Sally's Introduction to Herbal Medicine
My past education in medicine is a little shaky...having trained as a nurse and midwife in a hospital in the 70's .When we came to Ravenwood I was keen to learn Herbal Medicine, and friends visiting helped me to identify edible and medicinal herbs that are natural to this area,
Slowly one plant at a time I have began to understand and resonate with the nature spirits here.
Some species we have added, like comfrey, rosemary, lavender, yet there is such a profusion of wild plants here that the meadows have been my oyster!
Our library has an abundance of herb books to which I have referenced, yet still I reckon my main teacher is Mother Nature herself!
It is such a joy choosing the right time according to the moon, season, weather, and ritualistically
preparing these medicines.
It is really very easy to do, add beeswax to oil infusion for ointment, chop up herbs fresh and add to men-strum for tinctures.
I keep all potions in progress under my bed so I can keep an eye on them, give them a shake, taste the tinctures; and decide when to strain them.
Slowly one plant at a time I have began to understand and resonate with the nature spirits here.
Some species we have added, like comfrey, rosemary, lavender, yet there is such a profusion of wild plants here that the meadows have been my oyster!
Our library has an abundance of herb books to which I have referenced, yet still I reckon my main teacher is Mother Nature herself!
It is such a joy choosing the right time according to the moon, season, weather, and ritualistically
preparing these medicines.
It is really very easy to do, add beeswax to oil infusion for ointment, chop up herbs fresh and add to men-strum for tinctures.
I keep all potions in progress under my bed so I can keep an eye on them, give them a shake, taste the tinctures; and decide when to strain them.
Saint John's Wort ( Hypericum)
Hypericum grows wild here at Ravenwood in our sunny meadows. I harvest it at midday on a sunny day, only taking a few sprigs from each clump. Hypericum heals body and soul inside and out. It inhibits the growth of unwanted viruses, bacteria and fungi. It increases immunity,
helps SADS, depression, liver congestion, shingles, nervous exhaustion, menopausal moods, and jet lag.
USES
Infusion in organic olive oil for use in cooking or massage
Brandy tincture or you can use wine or vinegar, brandy tincture is more long lasting
Smudge sticks are for protection
Dry herb for tea
helps SADS, depression, liver congestion, shingles, nervous exhaustion, menopausal moods, and jet lag.
USES
Infusion in organic olive oil for use in cooking or massage
Brandy tincture or you can use wine or vinegar, brandy tincture is more long lasting
Smudge sticks are for protection
Dry herb for tea