Cleavers - Galium aparine

The gardens are waking up from their winter's rest. I found this green beauty today, Cleavers-Galium aparine. Also known as; bedstraw, goosegrass, stickyweed, velcro plant, sticky grass. 

Part used:
fresh leaves, ripe seeds

Medicinal Properties:
diuretic, anti-inflammatory, lymphatic

Benefits:
urinary tract infections, kidney infections, stagnant lymphatic system, skin aliments, breast health, coffee substitute 

One of my favorite ways of using cleavers for lymphatic health is drinking a cleaver cold infusion. It's like spring cleaning for your insides. 

Once the tiny white flowers start blooming, I'll take a small handful of fresh plant material, add that to a pint jar, fill with warm water, cover and allow to steep for 2 hours at room temperature, strain then  refrigerate. I'll sip on that throughout 2 -3 days.   

If the plant does call to me before it starts blooming, I will definitely harvest and use at that time. Remember, a big part of medicine making is following your intuition and that call from the plants. 

The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to transport lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body. The lymphatic system primarily consists of lymphatic vessels, which are similar to the veins and capillaries of the circulatory system. The vessels are connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph is filtered. The tonsils, adenoids, spleen and thymus are all part of the lymphatic system. Reference

If you have ever experienced swollen lymph glands - neck, underarm and groin area, that is due to a stagnant lymphatic system. Cleavers gently flush and get the natural flow of fluid moving again.

As a diuretic, cleavers flush out toxins from the kidneys and urinary tract. Being a cooling herb, she also works at cooling and calming the burning and inflammation associated with urinary tract infections. I have found that drinking 2 cups a day of a cold infusion, until the infection has cleared, works well for many. I take one big handful of fresh plant, add that to a pint jar then fill with warm water and refrigerate over night.   
Reference. 

Being an herb that works on the lymphatic system, a cleaver infused oil is also used as a breast massage oil. When using in this manner, be sure to also massage the lymph nodes that are located in the underarm area.

Applied topically, a poultice or applying the liquid from simmering fresh plant in water, the cooling and moistening properties aides in soothing skin issues; sunburns, burns, eczema and psoriasis.  

For those looking for a coffee substitute, when those white flowers have gone to seed you can pick, roast, ground and brew.  👍

Infusing Herbal Oils

So, just what are infused oils anyways..

This is a process of extracting the medicinal properties of an herb/herbs. 

We do this first by chopping and or crushing the fresh or dried herb then adding it to a carrier oil and then allowing it to soak in the oil over a slow period of time. The finished oil contains the healing benefits of the herbs used and also the healing benefits of the oil. You can then use this oil for making herbal salves, massage oils, bath oils, body oils, body butters (which are amazing by the way. If you have never used body butters you gotta try it!) shampoos, homemade soaps and so much more!

There are several different methods of infusing. I'm going to share my favorite method. Solar infusing. 🌞 For me, there is just something special about the oils when they have been infused by the warmth of the sun. They smell different to me. They have more of an earthy... a richer, fuller, sweeter smell. Especially dandelion infused oil. It's like capturing summer in a jar. Or perhaps it's the smell that reminds me of summer - it has a light, airy, (reminiscent of a warm summer breeze) slightly sweet fragrance. And chamomile oil, that has such a sweet, warming fragrance. Perfect for using as a body oil. Okay, so lets get into this now...

Fresh or Dried Herbs

You can use fresh or dried herbs. If you choose to use fresh, make sure they are free from any dirt when you're picking them. Do not wash them as you don't want any extra moisture to contend with. Lay them on a screen or a cookie sheet for 24 hours before adding to your oil. This will allow for the moisture in the fresh plant to evaporate. If any moisture or water gets into your oil you stand the chance of it spoiling and you will have to throw it out and start over. And believe me, that is not fun.

Choosing what herbs to use depends on what you're wanting to use your oil for. Once you have that decided, then you can do research on what herbs will give you the particular medicinal benefits you're searching for. 

What oils to use?

Grapeseed Oil - cold-pressed or expeller-pressed - is a lighter, thinner oil. I like how it absorbs into the skin without feeling greasy. Contains your omega fatty acids for hydrating and moisturizing your skin cells. Rich in Beta- Carotene and vitamins C, D and E. Also has astringent properties that work to tighten skin and improve elasticity. Works well with most all skin types. Especially helpful for eczema and minor wound healing and sunburns.  

Extra Virgin Olive Oil - is another good one to use. This is a thicker oil than the grapeseed. It also contains your omega fatty acids that the skin cells need, making it rich, moisturizing and hydrating for the skin. Especially dry skin, eczema and psoriasis. Contains antioxidants and squalane - anti-aging and hydrating properties. It helps to stimulate cell repair giving you soft, clear smooth skin. Also has healing properties for minor burns and wounds, which makes it a good oil for making herbal salves. Also for making soaps, bath oils or body oils.    

Solar Infusing 

uses the heat of the sun over a period of time to infuse the medicinal properties of an herb with the oil. There are several different thoughts as to how long one should let the oil infuse. You can go anywhere from 1 to 3 months. The longer you infuse, the stronger your oil will be with the herbs medicinal properties. This could come in handy if you're wanting to make an extra strong massage oil for sore muscles. 

Supplies Needed:  

Sterilized mason jar; mason jar ring
cheesecloth
labels or masking tape
fresh or dried herbs
utensil for stirring 
mesh strainer
carrier oil


I'll mention some important tips before you get started. Regardless of what infusing method you use, always, always, sterilize your jars and any utensils you're using in boiling water before beginning.


Be careful to not let any water come in contact with your oil. If this happens you stand the chance of your oil spoiling. So make sure your jars, utensils and hands are dry before beginning.

Okay, just one more before we go on. When I first started learning how to make infused oils 17 years ago, I quickly discovered that the teaching methods varied, which was really confusing. What it came down to was that every herbalist has their own way of infusing, based on their own experience with trial and error and how they had been taught. That is what I have put together for you here, from my experiences. And it will no doubt be different from someone else's writings on infusing oils. So, take what feels right to you from here and continue learning from other herbal loving people along the way.     

Place your herbs in your jar, about 2/3 of the way full. 

Spearmint infused extra virgin olive oil

Slowly pour your oil over the herbs about 1 inch from the top. Take your utensil and poke the herbs into the oil while gently stirring. Now take a piece of the cheesecloth and place that over the top of the jar, then screw the mason jar ring into that. I have learned from trial and error that using the cheesecloth instead of a lid allows the oil the breathe, therefor preventing any condensation building up inside the jar which will cause spoiling. 

* If you are using dried herbs you can use a metal lid as there will be no moisture issues with your dried herbs.

Okay, now take your label or masking tape and write the date, the name of the herb used and the oil you used and place that on your jar. That's it! Now you're ready to set your jar out in the sunshine.

Be sure to bring the jar in every evening, take the lid off and give your oil a stir. This is to allow any air bubbles to escape. Then place your lid back on. This is what I do everyday for as long as I'm infusing the oil. If I want to infuse longer than 30 days, at each 30 day mark I will strain the used herbs from my oil then replace with more fresh of dried herb. Be sure to use a clean, sterilized jar, just like you did in the beginning.

* When using dried herbs you do not have to stir everyday. There will be no issues with moisture and or air bubbles.  

When your oil is finished, strain and pour in a clean, sterilized jar. Be sure to label with the herb used, oil used and the date. Store the oil in a cool dark place. If you keep it in the refrigerator it will last longer. 

Your oil is ready to use for a massage oil, bath oil, use in place of body lotions or for making herbal salves, body butters, soaps... so many possibilities for you to explore.   

Dandelion infused grapeseed oil

    



   

Dandelion - Taraxacum officinale

I often wonder at what point in time this plant with it's bright beautiful happy yellow flowers became such an eyesore. I mean.. to the point where once that pretty little flower shows it's face in the vast sea of green grass, all hell breaks loose as the pursuit of killing it off with poisons begins. 

It really is harmless. And dandelion infused oil, to me, if you could capture sunshine and summertime, put them in a jar and solar infuse them together, that is what it would smell like. 👌

Parts used: root, leaves, flowers, milky sap 

Medicinal properties:  

Root 
Diuretic - causing increased passing of urine.
Nutritive  - providing nourishment, nutritious.
Choleretic - increases the volume of secretion of bile from the liver as well as the amount of solids secreted.
Cholagogue - promotes the discharge of bile from the system, purging it downward.
Alterative -  gradually restores the proper function of the body and increase health and vitality.

Flowers, leaves 
Diuretic - causing increased passing of urine.
Nutritive  - providing nourishment, nutritious.  
Alterative -  gradually restores the proper function of the body and increase health and vitalitity.   
                          
Medical studies have shown that some doctors have their breast cancer patients use dandelion infused oil as a breast massage oil in conjunction with their other treatments. The oil, when massaged into the breast and under arm areas promotes softening of the fibrous breast tissue and also aides in breaking up and releasing toxins from the lymph nodes. This is something that everyone could benefit from. 

Massaging the oil into your temples, neck and shoulders helps with tension and sinus headaches. Also for soothing sore muscles, diaper rash, dry hands and dry cracked lips. The milky substance found in the stem helps as a wort remover. Just break open the stem and rub the inside liquid on your wort. This has to be reapplied several times before any improvement.

dandelion flowers infusing in extra virgin olive oil

The oil can be soothing for eczema, psoriasis, minor burns, minor wounds and rashes. Dandelion root and or the flowers can be helpful for acne. Simmer the flowers or the roots in water for about an hour then strain. Use that liquid to wash your face. You can also squeeze the milky liquid from the stems of the plant and dab that on the areas of your body that has the acne.

The roots - it's best to harvest in the fall, particularly after a good rain as this helps to pull the roots up and out of the ground easier. Also, those medicinal properties from the above the ground parts of the plant are being sent to the roots. 👍 The roots can be used fresh or dried for making teas, tinctures, decoctions and dandelion root vinegar. These herbals can be used for digestive issues, gull bladder issues, a detox for the liver, bacterial infections in your digestive tract, reproductive organs and also cancers. 

The fresh flowers and leaves are not only delicious tossed in with other salad greens but are a powerhouse of nutrients. One cup of chopped dandelion greens (55 grams) contains approximately:

24.7 calories
5.1 grams carbohydrates
1.5 grams protein
0.4 gram fat
1.9 grams fiber
428 micrograms vitamin K (535 percent DV)
5,588 international units vitamin A (112 percent DV)
19.3 milligrams vitamin C (32 percent DV)
103 milligrams calcium (10 percent DV)
1.7 milligrams iron (9 percent DV)
1.9 milligrams vitamin E (9 percent DV)
0.2 milligram manganese (9 percent DV)

Dandelion greens also contain a small amount of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc and copper. Resource - Dr. Axe

This link here; https://www.cancertutor.com/dandelionroot/  will take you to another site that has valuable information on the treatment of cancer using dandelion.  

For more information on dandelion root, click here.
For information on preparing dandelion root tincture, click here 
 
***  I just recently discovered that there is a correlation with dandelion and latex allergy. 

Dandelion contains latex. If you are allergic to latex be sure to do your research before using any products containing dandelion. That's any and all parts of the dandelion.

I can say from experience that this is definitely something to take serious. I'm allergic to latex. I've been using dandelion medicine for years, both internally and topically, with no problems at all. Several months ago I began experiencing allergy related symptoms. After learning about the correlation between dandelion and latex it now makes sense as to what has been going on with my body. 

So for me, I'm sad that I will not be able to use dandelion medicine anymore. At least for now. However, I am very thankful to have received this knowledge.

One more thing to add in regards to latex allergy. There is also a correlation between latex and certain fruits, vegetables and other medicinal plants. Be sure to check that out. Two of the food biggies are bananas and avocados. Medicinal plant - wild lettuce; Lactuca virosa    
  

Henbit

Henbit ~ Lamium amplexicaule
aka; henbit dead-nettle, common henbit, greater henbit

You'll find this beauty popping up in yards and fields from March throughout the summer months, and year round in areas where the winters are not harsh. 

Family - mint
Genus - Lamium 

Medicinal Properties:

Antimicrobial - helps the body resist pathogenic bacteria, fungi and viruses

Antiviral - treating viral infections 

Anti - rheumatic - aides in the inflammation associated with arthritis

Diaphoretic - inducing perspiration
febrifuge - fever reducer

Parts used: leaves and flowers 

Medicinally, Henbit is best used internally as a tea. It is anti-  
rheumatic and anti-inflammatory, so it’s great for relieving chronic pain, soreness, and stiffness. As a diaphoretic and febrifuge, it’s great for breaking fevers and alleviating their unpleasantness. It helps balance the digestive system – it’s a gentle laxative, but also helps treat diarrhea and indigestion. Finally, it can help with menstrual cramps and excessive bleeding. For this reason, women who are pregnant should probably avoid it. Otherwise, it’s safe, although you should still follow our rule of 6-8 ounces of tea until you figure out how you react to it. It is a laxative, after all. Reference

I'll be making an infused oil with the fresh, but wilted, leaves and flowers. The oils will be made into salves which will be applied topically for skin issues; cuts, minor burns, scratches, insect bites. 

I have also used the fresh plant successfully as a poultice - grind or chop the fresh or dried plant, add a small amount of water until it forms a paste. Apply the paste onto the area, cover with a moist cloth. Wrap a dry cloth around that and secure into place. I usually leave on for 1 - 3 hours then change if necessary.  

As with most backyard herbal plants, this one is also edible. The leaves and flowers are very nutritious and can be added in salads and or cooked with other greens. Yum. 

Reference 

Reference

Reference

Monarda fistulosa - Bee balm

I'm fortunate to have several chemical free areas close to where I live to harvest wild flowers. This plant here, Bee Balm, she is one of the most beautiful plants to see growing in the wild. It grows quite abundantly in my area, in large tall clumps. ( up to 5 feet ) Bees, butterflies and humming birds are attracted to this beauty, making it somewhat of a challenge to harvest, but sooo worth the time and patience. 



Medicinal Properties

Antibacterial - healing topical wounds and infections. I have found that applying a healing salve or a cloth soaked in a strong bee balm tea clears up wounds and topical infections quite well. A tincture or tea can be used as a mouth wash to treat mouth ulcers and gingivitis. Also makes a good mouth wash to freshen the breath.  😁

Anti-inflammatory - applied topically, a healing salve or tea soak helps with the swelling and pain associated with wounds and infections. A tincture or drinking a cup of bee balm tea helps with the burning and inflammation that comes with a yeast infection and the inflammation associated with digestive issues.  

Anti-fungal - yeast infections, ringworm, athletes feet. A healing salve, oil or tea soaked cloth can be applied topically for athletes feet. Although treating from the inside out does seem to be more effective. In that case a tincture can be taken in addition to the tea soak. If caught in the early stages, a tincture or tea can be taken for a yeast infection. I have found, for me, that the tincture works better. However, that doesn't mean the tea won't work better for someone else. Everyone's body is different.     


Bee balm is also good for cold and flu season. An herbal and or sipping on a warm cup of tea made with the leaves and flowers or honey infused bee balm can be taken on the onset of a cold, flu or sore throat. Also helps with digestive issues such as gas, bloating, cramps, colic, nausea and vomiting.     
There is so much more medicinal information out there on bee balm. You really should do some more research and see what else it has to offer.  








     

Making Rose Cream, Second Swarm and Stray Kitty

I am following my dear friend Lucinda’s instruction for making this rose cream. I decided an infused herbal oil would be nicest. I used the double infusion method. First I put a generous amount of dried fragrant rose petals in the top pot of the double boiler, poured sweet almond oil over it to cover, lidded it and let it slow simmer over a flame for two hours. I strained this, and then added the rose infused oil back into the pot, more dried rose petals, and again, slow simmered it, lidded, for another two hours. Strained, and now I have a nice, fragrant, double infused rose sweet almond oil. Please refer to Lucinda’s post for complete instructions, I will just show you pictures of mine and give you the proportions I used :)
     Melting beeswax and oils together. I used 6 ounces of double rose infused sweet almond oil, 3 ounces of coconut oil and 3 tablespoons of melted beeswax.

              and pour them into my blender

              I allowed them to cool till they began to solidify
  then the blender is turned on slow blend and the floral water and glycerin is dribbled in and it is all blended gently. I used 8 and 1/2 ounces of rosewater, 1 tablespoon of glycerin, and 3 drops of Rose Otto that dear Lucinda had shared with me:) I didn’t add more as the type of rose water I used is very, very fragrant, as was the double rose infused sweet almond oil.
  This recipe made 4 6oz jars of luscious rose cream:) Heavenly!
Now, my daughter had came over for lunch before I started the rose cream project. While she was in the back yard giving our dog Thor a treat, she saw a stray cat sitting outside Thor’s enclosure right next to Max the Duck! When she spoke to the cat, it ran though. While I was waiting for the oils in the blender to cool, I looked out the window and saw the cat on on patio. It ran when I went outside, but came back to eat when I put out food. Must be spring, we always find stray kitties in the spring:(
I took this picture through the window. We will see if I can gentle him/her down then go about trying to find out if it is a lost kitty or one who needs a home… sigh
 I was just getting ready to try out my new cream when the phone rang. Someone had a swarm of bees they wanted removed! So off I went! This was a nice big swarm and very easy to remove as it was so low down on a small magnolia tree, the bottom of the swarm was on the ground.

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The lady didn’t want me to cut the branch, which would have been easiest, so I slip a piece of cardboard under the swarm and then lifted the branch up, slid in an empty brood box and gave the branch a good whack so that the swarm would fall in. An easy catch!

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My wonderful hubby Gerald was home when I got the hive back to my house and he hurried and put together my lid that was only partially put together! I feel like such a split personality in the spring! Should I garden, make herbal creations, wild forage, or work on bee equipment!? lol! I think I better work on more bee equipment since now I have increased from one to three hives in just a week!
 My daughter Michelle and I were talking tonight that we should paint a box robin egg blue and re-hive this new swarm later in it.  Then we would have pink, yellow and blue:) We are thinking it would be a fun time to have the kids paint different things on them too:)
 The pink hive is the oldest hive and its boxes are more than ready for fresh paint! The yellow hive is the swarm I got last week. When I caught it, I had to put the branch it was on in the hive and so I still needed to remove that branch and insert the rest of the frames. When I opened it I found they had started building their own comb on the inner hive in that empty spot that had no frames, so I had to remove those

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I just took my hive tool and gently ran it along the inner cover lid, (that is the piece with the oblong cut out hole in it), and removed the comb they had built. You can see how that comb fit right into the slot where I had left the branch and not put in frames. After removing that comb I then put in enough frames to complete the hive. This is how pretty and pure their comb looks that I removed
 I then reopened the new swarm’s hive to complete putting in it’s full amount of frames

So, last weeks hive looks good and strong and has settled right in and is storing pollen and nectar and this new swarm looks very strong so fingers crossed it likes its new home too and starts building up quickly. The old pink hive is very, very strong and so I think that I might be making my first split from it soon!
To top of the day Michelle and I took a 2 1/4 mile walk around Lakeland so now I am off to get cleaned up and finally try out my new cream! :)
Honey and Herbal Hugs to all who visit Comfrey Cottages xxx