Planting: Moist soil including clay in sun or shade, fully hardy perennial, 10”-12”.
Propagation Zone 6/7:
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Pulmonaria Officinalis
AKA: Lungwort, P. Saccharata “Sissinghurst White”
Planting: Moist soil including clay in sun or shade, fully hardy perennial, 10”-12”.
Propagation Zone 6/7:
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist soil including clay in sun or shade, fully hardy perennial, 10”-12”.
Propagation Zone 6/7:
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Aesculus Glabra
AKA: Horsechestnut
Planting: Rich moist soil in sun, fully hardy perennial tree, 30’
Propagation Zone 6/7:
Medicinal/Culinary: Also known as the “Ohio Buckeye” the horse chestnut is mentioned by Rumi, thought by many people in the eastern and southern United States to be a sure preventive of rheumatism, arthritis, or headache. Used for swelling and pain due to varicose veins and chronic circulation problems. It has also been used for reducing the swelling of hemorrhoids or veins (phlebitis). Indians would leach out the high tannins, and then eat it as a good source of protein. The Indians would do this by slow-roasting the nuts (which would have rendered the saponins harmless) and then cutting them into thin slices, putting them into a cloth bag and rinsing them in a stream for 2 - 5 days. In China, seeds are dried, powdered, and eaten as a gruel. Saponins in the seed are used as a soap substitute. The saponins can be easily obtained by chopping the seed into small pieces and infusing them in hot water. This water can then be used for washing the body, clothes etc. Its main drawback is a lingering odor of horse chestnuts.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplant Fall 2008 in A2
Links: Wiki
Planting: Rich moist soil in sun, fully hardy perennial tree, 30’
Propagation Zone 6/7:
Medicinal/Culinary: Also known as the “Ohio Buckeye” the horse chestnut is mentioned by Rumi, thought by many people in the eastern and southern United States to be a sure preventive of rheumatism, arthritis, or headache. Used for swelling and pain due to varicose veins and chronic circulation problems. It has also been used for reducing the swelling of hemorrhoids or veins (phlebitis). Indians would leach out the high tannins, and then eat it as a good source of protein. The Indians would do this by slow-roasting the nuts (which would have rendered the saponins harmless) and then cutting them into thin slices, putting them into a cloth bag and rinsing them in a stream for 2 - 5 days. In China, seeds are dried, powdered, and eaten as a gruel. Saponins in the seed are used as a soap substitute. The saponins can be easily obtained by chopping the seed into small pieces and infusing them in hot water. This water can then be used for washing the body, clothes etc. Its main drawback is a lingering odor of horse chestnuts.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplant Fall 2008 in A2
Links: Wiki
Glechoma Hederacea
AKA: Ground Ivy, Alchoof
Planting: Moist well drained soil in sun or shade, invasive, fully hardy evergreen perennial, 6”.
Propagation Zone 6/7:
Harvest: Flowering plants are dried for infusions and liquid extracts, whole plant is used.
Culinary: Fresh or dried leaves are used to make herb tea. Young leaves can be added to soups.
Medicinal: A bitter, aromatic, astringent herb. It has a tonic effect on the bronchial, digestive, and urinary systems, and is diuretic and expectorant. Used internally for catarrh, sinusitis, ear infections, bronchitis, gastritis, and cystitis. Used externally for inflammations of throut and mouth, and hemorrhoids.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in F6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist well drained soil in sun or shade, invasive, fully hardy evergreen perennial, 6”.
Propagation Zone 6/7:
Harvest: Flowering plants are dried for infusions and liquid extracts, whole plant is used.
Culinary: Fresh or dried leaves are used to make herb tea. Young leaves can be added to soups.
Medicinal: A bitter, aromatic, astringent herb. It has a tonic effect on the bronchial, digestive, and urinary systems, and is diuretic and expectorant. Used internally for catarrh, sinusitis, ear infections, bronchitis, gastritis, and cystitis. Used externally for inflammations of throut and mouth, and hemorrhoids.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in F6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Vitis Riparia
AKA: Grape
Planting: Deep, moist humus rich soil in sun, fully hardy, deciduous vining perennial.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Perennial
Harvest: Leaves and stems are collected in early summer and used fresh.
Culinary: Blanched fresh leaves, or leaves preserved in brine, are used to parcel fillings, such as minced meat, fish, and rice. Fruits are eaten raw, juiced or jellied. Grape seeds are used to coat cheeses, and are pressed for oil.
Medicinal: Stems yield drops of liquid that are used directly as an eyewash and diuretic. Used internally for varicose veins. A sour astringent cooling diuretic herb, that reduces inflammation, controls bleeding, improves circulation, and clears toxins.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B6, transplant F8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Deep, moist humus rich soil in sun, fully hardy, deciduous vining perennial.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Perennial
Harvest: Leaves and stems are collected in early summer and used fresh.
Culinary: Blanched fresh leaves, or leaves preserved in brine, are used to parcel fillings, such as minced meat, fish, and rice. Fruits are eaten raw, juiced or jellied. Grape seeds are used to coat cheeses, and are pressed for oil.
Medicinal: Stems yield drops of liquid that are used directly as an eyewash and diuretic. Used internally for varicose veins. A sour astringent cooling diuretic herb, that reduces inflammation, controls bleeding, improves circulation, and clears toxins.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B6, transplant F8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Echinacea
AKA: Echinacea, Coneflower (Tennessee), E. Purpurea, E. Angustifolia, E. Tennesseensis, E. Paradoxa (yellow)
Planting: Rich well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 24”.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Perennial
Harvest: Roots, and rhizomes are lifted in autumn and dried for use in decoctions. Leaves, flowers, and seed are used fresh or dried in infusions, decoctions, and herb tea.
Medicinal: Use when you feel a cold, virus, or fever coming on. Take 1 leaf, crumple and mix in with green tea. All parts of the plant have medicinal properties. A somewhat bitter herb that stimulates the immune system, promotes healing, and has anti-viral and anti-bacterial effects. Considered the most effective detoxicant in Western medicine for the circulatory, lymphatic, and respiratory systems.
Third eye vision:
Seeded: 2007-C1, 2008-C7, 2009; E. Tennesseensis in F8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 24”.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Perennial
Harvest: Roots, and rhizomes are lifted in autumn and dried for use in decoctions. Leaves, flowers, and seed are used fresh or dried in infusions, decoctions, and herb tea.
Medicinal: Use when you feel a cold, virus, or fever coming on. Take 1 leaf, crumple and mix in with green tea. All parts of the plant have medicinal properties. A somewhat bitter herb that stimulates the immune system, promotes healing, and has anti-viral and anti-bacterial effects. Considered the most effective detoxicant in Western medicine for the circulatory, lymphatic, and respiratory systems.
Third eye vision:
Seeded: 2007-C1, 2008-C7, 2009; E. Tennesseensis in F8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Nepeta Cataria
AKA: Catnip
Planting: Moist well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 1’-3’. Plant in Mid-March, grows easily and germinates in 2-4 weeks. Plant out in May. Likes moist areas with sun, but will grow in partial shade. Grows and spreads fast like mint
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Perennial
Harvest: Plants are cut when in bud and dried for use in infusions. Leaves are picked when needed for culinary purposes, and used fresh or dried.
Culinary: Leaves are infused for a mint-like tea, and also added to salads, sauces, an stews.
Medicinal: A bitter, astringent camphoraceous herb . It lowers fever, relaxes spasms, increases perspiration, and has sedative effects.
Third Eye Vision:
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 1’-3’. Plant in Mid-March, grows easily and germinates in 2-4 weeks. Plant out in May. Likes moist areas with sun, but will grow in partial shade. Grows and spreads fast like mint
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Perennial
Harvest: Plants are cut when in bud and dried for use in infusions. Leaves are picked when needed for culinary purposes, and used fresh or dried.
Culinary: Leaves are infused for a mint-like tea, and also added to salads, sauces, an stews.
Medicinal: A bitter, astringent camphoraceous herb . It lowers fever, relaxes spasms, increases perspiration, and has sedative effects.
Third Eye Vision:
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Iris Germanica
AKA: Iris (“Immortality”, “Pagan Dance”, I. Sibirica “Silver Edge”)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, stout fully hardy perennial, 2’4’.
Harvest: rhizomes are lifted in late summer and early autumn, and dried for use in decoctions, extracts, and powders.
Culinary:
Medicinal: A soothing aromatic herb that has diuretic and expectorant effects. It is both purgative and anti-diarrhoeal. Used internally for coughs, catarrh, and diarrhoea. Used externally for deep wounds.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Here for many years, around outside fireplace; Fall 2008 cultivar bulbs planted in NW field.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, stout fully hardy perennial, 2’4’.
Harvest: rhizomes are lifted in late summer and early autumn, and dried for use in decoctions, extracts, and powders.
Culinary:
Medicinal: A soothing aromatic herb that has diuretic and expectorant effects. It is both purgative and anti-diarrhoeal. Used internally for coughs, catarrh, and diarrhoea. Used externally for deep wounds.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Here for many years, around outside fireplace; Fall 2008 cultivar bulbs planted in NW field.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Ipomoea
AKA: Morning Glory
Planting: Well drained rich soil in sun, half hardy climbing vine, 10’. Annual vine that reseeds easily.
Harvest: Roots are lifted in autumn and dried for use in powders, extraction, and tinctures.
Culinary:
Medicinal: A resinous, acrid, purgative herb with an unpleasant taste. Used internally for constipation, colic, and intestinal parasites.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2006 West side of barn; 2009 in A4
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained rich soil in sun, half hardy climbing vine, 10’. Annual vine that reseeds easily.
Harvest: Roots are lifted in autumn and dried for use in powders, extraction, and tinctures.
Culinary:
Medicinal: A resinous, acrid, purgative herb with an unpleasant taste. Used internally for constipation, colic, and intestinal parasites.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2006 West side of barn; 2009 in A4
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Leonurus Sibericus
AKA: Chinese Motherwort, Honeyweed
Planting: Well drained moist soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy perennial, 4’.
Harvest: Plants are cut when flowering, but before the seeds are set, and dried for infusions, extracts, and tinctures, decoctions, pills, powder, and poultices. Seeds are collected when ripe in autumn by drying the whole plant, and threshing and sifting it to remove seeds.
Culinary: Young foliage is eaten as a vegetable. Roots are cooked with meat.
Medicinal: A bitter diuretic herb that stimulates the circulation and uterus, lowers blood pressure, regulates menstruation, and clears toxins. It is also effective against bacterial and fungal infections. Seeds are slightly sweet and have similar actions but are less effective medicinally. Used internally for eye problems related to the liver meridian (seeds); painful and excessive menstruation, and more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2008 in A3; 2009 in A3
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained moist soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy perennial, 4’.
Harvest: Plants are cut when flowering, but before the seeds are set, and dried for infusions, extracts, and tinctures, decoctions, pills, powder, and poultices. Seeds are collected when ripe in autumn by drying the whole plant, and threshing and sifting it to remove seeds.
Culinary: Young foliage is eaten as a vegetable. Roots are cooked with meat.
Medicinal: A bitter diuretic herb that stimulates the circulation and uterus, lowers blood pressure, regulates menstruation, and clears toxins. It is also effective against bacterial and fungal infections. Seeds are slightly sweet and have similar actions but are less effective medicinally. Used internally for eye problems related to the liver meridian (seeds); painful and excessive menstruation, and more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2008 in A3; 2009 in A3
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Schisandra Sinensis
AKA: Schisandra
Planting: Rich, well drained moist soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy climbing evergreen perennial, 25’. Both male and female plants must be grown for successful fruiting.
Harvest: Fruits are collected after the first frosts and sun dried for use in decoctions, powders, and tinctures.
Culinary:
Medicinal: A sweet and sour, astringent, warming herb that regulates secretion of body fluids, controls coughing, and moistens dry and irritated tissues. It acts as a tonic for the nervous system, and kidney and heart energies. Used internally for dry coughs, asthma, night sweats, urinary disorders, and much more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2008 in A4; 2009 in A1
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich, well drained moist soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy climbing evergreen perennial, 25’. Both male and female plants must be grown for successful fruiting.
Harvest: Fruits are collected after the first frosts and sun dried for use in decoctions, powders, and tinctures.
Culinary:
Medicinal: A sweet and sour, astringent, warming herb that regulates secretion of body fluids, controls coughing, and moistens dry and irritated tissues. It acts as a tonic for the nervous system, and kidney and heart energies. Used internally for dry coughs, asthma, night sweats, urinary disorders, and much more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2008 in A4; 2009 in A1
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Monday, May 4, 2009
Artemisia Abrotanum
AKA: Southernwood, Lad’s Love, Old Man
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 1’.
Harvest: Leaves are picked before flowering.
Culinary:
Medicinal: A strongly aromatic, bitter herb that improves digestion and liver function, encourages menstrual flow and stimulates the uterus, lowers fever, relaxes spasms, and destroys intestinal worms. Leaves are used in sachets and powders to repel moths and fleas.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted 2008, driveway near NE corner of house
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 1’.
Harvest: Leaves are picked before flowering.
Culinary:
Medicinal: A strongly aromatic, bitter herb that improves digestion and liver function, encourages menstrual flow and stimulates the uterus, lowers fever, relaxes spasms, and destroys intestinal worms. Leaves are used in sachets and powders to repel moths and fleas.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted 2008, driveway near NE corner of house
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Brassica Juncea
AKA: Magna Mustard, Osaka Purple Mustard, Bau Sin Mustard, Crispifolia (Mizuna).
Planting: Rich well drained soil in full sun, hardy self seeding annual, 3’-4’.
Harvest: Leaves and flowers are picked when young and used fresh.
Culinary: Young leaves are eaten raw, pickled or cooked as vegetable. Seeds are ground and used as mustard! Sprouted seeds are added to salads.
Medicinal: A warming stimulant herb with antibiotic effects.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in C8, garden, F2
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich well drained soil in full sun, hardy self seeding annual, 3’-4’.
Harvest: Leaves and flowers are picked when young and used fresh.
Culinary: Young leaves are eaten raw, pickled or cooked as vegetable. Seeds are ground and used as mustard! Sprouted seeds are added to salads.
Medicinal: A warming stimulant herb with antibiotic effects.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in C8, garden, F2
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Chrysanthemum Coronarium
AKA: Edible Chrysanthemum, Garland chrysanthemum, Leucanthemum coronarium, Chrysanthemum Greens.
Planting: Rich well drained soil in sunny sheltered spot, half hardy reseeding annual, 3’-4’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Harvest: Leaves are picked as needed, flowers gathered when fully open.
Culinary: Leaves are used for tea, or made into fritters. Flowers are cooked or pickled, Petals are used to make tea or to flavour China tea. Flowers and petals are added to soup. Used fresh or dried.
Medicinal: A bitter aromatic herb that lowers fevers, soothes inflammation, dilates the coronary artery (increasing blood flow to the heart) and inhibits the growth of pathogens. Used internally for hypertension, coronary artery disease, angina, feverish colds, and liver-related disorder.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in F8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich well drained soil in sunny sheltered spot, half hardy reseeding annual, 3’-4’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Harvest: Leaves are picked as needed, flowers gathered when fully open.
Culinary: Leaves are used for tea, or made into fritters. Flowers are cooked or pickled, Petals are used to make tea or to flavour China tea. Flowers and petals are added to soup. Used fresh or dried.
Medicinal: A bitter aromatic herb that lowers fevers, soothes inflammation, dilates the coronary artery (increasing blood flow to the heart) and inhibits the growth of pathogens. Used internally for hypertension, coronary artery disease, angina, feverish colds, and liver-related disorder.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in F8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Tilia Cordata
AKA: Small-Leafed Linden, Small-Leafed Lime
Planting: Moist well drained soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy perennial tree, 50’.
Harvest: Flowers are picked in summer and dried for infusions. Lime flowers develop narcotic properties as they age and should only be collected when first opened.
Culinary: Dried flowers infused for tea.
Medicinal: An aromatic mucilaginous herb that is diuretic and expectorant, calms the nerves, lowers blood pressure, increases perspiration, and improves digestion. Used internally for hypertension, arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular and digestive complaints associated with anxiety, urinary infrections, feverish colds, flue.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplant spring 2009 in A7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist well drained soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy perennial tree, 50’.
Harvest: Flowers are picked in summer and dried for infusions. Lime flowers develop narcotic properties as they age and should only be collected when first opened.
Culinary: Dried flowers infused for tea.
Medicinal: An aromatic mucilaginous herb that is diuretic and expectorant, calms the nerves, lowers blood pressure, increases perspiration, and improves digestion. Used internally for hypertension, arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular and digestive complaints associated with anxiety, urinary infrections, feverish colds, flue.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplant spring 2009 in A7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Cynara Cardunculus
AKA: Cardoon, Globe artichoke
Planting: Deep rich well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 4’.
Harvest: Leaves are cut just before flowering, and roots are harvested in winter, for use fresh or dried in extracts.
Culinary: Unopened flower heads are boiled and the fleshy bases are eaten hot, with sauce. Hearts are baked, fried or marinated. Baby artichokes are eaten whole. Young leafstalks, known as artichoke chard, are blanched and eaten as a vegetable (remove the spines first).
Medicinal: A bitter, slightly salty herb that detoxifies and regenerates liver tissues, stimulates the gall bladder, and reduces blood lipids, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Deep rich well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 4’.
Harvest: Leaves are cut just before flowering, and roots are harvested in winter, for use fresh or dried in extracts.
Culinary: Unopened flower heads are boiled and the fleshy bases are eaten hot, with sauce. Hearts are baked, fried or marinated. Baby artichokes are eaten whole. Young leafstalks, known as artichoke chard, are blanched and eaten as a vegetable (remove the spines first).
Medicinal: A bitter, slightly salty herb that detoxifies and regenerates liver tissues, stimulates the gall bladder, and reduces blood lipids, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Friday, May 1, 2009
Alliaria Petiolata
AKA: Garlic Mustard, Hedge Garlic, Jack-by-the-hedge
Planting: Moist soil in sun or shade, fully hardy biennial, 1’-4’.
Harvest: Leaves and stems are cut before flowering for use fresh as a juice, and fresh or dried as an infusion or poultice.
Culinary: Young leaves add a mild garlic flavour to salads, sandwiches, and soups. Traditionally made into a sauce with mint leaves as a sauce for lamb or mutton (England).
Medicinal: A pungent stimulant herb that clears infection, encourages healing, and is expectorant and anti-inflammatory.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in A8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist soil in sun or shade, fully hardy biennial, 1’-4’.
Harvest: Leaves and stems are cut before flowering for use fresh as a juice, and fresh or dried as an infusion or poultice.
Culinary: Young leaves add a mild garlic flavour to salads, sandwiches, and soups. Traditionally made into a sauce with mint leaves as a sauce for lamb or mutton (England).
Medicinal: A pungent stimulant herb that clears infection, encourages healing, and is expectorant and anti-inflammatory.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in A8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Clematis Virginiana
AKA: Clematis (Virgin’s Bower)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, with roots in shade, fully hardy perennial or annual, climber.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/varies by variety.
Harvest: Roots are lifted in autumn and used in decoctions.
Medicinal: A pungent warming herb that has painkilling, sedative, and diuretic effects, lowering fever and relieving spasms.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, with roots in shade, fully hardy perennial or annual, climber.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/varies by variety.
Harvest: Roots are lifted in autumn and used in decoctions.
Medicinal: A pungent warming herb that has painkilling, sedative, and diuretic effects, lowering fever and relieving spasms.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Angelica Sinensis
AKA: Chinese Angelica, Dong Quai, syn. Angelica Polymorpha
Planting: Rich moist soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy, self-sowing perennial, 2’-5’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Medicinal: Roots (dong quai) are used internally for female reproductive system and liver. Probably the most important Chinese tonic after ginseng.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in F1
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich moist soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy, self-sowing perennial, 2’-5’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Medicinal: Roots (dong quai) are used internally for female reproductive system and liver. Probably the most important Chinese tonic after ginseng.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in F1
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Levisticum Officinale
AKA: Lovage
Planting: Deep, rich moist soil in sun or partial shade. Fully hardy perennial, 6”.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Perennial
Harvest: Leaves are picked before flowering and dried for use in infusions. Stems are cut in spring, when tender and succulent. Roots are lifted in the third year and used fresh, or dried for decoctions, liquid extracts, tinctures, and oil. Seeds are collected when ripe and dried for use in decoctions.
Culinary: Dried leaves are made into herb tea; young shoots and leafstalks are blanched and eaten as a vegetable. Seeds are added to soups, bread, and biscuits. Leaves are added to salads, soups, stews, and savory dishes.
Medicinal: A bitter sweet sedative herb, pungently aromatic, that benefits the digestion, relaxes spasms, increases perspiration and acts as a diuretic and expectorant. Used internally for indigestion, colic, flatulence, poor appetite, and more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2008 in A4; Spring 2009 in F6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Deep, rich moist soil in sun or partial shade. Fully hardy perennial, 6”.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Perennial
Harvest: Leaves are picked before flowering and dried for use in infusions. Stems are cut in spring, when tender and succulent. Roots are lifted in the third year and used fresh, or dried for decoctions, liquid extracts, tinctures, and oil. Seeds are collected when ripe and dried for use in decoctions.
Culinary: Dried leaves are made into herb tea; young shoots and leafstalks are blanched and eaten as a vegetable. Seeds are added to soups, bread, and biscuits. Leaves are added to salads, soups, stews, and savory dishes.
Medicinal: A bitter sweet sedative herb, pungently aromatic, that benefits the digestion, relaxes spasms, increases perspiration and acts as a diuretic and expectorant. Used internally for indigestion, colic, flatulence, poor appetite, and more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2008 in A4; Spring 2009 in F6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Tropaeolum Majus
AKA: Nasturtium (Jewels)
Planting: Well drained moist soil in sun, self sowing half hardy annual, 9”-10’, depending on species!
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/self sowing
Harvest: All parts are picked in summer used fresh for infusions and tinctures.
Culinary: Leaves, flowers, flower buds, nectar spurs are eaten in salads. Chopped fresh leaves give a peppery flavour, flowers are used to make vinegar.
Medicinal: A bitter, antiseptic tonic herb that has diuretic and expectorant effects, and controls fungal and bacterial infections. Used internally for genito-urinary and respiratory infections, scurvy, and poor skin or hair conditions.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in F8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained moist soil in sun, self sowing half hardy annual, 9”-10’, depending on species!
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/self sowing
Harvest: All parts are picked in summer used fresh for infusions and tinctures.
Culinary: Leaves, flowers, flower buds, nectar spurs are eaten in salads. Chopped fresh leaves give a peppery flavour, flowers are used to make vinegar.
Medicinal: A bitter, antiseptic tonic herb that has diuretic and expectorant effects, and controls fungal and bacterial infections. Used internally for genito-urinary and respiratory infections, scurvy, and poor skin or hair conditions.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in F8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Galium Aparine
AKA: Cleavers, Goosegrass
Planting: Moist well-drained soil in shade, hardy annual self seeding, 4’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Harvest: Whole plant and seeds harvested when flowering and dried for infusions, extracts, and tablets.
Culinary: Eaten as a vegetable or added to soups, with reputed slimming effects. Dried seeds are roasted as a coffee substitute.
Medicinal: Herb has mild laxative, diuretic and astringent effects. It lowers blood pressure, promotes healing, and is alterative.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in A4
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist well-drained soil in shade, hardy annual self seeding, 4’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Harvest: Whole plant and seeds harvested when flowering and dried for infusions, extracts, and tablets.
Culinary: Eaten as a vegetable or added to soups, with reputed slimming effects. Dried seeds are roasted as a coffee substitute.
Medicinal: Herb has mild laxative, diuretic and astringent effects. It lowers blood pressure, promotes healing, and is alterative.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in A4
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Daucus Carota
AKA: Queen Anne’s Lace, wild carrot, bird's nest, bishop's lace
Planting: Well drained fertile soil in sun or partial shade, self seeding biennial, fully hardy, 1’-2’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Harvest: Whole plant is cut in summer and dried for use in infusions and extracts.
Culinary: Fresh roots are eaten raw in salads, cooked as a vegetable
Medicinal: An aromatic herb that acts as a diuretic, soothes the digestive tract, and stimulates the uterus. A rich source of antioxidants. Used internally for urinary stones, cystitis, gout and much more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009, 7F
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained fertile soil in sun or partial shade, self seeding biennial, fully hardy, 1’-2’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Harvest: Whole plant is cut in summer and dried for use in infusions and extracts.
Culinary: Fresh roots are eaten raw in salads, cooked as a vegetable
Medicinal: An aromatic herb that acts as a diuretic, soothes the digestive tract, and stimulates the uterus. A rich source of antioxidants. Used internally for urinary stones, cystitis, gout and much more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009, 7F
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Daucus Carota Sativus
AKA: Carrot (Scarlet Keeper, Oxheart)
Planting: Well drained fertile soil in sun or partial shade, self seeding biennial, fully hardy, 1’-2’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Harvest: Whole plant is cut in summer and dried for use in infusions and extracts.
Culinary: Fresh roots are eaten raw in salads, cooked as a vegetable
Medicinal: An aromatic herb that acts as a diuretic, soothes the digestive tract, and stimulates the uterus. A rich source of antioxidants. Used internally for urinary stones, cystitis, gout and much more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009, B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained fertile soil in sun or partial shade, self seeding biennial, fully hardy, 1’-2’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Self-sowing
Harvest: Whole plant is cut in summer and dried for use in infusions and extracts.
Culinary: Fresh roots are eaten raw in salads, cooked as a vegetable
Medicinal: An aromatic herb that acts as a diuretic, soothes the digestive tract, and stimulates the uterus. A rich source of antioxidants. Used internally for urinary stones, cystitis, gout and much more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009, B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Galium Odoratum
AKA: Sweet Woodruff
Planting: Moist well drained neutral to alkaline soil in shade, fully hardy perennial, 4’.
Harvest: Plants are cut when flowering and dried for infusions, extracts, and tablets.
Culinary: Sprigs are soaked in white wine to make Maitrank or Maibowle (Alsace), and added to fruit cups.
Medicinal: An astringent, slightly bitter herb , aromatic when dried, with tonic, diuretic, and sedative effects. It improves liver function, relaxes spasms, strengthens capillaries, and reduces blood clotting. Used internally for thrombo-phlebitis, varicose veins, hepatitis, jaundice.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 Transplanted to North of trash house
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist well drained neutral to alkaline soil in shade, fully hardy perennial, 4’.
Harvest: Plants are cut when flowering and dried for infusions, extracts, and tablets.
Culinary: Sprigs are soaked in white wine to make Maitrank or Maibowle (Alsace), and added to fruit cups.
Medicinal: An astringent, slightly bitter herb , aromatic when dried, with tonic, diuretic, and sedative effects. It improves liver function, relaxes spasms, strengthens capillaries, and reduces blood clotting. Used internally for thrombo-phlebitis, varicose veins, hepatitis, jaundice.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 Transplanted to North of trash house
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Cymbopogon Citratus
AKA: Lemon Grass
Planting: Well drained soil in sun with humidity, minimum 45 degrees perennial, 5’.
Harvest: Stems are cut at ground level and used fresh for oil extraction, dried for powder, and either fresh or dried for infusions. The leaf blades may be removed and the lower 3-4” used as a fresh herb.
Culinary: Leaves are used as a flavoring herb, and infused for tea.
Medicinal: A bitter, aromatic cooling herb that increases perspiration and relieves spasms. Also has a sedative action and is effective against fungal and bacterial infections. Used internally for digestive problems. used externally for ringworm, lice, athlete’s foot, arthritis, and scabies.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted to pot Spring 2009.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun with humidity, minimum 45 degrees perennial, 5’.
Harvest: Stems are cut at ground level and used fresh for oil extraction, dried for powder, and either fresh or dried for infusions. The leaf blades may be removed and the lower 3-4” used as a fresh herb.
Culinary: Leaves are used as a flavoring herb, and infused for tea.
Medicinal: A bitter, aromatic cooling herb that increases perspiration and relieves spasms. Also has a sedative action and is effective against fungal and bacterial infections. Used internally for digestive problems. used externally for ringworm, lice, athlete’s foot, arthritis, and scabies.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted to pot Spring 2009.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Monday, April 27, 2009
Eleuthero
AKA: Eleuthero, Siberian Ginseng, syn. Acanthopanax Senticosus
Planting: Well drained rich moist soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy deciduous suckering shrub, 8’-22’.
Harvest: Roots are lifted in autumn and dried whole or decorticated. Both roots and root bark are used in decoctions, powders, tablets, teas, and tinctures.
Culinary: Young leaves are cooked as a pot-herb or dried for making tea.
Medicinal: An adaptogen, belonging to the same family as true ginsengs, but differs in the form of its saponin glycosides, which are eleutherosides, rather than ginsenosides. A pungenta, bitter sweet warming herb that stimulates the immune and circulatory systems, regulates blood pressure, lowers blood sugar, and reduces inflammation. It is adaptogenic, having a tonic effect on all organs. Do not use with caffeine.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2008, in B1
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained rich moist soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy deciduous suckering shrub, 8’-22’.
Harvest: Roots are lifted in autumn and dried whole or decorticated. Both roots and root bark are used in decoctions, powders, tablets, teas, and tinctures.
Culinary: Young leaves are cooked as a pot-herb or dried for making tea.
Medicinal: An adaptogen, belonging to the same family as true ginsengs, but differs in the form of its saponin glycosides, which are eleutherosides, rather than ginsenosides. A pungenta, bitter sweet warming herb that stimulates the immune and circulatory systems, regulates blood pressure, lowers blood sugar, and reduces inflammation. It is adaptogenic, having a tonic effect on all organs. Do not use with caffeine.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: 2008, in B1
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Hippophae Rhamnoides
AKA: Sea Buckthorn, Tsarap
Planting: Well drained sandy soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 4’-5’. Plant one male fore every eight females, spacing 4-6’ apart. A resilient, ornamental, thorny shrub, great for hedging, windbreaks, and soil stabilization especially in coastal areas.
Harvest: Fruits are picked when rip and used whole, juiced, in decoctions, or for oil extraction.
Culinary: Fruits are eaten with cheese in East Europe, and made into marmalade, jelly, syrup and sauces.
Medicinal: A sour astringent herb with a high vitamin A and C content. Used internally as a tonic to increase resistance to infection., Used externally for skin problems.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplant in 2009, SW corner in front of hydrangea
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained sandy soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 4’-5’. Plant one male fore every eight females, spacing 4-6’ apart. A resilient, ornamental, thorny shrub, great for hedging, windbreaks, and soil stabilization especially in coastal areas.
Harvest: Fruits are picked when rip and used whole, juiced, in decoctions, or for oil extraction.
Culinary: Fruits are eaten with cheese in East Europe, and made into marmalade, jelly, syrup and sauces.
Medicinal: A sour astringent herb with a high vitamin A and C content. Used internally as a tonic to increase resistance to infection., Used externally for skin problems.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplant in 2009, SW corner in front of hydrangea
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Ficus
AKA: Fig (Hardy)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial tree. Most figs are self fertile, F. Carica is not. Good container plant as roots spread only about 1 square yard.
Harvest: Fruits harvested when ripe. Leaves and sap also used.
Culinary: Fruits eaten raw or stewed.
Medicinal: A sweet laxative herb that soothes irritated tissues. Used internally for constipation, sore throat, cough bronchial infections, and inflammation of the trachea. Used externally for haemorrhoids, sore eyes, corns, and warts.(sap). However, sap is a serious eye irritant.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplant in 2009, to NE corner of pool.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial tree. Most figs are self fertile, F. Carica is not. Good container plant as roots spread only about 1 square yard.
Harvest: Fruits harvested when ripe. Leaves and sap also used.
Culinary: Fruits eaten raw or stewed.
Medicinal: A sweet laxative herb that soothes irritated tissues. Used internally for constipation, sore throat, cough bronchial infections, and inflammation of the trachea. Used externally for haemorrhoids, sore eyes, corns, and warts.(sap). However, sap is a serious eye irritant.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplant in 2009, to NE corner of pool.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Primula
AKA: Primrose
Planting: Moist, well drained soil in sun or shade, fully hardy perennial, 10”.
Harvest: Flowers and whole plant picked as needed, roots are lifted in autumn.
Culinary: Flowers and young leaves are added to salads . Flowers are used to make desserts, such as primrose pottage, based on ground rice flavoured with saffron, honey, and almonds.
Medicinal: An expectorant, anti inflammatory herb that relieves pain, relaxes spasms, and promotes healing. Used internally for bronchitis, respiratory tract infections, insomnia, anxiety, and gout.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Live transplant spring 2009, East of mudroom
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist, well drained soil in sun or shade, fully hardy perennial, 10”.
Harvest: Flowers and whole plant picked as needed, roots are lifted in autumn.
Culinary: Flowers and young leaves are added to salads . Flowers are used to make desserts, such as primrose pottage, based on ground rice flavoured with saffron, honey, and almonds.
Medicinal: An expectorant, anti inflammatory herb that relieves pain, relaxes spasms, and promotes healing. Used internally for bronchitis, respiratory tract infections, insomnia, anxiety, and gout.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Live transplant spring 2009, East of mudroom
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Anacyclus Depressus
AKA: Mount Atlas Daisy
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, frost hardy perennial, 3”.
Harvest: Roots are lifted in autumn, then dried and powdered
Medicinal: Used externally for toothache, facial neuralgia, and chronic catarrh.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Live transplant spring 2009, near mailbox
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, frost hardy perennial, 3”.
Harvest: Roots are lifted in autumn, then dried and powdered
Medicinal: Used externally for toothache, facial neuralgia, and chronic catarrh.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Live transplant spring 2009, near mailbox
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Solanum Tuberosum
AKA: Potato (All Blue, Yukon Gold, Banana Fingerling, Red Sangre)
Planting: Moist well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 18". Plant in early spring. Dig a trench 3-4" mounding the earth on the sides. Cut tubers so that there is 2-3 eyes in each piece, and place them in the trench about 6" apart. Cover with about 1" of soil. As the greens emerge, continue to cover with soil.
Harvest: Potatoes are ready for harvesting when the green tops die back. They can be left in the ground and dug as needed until before the ground freezes. Store in paper bags in the cellar.
Culinary: Any which way.
Medicinal: See below.
Nutrition: Nutritionally, potatoes are best known for their carbohydrate content (approximately 26 grams in a medium potato). The predominant form of this carbohydrate is starch. A small but significant portion of this starch is resistant to digestion by enzymes in the stomach and small intestine, and so reaches the large intestine essentially intact. This resistant starch is considered to have similar physiological effects and health benefits as fiber: it provides bulk, offers protection against colon cancer, improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, lowers plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations, increases satiety, and possibly even reduces fat storage (Cummings et al. 1996; Hylla et al. 1998; Raban et al. 1994). The amount of resistant starch in potatoes depends much on preparation methods. Cooking and then cooling potatoes significantly increases resistant starch. For example, cooked potato starch contains about 7% resistant starch, which increases to about 13% upon cooling (Englyst et al. 1992).
Potatoes contain vitamins and minerals that have been identified as vital to human nutrition. Humans can subsist healthily on a diet of potatoes and milk; the latter supplies Vitamin A and Vitamin D.[22]A medium potato (150g/5.3 oz) with the skin provides 27 mg of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value (DV)), 620 mg of potassium (18% of DV), 0.2 mg vitamin B6 (10% of DV) and trace amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, folate, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. Moreover, the fiber content of a potato with skin (2 grams) equals that of many whole grain breads, pastas, and cereals. Potatoes also contain an assortment of phytochemicals, such as carotenoids and polyphenols. The notion that "all of the potato's nutrients" are found in the skin is an urban legend. While the skin does contain approximately half of the total dietary fiber, more than 50% of the nutrients are found within the potato itself. The cooking method used can significantly impact the nutrient availability of the potato.
Almost all the protein content of a potato is contained in a thin layer just under its skin.[citation needed] This is evident when the skin of a boiled potato is carefully peeled; it appears as a yellowish film. For maximum utilisation of this small, but valuable dietary source of protein, potatoes should be consumed whole, or peeled after cooking.
Potatoes are often broadly classified as high on the glycemic index (GI) and so are often excluded from the diets of individuals trying to follow a "low GI" eating regimen. In fact, the GI of potatoes can vary considerably depending on type (such as red, russet, white, or Prince Edward), origin (where it was grown), preparation methods (i.e., cooking method, whether it is eaten hot or cold, whether it is mashed or cubed or consumed whole, etc), and with what it is consumed (i.e., the addition of various high fat or high protein toppings) (Fernandes et al. 2006). (Source: Wiki)
Toxicity: Potatoes contain glycoalkaloids, toxic compounds, of which the most prevalent are solanine and chaconine. Solanine is also found in other plants, mainly in the mostly deadly nightshade family, which includes a minority of edible plants including the potato and the tomato, and other typically more dangerous plants like tobacco. This poison affects the nervous system causing weakness and confusion.
These compounds, which protect the plant from its predators, are generally concentrated in its leaves, stems, sprouts, and fruits.[31] Exposure to light, physical damage, and age increase glycoalkaloid content within the tuber;[32] the highest concentrations occur just underneath the skin. Cooking at high temperatures (over 170 °C or 340 °F) partly destroys these. The concentration of glycoalkaloid in wild potatoes suffices to produce toxic effects in humans. Glycoalkaloids may cause headaches, diarrhea, cramps and in severe cases coma and death; however, poisoning from potatoes occurs very rarely. Light exposure causes greening(chlorophyll synthesis), thus giving a visual clue as to areas of the tuber that may have become more toxic; however, this does not provide a definitive guide, as greening and glycoalkaloid accumulation can occur independently of each other. Some varieties of potato contain greater glycoalkaloid concentrations than others; breeders developing new varieties test for this, and sometimes have to discard an otherwise promising cultivar.
The toxic fruits produced by mature potato plants
Breeders try to keep solanine levels below 200 mg/kg (200 ppmw). However, when these commercial varieties turn green, even they can approach concentrations of solanine of 1000 mg/kg (1000 ppmw). In normal potatoes, analysis has shown solanine levels may be as little as 3.5% of the breeders' maximum, with 7–187 mg/kg being found.[33]
The US National Toxicology Program suggests that the average American consumes at most 12.5 mg/day of solanine from potatoes (the toxic dose is actually several times this, depending on body weight). Dr. Douglas L. Holt, the State Extension Specialist for Food Safety at the University of Missouri, notes that no reported cases of potato-source solanine poisoning have occurred in the U.S. in the last 50 years and most cases involved eating green potatoes or drinking potato-leaf tea. (Source:Wiki)
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Tubers planted Spring 2009, 3 patches in garden
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 18". Plant in early spring. Dig a trench 3-4" mounding the earth on the sides. Cut tubers so that there is 2-3 eyes in each piece, and place them in the trench about 6" apart. Cover with about 1" of soil. As the greens emerge, continue to cover with soil.
Harvest: Potatoes are ready for harvesting when the green tops die back. They can be left in the ground and dug as needed until before the ground freezes. Store in paper bags in the cellar.
Culinary: Any which way.
Medicinal: See below.
Nutrition: Nutritionally, potatoes are best known for their carbohydrate content (approximately 26 grams in a medium potato). The predominant form of this carbohydrate is starch. A small but significant portion of this starch is resistant to digestion by enzymes in the stomach and small intestine, and so reaches the large intestine essentially intact. This resistant starch is considered to have similar physiological effects and health benefits as fiber: it provides bulk, offers protection against colon cancer, improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, lowers plasma cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations, increases satiety, and possibly even reduces fat storage (Cummings et al. 1996; Hylla et al. 1998; Raban et al. 1994). The amount of resistant starch in potatoes depends much on preparation methods. Cooking and then cooling potatoes significantly increases resistant starch. For example, cooked potato starch contains about 7% resistant starch, which increases to about 13% upon cooling (Englyst et al. 1992).
Potatoes contain vitamins and minerals that have been identified as vital to human nutrition. Humans can subsist healthily on a diet of potatoes and milk; the latter supplies Vitamin A and Vitamin D.[22]A medium potato (150g/5.3 oz) with the skin provides 27 mg of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value (DV)), 620 mg of potassium (18% of DV), 0.2 mg vitamin B6 (10% of DV) and trace amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, folate, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. Moreover, the fiber content of a potato with skin (2 grams) equals that of many whole grain breads, pastas, and cereals. Potatoes also contain an assortment of phytochemicals, such as carotenoids and polyphenols. The notion that "all of the potato's nutrients" are found in the skin is an urban legend. While the skin does contain approximately half of the total dietary fiber, more than 50% of the nutrients are found within the potato itself. The cooking method used can significantly impact the nutrient availability of the potato.
Almost all the protein content of a potato is contained in a thin layer just under its skin.[citation needed] This is evident when the skin of a boiled potato is carefully peeled; it appears as a yellowish film. For maximum utilisation of this small, but valuable dietary source of protein, potatoes should be consumed whole, or peeled after cooking.
Potatoes are often broadly classified as high on the glycemic index (GI) and so are often excluded from the diets of individuals trying to follow a "low GI" eating regimen. In fact, the GI of potatoes can vary considerably depending on type (such as red, russet, white, or Prince Edward), origin (where it was grown), preparation methods (i.e., cooking method, whether it is eaten hot or cold, whether it is mashed or cubed or consumed whole, etc), and with what it is consumed (i.e., the addition of various high fat or high protein toppings) (Fernandes et al. 2006). (Source: Wiki)
Toxicity: Potatoes contain glycoalkaloids, toxic compounds, of which the most prevalent are solanine and chaconine. Solanine is also found in other plants, mainly in the mostly deadly nightshade family, which includes a minority of edible plants including the potato and the tomato, and other typically more dangerous plants like tobacco. This poison affects the nervous system causing weakness and confusion.
These compounds, which protect the plant from its predators, are generally concentrated in its leaves, stems, sprouts, and fruits.[31] Exposure to light, physical damage, and age increase glycoalkaloid content within the tuber;[32] the highest concentrations occur just underneath the skin. Cooking at high temperatures (over 170 °C or 340 °F) partly destroys these. The concentration of glycoalkaloid in wild potatoes suffices to produce toxic effects in humans. Glycoalkaloids may cause headaches, diarrhea, cramps and in severe cases coma and death; however, poisoning from potatoes occurs very rarely. Light exposure causes greening(chlorophyll synthesis), thus giving a visual clue as to areas of the tuber that may have become more toxic; however, this does not provide a definitive guide, as greening and glycoalkaloid accumulation can occur independently of each other. Some varieties of potato contain greater glycoalkaloid concentrations than others; breeders developing new varieties test for this, and sometimes have to discard an otherwise promising cultivar.
The toxic fruits produced by mature potato plants
Breeders try to keep solanine levels below 200 mg/kg (200 ppmw). However, when these commercial varieties turn green, even they can approach concentrations of solanine of 1000 mg/kg (1000 ppmw). In normal potatoes, analysis has shown solanine levels may be as little as 3.5% of the breeders' maximum, with 7–187 mg/kg being found.[33]
The US National Toxicology Program suggests that the average American consumes at most 12.5 mg/day of solanine from potatoes (the toxic dose is actually several times this, depending on body weight). Dr. Douglas L. Holt, the State Extension Specialist for Food Safety at the University of Missouri, notes that no reported cases of potato-source solanine poisoning have occurred in the U.S. in the last 50 years and most cases involved eating green potatoes or drinking potato-leaf tea. (Source:Wiki)
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Tubers planted Spring 2009, 3 patches in garden
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
AKA: Milk Thistle, Blessed Thistle
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy annual or biennial, 4-5’.
Harvest: As a vegetable, young leaves, flower buds, and roots are harvested when tender and used fresh. For medicinal use, plants are cut when flowering and seeds are collected when ripe. All parts are dried for use in infusions and tinctures, or for extraction of silymarin.
Culinary: Young leaves, with spines removed, are eaten raw or cooked as a spinach like vegetable. Flower buds can be eaten like mini artichokes. Tender roots of first year plants are similar to salsify.
Medicinal: A bitter, diuretic, tonic herb that regenerates liver cels, stimulates bile flow, increases milk production, and relaxes spasm. Used internally for liver and gall bladder diseases, jaundice, hepatitis, liver damage, cirrhosis, and poisoning (especially by alcohol, drugs, and chemicals), It also minimizes side effects from cancer chemotherapy.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Fall 2008 in A2, E6; transplanted spring 2009 in B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy annual or biennial, 4-5’.
Harvest: As a vegetable, young leaves, flower buds, and roots are harvested when tender and used fresh. For medicinal use, plants are cut when flowering and seeds are collected when ripe. All parts are dried for use in infusions and tinctures, or for extraction of silymarin.
Culinary: Young leaves, with spines removed, are eaten raw or cooked as a spinach like vegetable. Flower buds can be eaten like mini artichokes. Tender roots of first year plants are similar to salsify.
Medicinal: A bitter, diuretic, tonic herb that regenerates liver cels, stimulates bile flow, increases milk production, and relaxes spasm. Used internally for liver and gall bladder diseases, jaundice, hepatitis, liver damage, cirrhosis, and poisoning (especially by alcohol, drugs, and chemicals), It also minimizes side effects from cancer chemotherapy.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Fall 2008 in A2, E6; transplanted spring 2009 in B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
AKA: Myrtle
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, hardy perennial, 5’ bush.
Harvest: Plants are cut with or without flowers and distilled for oil. Leaves are picked as required and used fresh, or dried for us in infusions. Flower buds are picked before opening and dried. Fruits are collected when ripe and dried for use whole or ground.
Culinary: Leaves, flowers, buds, and fruits are used to flavor dishes of port, lamb, and small birds, sauces, and liqueurs. Oil is used in soups, skin care products, and perfumery, and as a food flavoring.
Medicinal: An aromatic astringent herb that is antiseptic and an effective decongestant. Used internally for UTIs bronchial congestion, sinusitis, and dry coughs. Used externally for acne, gum infections, and hemorrhoids.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted Spring 2009
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, hardy perennial, 5’ bush.
Harvest: Plants are cut with or without flowers and distilled for oil. Leaves are picked as required and used fresh, or dried for us in infusions. Flower buds are picked before opening and dried. Fruits are collected when ripe and dried for use whole or ground.
Culinary: Leaves, flowers, buds, and fruits are used to flavor dishes of port, lamb, and small birds, sauces, and liqueurs. Oil is used in soups, skin care products, and perfumery, and as a food flavoring.
Medicinal: An aromatic astringent herb that is antiseptic and an effective decongestant. Used internally for UTIs bronchial congestion, sinusitis, and dry coughs. Used externally for acne, gum infections, and hemorrhoids.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted Spring 2009
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Leuzea Rhapontica
AKA: Maral Root, Leuzea Carthamoides, Rhaponticum Carthamoides
Planting: Rich moist soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 2’-3’.
Harvest:
Medicinal: An adaptogen which has traditionally used for fatigue, impotence, and recovery from long illness.
Research indicates that maral root may have a beneficial effect on impotence, memory and learning, increasing working capacity of tired skeletal muscles, as well as anabolic and adaptogenic processes.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in A5
Links: Wiki
Sources:
Planting: Rich moist soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 2’-3’.
Harvest:
Medicinal: An adaptogen which has traditionally used for fatigue, impotence, and recovery from long illness.
Research indicates that maral root may have a beneficial effect on impotence, memory and learning, increasing working capacity of tired skeletal muscles, as well as anabolic and adaptogenic processes.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in A5
Links: Wiki
Sources:
Coriandrus
AKA: Coriander, Cilantro, Chinese Parsley
Planting: Well drained fertile soil in sun, hardy annual, 1’-2’. Plants grown for leaves are more productive if grown in partial shade, as it tends to bolt if too dry or overcrowded.
Harvest: Leaves are gathered when young and used fresh. Seeds are harvested when ripe and are used whole or ground for culinary purposes. Roots, leaves, seeds and oil are used.
Culinary: Roots are used in Thai cuisine. Leaves and leafstalks are used to flavour soups, salads, beans, and curries.
Medicinal: . Leaves and seeds are rich in volatile oils that act mainly on the digestive system, stimulating the appetites, and relieving irritation. They are also expectorant. Oil is fungicidal and bactericidal. Used internally for minor digestive problems. Used externally for hemorrhoids and painful joints (seeds).
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in E3
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained fertile soil in sun, hardy annual, 1’-2’. Plants grown for leaves are more productive if grown in partial shade, as it tends to bolt if too dry or overcrowded.
Harvest: Leaves are gathered when young and used fresh. Seeds are harvested when ripe and are used whole or ground for culinary purposes. Roots, leaves, seeds and oil are used.
Culinary: Roots are used in Thai cuisine. Leaves and leafstalks are used to flavour soups, salads, beans, and curries.
Medicinal: . Leaves and seeds are rich in volatile oils that act mainly on the digestive system, stimulating the appetites, and relieving irritation. They are also expectorant. Oil is fungicidal and bactericidal. Used internally for minor digestive problems. Used externally for hemorrhoids and painful joints (seeds).
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in E3
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Abelmoschus Esculentus
AKA: Okra (Star of David)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, 40 degree annual, 3’-6”. In the Hibiscus family. Save seed.
Harvest: Fruits are harvested when immature and eaten as a vegetable. Leaves eaten raw or cooked.
Culinary: Fruits are harvested when immature and eaten as a vegetable. Leaves eaten raw or cooked. The products of the plant are mucilaginous, resulting in the characteristic "goo" when the seed pods are cooked. In order to avoid this effect, okra pods are often stir fried, so the moisture is cooked away, or paired with slightly acidic ingredients, such as citrus or tomatoes. The cooked leaves are also a powerful soup thickener. To retain most of okra's nutrients and self-digesting enzymes, it should be cooked as little as possible, e.g. with low heat or lightly steamed. Some eat it raw.
Medicinal: The superior fiber found in okra helps to stabilize blood sugar by curbing the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract. Okra's mucilage binds cholesterol and bile acid carrying toxins dumped into it by the filtering liver. Okra helps lubricate the large intestines due to its bulk laxative qualities. The okra fiber absorbs water and ensures bulk in stools. This helps prevent and improve constipation. Unlike harsh wheat bran, which can irritate or injure the intestinal tract, okra's mucilage soothes, and okra facilitates elimination more comfortably by its slippery characteristic. Okra binds excess cholesterol and toxins (in bile acids). These, if not evacuated, will cause numerous health problems. Okra also assures easy passage out of waste from the body. Okra is completely non-toxic, non-habit forming, has no adverse side effects, is full of nutrients, and is economically within reach of most unlike the OTC drugs. Okra fiber is excellent for feeding the good bacteria (probiotics). This contributes to the health of the intestinal tract.
Okra is a supreme vegetable for those feeling weak, exhausted, and suffering from depression.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
Holisticonline.com
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, 40 degree annual, 3’-6”. In the Hibiscus family. Save seed.
Harvest: Fruits are harvested when immature and eaten as a vegetable. Leaves eaten raw or cooked.
Culinary: Fruits are harvested when immature and eaten as a vegetable. Leaves eaten raw or cooked. The products of the plant are mucilaginous, resulting in the characteristic "goo" when the seed pods are cooked. In order to avoid this effect, okra pods are often stir fried, so the moisture is cooked away, or paired with slightly acidic ingredients, such as citrus or tomatoes. The cooked leaves are also a powerful soup thickener. To retain most of okra's nutrients and self-digesting enzymes, it should be cooked as little as possible, e.g. with low heat or lightly steamed. Some eat it raw.
Medicinal: The superior fiber found in okra helps to stabilize blood sugar by curbing the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract. Okra's mucilage binds cholesterol and bile acid carrying toxins dumped into it by the filtering liver. Okra helps lubricate the large intestines due to its bulk laxative qualities. The okra fiber absorbs water and ensures bulk in stools. This helps prevent and improve constipation. Unlike harsh wheat bran, which can irritate or injure the intestinal tract, okra's mucilage soothes, and okra facilitates elimination more comfortably by its slippery characteristic. Okra binds excess cholesterol and toxins (in bile acids). These, if not evacuated, will cause numerous health problems. Okra also assures easy passage out of waste from the body. Okra is completely non-toxic, non-habit forming, has no adverse side effects, is full of nutrients, and is economically within reach of most unlike the OTC drugs. Okra fiber is excellent for feeding the good bacteria (probiotics). This contributes to the health of the intestinal tract.
Okra is a supreme vegetable for those feeling weak, exhausted, and suffering from depression.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
Holisticonline.com
Satureja Montana
AKA: Savory, Winter
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 9” high, spreads wide.
Harvest: Leaves and shoots as needed.
Culinary: Leaves are used as seasoning. Used to flavor legumes, sausages, meat stuffings, and marinades (especially for olives). An ingredient in “Herbes de Provence”. Has a more pungent flavor than S. Hortensis (summer savory)
Medicinal: An antiseptic , astringent, warming, expectorant herb with a peppery flavor and high carvacrol content. It improves digestion, increases perspiration, stimulates the uterus and nervous system, and is reputedly aphrodisiac. Used internally for indigestion, nausea, colic and more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Live transplant Spring 2009
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 9” high, spreads wide.
Harvest: Leaves and shoots as needed.
Culinary: Leaves are used as seasoning. Used to flavor legumes, sausages, meat stuffings, and marinades (especially for olives). An ingredient in “Herbes de Provence”. Has a more pungent flavor than S. Hortensis (summer savory)
Medicinal: An antiseptic , astringent, warming, expectorant herb with a peppery flavor and high carvacrol content. It improves digestion, increases perspiration, stimulates the uterus and nervous system, and is reputedly aphrodisiac. Used internally for indigestion, nausea, colic and more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Live transplant Spring 2009
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Satureja Hortensis
AKA: Savory, Summer
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 9” high, spreads wide.
Harvest: Leaves and flowering tops as needed.
Culinary: Leaves are used as seasoning. Used to flavor legumes, sausages, meat stuffings, and marinades (especially for olives). An ingredient in “Herbes de Provence”. Has a less pungent flavor than S. Montana (winter savory)
Medicinal: An antiseptic , astringent, warming, expectorant herb with a peppery flavor and high carvacrol content. It improves digestion, increases perspiration, stimulates the uterus and nervous system, and is reputedly aphrodisiac. Used internally for indigestion, nausea, colic and more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Summer 2008 in E6, Spring 2009 in B7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 9” high, spreads wide.
Harvest: Leaves and flowering tops as needed.
Culinary: Leaves are used as seasoning. Used to flavor legumes, sausages, meat stuffings, and marinades (especially for olives). An ingredient in “Herbes de Provence”. Has a less pungent flavor than S. Montana (winter savory)
Medicinal: An antiseptic , astringent, warming, expectorant herb with a peppery flavor and high carvacrol content. It improves digestion, increases perspiration, stimulates the uterus and nervous system, and is reputedly aphrodisiac. Used internally for indigestion, nausea, colic and more.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Summer 2008 in E6, Spring 2009 in B7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Fagopyrum Esculentum
AKA: Buckwheat, Soba
Planting: Well drained sandy soil in sun, hardy annual, 3’
Harvest: Leaves and flowers are collected as flowering begins and dried for infusions and tablets. Seeds are harvested when ripe and dried for use whole or ground.
Culinary: Hulled grain (groats) is eaten in breakfast cereals, made into kasha and polenta, and brewed into beer and spirits. Flour is used to make pancakes, noodles, and bread. Also as a thickener for soups and gravy. Buckwheat honey is a traditional ingredient of Jewish Honey wine, and gingerbread.
Medicinal: A bitter but pleasant tasting herb that controls bleeding, dilates blood vessels, reduces capillary permeability, and lowers blood pressure. Used internally for varicose veins, chilblains, spontaneous bruising, frostbite, retinal hemorrhage, and hypertension.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in C8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained sandy soil in sun, hardy annual, 3’
Harvest: Leaves and flowers are collected as flowering begins and dried for infusions and tablets. Seeds are harvested when ripe and dried for use whole or ground.
Culinary: Hulled grain (groats) is eaten in breakfast cereals, made into kasha and polenta, and brewed into beer and spirits. Flour is used to make pancakes, noodles, and bread. Also as a thickener for soups and gravy. Buckwheat honey is a traditional ingredient of Jewish Honey wine, and gingerbread.
Medicinal: A bitter but pleasant tasting herb that controls bleeding, dilates blood vessels, reduces capillary permeability, and lowers blood pressure. Used internally for varicose veins, chilblains, spontaneous bruising, frostbite, retinal hemorrhage, and hypertension.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in C8
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Helianthus Annua
AKA: Sunflower
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, hardy annual, 1’-12’.
Harvest: Whole plants are cut as flowering begins and used fresh for liquid extracts or tinctures. Seeds are collected in autumn and used fresh, pressed for oil, or roasted
Culinary: Seeds are eaten fresh or roasted; Seeds are sprouted and fermented to make seed yogurt and cheese. Seedlings are eaten in salads, Oil is used for cooking and salads.
Medicinal: A nutritious herb that lowers cholesterol levels and soothes irritated tissues. Used internally for bronchial infections, tuberculosis, and malaria. Used externally as a base for massage oils and liniments used for rheumatic complaints and muscular aches.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Fall 2008 in Taijo A2&B7, Teddy Bear in C5&C7, Spring 2009 Taijo in B7, Fall 2008 Ice cream in B8&C7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, hardy annual, 1’-12’.
Harvest: Whole plants are cut as flowering begins and used fresh for liquid extracts or tinctures. Seeds are collected in autumn and used fresh, pressed for oil, or roasted
Culinary: Seeds are eaten fresh or roasted; Seeds are sprouted and fermented to make seed yogurt and cheese. Seedlings are eaten in salads, Oil is used for cooking and salads.
Medicinal: A nutritious herb that lowers cholesterol levels and soothes irritated tissues. Used internally for bronchial infections, tuberculosis, and malaria. Used externally as a base for massage oils and liniments used for rheumatic complaints and muscular aches.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Fall 2008 in Taijo A2&B7, Teddy Bear in C5&C7, Spring 2009 Taijo in B7, Fall 2008 Ice cream in B8&C7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Friday, April 24, 2009
Polygonatum Odoratum
AKA: Solomon’s Seal; syn P. Multiflorum
Planting: well drained, moist rich soil in partial shade, fully hardy perennial, 3’.
Harvest: Rhizomes are lifted in autumn and used fresh in tinctures and ointments, or dried for use in decoctions and powders
Culinary: All parts, especially the berries, are harmful if eaten.
Medicinal: A bittersweet, astringent, tonic herb that acts as an expectorant, soothes irritated or damaged tissues, reduces inflammation, and clears toxins. Used in Chinese medicine internally for heart disease, tuberculosis, dry cough, dry throat in diabetics, and to encourage secretion of body fluids. In Ayurvedic medicine, as a rejuvenative and aphrodisiac. Given with warm milk and ghee as a tonic.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted Spring 2009, A2
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: well drained, moist rich soil in partial shade, fully hardy perennial, 3’.
Harvest: Rhizomes are lifted in autumn and used fresh in tinctures and ointments, or dried for use in decoctions and powders
Culinary: All parts, especially the berries, are harmful if eaten.
Medicinal: A bittersweet, astringent, tonic herb that acts as an expectorant, soothes irritated or damaged tissues, reduces inflammation, and clears toxins. Used in Chinese medicine internally for heart disease, tuberculosis, dry cough, dry throat in diabetics, and to encourage secretion of body fluids. In Ayurvedic medicine, as a rejuvenative and aphrodisiac. Given with warm milk and ghee as a tonic.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted Spring 2009, A2
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Chaenomeles Contorta
AKA: Flowering Quince, Japonica, Japanese Quince
Planting: Well drained soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy perennial tree, 3’-8’.
Harvest: Fruits gathered when ripe.
Culinary: May be used as substitute for Cydonia Oblonga (quince) in jams and jellies, and for flavouring apples and other stewed or baked fruit. Unpleasant to eat raw. More vitamin C than lemons.
Medicinal: An anti inflammatory and anti spasmodic herb that acts mainly as a circulatory and digestive stimulant.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted spring 2009 driveway left, next to rock pair
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun or partial shade, fully hardy perennial tree, 3’-8’.
Harvest: Fruits gathered when ripe.
Culinary: May be used as substitute for Cydonia Oblonga (quince) in jams and jellies, and for flavouring apples and other stewed or baked fruit. Unpleasant to eat raw. More vitamin C than lemons.
Medicinal: An anti inflammatory and anti spasmodic herb that acts mainly as a circulatory and digestive stimulant.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted spring 2009 driveway left, next to rock pair
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Eletaria Cardamomum
AKA: Cardamom
Planting: Rich moist well drained soil in sun or partial shade, 50 degrees minimum, evergreen perennial, 10’.
Harvest: Fruits are collected during the dry season and dried whole. Seeds are removed for oil extraction or used in infusion, extracts, powders, and tinctures.
Culinary: Seeds are used to flavour baked goods, coffee, curries, pickles, mile-based desserts, fruit compotes, and mulled wine. The essential oil is used in perfumery.
Medicinal: A pungent, warm, aromatic herb that has stimulating tonic effects, especially on the lungs and kidneys. It relaxes spasm, is expectorant, and improves digestion. It also detoxifies caffeine and counteracts mucus-forming foods, such as dairy produce. Used internally for indigestion, nausea and vomiting, enuresis, and pulmonary disease with copious phlegm.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted to pot, Spring 2009
Experience: I bought a live plant in 2009 and it still lives. It grows very slowly and is a green ornamental that I keep in my house, and thankfully the cat doesn't poop in the pot. It seems relatively healthy and is decent looking. However, based on posts, I now suspect that it may not be a true Elletaria, but instead Cinnomon Ginger, Alpinia nutans. It looks good anyway. So I am going to try from seed, which is difficult to propagate, and there is not much consistent germination information that I can find. My plan: January 15 pot it, keep moist, and look for germination by April 1.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich moist well drained soil in sun or partial shade, 50 degrees minimum, evergreen perennial, 10’.
Harvest: Fruits are collected during the dry season and dried whole. Seeds are removed for oil extraction or used in infusion, extracts, powders, and tinctures.
Culinary: Seeds are used to flavour baked goods, coffee, curries, pickles, mile-based desserts, fruit compotes, and mulled wine. The essential oil is used in perfumery.
Medicinal: A pungent, warm, aromatic herb that has stimulating tonic effects, especially on the lungs and kidneys. It relaxes spasm, is expectorant, and improves digestion. It also detoxifies caffeine and counteracts mucus-forming foods, such as dairy produce. Used internally for indigestion, nausea and vomiting, enuresis, and pulmonary disease with copious phlegm.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted to pot, Spring 2009
Experience: I bought a live plant in 2009 and it still lives. It grows very slowly and is a green ornamental that I keep in my house, and thankfully the cat doesn't poop in the pot. It seems relatively healthy and is decent looking. However, based on posts, I now suspect that it may not be a true Elletaria, but instead Cinnomon Ginger, Alpinia nutans. It looks good anyway. So I am going to try from seed, which is difficult to propagate, and there is not much consistent germination information that I can find. My plan: January 15 pot it, keep moist, and look for germination by April 1.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Glycyrrhiza Glabra
AKA: Liquorice
Planting: Deep rich sandy soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 3’-4’.
Harvest: Roots and stolons are lifted in early autumn, 3-4 years after planting, and dried for decoctions extracts, pastilles, and powder, or crushed and boiled to produce juice.
Culinary: Roots are chewed as sweets, used as flavoring. Also used in herb tea.
Medicinal: An adaptogen. A sweet, soothing herb that is anti inflammatory and expectorant, controls coughing, and has hormonal and laxative effects. It detoxifies and protects the liver.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Deep rich sandy soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 3’-4’.
Harvest: Roots and stolons are lifted in early autumn, 3-4 years after planting, and dried for decoctions extracts, pastilles, and powder, or crushed and boiled to produce juice.
Culinary: Roots are chewed as sweets, used as flavoring. Also used in herb tea.
Medicinal: An adaptogen. A sweet, soothing herb that is anti inflammatory and expectorant, controls coughing, and has hormonal and laxative effects. It detoxifies and protects the liver.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Calendula Officinalis
AKA: Calendula, Marigold
Planting: Well drained to poor soil in sun, hardy self-sowing annual, 20”-28”.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Self-sowing
Harvest: Flowers are used, cut in dry conditions and used fresh or dried.
Culinary: Petals are used as a substitute for saffron in rice and soup, and infused to give color to cheese, butter, milk desserts, and cakes. Also added fresh to salads. Used fresh or dried in tea infusions, extracts, tinctures, and for culinary purposes.
Medicinal: A major herb with excellent healing, antiseptic, and detoxifying properties, combined with low toxicity. It stimulates the liver, gall bladder, and uterus, soothes the digestive system, supports the heart, and clears infections. Used internally and externally for many complaints.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in garden; Orange in F7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained to poor soil in sun, hardy self-sowing annual, 20”-28”.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Self-sowing
Harvest: Flowers are used, cut in dry conditions and used fresh or dried.
Culinary: Petals are used as a substitute for saffron in rice and soup, and infused to give color to cheese, butter, milk desserts, and cakes. Also added fresh to salads. Used fresh or dried in tea infusions, extracts, tinctures, and for culinary purposes.
Medicinal: A major herb with excellent healing, antiseptic, and detoxifying properties, combined with low toxicity. It stimulates the liver, gall bladder, and uterus, soothes the digestive system, supports the heart, and clears infections. Used internally and externally for many complaints.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in garden; Orange in F7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Momordica Charantia
AKA: Bitter Melon, Balsam Pear, Karela
Planting: Rich well drained soil in full sun, 60 degrees hardy, by seed in spring, annual tendril climber.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Save seed
Culinary: Unripe green fruits can be added to curries, eaten raw, boiled or fried after parboiling or soaking in saltwater to remove bitterness. Young leaves and shoots are cooked as a vegetable. Cucurbitaceae (cucumber) family.
Medicinal: A Laxative diuretic herb that soothes irritated tissues, lowers fever, kills parasites, and cleanses toxins from the system. Used externally for hemorrhoids, chapped skin, and burns (fruit).
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in A2
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich well drained soil in full sun, 60 degrees hardy, by seed in spring, annual tendril climber.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Save seed
Culinary: Unripe green fruits can be added to curries, eaten raw, boiled or fried after parboiling or soaking in saltwater to remove bitterness. Young leaves and shoots are cooked as a vegetable. Cucurbitaceae (cucumber) family.
Medicinal: A Laxative diuretic herb that soothes irritated tissues, lowers fever, kills parasites, and cleanses toxins from the system. Used externally for hemorrhoids, chapped skin, and burns (fruit).
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in A2
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Santolina Chamaecyparissus
AKA: Cotton Lavender
Planting: Light well drained to dry soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 24”
Harvest: Leaves are picked as needed, flowering stems in summer.
Culinary: Leaves used to flavour meat and fish dishes, grains, soups, and sauces.
Medicinal: A bitter, stimulant herb with a strong, chamomile like aroma. It reduces inflammation, improves digestion, stimulates the uterus and liver, and expels intestinal parasites. Used internally for digestive and menstrual problems, worms in children, and jaundice. Used externally for stings, bites, minor wounds, and skin inflammations.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 live transplant to SW corner of barn;, and seeded in C5.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Light well drained to dry soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, 24”
Harvest: Leaves are picked as needed, flowering stems in summer.
Culinary: Leaves used to flavour meat and fish dishes, grains, soups, and sauces.
Medicinal: A bitter, stimulant herb with a strong, chamomile like aroma. It reduces inflammation, improves digestion, stimulates the uterus and liver, and expels intestinal parasites. Used internally for digestive and menstrual problems, worms in children, and jaundice. Used externally for stings, bites, minor wounds, and skin inflammations.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 live transplant to SW corner of barn;, and seeded in C5.
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Friday, April 17, 2009
Withania Somnifera
AKA: Ashwagandha, Winter Cherry
Planting: Dry stony soil in sun or partial shade, hardy annual/tender perennial and reseeding, 24”-72”.
Harvest: All parts of the plant are used, but roots are most common.
Medicinal: An Adaptogen. Important in Ayurvedic medicine, similar to Panax Ginseng. Roots, fruits, leaves are used, but toxic if eaten. A bitter-sweet astringent warming herb with a horse-like smell. It acts on the reproductive and nervous systems. In A. medicine given as a milk decoction with sugar, honey, rice. Powdered roots are used as an ingredient in a variety of tonic formulas and Raja’s Cup coffee substitute. Of the nightshade family (solanaceae), Ashwaganda is rich in alkaloids and should be regarded as poisonous. Internally for debility, convalescence, nervous exhaustion, insomnia, geriatric complaints, wasting diseases, impotence, infertility, joint and nerve pains, epilepsy, rheumatic pains, and the roots are used for multiple sclerosis. . Externally as poultice for swellings, wounds, burns, stings and snake bites (leaves).
Third Eye Vision: Plant in front of the beehive. Bees snacking on the flowers receive adaptogenic benefits.
Seeded: 2008-B6, 2009 D6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Dry stony soil in sun or partial shade, hardy annual/tender perennial and reseeding, 24”-72”.
Harvest: All parts of the plant are used, but roots are most common.
Medicinal: An Adaptogen. Important in Ayurvedic medicine, similar to Panax Ginseng. Roots, fruits, leaves are used, but toxic if eaten. A bitter-sweet astringent warming herb with a horse-like smell. It acts on the reproductive and nervous systems. In A. medicine given as a milk decoction with sugar, honey, rice. Powdered roots are used as an ingredient in a variety of tonic formulas and Raja’s Cup coffee substitute. Of the nightshade family (solanaceae), Ashwaganda is rich in alkaloids and should be regarded as poisonous. Internally for debility, convalescence, nervous exhaustion, insomnia, geriatric complaints, wasting diseases, impotence, infertility, joint and nerve pains, epilepsy, rheumatic pains, and the roots are used for multiple sclerosis. . Externally as poultice for swellings, wounds, burns, stings and snake bites (leaves).
Third Eye Vision: Plant in front of the beehive. Bees snacking on the flowers receive adaptogenic benefits.
Seeded: 2008-B6, 2009 D6
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Honey Bee Collapse
In the last two years (2007 and 2008) about two thirds of the world's honeybees have died and nobody knows why.
There have been several books written about it. I ordered a couple books from Amazon and here is a summary.
"Fruitless Fall" by Rowan Jacobsen
The varroa mite has been plaguing beekeepers for years, and was especially bad in the 1990's. The mite mostly by crawling into the nursery and sucking blood from the baby bees. To control it, beekeepers have been using and ever-increasing amount of poisonous pesticides. It is against the law to use the pesticides while the bees are making honey...but the industry in not regulated very carefully.
In the Fall of 2006 and Spring of 2007, many hives started going quiet. Beekeepers originally thought that the mite was back, but the usual signs (dead bees) were not there. Instead, the hives were simply empty. The bees had enough power to leave the hive and not come back. By dissecting the bees still remaining in the hive, beekepers found that the immune system of the bees had collapsed--they had a bee version of AIDS. Overall in 2007, of the 2.4 million hives in the U.S., about 800,000 had died; 30 billion bees dead with no explanation. In Europe, South America, and China, the situation was the same. During the same period, food prices increased about 37%.
Here are some theories:
--Cellphones. Wireless signals confuse the bees who then can't get home. This theory was picked up by the media but bee researchers tested the theory and found it false.
--Genetically modified crops. GM corn has had the genes of a naturally occurring soil bacteria inserted into its DNA. It now produces this bacteria in all its cells; since the bacteria is toxic to insects, it acts like a natural pesticide. Again, bee researchers tested this theory and could not find a basis for it. There were many instances of bee-collapse in non-GM crops, and many survicing hives amid GM crops.
--Varroa mite chemicals. Use of chemicals to battle the Varroa mite hurt the bees, cut the life of the Queen bee in half. Again, no direct evidence.
--Monoculture (single-crop farming). By exposing the bees to just one large crop, and moving the bees from location to location, they lose the natural diversity that should be in their environment, leading to stress and death. Again, no direct evidence.
There was no direct evidence of these theories affected the bees, but it certainly seems logical that the combination of all these could crush the bees. But the scientists have thought of that too, reasoning that since all of these factors have been around for years without CCD, then that couldn't be the reason either.
After many more tests with high tech equipment, many viruses were found but there was no single virus found in every dead hive. The only commonality among all the hives was the presence of a portfolio of disease.
The next theory is based on a pesticide group introduced about 15 years ago using Neonicotinoids, a nerve poison, which almost overnight replaced the old-school pesticides. This new group, using natural pesticide occurring in nightshade plants like tobacco, tomato, and potato plants, are nerve poisons. The human body can eliminate small amounts of these, but insects cannot, making it a perfect poison (from Monsanto's point of view).
Noenicotinoids are so prevalent now, that they form the basis of most of the pesticides sold to consumers in stores, and to farmers (aka, Imidacloprid, Advantage, Merit, Gaucho). Neonicotinoids disrupt the neural pathways of insects, inducing dementia within an hour, but have virtually no effect on humans. Independant studies done in 2001 showed that bees with moderate exposure to neonicotinoids were able to return to the hive, then leave, and never return--the exact behavior observed in a colony collapse. Bees were also fed neonicontinoids inside the hive, survived completely, then flew out of the hive and never returned, bolstering the chemical companies' contention that the poison does not "kill".
More coming...
There have been several books written about it. I ordered a couple books from Amazon and here is a summary.
"Fruitless Fall" by Rowan Jacobsen
The varroa mite has been plaguing beekeepers for years, and was especially bad in the 1990's. The mite mostly by crawling into the nursery and sucking blood from the baby bees. To control it, beekeepers have been using and ever-increasing amount of poisonous pesticides. It is against the law to use the pesticides while the bees are making honey...but the industry in not regulated very carefully.
In the Fall of 2006 and Spring of 2007, many hives started going quiet. Beekeepers originally thought that the mite was back, but the usual signs (dead bees) were not there. Instead, the hives were simply empty. The bees had enough power to leave the hive and not come back. By dissecting the bees still remaining in the hive, beekepers found that the immune system of the bees had collapsed--they had a bee version of AIDS. Overall in 2007, of the 2.4 million hives in the U.S., about 800,000 had died; 30 billion bees dead with no explanation. In Europe, South America, and China, the situation was the same. During the same period, food prices increased about 37%.
Here are some theories:
--Cellphones. Wireless signals confuse the bees who then can't get home. This theory was picked up by the media but bee researchers tested the theory and found it false.
--Genetically modified crops. GM corn has had the genes of a naturally occurring soil bacteria inserted into its DNA. It now produces this bacteria in all its cells; since the bacteria is toxic to insects, it acts like a natural pesticide. Again, bee researchers tested this theory and could not find a basis for it. There were many instances of bee-collapse in non-GM crops, and many survicing hives amid GM crops.
--Varroa mite chemicals. Use of chemicals to battle the Varroa mite hurt the bees, cut the life of the Queen bee in half. Again, no direct evidence.
--Monoculture (single-crop farming). By exposing the bees to just one large crop, and moving the bees from location to location, they lose the natural diversity that should be in their environment, leading to stress and death. Again, no direct evidence.
There was no direct evidence of these theories affected the bees, but it certainly seems logical that the combination of all these could crush the bees. But the scientists have thought of that too, reasoning that since all of these factors have been around for years without CCD, then that couldn't be the reason either.
After many more tests with high tech equipment, many viruses were found but there was no single virus found in every dead hive. The only commonality among all the hives was the presence of a portfolio of disease.
The next theory is based on a pesticide group introduced about 15 years ago using Neonicotinoids, a nerve poison, which almost overnight replaced the old-school pesticides. This new group, using natural pesticide occurring in nightshade plants like tobacco, tomato, and potato plants, are nerve poisons. The human body can eliminate small amounts of these, but insects cannot, making it a perfect poison (from Monsanto's point of view).
Noenicotinoids are so prevalent now, that they form the basis of most of the pesticides sold to consumers in stores, and to farmers (aka, Imidacloprid, Advantage, Merit, Gaucho). Neonicotinoids disrupt the neural pathways of insects, inducing dementia within an hour, but have virtually no effect on humans. Independant studies done in 2001 showed that bees with moderate exposure to neonicotinoids were able to return to the hive, then leave, and never return--the exact behavior observed in a colony collapse. Bees were also fed neonicontinoids inside the hive, survived completely, then flew out of the hive and never returned, bolstering the chemical companies' contention that the poison does not "kill".
More coming...
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Arctium Lappa
AKA: Burdock, Beggar’s Buttons, Lappa, Gobo
Planting: Moist soil in sun or light shade, robust fully hardy biennial, self-sowing, 5’.
Harvest: Young leaf stalks are cut in spring, roots are lifted in autumn, seeds harvested as needed.
Culinary: Leaf stalks are scraped and cooked like celery. Roots are eaten fresh raw in salads, or cooked like carrots, or added to stir fries. Used extensively in Japanese and Korean cuisine. “This is a burdock root. I prepared it especially for you so you would find it a replacement for tasty bread, potatoes, and carrots. ..Try it, not to worry. In times past people used it to make a great many tasty and healthful dishes. Try just a small bite first. I have been keeping it in milk to soften it”. (Anastasia 4 “Cocreation”, p85.)
Medicinal: An alterative herb, with bitter foloiage and sweet mucilaginous roots, that reduces inflammation and controls bacterial infection. Used internally for skin diseases and inflammatory conditions owing to chronic tosicity, like eczema, psoriasis, rheumatism, gout, boils, and sores. Seeds are used for similar purposes and to treat colds, pheumonia, and throat infections.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Fall 2008, A3, A5
Sources:
Wiki
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Moist soil in sun or light shade, robust fully hardy biennial, self-sowing, 5’.
Harvest: Young leaf stalks are cut in spring, roots are lifted in autumn, seeds harvested as needed.
Culinary: Leaf stalks are scraped and cooked like celery. Roots are eaten fresh raw in salads, or cooked like carrots, or added to stir fries. Used extensively in Japanese and Korean cuisine. “This is a burdock root. I prepared it especially for you so you would find it a replacement for tasty bread, potatoes, and carrots. ..Try it, not to worry. In times past people used it to make a great many tasty and healthful dishes. Try just a small bite first. I have been keeping it in milk to soften it”. (Anastasia 4 “Cocreation”, p85.)
Medicinal: An alterative herb, with bitter foloiage and sweet mucilaginous roots, that reduces inflammation and controls bacterial infection. Used internally for skin diseases and inflammatory conditions owing to chronic tosicity, like eczema, psoriasis, rheumatism, gout, boils, and sores. Seeds are used for similar purposes and to treat colds, pheumonia, and throat infections.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Fall 2008, A3, A5
Sources:
Wiki
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Akebia Quinata
AKA: Akebia
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy climbing perennial. Several plants are needed for fruiting.
Harvest: Stems are cut in autumn, young leaves are picked in spring, fruits are harvested when ripe and used fresh.
Culinary: Dried leaves are used for tea. Fruit pulp is eaten fresh.
Medicinal: A pungent bitter herb that controls bacterial and fungal infections, stimulates the circulatory and urinary systems and female organs, and is a potent diuretic due to the high content of potassium salts. Used internally for UTI’s, rheumatoid arthritis.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted spring 2009 in F8.
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy climbing perennial. Several plants are needed for fruiting.
Harvest: Stems are cut in autumn, young leaves are picked in spring, fruits are harvested when ripe and used fresh.
Culinary: Dried leaves are used for tea. Fruit pulp is eaten fresh.
Medicinal: A pungent bitter herb that controls bacterial and fungal infections, stimulates the circulatory and urinary systems and female organs, and is a potent diuretic due to the high content of potassium salts. Used internally for UTI’s, rheumatoid arthritis.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Transplanted spring 2009 in F8.
Satureja Douglasii
AKA: Yerba Buena
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy evergreen perennial, 2” high, spreads wide.
Harvest: Leaves and flowers as needed.
Culinary: Dried leaves used for tea.
Medicinal: One of the many varieties of Savory. A tonic aromatic herb sith diaphoretic, anti arthritic, and carminative effects. It has a mint like flavour. Used internally for mild feverish illnesses and stomach upsets. Used externally for toothache, rashes, and prickly heat.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Live transplant Spring 2009, middle garden
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, fully hardy evergreen perennial, 2” high, spreads wide.
Harvest: Leaves and flowers as needed.
Culinary: Dried leaves used for tea.
Medicinal: One of the many varieties of Savory. A tonic aromatic herb sith diaphoretic, anti arthritic, and carminative effects. It has a mint like flavour. Used internally for mild feverish illnesses and stomach upsets. Used externally for toothache, rashes, and prickly heat.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Live transplant Spring 2009, middle garden
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Friday, March 13, 2009
Monarda Fistulosa
AKA: Lavender Bergamot, Horsemint, Wild Bergamot
Planting: Rich moist soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, propagate by seed, 4’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Perennial
Harvest: Whole plant used.
Culinary: Leaves are used to flavour meat and beans, young shoots and leaves are infused for tea.
Medicinal: An aromatic stimulant herb that aids digestion and increases perspiration. Used internally for colds, sore throats, catarrh, headaches, fevers, and gastric disorders. Used externally for skin eruptions.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich moist soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, propagate by seed, 4’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Perennial
Harvest: Whole plant used.
Culinary: Leaves are used to flavour meat and beans, young shoots and leaves are infused for tea.
Medicinal: An aromatic stimulant herb that aids digestion and increases perspiration. Used internally for colds, sore throats, catarrh, headaches, fevers, and gastric disorders. Used externally for skin eruptions.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B7
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
AKA: Bergamot, Bee Balm, Oswego Tea
Planting: Sandy or rocky soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, propagate by seed, 12”-24”.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Perennial
Harvest: Whole plant used.
Culinary: Fresh or dried leaves and flower heads are infused in tea. Flowers added to salads.
Medicinal: An aromatic stimulant herb that lowers fever and aids digestion.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009
Links: Wiki
Planting: Sandy or rocky soil in sun, fully hardy perennial, propagate by seed, 12”-24”.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Perennial
Harvest: Whole plant used.
Culinary: Fresh or dried leaves and flower heads are infused in tea. Flowers added to salads.
Medicinal: An aromatic stimulant herb that lowers fever and aids digestion.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009
Links: Wiki
Phaseolus Vulgaris
AKA: Bean (black-seeded blue lake snap pole bean; Kentucky wonder pole bean; Dry Soup Tiger’s Eye bush Bean; Hutterite Soup Bean)
Planting: fertile rich well drained soil in sun, direct seed after frost danger, half hardy annual, vining to 6’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Save
Harvest: Pick long beans when young and tender.
Culinary: Eat whole fruit as vegetable, raw or cooked. Beans can be dried and eaten later, or stored for next season.
Medicinal:
Third Eye Vision: Large seeds are full of power. Pods offer ruffage and cleanse the digestive system from top to bottom. Starch increases in seeds as they age, offering an excellent winter food.
Seeded: Spring 2009
Planting: fertile rich well drained soil in sun, direct seed after frost danger, half hardy annual, vining to 6’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Save
Harvest: Pick long beans when young and tender.
Culinary: Eat whole fruit as vegetable, raw or cooked. Beans can be dried and eaten later, or stored for next season.
Medicinal:
Third Eye Vision: Large seeds are full of power. Pods offer ruffage and cleanse the digestive system from top to bottom. Starch increases in seeds as they age, offering an excellent winter food.
Seeded: Spring 2009
Phaseolus Multiflorus
AKA: Bean (Jack and the Beanstalk Snap Pole Bean)
Planting: Fertile rich well drained soil in sun, direct seed after frost danger, tender annual, vining to 20’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Save
Harvest: Pick long beans when young and tender.
Culinary: Eat whole fruit as vegetable, raw or cooked. Beans can be dried and eaten later, or stored for next season.
Medicinal:
Third Eye Vision: Large seeds are full of power. Pods offer ruffage and cleanse the digestive system from top to bottom. Starch increases in seeds as they age, offering an excellent winter food.
Seeded: Spring 2009
Planting: Fertile rich well drained soil in sun, direct seed after frost danger, tender annual, vining to 20’.
Propagation Zone 6/7: Seed/Save
Harvest: Pick long beans when young and tender.
Culinary: Eat whole fruit as vegetable, raw or cooked. Beans can be dried and eaten later, or stored for next season.
Medicinal:
Third Eye Vision: Large seeds are full of power. Pods offer ruffage and cleanse the digestive system from top to bottom. Starch increases in seeds as they age, offering an excellent winter food.
Seeded: Spring 2009
Sunday, March 8, 2009
AKA: Basil (Genovese)
Planting: Rich, well-drained soil in sun, hardy annual to 50 degrees, propagate by seed, 12”-30”.
Harvest: The whole plant can be used including the roots.
Medicinal: Basil is mildly sedative, and is good for lowering fevers, improving digestion, bacterial infections and intestinal parasites. Medicinal uses include helping with fevers, nausea, cramps and more.
Culinary: An important and prevalent seasoning herb in a variety of recipes across many cultures. Best know as the main ingredient in Pesto.
Third Eye Vision:
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Rich, well-drained soil in sun, hardy annual to 50 degrees, propagate by seed, 12”-30”.
Harvest: The whole plant can be used including the roots.
Medicinal: Basil is mildly sedative, and is good for lowering fevers, improving digestion, bacterial infections and intestinal parasites. Medicinal uses include helping with fevers, nausea, cramps and more.
Culinary: An important and prevalent seasoning herb in a variety of recipes across many cultures. Best know as the main ingredient in Pesto.
Third Eye Vision:
Links: Wiki
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Cedronella Canariensis
AKA: Balm of Gilead
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, frost hardy, semi-evergreen perennial, propagate by seed sown at 60 degrees, 4’-5’.
Harvest: can be pot grown, Leaves are picked before flowering and dried for infusions and scented articles.
Culinary: Leaves are infused for tea. Native of the Canary Islands, known as the “the de Canaries”. An aromatic herb with no known therapeutic uses.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B1
Links: Wiki Balm of Gilead
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
Planting: Well drained soil in sun, frost hardy, semi-evergreen perennial, propagate by seed sown at 60 degrees, 4’-5’.
Harvest: can be pot grown, Leaves are picked before flowering and dried for infusions and scented articles.
Culinary: Leaves are infused for tea. Native of the Canary Islands, known as the “the de Canaries”. An aromatic herb with no known therapeutic uses.
Third Eye Vision:
Seeded: Spring 2009 in B1
Links: Wiki Balm of Gilead
Sources:
The Royal Horticultural Society New Encyclopedia of Herbs and Their Uses (RHS)
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