMBER 9, 2021 4:22 PMDo they sell cabbage juice in stores that are ready to drinkReply
• BARBIE POSTED SEPTEMBER 9, 2021 11:33 PMLove Your Toys and Tricks. I just started my journey it Natural Remedies… still have to work on pain relief but doing good so far..Reply
• LORI OSTROM POSTED SEPTEMBER 10, 2021 5:23 PM“If you have hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid gland, it should also be avoided or limited”. Can you tell my why? Your article just said to avoid or limit – but doesn’t say why? Thank you.Reply
  • CATHY POSTED SEPTEMBER 10, 2021 7:20 PMI too would like to know why??? Can someone please explain?Reply
  • CHERYL ZIEMANN POSTED SEPTEMBER 12, 2021 4:16 AMI have the same question, please tell us why?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED SEPTEMBER 14, 2021 12:37 PMHi,Cabbage contains goitrogens which interfere with iodine transport to the thyroid and how the thyroid utilizes iodine, essential for normal thyroid function. Goitrogen levels are even higher in raw cabbage so consuming cabbage juice, especially regularly, could be harmful to people with these conditions.Many blessings and good health!Reply
  • BRANDI POSTED SEPTEMBER 22, 2021 3:19 PMThere is an enzyme that lowers thyroid activity just as with lemon balm and other herbs you may want to research for avoiding with hypothyroidism.Reply
• NANCY POSTED NOVEMBER 29, 2021 1:05 PMI am looking for the recipe for cabbage and garlic. I thing it cab be a salve or tincture. It cab be applied to arthritic joints. Please help. Thank you.Reply
• PAT BAZLEY POSTED MARCH 30, 2022 1:12 PMI paid for 2 online books awhile back but do not know how to find them. Could you help me out there?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED MARCH 31, 2022 11:27 AMHi Pat,Thank you for your interest in our work.
    Please check your personal email. I sent you an email with the download links.Many blessings and good health!Reply

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Catnip

POSTED JULY 30, 2021 BY ANN MARIE IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, PLANT OF THE WEEK3

Catnip is an ornamental plant that bears a white, pink, or pale purple blossom. It came from the mint family that blooms from the tail-end of spring until autumn. Catnip is an aromatic herb that is notorious for attracting lacewing bees, butterflies – and cats. Exposure to its substance can cause behavioral changes in some cat species. It stimulates their senses resulting in relaxation and extreme playfulness. However, it may also cause some aggression. That is why some cats go as far as acting crazy for a period after exposure.

The catnip is a perennial herbaceous plant from the genus Nepeta. It is a tropical aromatic herb that thrives abundantly in Asia, Europe, North America, and the tropical mountains of Africa. Gardeners usually grow catnip in gardens to ward off aphids and squash bugs. Cat recreational issues aside, they are also a popular ingredient in some herbal teas and essential oils. Catnip is potent herbal medicine for treating cough and gastrointestinal problems. It is also a seasoning in making soups and sauces using either fresh or dried leaves.

Presently, these weedy herbaceous plants are beneficial for use as insect repellants. Cat-friendly gardens often include these plant stimulants in their plots. The relaxation and extreme happiness it can induce to felines ward off their pain and anxiety.

The History Of Catnip

The catnip plant from the mint family has a long way of history. It has been popular not just for felines but also for human use. Today, they are widely popular for cat-loving people since it gives felines a boost of euphoria and energy. Before they became the plant for giving cats the kind of ‘high,’ humans were already using them for the same purpose.

Catnip was endemic in the tropical mountains. The name Nepeta came from the City of Nepeta (now Nepi) in Italy, where the plant first thrived abundantly. Before Chinese teas became popular, catnip was already a tea for the French. The Romans also use the herb for most of their recipes and for treating various ailments. It is a carminative, antispasmodic drug, tonic, and stimulant in ancient medicine.

Sometime in the 18th century, the plant arrived in America when some settlers brought some cuttings and propagated them. By then, catnip is a common herb for cooking and medicinal use. They were given to sick people to induce perspiration but without increasing their body heat. Native American women also use it for menstrual pain relief. It also became an effective sedative plant for children.

There is no evidence to support the claim, but accordingly, Egyptians were the first to use catnip on cats. That’s probably because of their adoration for the felines. Although today the plant is not widely used in medicine and food anymore, they are still grown for the benefit of cats. The aromatic weed, however, does not cause the same stimulating effect on humans as it does on the felines.

Where This Plant Is Found

Catnip can thrive everywhere and is almost invasive to have around. They grow on roadsides, fields, or even in disturbed areas. However, they mostly flourish in the tropical mountains. Catnips are considered tropical aromatic herbs that are native to Europe and Asia. They are also cultivated in some parts of North America and Africa.

Some catnip varieties are used as subtle garden borders since they make a fine addition in rows and garden edges.

Related: The Complete Map of Edible Plants: Find Out What You Have in Your Area! (Video)

How To Identify Catnip

There are about 250 varieties of catnip worldwide, each country with their own variety of the plant. Thus, it can get confusing to identify one but, it is mostly their flowers or sizes that differentiate them from the others. Their flowers bloom in a spike-like cluster in showy colors at the branch end of the plant. These perennial herbs are weedy in appearance and spread easily.

One of the distinct characteristics of the catnip is its square stem which is common to the mint family. The catnip’s stem is mostly light green with fine hair covers. Their foliage may also range from green to a gray-green color. A catnip’s leaf appears triangular to ovate with scallop-shaped edges and fine hairs like its stem.

Here are a few easily identifiable varieties of catnip:

• Common Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

The common catnip is the variety that attracts most species of cats because of its distinctive aroma. It has a triangular leaf with scalloped edges covered in tiny hairs. Common catnip has white flowers and can grow up to 3 feet tall.

• Lemon Catnip (Nepeta citriodora)

The lemon catnip may also reach up to 3 feet high. It has a white and purple bloom that looks similar to the common catnip. As the name implies, the lemon variety has a bright and lemony scent. They are the ideal species for teas and garnishes. They are not very popular in cats owing to their distinct lemon smell.

• Greek Catnip (Nepeta parnassica)

It is a smaller variety that can grow only at 1.5 feet. Greek catnips have pale pink flowers and off-green foliage and stems. Sometimes it looks almost white as it is green. These are the types that also make a good ornamental plant.

• Camphor Catnip (Nepeta camphorata)

Although they still belong to the mint family, the camphor catnip exudes a camphor scent more than mint. They also grow as small as the Greek catnip at 1.5 feet. A camphor catnip’s flower is similar to the common catnip, but it grows purple dots at the base of its petals.

Related: The Best Guide to Identify over 400 Wild Plants (Video)

How To Grow Catnips

Catnips are resilient and easy to grow, although, at times, they can become quite invasive. These plants can grow from stem cuttings, division, or seeds. Commercial catnips are mostly from seeds grown in a greenhouse.

The end of fall or early spring is the best season to plant catnips as they need a lot of sunshine to flourish. They will also grow best in well-drained soil. But catnips can still thrive even in partial shade, poor soil condition, or mostly disturbed areas.

The easiest way of growing catnip is from root division if you have an existing plant. You can dig up the plant, divide its root into sections, and replant it in loam soil.

If growing it from seeds, you can sow it indoors before the last frost. It will help if you soak them overnight before sowing them. Sow the catnip seeds into the soil and lightly cover them. The germination period usually starts from 14 up to 40 days, depending on the variety. You may then replant the seedlings at about 12 to 18 inches apart to facilitate healthy and lush growth.

When propagating catnip from cuttings, you may use the new growth for it. The leaf-tip cuttings also grow good enough. Keep the pot moist and with lightly filtered sunlight until the plant establishes itself. Some gardeners who want to grow them faster use growth hormones on the tip of the cuttings before planting. They are also nitrogen-feeders, so adding plant nutrient systems rich in nitrogen may be beneficial.

The catnip plants are usually drought-tolerant. However, they will grow at their healthiest best in average water, well-drained soil, and in full sun to part shade.

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How To Harvest Catnip

Catnips are commercially propagated primarily for use in cats more than for other purposes. They are the main components in some cat stuff like packed balls and dangling toys. They are also used in compressed pellets and shaker bottles.

It is best to harvest the flowers when they are in full bloom. At this time, their aromatic properties are at their peak. Catnips usually bloom during the mid-summer until fall.

Here are a few other tips in harvesting to get the most out of the plant:

• Harvest the leaves and flowers only later in the day when the dew has evaporated. It will prevent them from getting moldy and from rotting out.
• Cut off the entire stem from the base of the plants. It will enable the plant to re-grow faster than cutting off the leaves or flowers alone. Or you may cut it off a few inches above its crown.
• You may cut the plantings twice during its growing seasons. It is best to harvest them in mid-summer and let them re-grow for harvesting again in fall.
• Some gardeners harvest the plant using a standard baler for wide plantations. A mower with a sidebar cutter can also be used for a medium-sized yard. For a small garden, you may cut it off with shears or by hand.
• Allow the leaves or flowers to air-dry in a drying screen or tray. Store them in a dry and airtight container away from sunlight and heat. Remember to keep the new harvest away from cats as they may destroy them before they are ready for storing.

What Catnip Is Good For And Natural Remedies Made From It

Catnips are widely used for the recreational benefits of cats. Their love for the plant is said to evolve from catnip’s ability to ward off mosquitoes and other parasites. Eventually, it was found out that the chemical compound nepetalactone provides cats with increased biological responses.

Humans similarly use the plant to generate the same stimulating effect. But this effect varies as it may work in some people but not as much in others.

Generally, catnip has several medicinal uses in ancient medicine. The essential oil of catnip is beneficial for a variety of gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and stomach ache. They also relieve respiratory ailments like cough, bronchitis, and asthma. Its antispasmodic property is useful for relieving muscle cramps and menstrual issues. Catnip also has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties for treating scabies and wounds.

They are mostly consumed as tea using either fresh or dried leaves. Catnip teas are also excellent for relieving insomnia and anxiety.

What Parts Of The Plant Are Used For Remedies?

The fresh and dried leaves and flowers of the catnip plant can be steeped as teas and consumed for relieving various illnesses. The fresh leaves are boiled and used as antiseptic for cleaning wounds and scabies.

The aerial parts of the plants are harvested for essential oil extraction. These essential oils are utilized for pharmaceutical products or in some dietary supplements.

Catnip Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp dried catnip leaves or flowers (Nepeta cataria)
• 1 cup water
• Honey or lemon to taste

Steps:

1. Mix dried leaves and flowers of catnip in a cup of water and bring to a boil.
2. Remove from heat. Let the catnip tea steep for about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid to remove plant particles. Mix in honey or lemon juice according to preference.

How To Use:

Drink the catnip tea to alleviate anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia. It is also the best concoction for the treatment of stomach and respiratory problems. Consume the tea immediately after cooling as they are best when the tea is still warm to the touch.

You may drink catnip tea twice to three times a day. If treating insomnia, it is best to drink this only before bedtime.

Related: Anxiety and Stress Tincture (Nicole Apelian Apothecary)

What Plants Resemble A Catnip?

Feature	Catnip (Nepeta cataria)	Mint (Mentha spp.)	Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Size	Height: 2 to 3 ft Width: 2 to 3 ft	Height: 6 in to 3 ft Width: 3 ft	Height: up to 3 ft Width: 12-24 in
Leaves	Triangular leaf with scalloped edges covered in tiny hairs	Dark-green matte-surfaced, paired opposite	Heart-shaped leaves, scalloped edges, rough and veined with fine hairs
Flowers	Small white flowers with violet spots	Whorls of white or purple slightly bigger than catnip	Small white or pale pink flowers that bloom in the leaf axils
Stem	Spreading clump of erect branched stems	Has short square-shape stems	Joint branching stems
Scent	Lemony scent	Minty aromatic	Distinct lime scent

Warnings And Cautions

Although they are around for quite a while as traditional medicine, there is not enough evidence to prove the effectiveness of catnip. It may help relieve bouts of insomnia but may cause extreme sluggishness and drowsiness if used at the start of the day.

Catnip is not advisable for use in pregnant women as it may cause uterine contractions. It is also a diuretic that can induce urination and heavy perspiration. If your symptoms do not improve after a few uses, it is best to discontinue using catnip and consult your doctor.

When using this plant with cats, you can expect aggression as a side effect. The duration of their euphoric effect may vary depending on the species of the feline. Not all cats are attracted to the compounds that the catnip contains. Cats exposed to the catnip may experience its effect for at least 10 minutes.

Before using catnip as a supplement for you or your cat, it is imperative to check with your physician and your cat’s vet.

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3 Comments

• JEREMIAH POSTED JULY 30, 2021 6:01 PMHow much would you use of FRESH catnip? Or is fresh not recommended? Thanks.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED SEPTEMBER 2, 2021 6:04 PMHi Jeremiah,Yes, you can use fresh catnip as well. It will be the same amount as dried catnip.
    Be aware that the leaves are generally safe to eat but strong in flavor. Large amounts may induce vomiting.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• GABBIE POSTED AUGUST 2, 2021 3:48 PMI know this might be weird, but I’ve tried smoking catnip and it’s definitely a relaxing feeling!Reply

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10 Natural Laxative Herbs

POSTED AUGUST 31, 2021 BY ROSE KEEFE IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES8

Constipation feels terrible. Defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, it leaves you bloated, uncomfortable, and even in pain. All you want is a relief- but what can work?

There are 10 herbs that serve as natural laxatives. Let’s take a closer look at what they are, how to identify them, their overall medicinal benefits, and how you can use them to relieve constipation.

1. Alder Buckthorn (Rhamnus Frangula)

Alder buckthorn (not to be confused with European buckthorn) is a tall shrub found in parts of Europe and North America. The exterior bark is dark brown and reveals a bright yellow inner bark when cut. In addition to constipation, it has traditionally been used to treat abdominal bloating and liver conditions such as cirrhosis, jaundice, and hepatitis.

This bark works as a laxative by stimulating your intestines, but you must use dried bark that has been heat-treated or is at least a year old. (When fresh, it can cause vomiting.) The typical dose is 0.5 to 2.5 grams, which you can take on its own or as a tea by steeping the bark for at least five to 10 minutes in 3/4 of a cup of boiling water and then straining.

Alder buckthorn should not be taken for more than seven to 10 days. Any longer and your body could start depending on it to have a bowel movement.

2. European Buckthorn (Rhamnus Cathartica)

European buckthorn (not to be confused with alder buckthorn) is a small tree native to Europe, northwest Africa and western Asia. It is also found in parts of North America after being introduced as an ornamental shrub in the early 19th century.

It can be identified by its oval leaves and yellowish-green flowers.

How to use it: As a herbal therapy, European buckthorn berries are primarily used to treat constipation. Steep two to four grams of the berries in 3/4 of a cup of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes before straining and consuming as tea at bedtime.

If needed, the tea may also be consumed in the morning and afternoon. Do not use it for more than 10 days.

3. Rhubarb (Rheum Rhabarbarum)

Europeans started using rhubarb as a medicinal treatment sometime before the 18th century. Today, you can find it in cooler climates everywhere. Its thick stalks vary in color from crimson red to speckled pink and light green.

In modern times, rhubarb is best known as a pie ingredient, but you can use it to treat constipation. Due to its antioxidant properties, rhubarb consumption can also present a line of defense against health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

How to use it: You can consume rhubarb in a variety of ways, from sprinkling chopped-up raw stalks on salads to adding dried rhubarb to your favorite herbal tea recipe. However, use it as a constipation treatment for a short period, as its tannin content gives it anti-diarrheal effects.

4. Senna (Senna Alexandrina)

Senna, which has been used as a herbal remedy for centuries, can be found in Egypt, Sudan, India, and Somalia. It is a shorter shrub-like plant with large yellow flowers and pods that contain around six seeds each.

Senna contains chemicals called sennosides, which have a laxative effect. In addition to relieving constipation, it has been used to treat irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures.

How to use it: Both senna leaves and pods can relieve constipation. Steep one or two grams of dried leaves in hot water for 10 minutes and strain. With dried pods, use 1 teaspoon per cup of boiling water and let brew for 10 minutes. It is important to note that senna should only be used in the short term, as long-term consumption can cause liver damage.

5. Slippery Elm (Ulmus Rubra)

Slippery elm is native to eastern North America. It is distinguished from American elm by its brown hairy buds, the hair on its twigs, and the slimy inner bark that inspires its name.

Long used to treat constipation, slippery elm stimulates the nerves in your gastrointestinal tract, resulting in mucus production. Its soothing properties have made it a key herbal treatment for sore throats and upset stomachs as well as a topical application for wounds, burns, and skin inflammation.

How to use it: Once the inner bark is dried, you can crush it into a fine powder and make a tea by adding approximately two tablespoons of the powder to two cups of boiling water and letting it steep for a few minutes. If you are on any medication, take it separately, as slippery elm coats the GI tract and can reduce the absorption of some medications if taken together.

6. Peppermint (Mentha Piperita)

A cross between spearmint and watermint, peppermint is cultivated across the world and can even be found in the wild along with its parent species. It is a perennial plant characterized by its fuzzy leaves and stems and purple flowers. You can find it in moist locations, such as along drainage ditches and streams.

How to use it: Peppermint tea is one of the most popular natural remedies for digestive issues like constipation. To make it, boil two cups of water, add 15 fresh peppermint leaves (rub them in your hands first to get the oils flowing), and steep for 10 to 15 minutes.

If you prefer tinctures, crumble a handful of fresh peppermint leaves, place them in a glass pint jar, pour a cup of vodka over them, and store it for at least two months in a cool, dark place. When you feel constipated, add two to three drops into a glass of warm water and drink.

7. Ginger (Zingiber Officinale)

Ginger is a plant whose root is widely used as a spice and a herbal remedy for conditions like constipation. The flowers have pale yellow petals with purple edges. It should not be confused with wild ginger (Asarum canadense). Unlike many herbs, it is a cultigen and does not exist in a wild state.

Ginger root tea can help if your constipation stems from poor digestion. If you’ve had a heavy meal, peel and slice one tablespoon of fresh root and boil it in two cups of water for at least 10 minutes. The resulting tea can also reduce nausea and help fight colds and flu.

How to use it: To make a tincture, fill a jar halfway full with chopped ginger, top it with vodka, and store it in a dark place for around two weeks, shaking periodically. Then strain and use. The recommended dosage for adults is three full droppers three times a day.

8. Dandelion (Taraxacum)

Dandelions are easy to distinguish by their bright yellow heads and serrated leaves. They also happen to be extremely nutritious, with raw greens containing high amounts of Vitamins A, C, and K.

Dandelion is used in traditional herbal medicine to treat constipation and other symptoms of digestive problems. The root is a rich source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that can reduce constipation and increase intestinal movement. Being full of potent antioxidants, dandelion can also be used to fight cellular damage in your body.

How to use it: To make dandelion tea that can double as a natural laxative, boil a quart of water in a pot and add two tsps of diced root. Cover the pot, lower the heat, and steep on the stove for one minute before removing it from the burner and continuing to steep for 40 minutes. Strain and serve.

To make a tincture for the winter months, fill a mason jar two-thirds full of chopped roots and cover it with vodka. Store it in a cool, dry place, shaking occasionally, and wait at least a month before using. To treat digestive issues, take 10 drops in water every hour until the condition improves.

9. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)

The licorice plant is native to Western Asia, North Africa, and southern Europe. It can grow up to a meter in height, has flowers that range in color from purple to pale blue, and features oblong pods with several seeds.

Licorice root is a popular remedy for digestive issues due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Its potent antioxidant and antimicrobial effects have also made it a herbal option for those suffering from ulcers, upper respiratory infections, and skin conditions like eczema.

How to use it: Drinking licorice root tea can soothe your digestive system and encourage bowel movement. It’s simple to make: boil four ounces of water, add a teaspoon of dried licorice root, and remove from heat to steep for five minutes. Strain and then drink. Because over-consumption of licorice root may cause side effects, limit your intake to half a cup of tea per day.

10. Marshmallow Root (Althaea Officinalis)

Marshmallow root is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. It is a mid-sized perennial with velvety leaves and small, pale flowers. The leaves, flowers, and roots have traditionally been used to treat mucous membrane irritation, such as gastric ulcers, and drinking tea at bedtime can relieve constipation.

How to use it: To make marshmallow root tea, add a cup of boiling water to two teaspoons of dried root and steep for 10 minutes. Like slippery elm, it has mucilage that coats and soothes an irritated digestive system and can facilitate a bowel movement.

Conclusion

Long before doctors were writing prescriptions to treat constipation, people were turning to their gardens and to nature for relief. These natural laxative herbs can help during those times when drinking a lot of water, eating plenty of fiber, and getting regular exercise don’t eliminate the problem.

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8 Comments

• TOM POSTED AUGUST 31, 2021 4:18 PMDoctors 200 years ago also used Cape Aloe for constipation issuesReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED SEPTEMBER 2, 2021 2:16 PMHi Tom,Cape aloe also acts as a natural laxative‚ decreasing the amount of time it takes for waste to move through your colon. However, you have to be very careful with the dosage as it’s considered a harsh stimulant laxative and is likely unsafe in high doses.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• MAUREEN P MURPHY POSTED AUGUST 31, 2021 8:16 PMExcellent. Thank you for posting this information. I am always looking for ways to get back to nature to find healthier ways to treat our bodies.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED SEPTEMBER 2, 2021 1:51 PMHi Maureen,Thank you for your interest in our work.
    It brings us great joy to read comments like yours.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• JOSE POSTED SEPTEMBER 1, 2021 6:25 PMWhat can i use instead of alcohol to make ginger tincture or any tintureReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED SEPTEMBER 2, 2021 1:50 PMHi Jose,You can use Apple Cider Vinegar instead. More details in the article below:
    https://thelostherbs.com/how-to-make-a-tincture-using-apple-cider-vinegar-instead-of-alcohol/Many blessings and good health!Reply
• SHELLEY POSTED JANUARY 4, 2022 6:24 PMDo you know of anything that helps with Tinitus?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 23, 2022 12:04 PMHi Shelley,Thank you for reaching out to us.You can read more about the natural ways to heal tinnitus here:
    https://thelostherbs.com/8-natural-ways-to-heal-tinnitus/Many blessings and good health!Reply

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10 Food Ingredients to Avoid in The Supermarket

Posted November 4, 2021 by Mindy in All Articles, Backyard Plants, Household Remedies44

There is so much one needs to look for when you are shopping at the supermarket. Price and quality are two but did you know that you also need to be looking for those sneaky food additives that many processed food contain. While you may have never really thought about these ingredients, you may have a change of heart after you read about the possible health issue that can result from these ingredients.

But before you decide you cannot eat anything, remember there are some safe and natural alternatives to these additives.

1. Sodium nitrates and nitrites

Many have heard of the dangers of “nitrates” and “nitrites” in processed meats. These additives have been linked to cancer. To avoid this ingredient, first cook your own meat at home and freeze it for later use. If you have to have processed meat then read the label. What you are looking for is “nitrate and/or nitrite-free or preservative-free” meat.

Related:

• 11 Meat Processing Mistakes You Are Probably Making Right Now
• What Happens If You Soak Your Meat In Vinegar Overnight?
• 20 Mistakes You Are Making When Freezing Meat
• How To Make A Meat Powder That Can Last 5 Years
• How To Use The Bark Of This Common Tree To Keep Your Meat From Spoiling

2. Bisphenol A or BPA

Have you ever taken a look at the underneath side of the lid from a glass jar? Well, if you have not you may want to now. Many glass jar lids, some plastics, and even aluminum cans have a liner that is made of epoxy resin. This substance is suspected to cause cancer, infertility, and some irregularity in the growth of children. But what is one to do?

One easy thing you can do is to make sure to only purchase cans and plastic that is labeled BPA-free and do not use plastic to heat or reheat your food. Another option is to preserve your own food such as canning, drying, and freezing.

Related:

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• Canning Meatloaf for Meals in a Jar
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• 7 Deadly Canning Mistakes Even Smart People Make
• My Grandma’s Method of Canning Eggplant

3. Potassium or Sodium benzoate

Sodium benzoate and potassium benzoate are both used in soft drinks and juices to prevent the growth of mold. Now, these two preservatives are safe by themselves but when they combine with vitamin C and/or are exposed to light and heat they turn into benzene. What is the big deal about benzene? Well, it is a cancer-causing agent.

When comes to a natural approach to protecting the natural vitamin C in juices is to preserve your own by storing it in a dark container and freezing it. Another approach is to only buy drinks that have been pasteurized, which will eliminate the need for this preservative.

Related:

• Juice Recipes For Weight Loss
• Homemade Kidney Cleanse Juice
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• How to Make Medicinal Kombucha at Home
• How To Make Your Own Raspberry Vinegar

4. Carrageenan

This is a food thickener that is made from red seaweed. It is normally found in low-fat dairy foods or non-dairy products but can also be found in surprising foods, which include canned soups, deli meats, and many prepared foods. Consuming products with this ingredient has been linked to gastrointestinal diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, colon cancer, and irritable bowel syndrome or IBS.

Before you get discouraged and think that without this food additive you will never again have creamed soup in a can, do not worry. There are safer ingredients such as locust bean gum and guar gum. Since carrageenan is also used to keep ingredients from separating you can simply stir the ingredients or in the case of milk, just give it a shake.

5. Hydrogenated oils (trans fats)

Hydrogenated oil is a fancy way of describing vegetable oil that has been processed in a way so that it has a longer shelf life in processed foods. These types of oils are normally found in fried foods and bakery goods. Now you may wonder what the big deal about trans fats is since most fats have some negative aspects to them. Well, trans fat themselves have been shown to raise cholesterol, which then increases the chances for heart disease and diabetes. Now that we know what it is and where it can be found, what can one do about it? The first approach is to read labels and do not fall for the “0 grams trans fats per serving.” While this is true, if you really take a look at the label what you end up with is a product that has half a gram of trans fats, which is splitting hairs since the consumer simply believes that there are no trans fats in the product. Another approach is to cook your own food. Doing this simple task will allow you to truly say that your baked muffins have 0 trans fats.

6. Enriched wheat

Have you ever wondered why so many supplements such as B vitamins, vitamin E, and fiber are added to the ingredients of products made with enriched wheat? Well, the enriched term tells the whole story. In products that contain enriched wheat, the wheat itself has been stripped of the bran and endosperm. This means there is no nutritional value to the wheat, which means it needs to be added.

Now that we have come full circle, what is a healthy alternative? The simplest alternative is to buy products that contain whole wheat. If wheat is not your thing, make sure to purchase products with whole grains only to avoid the stripping of the grain itself. This easy step will make sure that nutrients in the food come from the food and not added or enriched.

7. Oils (corn, vegetable, soybean)

When it comes to oils, many people get way too much of this ingredient especially when their diet is high in processed food. The problem stems from the amount of omega-6 that these oils contain. Diets high in these oils cause inflammation and their symptom can lead to many different problems. The other issue that comes from these oils is the fact that if they oxidize, the level of inflammation increases.

Now, the question to answer is what to do. When cooking food, you will need some type of oil to keep it from sticking but no oil is free from causing health problems. To reduce the amount of omega-6 in your food, you can cook with butter, lard, and olive oil. Keep in mind though that these oils have issues themselves. Another approach is to not consume processed food and resort to cooking all your foods yourself so you can control the amount and type of oil.

8. Sugar in all forms

Sugar is such a generic term when there are so many terms to choose from. This includes honey, sucrose, high fructose corn syrup, agave syrup, and sugar alcohol. This latter collective term includes such things as mannitol, glycerol, xylitol, sorbitol, erythritol, and maltitol. These sugar alcohols are not sugar or alcohol but they are sweet in flavor and have fewer calories but they do cause health problems diarrhea, flatulence, and bloating. But, what is one to do? One choice is to use stevia as your “sugar” flavoring.   When using the leaves of this plant to flavor your food, keep in mind that it is 150 times sweeter than sugar. Another alternative is to go to your spice cabinet and pull out some cinnamon, sweet basil, sweet cicely, and tarragon.

Related:

• Sugar Substitutes for Diabetics: Five Sugars That Are OK to Eat
• 10 Natural Sweeteners and Sugar Alternatives
• How to Stop Sugar Cravings Naturally
• The Plant That Is Sweeter Than Sugar And Helps People With Diabetes

9. Artificial flavors and colors

Anytime the term “artificial” is used when one is talking about food, the result typically tends to be negative. Artificial simply means it was made in a lab and not by Mother Nature. While what these ingredients can do to the human body is not fully understood, it is always better to eat food naturally. As far as replacing artificial flavors, one only needs to visit the spice aisle in the supermarket. You will be amazed at the choices and flavors available in this isle. The same goes for color. Spices add unbelievable color to dishes in a natural way. Now do not limit yourself to dried herbs. Fresh herbs can also add flavor and color to any dish.

In a nutshell, you do not need artificial flavors and/or colors if you are cooking with natural ingredients and allowing the fresh food to flavor itself.

10. Artificial sweeteners

The key term when one is considering artificial sweeteners is the term “artificial.” Many times, anything that is not made my Mother Nature typically is not healthy for the human body. You may be wondering what I am talking about and while this list is short artificial sweeteners include saccharin, sucralose, and aspartame, just to name a few. The problems caused by these artificial sweeteners in small amounts is not really known, they are recognized to cause weight gain, migraines, and cancer in high amounts. They are also suspected to change the bacteria in the gut.

To avoid artificial sweeteners, one can go for products that contain sugar. This, in itself, can cause its own problems but do not throw your hands up in the air and go I give. There are healthy choices. The first is to learn to like the natural taste of food or drink, such as unsweetened tea. If this is not possible, consider adding herbs that are known for their sweetness to your dishes and drinks.  This includes sweet basil, cinnamon, real vanilla, and licorice.

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Foods You Can Make At Home That Are Also Natural Remedies Please Spread The Word – Share This Post

44 Comments

• James Posted November 4, 2021 3:26 PM Sodium nitrates and nitrites are bad? Well celery powder when used for curing has more nitrites than curing salt Reply
  • Amy Norris Posted November 4, 2021 9:50 PM But difference between them is nitrates and nitrites are man made chemicals, where as celery salt and cherry powder are natural. Thats my understanding Reply
  • Neferwi Posted November 5, 2021 7:17 AM Is that true?? Reply
• Marie Posted November 4, 2021 4:32 PM One very important ingredient to avoid is silica dioxide everything silica this does not break down in your body Reply
  • Bobbie Posted November 4, 2021 9:23 PM I heard the opposite. Our body needs it and it has been called a “surgeon” because it cleans out the body. They have cell salts made of it. There are outward signs that you need it, one being small vertical wrinkles in front of the ears and eyes that are sunken. Reply
• Paulina Posted November 4, 2021 4:52 PM Swine, or pork, is bad, too…..in all its forms…….bacon, sausage, bbq, hot dogs, etc…………….why ?………because GOD SAID SO. And no, your body is not any different than a Jew’s body…….Just take Him at His Word and you’ll be ok. Reply
  • Traci Smith Posted November 4, 2021 7:09 PM Pork is old testament .. .new testament doesn’t limit what you can eat. To go even further back (in the garden of eden) we were all to be vegan… Just accept Jesus and eat whatever you want. Reply
    • Guy Posted November 5, 2021 2:30 PM Right on Tracy!
    • Mary Lynch Posted November 5, 2021 6:27 PM HE came to fulfill not to change the laws, one iota. Our bodies haven’t changed. They work the same way.
    • Nancy Posted November 5, 2021 6:43 PM The food rules are for our health and are still in effect. It is not against any law or covenant to eat pork, but it is still not good for you.
    • Lisa Posted November 5, 2021 9:43 PM Jesus was of the Essenic sect of the Jews. He was raised as a vegan as was his cousin John the Baptist. They were both like Sampson and did not partake of anything that was not specified by the Nazarite Vow…Numbers 6:1-21.
      And btw, Jesus never said that anyone should accept him as their personal Savior. That’s just social programming and has nothing to do with following the teachings of the Rabbi Yeshua/Jesus/Christ Annointing.
      Vegan/Vegetarianism is The Way God established as Holy and there is no, “Shadow of Turning” with God. Jesus never changed anything, he established all things righteous…..and vegan is righteous.
    • Cristina Posted November 7, 2021 2:08 AM The laws of the old testament were not done away with. Jesus said…..I came to fulfill the law, not abolish it. GOD didn’t send down an amendment to his commandments.
  • Jeff Posted November 4, 2021 8:26 PM Dabarym 12:15 But whenever you want, you may slaughter and eat meat within any of your gates, according to the blessing Yahowah your God has given you. Both the clean and unclean may eat it as they would a gazelle or deer, 16 but you must not eat the blood; pour it on the ground like water.… Pork was dangerous before refrigeration, and modern food handling, as were most shell fish. Reply
    • Daphne Nkabinde Posted November 14, 2021 11:18 PM Unclean believes people clean believes
  • Amy Posted November 4, 2021 10:15 PM 1 Timothy 4:4 for every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. God created pork too. Old testament, before the cross, new testament, after the crucifixion, new covenant. We have been set free. Reply
  • Armin Posted November 5, 2021 12:03 AM Hi, Paulina. Have to agree with you on pork. Not a big fan of pork myself. Especially bacon. One of the worst things for you. People that eat bacon are eating the fat belly of a hog. Does say in the bible that a pig is a diseased animal. Don’t know if they were just talking about Trichinosis or alluding to something else that we haven’t quite realized yet. A lot of the flus do seem to come from China when they raise hogs and fowl together. But let me ask you this. I’m not trying to be a smart ass. So even though you’re not a big fan of pork does that mean that if we end up in an extended grid down situation and you or your family haven’t had anything to eat for 14 days and you’re really starving. Beyond hungry. And you’re scavenging for food. You come across something like canned spam. In edible shape. Are you telling me that you’d rather starve than compromise your principles and live to fight another day? Reply
    • Paulina Posted November 5, 2021 9:50 PM People gotta start having more faith in God. If He tells us not to do something, don’t you think He has something better for us ? The spam might be a test like Eve had with the forbidden fruit……..If God takes care of the sparrows, don’t you think He will take care and provide for us, as well ?
  • JANET GIDLEY Posted November 5, 2021 2:22 AM There are a number of reasons that pork isn’t the best choice. One is NOT that God said so. It was true in the time Isreal was under the Mosaic law. They did not have the modern conveniences and the people could have gotten sick. Many food laws were given to show other nations the Isreal was healthier and safer following his laws. The mosaic law was cancelled during the time of Christianity when God opened his laws to all nations,but not it’s principles. Reply
  • Patricia Krenik Posted November 5, 2021 2:33 AM God said so at a time when pork was dangerous to eat because of worm infections. Now that we know how to handle livestock better and how to cook pork throughally, God hasn’t recently said not to eat pork. He was just protecting his people then. Really pork is wonderful meat. Reply
    • R Posted November 8, 2021 4:48 PM Not true the worm will still hatch after being heated beyond a temp we have in our kitchens to attain
      So the worm eats your kidney as an example, the cause of death states kidney failure, but the worm eat killed the kidney, and yes we did the research…
    • Jennifer Hahn Posted March 10, 2022 11:15 AM I Agree with you. Pork was dirty and still can be if not raised right. But it is not against God to eat it know. We now understand clean and dirty meat and parasites so we can eat clean pork.
  • Armin Posted November 6, 2021 5:16 AM I wouldn’t want to put that to the test, Paulina, if myself and my family hadn’t had a bite to eat for at least two weeks and then we come upon a cache of food. I would figure that would be God’s way of saving us even though I might have an aversion to some of the food. You might be surprised how good even spam would taste if you hadn’t eaten for two weeks or more. If the food was still palatable I would rather eat it then condemn my family to a slow, lingering death. We’re not sparrows. In the end it’s up to each of us to save ourselves and our loved ones. I would rather take the responsibility for my own destiny than wait for some questionable entity to intervene and save me. Please don’t stand on your principles and die because of it. In a true crisis we need to be pragmatic above all else and not stand so much on our principles and suffer because of it. God doesn’t want us to suffer. The saying is that God will work with us but not for us. You can’t reasonably expect a multidimensional being to personally intervene in our situation. That’s just totally illogical. I harbour you no ill will. I wish you and yours the very best Stay safe. Reply
    • Paulina Posted November 6, 2021 1:08 PM Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
  • Michele Noffke Posted November 17, 2021 11:45 AM So very true. The Old Testament has not been done away with. The Renewed Covenant added us the Holy Spirit to help us obey Abba’s Commandments. Jehovah is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Isaiah 65 and 66 state very clearly that Jehovah is coming back in a future day in His Wrath and Fury to punish all who are still eating this detestable swine meat. Reply
  • Jim Posted December 5, 2021 12:07 PM When Noah came off the ark God told him “Now you can eat everything”, that is why we can eat a hotdog, because it is everything! Reply
• Mary Lynch Posted November 4, 2021 6:37 PM The easiest ‘food laws’ to follow are GOD’s FOOD LAWs… The food ‘intended to be received’, so go by the Old Testament food laws and keep it simple. Reply
  • Mary Lynch Posted November 4, 2021 6:40 PM Leviticus 11 KJV is the location of the food laws. Reply
  • Cristina Posted November 7, 2021 2:16 AM Amen! Reply
• Cathie Carnahan Posted November 4, 2021 7:33 PM Stevia is also natural Reply
• Tyron Posted November 5, 2021 3:49 AM Lol. Why don’t you people save your religious views for your church!? This article made no reference to religion.. Pigs are as smart as they are tasty! Reply
  • Mary Lynch Posted November 5, 2021 6:21 PM Yes, pigs are very intelligent. And yes, they taste good. But that wasn’t what was addressed. Did not intend to offend you. To me, knowledge is knowledge. Reply
• Jay Posted November 5, 2021 7:34 AM Although you are correct that enriched bread is supplied with nutrients because the natural ones have been stripped away, it is the bran and the embryo, not the endosperm that is removed. The endosperm, largely starch is about all that is left. Reply
• lyn Posted November 5, 2021 10:44 AM Perhaps it was listed as an “unclean” food historically/religously is because hogs are scavengers…. If a hog is penned/farm raised and fed (ie not allowed to scavenge), wouldn’t the meat be okay? Reply
  • Mary Lynch Posted November 5, 2021 6:19 PM Definitely better IMO. I’ve had pork fed from an apple orchard that had extremely tasty meat. BUT, taste and healthy don’t necessarily go hand-in-hand. The ‘food laws’ are ‘suggestions’ for being healthy/healthier. It’s a choice for sure. At 67 I prefer to NOT let my taste buds dictate what’s ‘good for me’. THEY LIE to me! LOL. ‘Cured meats’ like bacon do taste good, but ‘healthy’? I LOVE BBQ ribs, but that doesn’t mean it’s good for me. After not eating pork for the past 30 years, I do get sick if something is cooked in pork grease. Anecdotal, but it’s my personal experience. I’m not trying to ‘push religion’ as someone else suggested. Only offering an educated opinion as a now retired Biblically literate RN (CCU/ICU). I’m actually more concerned with the ‘ocean filters’ we eat, considering how we’ve contaminated our oceans. I’m now an herbalist/naturopathic medicine consultant so my frame of reference may be different than many. Preparing food ourselves is HEALTHIER when done correctly. This site is great, as a user friendly guide. Reply
• Rana McLernon Posted November 5, 2021 12:24 PM This is a wonderful article. It is very helpful. I used to live in America. Now I live in Scotland. I have been here a year and half now. I have lost 40 pounds with in the first 5 months of being here. I’m also off alot of my medication too. I thought it was because I was cooking rather than going out to eat and I was eating way less too. I’m not as active due to all this took place when Covid hit. After reading this article I decided to look through my cabinet and refrigerator just to see if any of that stuff was present. I try my best to eat healthy and I have always read labels anyway. I could not find one of those things in any of my food. Not even in soup or any sauces I use. I don’t eat much of that stuff any way. Food over here spoiled alot faster as well. I knew they didn’t use preservatives as widely as America does but this explains alot more. America is pumping all those chemicals in to its people and telling them its safe. Yet diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, obesity and cancer diagnos are on the rise. You would think they could put 1 and 2 together. This is shameful and something should be done. Reply
• Franklin Kerstin Posted November 8, 2021 8:41 AM In my country Sweden we now can buy grassfeed cow – and pig meat.
  So now and then I buy it, but thinking of the fact that eating a lot of MEAT of any kind; ANIMAL FOOD , gives your body inbalance in the PH levels, making you more ACID , which has negative health effects, like PAIN , more subtle to KIDNEYPROBLEMS, like kidney stones…. Reply
• Rich Wildgrube Posted November 9, 2021 3:45 AM I enjoyed the article until I started reading the comments and found myself in the middle of religious arguments. It seems like those comments should be in a religious blog instead. Reply
• Maria Hars Posted November 12, 2021 11:44 PM It’s the additives in processed foods that are the issues in which the author is explaining. Always read the ingredients before you buy and only buy organic non processed food and you should be able to avoid these man made artificial ingredients. Reply
• Gemgirl 67 Posted November 13, 2021 1:49 PM I came here to get knowledge on herbs not your Christianity – please stop telling me about the bible and god – I just want to learn about herbs – IF I wanted to learn about Christianity then I would go to a church Reply
• BSFreeLife20 Posted November 30, 2021 12:03 PM WHAT IS GOING ON HERE??!! The moderators of this site should seriously take control of this religious grand-standing and delete it from a forum that was created for herbal information. Your opinions of your “Gods” has no place here. You are not doing “Gods” work and bringing people to “Christ” by fighting over meat! You all look foolish and your representation of your beliefs is laughable and embarrassing. Repent! Reply
• Firenole1 Posted November 30, 2021 6:25 PM Nitrates and Nitrites are not man made chemicals. They are naturally found in nature and are used in many other products besides foods. If you cook pork throughly you will kill the trichinosis worms. That’s why you never eat pink pork or partially cooked bacon. Reply
• dz Posted March 12, 2022 12:48 AM for all the “holier than thou” soapboxers: you are not convincing anyone to be recruited to your beliefs by posting YOUR religious opinions on a blog about herbs and their uses, please take it to blogs about religion. What you are doing with your “holier than thou” postings is convincing others to NOT subscribe to anything you are promoting – in plain language, you are driving away others from anything you say, is that your objective? seems counterproductive to me. Reply
• W. James Posted March 12, 2022 10:53 AM Over all, a very good and very informative article and comments are comments. Reply
• Lisa Posted March 29, 2022 2:33 PM Sorry, I usually scroll past the religious. My beliefs are mine. Having said that, the herbal info is gold. Hard to get straight facts. She knows her stuff, and yes, I also research. Why I’m here. Reply

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The Legal Narcotic You Can Grow In Your Own Backyard

POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 BY ROSE KEEFE IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES23

Mugwort has been around for thousands of years, but thanks to TikTok, it has recently become a buzzword. Users claim that by consuming or drinking mugwort, one can enjoy subtle psychoactive benefits such as reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and more vivid dreams.

One UK journalist investigated these claims by purchasing a pack and consuming it as tea. Although he didn’t find that mugwort produced a dramatic high like some other drugs, he did enjoy the experience.

“For those that are looking for a small but noticeable perk in mood and the possibility of some pretty intense dreams, mugwort may be for you,” he wrote. “I know I will definitely continue drinking it in tea form as part of my daily routine.”

So what’s the story behind mugwort and what’s the best way to enjoy it?

Mugwort- An Overview

Known scientifically as Artemisia vulgaris, mugwort is a tall shrub that is closely related to sunflowers. It has a long and colorful history, having been mentioned in Chinese poetry and ballads dating as far back as 3 B.C when it was an essential part of traditional herbal medicine. Since then, mugwort leaves, flowers, and roots have also been used as food, a spice, beverage flavoring, and even an acupuncture tool.

Some gardeners even apply it in their gardens as a moth and insect repellent. The flavor has been described as slightly minty, in contrast to its bitter aroma.

Traditional Health Benefits Of Mugwort

Mugwort has been used in a number of cultures, ranging from Europe to China, and has long been praised for its medicinal properties. Mugwort’s specific benefits are believed to be derived from the presence of flavonoids, triterpenes, and other antioxidant compounds, as well as some B vitamins, potassium, iron, and calcium.

• Eliminate Toxins: Due to its diuretic properties, mugwort can stimulate urination, which can be the body’s best method of eliminating toxins. By the same token, it may also benefit the kidneys and bladder, improving their function and reducing the likelihood of infection, and stimulate sweating, which may further eliminate toxins from the body through the skin.
• Boost the Immune System: Mugwort may be an excellent choice for boosting the immune system due to its high concentration of vitamin C and other antioxidants. Aside from stimulating white blood cells, vitamin C also acts as a powerful antioxidant, which helps neutralize the free radicals that cause inflammation and weaken the body’s immune system.
• Improve Indigestion: Mugwort has long been used to settle the stomach and ease indigestion. In addition to stimulating appetite and reducing bloating and cramps, it may also combat uncomfortable conditions like constipation and diarrhea. Several of its active compounds may also stimulate the production of bile, which can speed digestion.
• Reduce Depression and Anxiety: The nervine properties of mugwort may make it very helpful for treating anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. If anxiety is a daily occurrence for you, drinking mugwort tea or consuming it as a tincture could relieve stress on your nervous and metabolic system and improve your quality of life.
• Ease Menstrual Pain: Mugwort is beneficial for the treatment of dysmenorrhea, or menstrual cramps. Additionally, it may stimulate and regulate menstruation and support the body during the menopausal transition. However, pregnant women should avoid it because stimulation of menses can lead to miscarriage and premature labor.
• Improve Bone Density: Mugwort is traditionally thought to be an excellent source of bone mineralizers, helping to increase bone density and preventing osteoporosis, among other types of age-related bone disorders. Several nutrients found in mugwort can support this health benefit, including potassium, iron, and calcium.
• Support Healthy Vision: The antioxidant vitamin A found in mugwort may play an important role in vision health. In particular, this beta carotene-derived vitamin might protect against macular degeneration and slow cataract development.

What About Mugwort’s Hallucinogenic Properties?

Mugwort is a close relative of wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), the flavoring agent in absinthe, and has long been praised for its “psychic” and even “hallucinogenic” properties.

Although users have claimed that it helps them remember their dreams more vividly and even have the occasional lucid dream, its hallucinogenic properties are nowhere near as intense as herbs like wormwood or vervain, and those who have experienced a narcotic high won’t find the experience similar at all.

Can Everyone Take Mugwort?

Although not as risky or intense as a narcotic, mugwort may be contraindicated for allergy sufferers and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Mugwort pollen is one of the most common causes of hayfever, so allergic reactions are not uncommon. You should use it in moderation if you are prone to allergies. If you experience any skin irritation, stomach upset, or swelling of your throat, tongue, or lips, stop using it immediately.

As stated earlier, pregnant women should avoid mugwort, as it contains thujone, which can stimulate menstruation and, by extension, pregnancy complications. Breastfeeding mothers are also advised to refrain from mugwort consumption, as thujone and other active components could be passed on to the baby through breast milk.

What Is The Best Way To Take Mugwort?

Mugwort is commonly enjoyed as tea. You can order it online or, if you find it growing in the wild (it’s especially common in the eastern United States and Canada), collect it and dry it. Although the leaves are most commonly used for tea, many people use the root instead or combine the two.

• To make tea, bring four cups of water to a boil, add one ounce of dried mugwort, and let it steep for five to 10 minutes. After giving it two or three minutes to cool, strain out the dried herb and add sugar or honey if desired.
• If you prefer tinctures, place dried mugwort in an airtight jar and cover by one inch with 100 proof vodka. Allow sitting for a month, shaking occasionally. The standard dosage is 5-20 drops, taken before meals to help with liver bile production and stomach acid or after meals to help with gas or bloating.
• A third option is moxibustion, a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the burning of mugwort to promote healing with acupuncture. Moxibustion is used for strengthening blood, stimulating the flow of qi, and maintaining general health. In Western medicine, it is used to reposition breech babies to their normal head-down position prior to childbirth.

Conclusion

While mugwort is not likely to produce a recreational high, it could be a natural and effective alternative to prescription medication in treating or managing certain ailments. Even if you only enjoy a cup or two every day, the health benefits may make a long-lasting difference in your quality of life.

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23 Comments

• BRUCE HOLLAND POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 3:41 PMWill give it a try. Sounds more positiveReply
• MAYRA MARRERO POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 3:50 PMThis herb is a bitter herb, while with the Coronavirus, I drank it, if is also good for malaria in Africa. That helped me from getting worse. I grow it in my property.Reply
• ARMIN POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 3:55 PMCannabis isn’t a narcotic.Reply
  • SHELBY POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 4:47 PMYou are correct. 🙂Reply
  • JOYCEL WOYCHIK POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 8:51 PMWait. How did you post this in the future??Reply
  • ANNA POSTED NOVEMBER 12, 2021 4:27 AMCorrect!! Nobody said it was.Reply
• SABRINA CLASPER POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 4:04 PMI love mugwort! I read somewhere to not boil the water for it makes mugwort bitter? I noticed if I use water that is just about to boil that it is less bitter but I do ponder if I leech all the good stuff out of it by using not boiled water? What are your thoughts?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED NOVEMBER 11, 2021 7:26 PMHi Sabrina,The truth is that Mugwort is bitter.If bitter isn’t your thing, try this: pour the boiling water over the herb, and let soak for just a single minute, instead of 3-6 minutes.
    You can also add honey. It should improve the taste.
    or Add in a handful of mint, lemon balm, or another herb of choice! You can also turn this into a mugwort latte by steaming some plant milk on the stovetop.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• KIRBY POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 5:21 PMOn the federal level it is still class1Reply
• MARI A SPARKS POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 5:45 PMMy parents used mugwort for everything. Where can I find it now to grow pleaseReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED NOVEMBER 11, 2021 7:29 PMHi Mary,Mugwort is a perennial. Shoots emerge during the spring, and flowering occurs from July to late September.But you can still find Mugwort in dried form or bundles:
    https://mountainroseherbs.com/mugwort-smudge-stickMany blessings and good health!Reply
• BENNY POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 8:05 PMamazing info, the best book, after the Bible, for healthy and easy to understand.Reply
  • TINA MIEDEMA POSTED NOVEMBER 8, 2021 12:31 PMWhat book?Reply
• CHRIS POSTED NOVEMBER 2, 2021 8:16 PMHow to IDReply
  • DCORRY POSTED JANUARY 22, 2022 7:12 PMGoogle mugwort images.Reply
• JAMIE POSTED NOVEMBER 3, 2021 12:41 AMWould this help severe back pain?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 4, 2022 8:05 PMHi Jamie,I’m sorry to hear that you have severe back pain.
    Unfortunately, we cannot diagnose conditions, provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this blog or website.However, as mentioned in the article, moxibustion or moxa is indeed good for chronic, achy back pain. Moxa increases circulation to accelerate the healing process warms muscle tissue and the acupuncture channels, and stops pain.Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• JACK SHAFER POSTED NOVEMBER 3, 2021 3:00 AMHave you come across anything thats helpful for sperm health?Reply
  • ELAINE GRIFFITH POSTED NOVEMBER 3, 2021 9:42 PMI have seen two things that help that problem: clean the liver, stop doing anything toxic to the liver, and remove xenoestrogens from your environment. Google for all the products and places you get these hormone unbalancing substances in your life.Reply
• BRYAN YODER POSTED NOVEMBER 9, 2021 7:58 PMcan you smoke it in a pipe or roll it in papers??Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED NOVEMBER 11, 2021 7:31 PMHi Bryan,Either way works 🙂
    Here you can find more information about how to smoke healing herbs:
    https://thelostherbs.com/healing-herbs-you-can-smoke/Many blessings and good health!Reply
• RALA POSTED DECEMBER 1, 2021 1:48 AMWhat herb would help with Hiatal Hernia and acid reflux? Smoking or in a tincture?Reply
• JENNIFER POSTED MARCH 10, 2022 5:22 PMAny chance this would cause a positive drug test for occupational purposes?Reply

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