➤  Before we start talking about eating chili peppers for breakfast, let’s understand why chili peppers were used in the first place. Yes, chili peppers add flavor to food but spices played a role beyond taste in the past. They actually helped prevent spoilage, which was very important in warm climates. In cold climates, you could “freeze” your food in snow or even place it in a frozen pond but in warm climates food would spoil quickly. This is where spices come into play. Many spices contain antibacterial/anti-microbial properties, which would aid in preventing food spoilage. Now, what benefits do chili peppers have? What makes them hot is also the chemical that aids in food preservation. What is it? Well, you guessed it: capsaicin. This hot chemical that gives heat to peppers is also a very powerful anti-microbial that is known to kill 75% of bacterial growth that could cause food spoilage. Why would one want to start their day with a breakfast dish that has chili peppers in it? Well, to answer that question let’s take a look at other benefits that hot peppers provide.Promotes A Healthy Heart Hot peppers help the circulatory system by reducing blood serum cholesterol levels and lipid deposits. This, in turn, can reverse excessive blood clotting. They are also known to dilate blood vessels so that the blood can travel through the veins more freely.Helps With AllergiesCapsaicin found in hot peppers is an anti-inflammatory, which can aid in preventing allergies and addressing the symptoms of allergies. Prevents Bad BreathEating hot peppers, using hot sauce and/or hot pepper powder is one way of preventing bad breath. Yes, you heard it right. Eating hot peppers can keep your breath smelling fresh but how. It seems that hot peppers disinfect the mouth, which prevents bad breath. Fights Cold, Flu, And Fungal InfectionsSince hot peppers are full of antioxidants, eating them is a great way of boosting your immune system. When it comes to fungal infections, it has been discovered that hot peppers will fight against 16 fungal strains by attacking fungal pathogens that can cause an assortment of problems.May Reduce Cancer RiskBelieve it or not, recent studies have shown that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of hot peppers can shrink cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone. It is showing promise in prostate, breast, pancreatic, and bladder cancers. Now the kicker in this approach though is you must consume eight large habaneros per week to get any results. Hot Peppers Benefit The Digestive TractThis may sound a bit odd especially if you have an ulcer. Many individuals for years have been told to avoid spicy foods if they have digestive tract problems. Studies have shown that avoiding spicy foods is not something you want to do if you have digestive tract issues. It has been found that antioxidants and other substances found in hot peppers help heal an upset stomach, reduce gas, aid in reducing cramping and diarrhea. Hot peppers also reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, which can lead to ulcers. Due to their hot nature, these peppers also increase salvia production along with other gastric juices, which aid in the digestive process. However, everyone is different. Eating chili can cause intestinal distress in some people. This is more common in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Chili can temporarily worsen symptoms in those who are not used to eating it regularly. So if you are not used to it, try incorporating it slowly into your diet.Mitigates MigrainesWhen it comes to migraines and hot peppers, the route to relief is based on a phenomenon that is a bit unique. It seems that if you have pain in one area and you do something that causes discomfort in another area then you forget about the first pain. As far as it goes with hot peppers, consuming these beauties seems to take your mind off your head hurting due to their hotness, which can cause some discomfort.Promotes Weight LossYou may be surprised to know that eating spicy peppers can help you lose some weight. The first way this is accomplished is through a process called thermogenic.This process is where the body produces heat, which burns calories. Eating hot peppers can also alter proteins in the body and reduce fat accumulation.Capsaicin is known to selectively destroy nerve fibers in the stomach whose job is to carry signals from the stomach to the brain. If the brain is not getting a hungry signal from the stomach then you feel satisfied, which means no overeating. If hot peppers are eaten with breakfast then this full-filling will carry throughout the day. This suppressed appetite could equate to weight loss. Who would not want to eat some hot chili peppers with breakfast but to get those culinary juices flowing, give this recipe a try this weekend.Mango Chili SmoothieIngredients: • 2 ½ cups of frozen mango chunks • 3 Tablespoons hemp seeds • 2 Tablespoons dried goji berries • 1 teaspoon chili powder • 1 ½ cups apple juice • 1 cup of water • 2 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice • Sweetener of your choice (optional) Steps 1. Put all the ingredients into a blender. 2. Blend until smooth. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy. You can also make Hot Pepper Jam or Chili Oil and incorporate them in your breakfast recipes. Spicy peppers rev up the metabolic rate by generating the thermogenic processes in our body that generates heat. That process utilizes energy, and thereby, burns additional calories. In addition, if hot peppers are consumed at breakfast, the appetite is suppressed for the rest of the day which ultimately helps in weight loss. It may even alter proteins in your body to combat fat accumulation. The ‘Superweed’ That Saved Large Communities During The Great Depression You can follow us on:    Copyright 2021 – The Forager’s Guide to Wild Foods, All rights reserved. My mailing address is: The Forager’s Guide to Wild Foods, 2549 Waukegan RD, PMB 45933, BANNOCKBURN, Illinois 60015-1569, United States If you think you are receiving too many emails from us, or if you don’t want to receive a certain type of emails, click on the link below: Receive Fewer Emails You can unsubscribe at any time. If there is something I can do to change your mind, please reply to this e-mail before unsubscribing.

I just had an idea from this video https://youtu.be/4tuL7zEUuBo

Basically, do rain water collection off the roof, into 275gal totes, plum the pipes from the bottom of the tote into coup and have the water nipples in the pipe like this guy did.

Then put a filter between the tote and the building, so it doesn’t plug up the nipples with debris.

by Stephanie L. Tourles in Farm Animals, Horses & Pets

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Keep four-legged members of your family pest-free, comfortable, happy, and, smelling fresh and clean.

By Mary03101983 (Own work), via Wikimedia Commons

I hear all the time from people looking for alternatives to the standard chemical arsenal that is available to repel or control insects pests, including those that pounce on our pets. Synthetic insecticides don’t belong on the four-legged members of your family any more than they belong on your own skin. I’ve perfected herbal formulations so that dogs and cats no longer need to suffer skin and respiratory irritation from flea-and-tick powders and those liquid spot-on products.

The mildly aromatic recipes I’m sharing here combine insecticidal herbs and essential oils with food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) and bentonite clay (BC), two mineral-rich substances that deliver a double-pronged deathblow to fleas and unattached ticks. They are powerful desiccants, due to the abrasive action of the silica on the parasite’s exoskeleton, and they also clog the insect’s breathing channels, leading to death within 24 to 72 hours.

These powders work remarkably well when applied regularly, once or twice per week, especially during the warmer months. No worries about your pets licking themselves, either — ingesting DE and BC will even add valuable minerals to their dietary intake, and the high silica content assists as a natural dewormer. Additionally, the powder acts as a deodorizer and dry shampoo, leaving your pet’s coat smelling fresh and clean.

The only equipment required is a bowl and whisk, and plastic, cardboard, metal, or glass application and storage containers. A good application container is a recycled herb or spice jar with a perforated lid.

A Couple Notes of Caution: Cats are particularly sensitive to essential oils, and care must be taken to avoid any risk of toxicity. Their acute sense of smell heightens their distaste for strong odors; their thin skin allows for rapid absorption of substances into the bloodstream; and most importantly, they lack the enzyme glucuronyl transferase, which aids in the metabolism of chemical constituents. When mixing these formulas for cats or for dogs under one year old, skip the essential oils altogether. 

Also note that these recipes were developed for dogs and cats. For use on animals other than dogs or cats, please seek the advice of an herbalist and/or aromatherapist with expertise in this area, or seek out a holistic veterinarian.

Natural Flea– and Tick–Control Powders for Dogs and Cats

Each of the recipes yields 2 cups of powder.

Important Note: Omit essential oils in powders made for cats and for dogs under one year old.

Ingredients

“Shoo, Flea, Don’t Bother Me” Powder

• 1 cup food-grade diatomaceous earth
• ½ cup bentonite clay powder
• ¼ cup rosemary leaf powder
• ¼ cup black walnut hull powder (Be aware that the black walnut hull powder can temporarily darken blond or white fur.)
• 5 drops cedarwood essential oil (see note above)
• 5 drops rosemary essential oil (see note above)

Bite Ban Flea & Tick Powder

• 1½ cups food-grade diatomaceous earth
• ¼ cup lemongrass powder
• ¼ cup neem leaf powder
• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil (see note above)

Bugs-Be-Gone Powder

• 1 cup food-grade diatomaceous earth
• ½ cup neem leaf powder
• ½ cup lavender flower powder
• 10 drops geranium essential oil (see note above)

Directions

1. Combine the DE and/or BC with other dry ingredients specified in a medium bowl and gently whisk to blend.
2. Add the essential oils (omit essential oils, if making powder for cats or for dogs under one year old), scattering the drops around the powder, and whisk again to combine.
3. Loosely spoon the mixture into the container(s), then shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
4. Label and date the powder. Allow the powder to synergize for 24 hours prior to use.
5. Store at room temperature, away from heat and light; use within 1 year.

Application: To prevent making a dust cloud in your home, I suggest powdering both your indoor and outdoor pets outside, keeping them controlled with a comfortable harness and leash (this includes cats). Most pets will shake off much of the powder immediately after being treated, but if you’ve massaged it close to the skin, a sufficient amount should remain to do the job.

To ensure maximum effectiveness, sprinkle the powder evenly and uniformly from nose to tail, and as close to the skin as possible, massaging it in really well. Fleas and ticks will rush to any part of your pet that is dust-free, so address the entire face, ears, genitals, anus, and between the toes. When applying to the face, be extra careful not to get powder in the eyes, nose, or mouth, as it is irritating to mucous membranes. Repeat once or twice per week, as needed, to control fleas and ticks.

When treating mature pets under 5 pounds or young kittens and puppies, carefully apply very small amounts of powder to one section of the body at a time, massaging it into the skin very gently to minimize dust.

TEXT AND RECIPES EXCERPTED FROM NATURALLY BUG-FREE © 2016 BY STEPHANIE L. TOURLES. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Stephanie L. Tourles

Stephanie L. Tourles is the best-selling author of Pure Skin Care,Stephanie Tourles’s Essential Oils: A Beginner’s Guide, Organic Body Care Recipes, Hands-On Healing Remedies, and… See Bio

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My #1 Go-To Herb for Avoiding Influenza, Colds, and Severe Respiratory Illness

Posted December 21, 2021 by Nicole Apelian in All Articles, Backyard Plants, Household Remedies60

As many of you know, elderberry is one of my favorite herbs for avoiding and treating contagious illnesses. My family always takes it when we are out and about in public, traveling, or if we feel a bug coming on. It’s one of the best antiviral herbs on the planet.

Beyond shortening the duration of cold and flu, the elder plant is also helpful for inflammation, chronic fatigue, allergies, nerve pain, cancer, and more. Importantly, elderberry can be used by those who have an autoimmune disorder — unlike other medicinal herbs that may be a trigger such as echinacea, goldenseal, and astragalus. It’s an all-around powerful remedy that should be in every medicine cabinet!

Fun Facts and Traditional Uses

Native to Europe, Africa, and areas of Asia, elderberry trees can also be found in the US.

But elderberry has a long history of use. Egyptian and Greek cultures also utilized the herb for improving the complexion and to heal burns, while Indigenous people treated fevers and rheumatism with elderberry and also used it as a dye or just for food. In Europe, elderberry is traditionally used for influenza, infections, heart pain, nerve pain, headaches, dental pain, sciatica, and also as a laxative and diuretic.

The tree can grow up to 30 feet (9 meters) tall and has beautiful sprays of creamy-white flowers and bunches of bluish-black berries.

Elderberry contains the antioxidant flavonols, quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin, with the flowers containing up to 10 times more than the berries. The berries are also rich in anthocyanins, which provide strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

The berries and flowers also have a long culinary tradition of use! Cooked berries are often made into jams, chutneys, juice, pies, and wine. Elderberry flowers can be infused into a tea or boiled in sugar for a sweet cordial — see the recipe below from my book, The Forager’s Guide to Wild Foods.

Recipe – Elderflower Cordial: Boil water in a pot and dissolve 1 lb. sugar (500g). Remove from heat and mix in: 20 fresh elderflower heads, 25g citric acid, 1 zested, and sliced lemon. Cover and steep for 12-24 hrs. Drain liquid through a cheesecloth and bottle.

Outstanding Protection and Treatment for Colds, Influenza, and Respiratory Illness

Since inflammation and immune system dysfunction go hand-in-hand with autoimmune disorders, I have to be careful about avoiding the latest bug making the rounds. This is why elderberry is an important part of my family’s health protocol — especially when we are in public. My family and I take it as a preventative before and after engaging with the world and other people. It helps to keep us healthy year-round, but particularly during the cold and flu season.

Black elderberry extract has been shown time and again to reduce the severity and length of a cold and influenza. In one study, 60 people ill with the flu who took 15 mL of elderberry extract four times a day experienced symptom improvement in 2 to 4 days, while it took the control group 7 to 8 days to improve. Moreover, double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial involving 312 air travelers who took 300 mg elderberry extract three times a day found that the participants who did fall ill with a cold or the flu recovered faster and had less severe symptoms.

One concern during our current pandemic is that elderberry may overstimulate the immune system and create a ‘cytokine storm’. However, a systematic review of data found that elderberry is a safe option for treating viral respiratory illness, and that there is no evidence the medicinal herb over-stimulates the immune system. In fact, another study published in the medical journal Autoimmunity Reviews believes that “the use of elderberry supplements should be considered at an early course of the disease”. I highly recommend you give this fascinating study a quick read!

All Elderberry Extracts Are Not The Same

Unlike many elderberry products on the market, the tincture found in my apothecary isn’t formulated with a sugar or honey syrup base. Instead, the full-spectrum of beneficial properties are accessed through our dual-extracted and spagyric methods, which create a superior alcohol and glycerite-based extract that has the additional benefit of a very long shelf life. We offer elderberry as a stand alone tincture or included within the Travel Pack, Winter Defense, and Warrior bundles.

Wishing you an abundance of health throughout this season and beyond!

Safety

Our elderberry tinctures are not toxic, but If gathering it yourself, note that each part of the plant is mildly toxic. Do not use the fresh plant without first cooking or drying. The bark and root should never be taken internally. Elderberry leaves and unripe berries are poisonous.

You may also like:

How to Infuse Honey with Elderberry

The Berry That Is Illegal to Grow (In Some States), But Perfectly Fine to Forage (Video)

Elderberry Syrup With Echinacea and Goldenseal

How to Make Immune Boosting Elderberry Syrup

Easy Hot Toddy Recipe For Cough and Cold Please Spread The Word – Share This Post

60 Comments

• Allyan Rivera Posted December 21, 2021 4:40 PM Hi. I use elderberry
  syrup if I feel any kind of respiratory symptoms that might be a cold or the flu. Thanks fir all the infirmation in your report & recipe alsl! Reply
• Cathy Schock Posted December 21, 2021 5:03 PM Is there something that can be used for a person that gets cold sores? Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 21, 2021 5:57 PM Hi Cathy, Thank you for your comment.
    Please see the article below:
    https://thelostherbs.com/16-home-remedies-for-herpes/ I hope this helps! Many blessings and good health! Reply
  • Nicole Apelian Posted December 21, 2021 6:18 PM For cold sores my go to is Lemon Balm tincture – great success using it internally and directly on the lips on the cold sore! In my apothecary at http://www.nicolesapothecary.com Reply
  • Denise Posted December 21, 2021 6:29 PM A non herbal remedy is applying SPF30 zinc based sunscreen. Works very well and quickly. Reply
  • Rhonda Beitel Posted December 21, 2021 7:34 PM I am 65 years old and have had fever blisters all my life! If has only been in the last decade that I discovered Melissa (lemon balm) the most powerful anti viral I know of. I use essential oil cut with a carrier oil. The second I know a blister is coming on,
    I continually put it on topically multiple times and it keeps it from coming up. Love my Melissa EO. Reply
  • Rose Scarlet Posted December 22, 2021 2:53 AM I make a salve from bloodroot, olive oil, beeswax and vitamin E. It makes the pain stop almost immediately and the cold sore dries up in a day or two. Reply
  • Jane Posted December 22, 2021 1:34 PM 30-40,000 units of D3 two or three times a day at the vert first sign of an eruption.
    works for me every time. Reply
  • Jojo Posted December 24, 2021 3:07 AM L lysine stop cold sores/fever blisters. I take 3-4000 mg on the onset of one but since I’ve been taking 1000 mg everyday as a preventive measures I haven’t gotten any sores! Reply
  • Heather Kinnowr Posted December 25, 2021 10:16 PM L-Lysine! Knocks it out! and Cod Liver Oil! Reply
  • JJ Posted December 26, 2021 7:44 AM Look into colloidal silver, it kills all viruses, mold, fungus and almost every bacteria in 6 minutes or less, in vitro, but is ENTIRELY non-toxic to us. If u Google it, pass up the first 4 to 5 full PAGES of search returns, as they will be negative assertions of the colloid because, since big pharma and the affiliated alphabet so-called health agencies can’t profit from it and it’s too effective. Also look for simple methods to make it cheaply at home on YouTube, however, do NOT listen to any videos who tell u to add salt to the recipe as that will make the wrong kind. And don’t fret about argyria which requires you to grossly overdose yourself to the point of ridiculousness. I’m sure you have more common sense than that. Reply
  • Jacci van Alder, herbal witch Posted January 2, 2022 4:55 PM cold sores are a viral outbreak of herpes, and one of the best treatments is a lemon balm tincture, you can grown your own lemon balm and have it on hand. You can also prevent the cold sores by limiting your stress, adding Lysine to your diet- either supplements or with foods high in Lysine. Limiting foods in your diet ( especially in high stress times) that are high in arginine, i.e. nuts & seeds, red meat, poultry,dairy, grains, wheat germ… there are necessary amounts of arginine but perhaps you are over your bodies personal needs Reply
  • Kristina Skirving Posted January 6, 2022 4:34 PM I make a healing salve from two infused olive oils and beeswax. One infused with goldenrod flowers and one infused with yarrow. Amounts of oil in equal parts. At the first tingle on the lip, I put the salve on. So far, I have not had any eruptions. I have not used this inside of my mouth. Reply
  • Tami Posted February 21, 2022 10:32 PM L-lysine works amazingly well to stop the replication of the cold sore virus. I take 2,000 mg as soon as I feel the itchy tickle and again 6 and 12 hours later. Then 1000 mg every 8 hours for the next 24 hours. Stops them every time. Reply
• Frances Rofrano Posted December 21, 2021 5:07 PM I never did receive my medicinal Herb kit I bought your book. And something else and it all came to a $179 $9 all I got was a $49 book in the mail. Where is the rest of the stuff? Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 21, 2021 6:05 PM Hi Frances, Thank you for your interest in our work.
    Please check your personal email. I sent you an email regarding your order. Many blessings and good health! Reply
  • Susan Posted December 22, 2021 4:11 AM I thought a long time ago I was getting some seeds or something too. Just got a book. I’ll have to check order if I can find
    It. Reply
  • Hanah Posted December 22, 2021 9:11 AM Similar thing happened to me. I payed for the book and more and never received the real thing only de link in de mail. Reply
    • The Lost Herbs Posted December 22, 2021 3:18 PM Hi Hanah, Please check you personal email. I sent you an email with your order details. Many blessings and good health!
• Michelle Carlton-Smith Posted December 21, 2021 6:27 PM Hi there,
  Like the person above commented (FRANCES ROFRANO) I also didn’t receive the other items included in the offer but only had the book of lost herbal remedies. Could you please check my order items.
  Many thanks,
  P.S. I’ve really enjoyed reading the book and it’s been a real help and a great resource of information. Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 21, 2021 6:39 PM Hi Michelle, Thank you for reaching out to us.
    I sent you an email with your order details and download links. Many blessings and good health! Reply
• Kim Serwatkewich Posted December 21, 2021 6:44 PM Where can I get this in Canada? Reply
• Ricardo Loubriel Posted December 21, 2021 6:53 PM Thank you for all the information you out I am leaning alot from
  your . I went to see if you can send all of plant that are eable in
  az . that is in my back yard okay thank you! Reply
  • Ricardo Loubriel Posted December 21, 2021 6:55 PM I ment your books Reply
• Brenda Posted December 21, 2021 7:19 PM I don’t need a laxitive or diaretic so how can I use elderberry for the other benifits? Reply
• Corrine Posted December 21, 2021 7:45 PM Do u sell the tinture? Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 21, 2021 7:59 PM Hi Corrine, Thank you for your interest in our work.
    We offer the elderberry as a stand-alone tincture or included within the Travel Pack, Winter Defense, and Warrior bundles.
    https://nicolesapothecary.com/collections/all/products/elderberry-tincture Many blessings and good health! Reply
• Alla Babina Posted December 21, 2021 7:55 PM Hello, and thank you for your emails with useful information about the plants around us. Unlike Frances Rafrano and MICHELLE CARLTON-SMITH from previous comments, I have not received a physical copy of the book, which upsets me very much. I checked my order’s receipt, and it says that I paid for physical and digital copy of the book. All I am getting is the almost-daily email. Still hoping for the book though. Please let me know. Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 21, 2021 8:33 PM Hi Alla, Thank you for purchasing “The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies”.
    I am sorry to hear that you have not received your book yet. Please check your personal email. I sent you an email regarding your order. Many blessings and good health! Reply
• Missy Ramsden Posted December 21, 2021 9:31 PM Sorry to continue the theme, but I also spent well over $100 on what I assumed were to be hard copy books, but I only received one hard copy – The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies, which I love!!! Are the hard copies back ordered? Thank you, Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 22, 2021 3:29 PM Hi Missy, Please check you personal email. I sent you an email with your order details. Many blessings and good health! Reply
    • Missy Ramsden Posted December 22, 2021 5:00 PM Thank you so much for your reply. I have checked my personal email and junk folder and not received any further emails regarding my orders.
    • The Lost Herbs Posted December 28, 2021 9:06 PM Hi Missy, I have resent the email. Please check again Thank you
• Kathleen Posted December 21, 2021 10:58 PM love all the info but I too was disappointed not to have received the other two books promised with the hard-copy I ordered and did receive. Turns out, the other two books are digital which was not explained up front, I would not have wanted (in that form) and still don’t know how to access. Sigh…. Reply
  • Leslie Lambert Posted December 22, 2021 1:39 AM I love all the info but I too was disappointed not to have received the other two books promised with the hard-copy I ordered and did receive. Turns out, the other two books are digital which was not explained up front, I would not have wanted (in that form) and still don’t know how to access. I can’t find my order number! I have never received the book only these emails! Never received the addition gifts for ordering either! It’s been months and all I have to show for 180$ is e-mails. I love the information but expected the physical books promised Reply
    • The Lost Herbs Posted December 22, 2021 3:24 PM Hi Leslie, Please check you personal email. I sent you an email with your order details. Many blessings and good health!
  • Kathleen Posted December 22, 2021 10:38 PM Please explain how one accesses digital books, for dummies like me. Reply
• Stacey Posted December 21, 2021 11:14 PM At the top it says elderberry is good for sciatica. How do you use it to treat sciatic pain? Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 22, 2021 3:43 PM Hi Stacey, Anthocyanins are known to reduce inflammation. Those in elderberry do so by blocking the production of nitric oxide by the body’s immune cells.
    Nitric oxide serves as a signaling molecule that triggers inflammation when you get injured or have sciatica. By slowing down this response, pain and swelling may decrease as well. Reply
• Monet Bossert Posted December 21, 2021 11:19 PM I too have never received what I thought I was getting in a physical book.
  Yes, I appreciate the emails however where I want to use the book I do not have Wi-Fi. I have waited to print the book.
  Looks like I have company. Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 22, 2021 3:28 PM Hi Monet, Please check you personal email. I sent you an email with your order details. Many blessings and good health! Reply
• MillieK Posted December 21, 2021 11:39 PM I don’t like digital books…. I never read them. If I am going to read a book I want to hold it in my hands and turn the pages. By the way, I love your website. Reply
  • Kathleen Posted December 22, 2021 10:41 PM Yes! Same here! Real books for my real money! Reply
• james cullen Posted December 22, 2021 12:26 AM hi nicola just recieved your book where would i look for parkinsons med or what would you recommend love your book thanks james Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted February 9, 2022 11:38 AM Hi James, Thank you for your interest in our work.
    At the beginning of the book, after the Introduction, you will find a Medicinal Herbal Reference Guide, where you can search for the ailment you are looking for:
    Parkinson’s Disease: Ashwagandha (p47-48), Cinnamon (p291), Flax (p66-67), Lion’s Mane (p270-271), Red Mulberry (p252), Skullcap (p132-133), Thorn Apple (p138-140).
    You can also find the Appendix at the end of the book. Many blessings and good health! Reply
• Oscar T Alban Posted December 22, 2021 4:56 AM just an fyi , i haven’t received the book or anything as of yet. Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted December 22, 2021 3:19 PM Hi Oscar, Please check you personal email. I sent you an email with your order details. Many blessings and good health! Reply
• Dina Cockrell Posted December 22, 2021 1:35 PM What is your recipe without sugar or honey? I have elderberry powder and would like to make a tincture/ syrup sugar free. Reply
  • Rose Scarlet Posted December 22, 2021 7:41 PM You can use vegetable glycerin and a little water. Nicole mentioned it in one of her videos. Reply
• J. Hunter Posted December 22, 2021 3:04 PM How come all over, I find information saying do not take elderberry if you have autoimmune disease Reply
• Nick Casolino Posted December 22, 2021 5:17 PM Hi, What do you think about the grapefruit seed extract. I heard that it works very well against virus? Reply
• Mary Schleicher Posted December 22, 2021 6:50 PM I use Selenium to help prevent flu, etc., eating a couple Brazil Nuts, which contain selenium also helps. Just don’t eat more then 2 or 3 a day or you could have a bad reaction. Or I take Pau de Arco, helps the immunity. Haven’t had the flu in years, since starting this. I don’t take everyday, but when I know I’ll be out among people I do take one of these a couple times. Although, I do take an arsenal of supplements which I’m sure helps also. Reply
• E. S. Davis Posted December 24, 2021 2:36 PM Are there any precautions or differences in the use of species other than black elderberry? I have three species. Are there any caveats of which I should be aware? Reply
• Steve Butler Posted December 24, 2021 3:41 PM Looks like something I could use. Reply
• Silje Posted December 28, 2021 9:52 AM I avoid elderberry in this pandemic bu I make syrups with the same herbs and principals with aronia-berries. The father of my children has several autoimmune diseases and due to his immune system easily going into cytokine storms we avoid stimulating it too much elderberry in case we get the C as well Reply
• Barbara Lindemann Posted January 7, 2022 6:27 AM Hi Nicole! I love your book! The color photos and descriptions are very informative! Regarding e-books, I have the same problem as others where I can’t access them and if I do I can never find them again. How about making the other books available in physical format for a small fee??? BTW I did receive my seed kit! And I look forward to your educational emails. Thanks so much! Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted January 7, 2022 7:01 PM Hi Barbara, Thank you for your reaching out to us.
    Your feedback is always important to us and gives us valuable insights which allow us to continually improve and serve you better. Please check your personal email. I sent you an email with the download links. Many blessings and good health! Reply
• Oluwatope O Kayode Posted January 18, 2022 1:48 AM Where can I buy elderberry? Reply
  • The Lost Herbs Posted February 9, 2022 11:45 AM Hi Oluwatope, We would suggest you find a local health store or a local market. There are a couple of specialized online medicinal herbs stores. It is best to use Google to find one that delivers to your area. Many blessings and good health! Reply
• rhonda lee gordon Posted March 3, 2022 2:26 PM I have CMT 1B a form of MS. I am loosing my balance and feeling in my feet up to my knees also in my hands. I know you do not prescribe anything but you got out of the wheel chair. I am heading for one and I don’t want to be a burden to my family. What can you tell me I can try and or do that I can afford? Reply

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The Plant That Is Sweeter Than Sugar And Helps People With Diabetes

POSTED AUGUST 16, 2021 BY CRISSY JOSHUA IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES, RECIPES12

Licorice root is an ancient medicinal remedy that can be traced back to multiple societies including ancient Egyptians, Chinese, Greek, and Middle Eastern. Historically, it was used to treat digestive and stomach complaints and upper respiratory problems. In more recent years, scientists have begun researching whether it can help people with diabetes too.

Licorice root can be used for flavoring and as a sweetener. That’s because the sugar in the root is a substance 50 times sweeter than sugar and it also has its own distinctive flavor. Let’s look at how licorice root can help people with diabetes and other health benefits it provides first. Then I will show you two ways you can use licorice root and their recipes: licorice root-infused oatmeal and as a tea.

Medicinal Benefits Of Licorice Root

Like I mentioned, licorice root has become increasingly popular in studies related to diabetes. One of the most notable was conducted by a German research group at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics. They found that licorice root contains natural substances called amorfrutins that reduce blood sugar levels. These amorfrutins also prevent fatty liver, which often arises in people with diabetes. However, the level of amorfrutins found in licorice root might not be high enough to actually replace conventional treatment.

Many other studies have also been conducted on licorice and diabetes and found that it decreases blood glucose levels and also has the ability to decrease weight gain. When people take insulin, weight gain is often a common side effect. What’s more, being overweight increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the first place so maintaining a healthy weight is great for prevention.

Licorice root can also help treat or relieve a number of other medical conditions including:

Liver disease

• Gum disease
• A sore throat
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Hot flushes during menopause

It is also highly nutritious and contains:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Over 300 flavonoids

Related: An Ingenious Way to Stockpile Prescription Medicines, Including Insulin (Video)

How To Make Licorice Root Infused Oatmeal

Substituting sugar for licorice root in oatmeal makes for a lovely breakfast (or snack!).

The licorice root gives it a distinctive flavor as well as adding sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 Licorice root (maximum weight = 0.42 oz/12 grams)
• ½ Cup of milk (plant-based or animal)
• ½ Cup of water
• ½ Cup of oats

Utensils

• Small pan
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Container/bowl large enough to catch the milk/water from the strainer
• Chopping board
• Wooden spatula or spoon
• Small knife

Method

1. Weigh a piece of licorice root and choose one that is approximately 0.42 oz / 12 grams, otherwise cut/break one to size.
2. Cut your chosen root into two by making an indent with your knife by cutting down with force. You probably won’t be able to cut it all the way through with the knife so snap it in half with your fingers along the incision.
3. Put ½ cup of milk and ½ cup of water in your pan along with your licorice root. Turn the heat to medium and leave it for 5 minutes.
4. Turn the heat up and wait until you have a gentle simmer and keep it going for another 5 minutes.
5. When the 5 minutes is up, take it off the heat and strain your mixture so that you retain the milk and water and you can discard the licorice root.
6. Add your milk/water back into the pan and also add your oats now. Give it all a stir and put on low-medium heat. Cook for approximately 5 minutes and stir the oats frequently.

If you like your oatmeal runnier you can take it off the heat whenever it’s at the consistency you want. Likewise, if you want them thicker, you can leave them on longer according to your preference.

If it’s hot where you are, you can always make overnight oats by infusing the milk/water with the licorice root (as per steps 1-5) and letting it cool before pouring it over oats and covering it. Then leave it in the fridge and have it the next day.

How To Make Licorice Root Tea

You don’t have to use licorice root in a food recipe to benefit from its goodness. You can always make a simple licorice root tea, which has been used for millennia.

Ingredients

• 1 Licorice root (maximum weight = 0.42 oz / 12 grams)
• 1 Cup of water

Utensils

• Small strainer
• 2 Mugs
• Chopping board
• Small knife

Method

1. Boil enough water for a cup of water or more to fit your mug.
2. Weigh a piece of licorice root and choose one that is approximately 0.42 oz / 12 grams, otherwise cut/break one to size.
3. Cut your chosen root into two by making an indent with your knife by cutting down with force. You probably won’t be able to cut it all the way through with the knife so snap it in half with your fingers along the incision.
4. Put your licorice root into your mug and pour the boiled water over it. Let it steep for 5 minutes.
5. Remove the licorice root by straining the mixture into another mug (if you have a small strainer). Otherwise, you can use a fine-mesh strainer and pour the water and root into it, catching the licorice root tea in another container and transferring this to a mug, ready to drink.

You can also follow these instructions and use the licorice root to sweeten your favorite type of hot beverage such as black tea by letting it steep with your regular tea and then straining everything.

How Much Licorice Root Should You Take Every Day

The maximum amount of licorice root that you should use every day is 0.42 oz / 12 grams. You can take this one time a day or split your root quota in half and take it morning and evening.

Licorice root has two main potential gains for people with diabetes: by lowering blood sugar levels and as a dietary sweetener. While it’s not recommended to replace the medication for diabetes with licorice root, including it in your diet can have many beneficial side effects on your health and it gives you a new, sweeter sugar alternative.

A Word Of Caution

Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which is the component that also makes licorice root sweet. It has many positive attributes such as being an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and having antimicrobial properties. However, it is also this same glycyrrhizin that can have negative effects.

Large doses can lead to glycyrrhizin accumulation and this has been linked to the following most noted outcomes:

• Low potassium levels
• High blood pressure
• Abnormal heart rhythms

It can also have an adverse effect on certain medications including:

• Blood pressure medications
• Cholesterol medications
• Diuretics
• Blood thinners
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

You may also like:

9 Natural Remedies for High Cholesterol and Blood Pressure

Erratic Blood Sugar? Never Eat This Veggie (Video)

How To Make Your Own Natural Sweetener for Diabetes

Foods and Herbs to Avoid When You Have Diabetes

9 Natural Remedies that People with Diabetes Will Find UsefulPlease Spread The Word – Share This Post

12 Comments

• BARB POSTED AUGUST 16, 2021 4:30 PMWhere can one buy licorice root, or buy a plant? Never seen it (only seen it in supplements)Reply
  • BONNI TUTTLE POSTED AUGUST 17, 2021 2:39 PMTry AmazonReply
• MARCHAEL JOHNSON POSTED AUGUST 16, 2021 4:47 PMThanks for that very valuable information. I have HBP and take HCT (a diuretic) daily. Many herbal teas I buy include licorice root. I noticed an unusual feeling when I drink these teas so I’ve ditched them. Now I know why. By the way, I’m enjoying “The Lost Book Of Herbal Remedies.”Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED AUGUST 17, 2021 6:22 PMHi Marchael,Thank you for sharing this with us.
    We are glad to hear that you enjoy “The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies”.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• SUSAN POSTED AUGUST 16, 2021 5:18 PMApologies if this is an idiotic question, but how much does licorice root or a tincture thereof taste like licorice candy? Alternative sweeteners are wonderful, and the health benefits look great, but many people don’t care for the flavor of typical black licorice or anise.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED AUGUST 24, 2021 6:45 PMHi Susan,Licorice root itself is very mild and a little bitter, so when we’re talking about the taste of licorice candy, what we’re really talking about is the flavor anise and fennel. It’s a polarizing taste for sure.Many Blessings and good health!Reply
• RICHRENO POSTED AUGUST 17, 2021 7:35 AMLactuca Virosa is NOT a member of the lettuce family (there is no such family — but maybe lettuce genus…). It is a member of the largest plant family: Aster (Asteraceae / Compositae) / Sunflower family. Composite because the flowers are in a “head,” a composite. Nearly all heads have many single flowers. For example, the sunflower is not _one_ flower, it is a head or composite of well over 200 individual flowers: each seed is the result of / represents ONE flower. Additionally the yellow petals around the perimeter of the head are singular flowers, but are infertile: they never make a seed.And the “headline” plant, American licorice, the genus is Glycyrrhiza. It is a native plant common on western grasslands and the Great Plains prairie. Whenever someone sees irregular flowers like in the photo, think bean / pea (Fabaceae) family. Plants in the mint family look like that but anytime you a plant with a square stem, think mint family (Labiatae ̶ depending on which plant key one uses). There is only one other family (in the US) with square stems and another couple families with “sorta” square stems). Next time you go to the grocery store or your garden, look at the stems — and you will know to which family it belongs. And speaking of mint family members, shame on you (and others) for promoting catnip (Nepeta sp): look closely at the flowers. They are extremely annoying non-native plants that makes life miserable for those of us who go dog walking, walking in open areas, etc.; those damn seeds stick to almost anything; so leave your hairy (labs, German short-hairs, etc., are OK) dog home or avoid catnip infested areas. It often takes me 20-30 minutes to pull out the seeds. Pulling each seed off my dogs’ coats is completed more quickly by using a tweezers to pull each seed out. Fortunately, the seeds sometimes stick to each other or attach to them and me in seed “clumps.”That picture of fennel sure looks like dill… I am use to seeing fennel with whitish flowers; but both plants look alike when ya get right down to it. Both are in the carrot or cabbage family: Apiaceae. As can be seen, common names of plants and their families are quite variable, but their scientific family name is nearly always determinate — unless plant taxonomists have a Eureka moment or discover here-to-fore unrecognized similarities or differences which causes argument about the “real” scientific name. Relative to dill and fennel, they are both incredibly valuable plant, And without dill, dill pickles (and carrots) would just not taste the same.My bottom line take-away is it would be helpful to consult a botanist of a plant key (or consult Wikipedia) for published articles. I often find inaccuracies that probably only bother plant nerds like me. One final point, the second Latin binomial (scientific name) is not capitalized, but the genus is: Genus species (and sometimes var. for a species variety — not quite their unique species but just a ‘kissin’ sibling. And if you really want to meet a nerd standard, the Genus species is always italicized — or underlined.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED AUGUST 17, 2021 6:24 PMHi Richreno,Thank you so much for your continuous support.
    Your feedback is highly appreciated and will help us to improve our ability to serve you and other users of our website.Many blessings and good health!Reply
  • KATHY KILGORE POSTED AUGUST 28, 2021 4:24 PMWhat a good read. Thanks for the lessons….my cotton breeder/
    botanist husband agrees…Reply
• JAMES POSTED DECEMBER 21, 2021 6:03 PMI want my digital copy and free pamphlets give me a damn call numberReply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED DECEMBER 21, 2021 6:18 PMHi James,Thank you for reaching out to us.
    I’m sorry about this, however, The Lost Herbs does not have a call center available at the moment.Please check your personal email. I sent you an email regarding your order.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• PAULINE POSTED DECEMBER 21, 2021 8:54 PMCan I steep liquorice root and use the liquid to achieve the desired sweetness? Oh and many thanks; because of this article, I realise that the rough sticks sold for a couple of pennies when I was a kid were liquorice root. They were sold as “Spanish wood” and we used to chew them on the way to school; lovely mild taste and great for cleaning teeth!Reply

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Tea Tree

POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 BY ANN MARIE IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES, PLANT OF THE WEEK6

Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is a botanical tree highly valued for its oil used in traditional medicine. It is considered as a “medicine chest in a bottle” with its effective antiseptic property. Before they end up in the bottle for consumption, tea trees are just small trees or shrubs with a fluffy appearance and papery barks. The cream-colored flowers and soft linear leaves are the distinguishing characteristics of the tea tree. Processed Melaleuca oil plays an important role in the treatment of skin problems and respiratory symptoms.

Of the many tea tree species, the most popular among aromatherapists is the Melaleuca alternifolia, but not to be confused with Leptospermum scoparium. The former is an Australian variety of tea trees, while the latter is a New Zealand Manuka. Melaleuca leaves are the source of tea tree oils, while the manuka is valued for the honey sourced from its flowers. But while tea tree is effective against skin diseases and bacterial infection, raw and pure tea tree oil are toxic. It should be cultivated and processed properly and should be kept away from children’s reach.

Short History Of Tea Tree

Long before the invention of penicillin, tea tree was already recognized as a potent antibacterial solution in the form of tea.

The name tea tree came from the notion of brewing the leaves of the trees. The infusion was not only used for drinking but also in treating skin infections.

The medical community began to explore and experiment on the effective properties of the tea tree. Studies yield effective antibacterial and antifungal properties that are not caustic or burning for the skin. They became a staple and effective treatment when the foot-fungus became widespread in 1923.

Today, the tea tree is an ingredient not only for beauty and antimicrobial products. It is also marketed as an active ingredient in mouthwash, toothpaste, deodorants, and shampoo. Some cleaning and disinfectant like toilet products and handwash also contain tea tree properties.

Where The Plant Is Found

Endemic to Australia, tea trees are abundant in the swampy areas and streams where they can get moist soil and full sun. It borders New South Wales and the coastal district of Queensland. Northern Australia hosts about 6.4 million hectares of its forest to different varieties of the Melaleuca.

Tea trees are also easy to grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. They may be grown indoors, though more tedious than the outdoors. However, they are preferred to be grown indoors when living in hardiness zones below 9 or 8.

Other countries like China, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Kenya also cultivate tea trees for commercial essential oil production.

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

How To Identify Tea Tree

Tea trees appear like low trees or high shrubs with a fluffy look. It is a member of the Myrtaceae family with many species. They may grow either as a high shrub or a low tree ranging from 4 to 7 meters tall, while some species can go as high as 35 meters. Aside from their essential oils, tea trees are also grown as fence or garden edging because of their attractive appearance.

• Leaf. Tea tree leaves are linear and are either arranged alternately or in whorls. It is smooth, soft, and narrow, with no more than 35mm long and 1mm wide in green or dark grey color. These leaves have glands where their essential oils are abundantly located.
• Flower. Many-flowered spikes with cream or white color bloom from the tea tree in spring and early summer. This mass of spikes gives it a kind of wispy appearance that lasts for only a short period.
• Roots. As a member of the Myrtaceae family, the tea tree has a taproot and is branched.
• Stem. A tea tree can grow like a big shrub or a small tree with flaky bark. Hence, it also earned the name paper-bark for its exfoliate stem.
• Seeds. Melaleuca seed capsules contain fine and tiny globular seeds. These seeds are contained in the fruit cup indefinitely until the plant dies or gets heated in a bush fire.

Tea tree is also planted for stabilizing embankment. It makes not only an attractive fence but also an excellent windbreak. Tea trees have about 300 varieties that are also an excellent source of other types of oils and honey. Some of the popular species of Melaleuca are: Melaleuca linariifolia  and Melaleuca quinquenervia.

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

How To Grow Tea Tree

Tea trees enjoy moist, but well-drained soil and mostly a full sun. They are drought-tolerant, but not frost tolerant. Hence, it is ideal to grow them in places with a warm climate, or as a potted indoor plant in temperate climates. You can propagate tea trees from cuttings or grow them from seeds. Either way, it is an easy and low-maintenance plant that is fast-growing once it has established itself.

Growing Tea Tree From Seeds

The best seeds for planting a tea tree are those that are already 1 to 2 years old. Its germination is straightforward and does not require any treatment before sowing.

You can simply sprinkle tea tree seeds in a pre-drained mixture of peat moss, vermiculite, perlite, or coarse sand. Cover it lightly with perlite or fine sand, just enough to prevent air exposure yet allow sunlight exposure.

Make sure that your germinating tray receives at least six hours of sun. But you should provide a little light during midday by draping a light cloth over it. The tea tree seeds will germinate for about 14 to 30 days.

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

Transplanting

You may transplant the tea tree seedlings once they are about 3-inches high and has a set of leaves. Mix half soil and half sand in a pot and dig a 4-inch hole. Plant a seedling into the hole and place it in a sheltered area outdoors. Water them with 2-inches water every seven to ten days when transplanting in summer. You should also provide a light shade for the new seedlings during their first summer. Tea trees are best for transplanting to their permanent position in autumn.

Growing Tea Tree From Cuttings

Melaleuca is also propagated from cuttings, which is more reliable than seed growing if you already have an existing plant. Cut about 75 to 100 mm of the plant with the leaves removed from the lower half portion. Remove a slice of the bark and soak this in a rooting hormone solution to encourage rooting.

Taking Care Of Tea Tree Plants

Here are some important tips for growing a tea tree plant successfully.

• Tea tree thrives in full sun and little shade.
• They grow in either acidic or neutral soil as long as it is moist.
• Water the plants regularly during the hot summer.
• Irrigate the plants daily if planting on a pot.

How To Harvest Tea Tree

Tea tree has no other edible parts. Its usefulness is limited to the oil extracted from its leaves and twigs. Tea tree oil is the primary reason why tea tree is cultivated, and the secondary reason is for its ornamental value. That is why tea tree is often planted in wide plantation fields for higher product yield.

The tea tree leaves to be used in production are harvested once the plant is about two meters high. It is also pruned and gathered every 12 to 18 months to encourage new plant growth.

When harvesting tea trees, timing is important so as not to hamper future yields. The best time is when the lower leaf starts to drop off, and the stem is not yet too thick. It is also necessary to gather tea tree leaves during warm seasons instead of wet or freezing months.

Tea tree growers mechanically harvest them using a forage harvester to cut off the aerial growth. The forage harvester also chops the gathered parts to make them ready for steam distillation and oil extraction.

What Tea Tree Is Good For And Natural Remedies Made From It

Traditionally, crushed tea tree leaves were used for treating skin infections by applying them to the area with a warm mudpack. Its wood was also useful to the aborigines in making rafts and timber for roofing.

Until now, tea tree forests have had prominent roles in coastal areas. They serve as a natural trap for debris and in the prevention of soil erosion. They also serve as a habitat for aquatic animals, just like mangroves.

The tea tree foliage is also valuable in pharmacological and medical fields. Tea tree oil has potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It makes tea tree oil a significant ingredient in most cosmetic, health care, and animal care products.

Tea tree oil’s best uses are for treating the following conditions:

• Skin conditions (Acne, psoriasis, carbuncle, fungal infections, blemishes, warts, etc.)
• Mouth and gum problems (Gingivitis, bad breath, canker sores)
• Hair fall problems
• Respiratory symptoms
• Body odor
• Earaches
• Insect bites

Related: Bronchial Blend Homemade Tincture (Learn More)

What Parts Of Plants Are Used For Remedies

The tea tree leaves and young twigs are the most valuable part of the M. alternifolia. Traditionally, it is crushed and inhaled to clear breathing and alleviate respiratory symptoms. Steam distillation of its leaves produces the popular tea tree oil that is bottled and sold commercially.

Tea Tree Rejuvenating Bath Blend For Sore Muscles

Ingredients

• 1 cup Epsom salt
• ¼ cup Himalayan salt
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 10 drops tea tree essential oil

Steps

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Epsom salt and Himalayan salt and mix thoroughly.
2. Add the baking soda and mix well.
3. Add the drops of tea tree essential oil into the mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Pour the finished product in cool and dry canning or mason jars.

How To Use The Remedy

Add about ¼ to ½ cups of the mixture to a warm bath. The proportion depends on the size of the bath. Completely dissolve the salts in the water to avoid slipping. You can use this rejuvenating bath to relieve sore muscles, congestion, and inflammation.

Store in a cool and dry place. With the addition of tea tree essential oil, this bath soak will last for up to 3 months.

What Plants Resemble Tea Tree

Feature	Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)	Cajeput (Melaleuca quinquenervia)

Flowers	Many-flowered spikes; wispy and fluffy; cream or white-colored	Spike cluster; wispy; white or cream-colored
Leaves	Alternate; linear; 1-35mm long, under 1mm wide	Alternate; linear; 55 to 120mm long
Scent	Crisp and earthy scent	Camphor-like aroma
Size	4 to 7 meter tall	8 to 15 meter tall
Stem/Trunk	Paper-bark trunk	Paper-bark trunk

Warnings And Cautions:

Tea tree is a safe topical solution when applied to the skin. It is also safe for breastfeeding and pregnant women and children. However, experts warned against using pure and raw tea tree oil. It may cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, or contact dermatitis. To test product tolerance, apply a small amount of tea tree oil to the skin before using it.

The tea tree plant and its essential oil are inedible and toxic. It is, therefore, not safe for oral consumption. Ingestion of essential oil can cause serious side effects like confusion, rashes, or even coma.

Avoid using tea tree oil near the eye as it can damage the mucous membrane. When using essential oil or any alternative, it is best to consult your doctor, especially if using it with conventional medical treatment.

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6 Comments

• PATRICIA JOHNSON POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 4:09 PMGreat Tip to know on it’s use. I will be making this! Thank you!Reply
• WENDY POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 5:02 PMI liked tea tree oil even before my visit to New Zealand in 2005. My friend there pointed out that Manuka is the New Zealand variety of tea tree, and I came to really like the way it smells and my response to it; she did not tell me that Melaleuca is better for oil and Manuka is better for honey; this explains why I find plenty of Manuka honey, plenty of Melaleuca oil, and close to none of the inverse. Thanks for the education!Reply
• PEGGY BLIUJUS POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 5:21 PMThank you for this article. I have used tea tree oil for at least 30 years and I recommend it to everyoneReply
• MARINA POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 6:36 PMWhen the cautions and warnings say, “avoid pure oil” I feel that it means the concentration part. I use doTerra brand, even for internally consumption from their actual site otherwise it is concerning. Diluted: ( with water if taken internally or if use for skin diluted with a pure coconut oil etc) their concentration and purity is the bestReply
• GOLDE POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 6:39 PMBe aware of what New Zealand has become. They drop poison all over the bush areas. I quit going there, and quit using their Manuka honey, as the suppliers could not tell me that the honey wasn’t contaminated. True story. If you would like more facts about this, read my article with many articles relating to this poison. https://www.flydreamers.com/en/articles/new-zealand-the-poisoned-nation-a1745#ref=search/resultsReply
• DARLA POSTED DECEMBER 23, 2021 5:19 AMTea tree oil is great, but beware… it will kill cats . Use as an topical treatment for wounds will kill cats. FYIReply

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Use This Recipe If You’re Losing Hair

POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2022 BY CRISSY JOSHUA IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES, RECIPES30

Hair loss or thinning can be caused by a number of reasons including genetics, the aging process, or an illness. Use this homemade recipe if this applies to you or you want to use it as a preventative measure and just to keep your hair in good health. Any topical treatments such as this one should be accompanied by healthy eating habits too for maximum long-term results. Foods that are commonly recommended to help counteract hair loss include foods rich in fatty acids (e.g. salmon, nuts), and greek yogurt, among a host of others.

About Rosemary

Rosemary is a herb that is native to the Mediterranean where it’s been used for centuries as medicine and food. Full of flavor, it’s also full of healing properties that do wonders for the body, inside and out. As a common herb, you should be able to buy it fresh wherever you live without having to search too hard.

It’s also a fairly easy herb to grow at home and not as fussy as some of its herb counterparts. If you enjoy growing herbs at home, rosemary prefers well-drained soil and to be kept in a sunny location. You can propagate it from an existing plant by cutting a shoot and planting it directly in your garden or a pot.

If you search online or in natural remedy books for hair loss reversal remedies that you can make at home, you will no doubt come across rosemary featuring in many. It’s long been considered good for hair growth and in recent years studies have been conducted to back up these claims and investigate why it helps and to what degree.

Today, we’re going to make a rosemary “tea” for your hair. If you’re losing hair this can help prevent it and can promote hair growth too so can be beneficial for just about everyone. This simple recipe is so easy to use because you only need two ingredients (rosemary and water): throw these in a pot, add the mixture to a spray bottle, and include it as part of your shower routine. I’ll show you how you prepare the recipe soon. First, let’s look at how rosemary benefits your hair and reduces hair loss.

How Does Rosemary Help Reduce Hair Loss?

There have been a number of studies conducted that demonstrate rosemary prevents or helps slow down hair loss. Other studies have even shown that rosemary stimulates hair growth. If you experience pattern baldness then it can also help you.

Rosemary is known to improve your circulation thanks to its Ursolic Acid and this can stimulate blood circulation to your scalp, which in turn helps to boost hair growth. It does this by getting more oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles. The Carnosic Acid in rosemary can play a role in rejuvenating nerves and damaged nerve endings. This is also thought to be a factor in stimulating hair growth.

There are plenty of properties in rosemary that contribute to a healthy scalp and hair, leading to less hair loss and less chance of breakage too. The anti-inflammatory nature of rosemary will nourish your hair follicles and make your hair shiny. If you’re trying to grow your hair then it’s as important to keep your current hair and new hair growth healthy to reduce breakage and the need to cut your hair so frequently, which rosemary will help do. Rosemary is also known to darken gray hairs and slow the appearance of new grays.

Another great side effect of using rosemary in the hair is it reduces dandruff. If you are prone to having a dry scalp then this will give you relief as it has a moisturizing effect.

How To Make A Rosemary Spray For Your Hair

This recipe is very easy to prepare but you do need some time to extract the goodness from the rosemary while it’s on the stovetop (three hours). Preparation time is just a minute or two. Here’s what you’ll need to make this and how to go about it.

Ingredients

• Fresh rosemary (a handful of sprigs)
• Water

Utensils

• Medium-size pot with a lid
• Wooden spoon
• Fine sieve
• Container with a lip (or funnel)
• Spray bottle

Method

1. Take a handful of rosemary sprigs and put these in your pot and cover with water
2. Put the lid on your pot and turn the heat on low
3. You’re going to leave it on the heat for three hours now but give it a stir once an hour
4. Once the three hours is up take the pot off the heat and remove the lid
5. Let it cool all the way
6. Put your fine sieve over a container to catch the rosemary “tea” and pour the contents of the pot into the sieve
7. You can discard the rosemary leaves and stalks
8. Pour your mixture into the spray bottle and it’s ready to use

How To Use It

To apply the rosemary solution to your hair, towel dry your hair after washing it then spray the rosemary water over your hair, concentrating on the scalp. Once you have sprayed your hair, massage your scalp gently. There is no need to rinse the rosemary off and you can continue with your usual post-shower routine.

While you should not experience any negative reaction you should start using this solution twice a week in the first week of use. Then you can build this up to daily use if you like or every time you wash your hair if you don’t wash it daily. This will depend on the individual of course, and the type of hair you have. If you have allergies or sensitive skin you should patch test the rosemary water on your jawline first before spraying it on your scalp.

For best results, you should use this consistently. While you should notice shinier and healthier hair and any dryness of the scalp improve in the short term, hair growth will take longer to become evident. Be patient and remember to keep this up as part of your regular ongoing hair maintenance regime. It should keep in the fridge for 1-2 weeks.

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30 Comments

• LUZ POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2022 11:37 AMThank you for all of the wonderful recipes. Where do I obtain some of the more uncommon plants or roots?
  Enjoy your day.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:01 AMHi Luz,Thank you so much for your kind words. We are really glad you like our recipes.Dried rosemary can be found in the spice aisle and fresh rosemary can be found next to other fresh herbs in the produce aisle. You can find both in most grocery stores.Also, there are a couple of specialized online health stores. For example https://mountainroseherbs.com/. But it is best to use Google to find one that delivers to your area.Many blessings and good health!Reply
  • JODY HAKALA RISTOW POSTED FEBRUARY 20, 2022 10:18 AMCould we use rosemary essential oil or should we boil off from the plant sprig or rosemary?Reply
• JOHN L. MOESCHE POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2022 12:54 PMDiscard the stalks, but, save the leaves for your recipes.Reply
• CLAUDIA POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2022 3:05 PMI have been loosing my hair in handfuls every day since my illness began six months ago. Most of my hair is gone and nothing seems to stop it. I am thankful for your advice and will start today. Also, I have rosemary oil. Would that be effective to rub on my scalp daily?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:13 AMHi Claudia,Thank you for your comment. We are sorry to hear about your illness.Rosemary has been used by many to promote hair growth successfully. Using rosemary oil could very well do the same for you. Rosemary oil can strengthen and promote circulation for thirsty hair follicles that are starving of their blood supply and leading to hair loss.Here are some ideas:1. Massage it directly into your scalp: Take about 5 drops of rosemary essential oil and massage evenly into your scalp after bath or shower. Mix with a carrier oil. Rinsing out the oil afterward is optional — though if you do rinse, let the oil sit on your scalp for at least 5 to 10 minutes beforehand.2. Mix it into your shampoo
    Simply add 10-12 drops of rosemary oil to the shampoo. Afterward, use the product like usual.3. Make your own rosemary shampoo or buy it from health stores.PS: Avoid getting essential oil in your eyes. If contact occurs, quickly rinse your eyes with cold water.
    Likewise, be careful not to apply too much to your scalp. Rosemary essential oil has been known to irritate the skin. It may cause discomfort. To avoid skin irritation, dilute the oil with a carrier oil or other product before applying it.Not enough is known about the safety of using rosemary essential oils while pregnant or breastfeeding. Though using the essential oil for hair loss is only done topically, be cautious — its effects in this regard are still unknown.Rosemary oil can take several months to work, so its use requires diligence and repetition.Many blessings and good health!Reply
  • DINA COCKRELL POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:57 AMCan E.O. be used instead? If so how much?Reply
  • TIMOTHY WOOD POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 4:03 PMalso check your shampoo , They put an ingredient in it called sodium laureth sulfate , that causes hair loss .Reply
    • TOM COOL POSTED FEBRUARY 18, 2022 6:41 PMSLS is in toothpaste also. It causes sores in my mouth. I buy toothpaste that does not have it.
• GREG POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2022 4:34 PMCan I dilute organic rosemary essential oil instead of the rosemary tea?Reply
  • CHARLES DEAL POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:25 AMI’d like the answer to this as well. Thanks.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 12:25 PMHi,If you want to use the essential oil, you can simply massage it directly into your scalp: Take about 5 drops of rosemary essential oil and massage evenly into your scalp after a bath or shower. Mix with a carrier oil. Rinsing out the oil afterward is optional — though if you do rinse, let the oil sit on your scalp for at least 5 to 10 minutes beforehand.Or you can mix it into your shampoo: Add 10-12 drops of rosemary oil to the shampoo. Afterward, use the product like usual.PS: Avoid getting essential oil in your eyes. If contact occurs, quickly rinse your eyes with cold water. Likewise, be careful not to apply too much to your scalp. Rosemary essential oil has been known to irritate the skin. It may cause discomfort. To avoid skin irritation, dilute the oil with a carrier oil or other product before applying it.Not enough is known about the safety of using rosemary essential oils while pregnant or breastfeeding. Though using the essential oil for hair loss is only done topically, be cautious — its effects in this regard are still unknown.Many blessings and good health!Reply
    • KAREN STINEMAN POSTED FEBRUARY 20, 2022 9:59 AMCan you make rosemary tea in a crock pot??
• LINDA SHEPANSKI POSTED FEBRUARY 16, 2022 6:33 PMThis information sounds good. I still have rosemary growing even though it’s winter.Reply
• RACHEL POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 6:38 AMHow much water do you use with the handful of rosemary?Reply
  • LESLIE POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 9:05 AMThese are my questions too. Looking forward to an answer.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:22 AMHi,Simply boil four to five cups of water and add three to four sprigs of fresh rosemary to the water. If you don’t have fresh rosemary on hand, you can also add 10-15 drops of rosemary essential oil or a few tablespoons of organic dried rosemary. Each person is different, so if you think the mixture is too strong for your scalp, it can be diluted, by adding more water.Be aware that some essential oils can be toxic, and the volatile (easily evaporated) parts of the oils will boil off or be destroyed by the boiling temperatures.Many blessings and good health!Reply
    • BARBARA POSTED FEBRUARY 19, 2022 11:58 AMHi, thank you for this recipe. There are two different answers in regards to the water temperature. First one says keep temp on low, further down in the QAndA it mentions boiling water. Which should it be?
      Also, two conflicting answers regarding how long the tea will keep in the fridge. Is it up to five days or up to two weeks?
      Thank you.
• TRACY POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:39 AMThank you for this! Can I make extra rosemary tea and freeze in ice cube tray for use later on?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 12:21 PMHi Tracy,Short answer: yes, you can. The tea will last up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 6 months in the freezer.
    ** Be aware that any tea that has been frozen might lose part of its flavor and potency after being thawed, especially if you reheat it.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• EVELIN POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:47 AMHow to use the rosemary solution if I don´t want to darken my hair? Thank you for the recipes and ideas!Reply
• DONNA POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:48 AMI do have thinning hair. I grow rosemary in the spring. I was wondering if I could use essential oil to make this? I have it on hand now. Please let me know.Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 12:25 PMHi Donna,If you want to use the essential oil, you can simply massage it directly into your scalp: Take about 5 drops of rosemary essential oil and massage evenly into your scalp after a bath or shower. Mix with a carrier oil. Rinsing out the oil afterward is optional — though if you do rinse, let the oil sit on your scalp for at least 5 to 10 minutes beforehand.Or you can mix it into your shampoo: Add 10-12 drops of rosemary oil to the shampoo. Afterward, use the product like usual.PS: Avoid getting essential oil in your eyes. If contact occurs, quickly rinse your eyes with cold water. Likewise, be careful not to apply too much to your scalp. Rosemary essential oil has been known to irritate the skin. It may cause discomfort. To avoid skin irritation, dilute the oil with a carrier oil or other product before applying it.Not enough is known about the safety of using rosemary essential oils while pregnant or breastfeeding. Though using the essential oil for hair loss is only done topically, be cautious — its effects in this regard are still unknown.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• MANNY NEGRON POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 11:55 AMHello, do you know if it would be possible to use a pressure cooked to speed up the process? BTW, this is the first time in my life that I continuously receive emails after purchase that actually useful and I read them all. Thank You!Reply
• ROY POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 12:37 PMDo you smell like Rosemary for long?Reply
• CAROLYN POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 7:03 PMDoes using this tea with rosemary cause your hair to darken?Reply
• MARIE POSTED FEBRUARY 17, 2022 9:50 PMI was thinking maybe using Apple Cider Vinegar with the Rosemary instead of water. Thoughts?Reply
• LESLIE POSTED FEBRUARY 18, 2022 10:50 AMCan you use rosemary essential oil with spring water to use as a leave in spritz for hair – would it provide same benefit as your original recipe of boiling and straining fresh rosemary? Thank you!Reply
• INGRID POSTED FEBRUARY 18, 2022 8:45 PMWhy do you have to boil it for 3 hours (so long)? Will the water evaporate, and will it need topping up?Reply
• ANNE POSTED MARCH 2, 2022 7:15 PMI would like to try this but I’m wondering if it will give my mostly-white hair a greenish tinge?Reply

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Here is a good video! I’m going to be implementing some of these soon, and I’ve already implemented some of the other ones.

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The $200 A Pound Mushroom You Should Forage For Profit

POSTED DECEMBER 16, 2021 BY ROSE KEEFE IN ALL ARTICLES, BACKYARD PLANTS, HOUSEHOLD REMEDIES12

On the surface, no one would assume that you could get rich by picking mushrooms, and normally you wouldn’t – unless that mushroom was Morel (Morchella esculenta).

Morel mushrooms sell for $20 a pound when freshly picked. Drying them first can be even more lucrative: a pound of these dried delicacies goes for up to $200, with approximately seven pounds of fresh mushrooms being needed to make a pound of dried.

Morels are highly sought after by mushroom lovers and cordon bleu chefs alike for their meaty texture and rich, nutty flavor. Even those who ordinarily wouldn’t let mushrooms touch their plate are said to enjoy them, which is one of the reasons why people are willing to pay premium prices for them.

What Are Morels?

Morel mushrooms are distinctive-looking due to their cone-shaped cap and sponge-like texture. Caps range in color from pale cream to almost black, with a pitted, honeycomb texture. Morels are hollow, stand two to four inches tall (when completely developed, some species are six inches tall), and have a white or cream stem.

Each spring, foragers in North America and Europe brave the wilderness to harvest morels and sell them at farmers’ markets or to fancy restaurants. They are typically found in wooded areas, around ash, aspen, elm, oak, and tulip trees, and other locations where conditions are warm and moist.

Different varieties of morels appear at different times during the season. Black morels tend to be the first to appear in North America, usually in large groups around ash trees. These are followed by yellow morels, which are often scattered alone or in small colonies. Late morels arrive last. They have small, yellow caps and can be more difficult to spot than other varieties.

How Do You Forage For Morels?

If you’ve never foraged for morels before, it’s best to do so with someone who knows how to recognize them or to get a foraging book to reference.

There are some mushroom species known as ‘false morels’ (Verpa bohemica) that look similar but are toxic.  If there is a naturalist’s club in your area, contact them to see whether they offer guided walks or mushroom foraging sessions that can help you learn the differences.

If you primarily forage on public lands, which you share with the general public, you need to be careful about over-harvesting. When you grab every morel mushroom from a given spot, it deprives others of the opportunity, and you could even damage that location from producing again.

A sustainable approach is to only harvest a small percentage of a given spot, which will leave enough mushrooms to send their spores out and give others a chance at harvesting them.

How to harvest one? Some foragers prefer to simply pinch the stem off above the ground with their fingers, while others only use a knife to cleanly snip it off.

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

Watch Out For False Morels

The most commonly misidentified mushroom that mushroom hunters find when looking for morels is the false morel.

When you hunt for morels, look out for these false morel’s key distinguishing features:

• Mottled, ugly, distorted cap with no ridges.
• Looks more like a brain – more rounded and wider.
• Darker orange/red coloration.
• Solid inside, often quite heavy in comparison to a morel.
• The false morel’s stem is usually filled with cotton-like fibers.
• With a small twist, the cap will fall right off.

These false morel mushrooms contain the toxin gyromitrin which can cause severe illness.

Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, bloating, and fatigue. Untreated, people may go on to develop confusion, delirium, seizures, and coma.

The gyromitrin is also toxic to the liver and can lead to right-sided abdominal pain, hepatitis, and jaundice. False morels include the Beefsteak (Gyromitra esculenta) and Early Morel (Verpa bohemica) mushrooms.

Why Are Morels So Expensive?

At upwards of $20 a pound fresh ($200 when dried), morels are a lot pricier than portobello, oyster, cremini, and other mushrooms collected for the culinary market. Here are a few of the reasons why.

• They’re Difficult to Cultivate: It is extremely difficult to farm morel mushrooms, though Michigan State University has researched how to cultivate them. Morel farming has also been attempted in China. It is debated whether these cultivated morels are of the same quality and taste as their wild counterparts, so for the time being, hand-picked morels are staying in demand at premium prices.
• Their Growing Season is Short: Unlike a lot of other mushroom species, morels have a short growing season. Depending on climate, elevation, and weather, you can only collect them between March and June. This rarity is another reason why they are so popular. Dried and frozen morels are available year-round, but many claims that the taste is not comparable to a fresh mushroom.
• They’re Perishable: Being hollow, morels don’t store or transport well, so getting them to the market can be challenging. Those mushrooms that do make it command higher prices.

Health Benefits Of Morels

Both fresh and dried morels have high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They have the highest concentration of Vitamin D among all the edible mushrooms, with 100 grams containing 34% of your daily requirements. The same amount also contains the following mineral levels:

• 69% copper, which is essential for blood cell production and cellular metabolism.
• 52% iron, which the body uses to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, and myoglobin, a protein that provides oxygen to muscles.
• 26% manganese, helps the body form connective tissue, bones, blood-clotting factors, and sex hormones.
• 18% zinc, which plays a vital role in immune function.

Other Medicinal Benefits Are Outlined Below

• Antimicrobial Properties: According to one study, morel mushrooms have impressive antimicrobial properties that may enable them to fight infections caused by yeast and bacteria. Although more research is needed in this area, the results suggest that more consumption can help the body overcome certain bacteria-related illnesses.
• High Antioxidant Levels: Antioxidants help combat free radical damage and protect cells from oxidative stress. Several studies have indicated that antioxidants have benefits beyond the cellular level, reporting that they may also help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
• May Support a Healthy Liver: Research shows that morel mushrooms can protect and maintain liver health due to their strong antioxidant properties. An animal study conducted by the Amala Cancer Research Centre in Kerala, India showed that administering morel mushroom extract reduced liver disease markers and exhibited hepatoprotective properties.
• May Have Cancer-Fighting Properties: Besides enhancing immunity and providing plenty of disease-fighting antioxidants, morel mushrooms may also play a crucial role in preventing cancer. The International Journal of Molecular Sciences published a study that found compounds extracted from morel mushrooms inhibit the growth and spread of colon cancer cells.
• May Boost the Immune System: Preliminary studies suggest that certain compounds found in morels may boost the immune system and relieve inflammation. One study showed that polysaccharide extracts of the morel mushroom increased the activity and anti-inflammatory properties of immune cells.

How To Dry Morel Mushrooms At Home

Because Morel Mushrooms have quite a short season, drying them is important. This way you can store the precious fungi in air-tight containers or jars under room temperature for as long as 6 months – or even more when kept in a freezer. When using dried morels in recipes, just re-hydrate them.

• Air-Drying: For this method, no equipment is needed, except for a few sewing supplies such as a large yarn or darning needle, and a thread.

Thread the needle, then string the cleaned morel mushrooms lengthwise. Knot the thread at each morel mushroom end to keep them in place, leaving at least ½” between each morel so the air can circulate every mushroom. Hang the stringed mushrooms in a dry, cool place until the morels are brittle and completely dry. This should take anywhere from 2 days to 1 week.

• Dry the Morels in the Dehydrator: Once the morels are cleaned and dried off, lay them in a single layer on the racks. You can also slice them up if needed. Set the dehydrator to 110 F and dry for about 10 hours.
• Oven-Drying: Whether laying the morels on cooling racks or hanging them from the oven racks, you need to heat the oven to 130 F to 140 F. Allow the mushrooms to sit for about 8 hours or until completely brittle and dry.  Check after every couple of hours.

Allow the dried morels to cool completely before transferring them to glass jars.

Cover tightly with lids and store away from direct light or heat.

Rehydrate Dried Morels

The process of rehydrating dried morels is quite simple and easy. Put the specific amount you intend to use in a bowl, then cover it with water. Let sit until the morels are soft and pliable, about 20 minutes. You may keep the soaking liquid to use in the dish you’re cooking or to make a vegetarian broth.

Use the rehydrated morel mushrooms as you would fresh ones.

How To Prepare Morel Mushrooms

You can realize the health benefits of morel mushrooms by consuming them as food.

Here are some ideas:

• The best way to savor the flavor of morels is to cook them simply. A simple sauté with butter will help bring out the mushroom’s unique characteristics: for best results, wait until the mushrooms are browned in the cast iron pan before adding butter, as the butter may burn before the morels are ready. For added flavor, sauté with garlic and/or ginger.
• Fried: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil until very hot. Roll mushrooms in flour, tap off excess, and place in the oil. Pan-fry for about five to eight minutes, until mushrooms are golden brown and the flour coating is crisp. Drain morels on paper towels, salt to taste, and enjoy!
• Boiled: If you’re a fan of Pho or Ramen, dehydrate the morels in boiling water for 15 to 30 minutes and add to your favorite recipe. They make a chewy and delicious meat substitute.
• Pizza Topping: Rehydrated morels are a tasty and nutritious pizza topping. Sprinkle as you would regular mushrooms and then pop the pizza in the oven.
• Simmered: To rehydrate dried morels for soups, pour boiling water over them and soak for 15 to 30 minutes. Drain and save the soaking liquid for soup stock. Then add the rehydrated morsels to soups or stews as a meat substitute.
• Caramelized with Onions: Caramelized onions and mushrooms are the perfect addition to just about any meal. Melt three tablespoons of butter in a large skillet, add one sliced onion and 8 ounces of chopped morels, and top with pepper, stirring to coat. Simmer uncovered over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Remove from heat and enjoy.
• Mushroom powder can be mixed with flour when baking, or dusted over roasted vegetables. It is a healthy way to add umami and depth of flavor to any dish.

While morels continue to be prized for their rarity and great taste, their health and medicinal benefits are equally exceptional. Collecting them can earn an impressive second income, but don’t forget to save some for yourself as an investment in your health.

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12 Comments

• LORIE CONN POSTED DECEMBER 16, 2021 4:15 PMYou forgot to mention that when picking morels you should gently shake the mushroom after picking, over the ground where it was picked. That releases the spores to start the next generation in an already proven spot for them to grow for next year.Reply
  • MARINA POSTED DECEMBER 16, 2021 6:01 PMExcellent reminder, especially for Newbies! Thanks 😉 I get a small crop in my backyard, but am more of a country gourmand than an entrepreneur 🙂Reply
• DAN BOGDAN POSTED DECEMBER 16, 2021 9:36 PMCould these Morel Mushrooms be found within the Georgia Forests, during the spring / early summer?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED DECEMBER 22, 2021 4:27 PMHi Dan,This sighting map is a great way to see where you can find morel mushrooms in your area:
    https://www.thegreatmorel.com/morel-sightings/I hope this helps!Reply
• ANGELIQUE POSTED DECEMBER 16, 2021 10:20 PMI love these mushrooms and wish they grew where I live. I secure mine from a couple of sellers on eBay. They dehydrate them and sell them at a fair price. But yes, they are expensive but worth every penny. As they are a delicacy indeed. Excellent reminder when harvesting from Lorie. Tap tap tap and then put in your sack. You want to come back to a fresh new harvest.Reply
• SABBY POSTED DECEMBER 16, 2021 10:28 PMWent into my garden and my eyes grew wide 😳and I squealed with delight. You’d think I won the lottery, well I sorta did. From the several truckloads f cmpost I purchased at forest products, morels popped up everywhere! Truely blessed😀Reply
• LAURIE REDMOND POSTED DECEMBER 16, 2021 10:52 PMI had some black morels growing in my yard this year, but didn’t harvest them because I knew they were growing on sumac roots. I was afraid they would be toxic because of the sumac. Are they?Reply
  • AP POSTED FEBRUARY 3, 2022 4:10 PMLaurie, I have no idea if morels growing on poison sumac roots would be safe, but most common sumac trees are not poisonous at all. If your sumac tree produces red berries, it is safe and in fact the berries themselves are edible. Poison sumac berries are white and it grows in swampy areas. Most likely, your sumac tree is not the poisonous one and the morels growing from it are safe.Reply
• PAIGE POSTED DECEMBER 17, 2021 3:41 PMTurkey Tails are not in the Forages Guide…Reply
• GARY MEACHEN POSTED DECEMBER 18, 2021 2:44 AMDo Morel mushrooms grow in Australia?Reply
  • THE LOST HERBS POSTED DECEMBER 21, 2021 9:11 PMHi Gary,
    There are quite a few species of Morels growing in Australia as well.Morchella Australiana is a species of ascomycete fungus in the family Morchellaceae. It is found in New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria, Australia.Many blessings and good health!Reply
• JANET RENO POSTED MARCH 7, 2022 8:51 PMI am very disappointed in the way the articles print out now. I really liked it when it printed just as it showed on the computer.Reply

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