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Archive for the ‘Introductions’ Category

Mighty Mushrooms

Posted in Introductions, Plant friends, Straight Herbalism, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , on 03/28/2013 | 2 Comments »

If I find it hard to speak of the medicinal properties of ‘herbs’ to a certain type of person, without getting a conspiratorial wink and them saying “Yeah, I know of one herb with medicinal properties, huh huh huh huh huh (laughter)”, imagine the delicacy with which I must proceed in announcing that I also sell mushrooms- MEDICINAL MUSHROOMS.  I’m not going to lie, mushrooms are special, weird, and some are psychedelic. But there are a few species in particular that must be taken seriously. Therefore, in the following article, if you detect an air of cool factuality when discussing said mushrooms, it is so that we may examine them in the rational light of day rather than under a trippy black light. You feel me?

So, lets explore some of the non-consciousness-shifting properties of the world of fungi. I’d like to begin with one of my personal favorites for enjoying ordinary reality, The Royal Reishi.

Reishi mushroom is a polypore. This type of mushroom is dense and hard, usually found growing on trees, and not at all lending itself to be sauteed in butter and eaten on a steak. According to Chinese medicine, where the virtues of Reishi have been extolled for over 4000 years, there are at least 6 varieties of Reishi mushroom, classified according to color, and possessed of different medicinal properties.  We will be focusing on the use of the Red Reishi, Ganoderma lucidum, which grows around the world, even in the US, but sadly, not my corner of it. It is frequently cultivated, however, and much easier to find in commerce than the other varieties. We do have two species to be found in the NW, Ganoderma tsugae and G. oregonense, both of which grow on conifers- and so rare I have yet to see one in the wild (but, to be fair, I am mostly looking at green things, which makes me a terrible mushroomer).reishi 1

Here is why you should be taking Reishi mushroom (the short list):

Reishi and other medicinal mushrooms have a remarkable trait in common. Due to the presence of certain chemical constituents, mainly polysaccharides and triterpenes, Reishi mushrooms are immunomodulators. This means that they exhibit the unique ability to stimulate a depressed or weakened immune system, or dampen and calm excessive immune function, as in the case of auto-immune conditions. This makes them appropriate for nearly any immune dysfunction, and one of the only herbal treatments for auto-immune conditions. In this same vein, Reishi can sedate the hyperactive immune cells that create allergies and arthritis, thereby acting as an anti-inflammatory when your immune system is causing a ruckus.

Medicinal mushrooms have gotten a lot of well deserved attention for their anti-oxidant and anti-cancer benefits. Reishi is a potent anti-oxidant that helps protect healthy cells from free radicals and inhibits the growth of certain cancer cells. Its chemical arsenal targets and kills cancer cells through activation of the immune system. I use Reishi and other medicinal mushrooms as long term immune tonics with cancer patients and survivors with good effects.

Reishi is also a tonic to the heart, helping lower both blood pressure and cholesterol, a rather useful trait. It’s also protective of the liver and lungs. It is especially useful for chronic bronchitis, allergic asthma and altitude sickness, as it improves oxygenation of the blood.

Here’s where we get a bit metaphysical- Reishi is known as Ling zhi or ‘Spirit plant’, in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It has also been referred to as the “herb of spiritual potency”. It is used for disturbances in the spirit, heart and mind, known collectively as ‘shen’ in TCM. In clinical practice, this means Reishi is used for anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, and hyper-emotionalism. I think of Reishi for people that suffer from excessive mental activity, but who’s energies are so scattered that they rarely accomplish anything. This mushroom is clarifying and grounding for those prone to confusion and unsteadiness, with mental agitation and an underlying state of exhaustion and depletion. It is not difficult to find people in need of Reishi.

Wild Reishi has always been in rather short supply.  In ancient China, it was often reserved for the emperor or other important people in the high court. Ancient Chinese medical texts refer to Reishi as ‘the plant of immortality’ and it’s reported to make you live forever. Don’t let the obvious holes in this argument throw you off, like the fact that everyone who wrote this stuff has been dead for centuries. It’s reputation for extending and improving life may not be that far off the mark, considering how it protects the body from inflammation, oxidation, heart disease and cancer in one fell swoop.

To prepare Reishi extract, I make a double extraction out of the dried mushrooms- a two part process that involves extracting first the water soluble chemicals, then the alcohol soluble ones, and combining the two. The capsules are also valuable medicinally. Traditionally the tea was taken daily, but I find that the bitter, sour, flavor makes it impossible for me to do so. The dose varies based on the condition, but a good tonic dose, to be taken over a period of months or years is as follows:reishi 2

Tea (good luck with this one) <gag> 1-3 C per day
Tincture- 60-90 drops 2-4X per day
Capsules- Three 500-1000mg capsules 1-3X per day

Contraindications: Don’t use mushrooms if you have a mushroom allergy (obviously).
And be cautious using Reishi with blood thinning medication, as it may potentiate this effect.

You will find Radicle Reishi offered singularly or in the following formulas:

Mighty Mushrooms: A blend of Reishi, Maitake, Chaga, Turkey tail, and Shitake Mushrooms, for the long term tonic effects of medicinal mushrooms. This blend enhances Reishi’s broad spectrum immune-regulating, anti-cancer actions and further supports liver, lung, and heart health. I could write volumes about all the other fungal heroes in here, but that’s for another day.
Dose: 60-90 drops 2-3X per day

Pollen Proof: For allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma. Decongests respiratory passages and regulates excessive immune response to seasonal and environmental allergens. Contains: Reishi mushroom, Fresh Turmeric rhizome, Fresh Nettle leaf, Yerba Mansa root, Yerba Santa leaves in a base of grain alcohol, water and Glycerin. This can be taken daily before allergy season begins and acutely as needed. (It’s really best to preempt the pollen season.)

Dose: Maintenance 30-90 drops 2X per day
Acute: 30-90 drops 1-5X/day
That should keep you off the ‘hard stuff’.

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Respect your ELDERS!

Posted in Introductions, Mean Plants, Plant friends, Straight Herbalism, Uncategorized, Wildcrafting, tagged , , , , , , , on 02/11/2013 | Leave a Comment »

Elder Sambucus spp.

When you come across an Elder in the wild, it is difficult to tell if it is a tree or a bush. Its leggy, hollow branches bend and sway, sporting delicate sprays of flowers in early spring and laden with heavy clusters of fruit by fall (A bush! you’d think). Yet in maturity it towers over you with a rather commanding presence (A tree, perhaps?). In the literature and folklore discussing Elders, both terms are used. Though I can’t imagine that Elder actually prefers one to the other, I find ‘tree’ to be a little more flattering, and I will explain shortly why I strive to be polite in my dealings with this particular plant.

Elders grow all over the world and have been used medicinally for thousands of years. In Medieval times, nearly every part of the Elder tree was used for different medicinal properties (bark, leaf, flower, berries)*.  Perhaps because of this prodigious usefulness, clever Elder devised an ingenious strategy for protecting itself.  There is a persistent superstition throughout Europe and the British Isles that something terrible will befall you if you disrespect an Elder tree. Where did this idea spring from? I am not pointing fingers, but only the Elder tree itself stands to gain. This dark glamour is still effectively protecting Elders from abuse in the Old Country, where reportedly even loggers refuse to cut them down. (Well played, Elder!)Blue elderberry (Sambucus cerulea)

Though I feel I’m on good terms with all the plants I pick, this is clearly not one to be trifled with.  I take great pains to gather the powder blue berries of our native Elderberry (Sambucus cerulea) in late summer, snipping each cluster very precisely, so as not to snap one of the hollow supporting stems (and possibly become cursed). Note: The Red Elderberry (Sambucus racemosa), native to Western Washington is not edible or medicinal (but still magical).

Elders command respect, and like another of my slightly standoffish plant friends, Stinging Nettle, they have earned it. We need their medicine.  Throughout our long history with Sambucus, it has evolved a unique set of chemicals that allow it to be as wicked as it wants and we’ll forgive. You see, Elder is a foe to the dreaded flu.

This is how it seems to go- chemicals in Elderberry disarm the spikes on viruses that allow the influenza virus to stab into your cell and inject it with viral babies. (If you aren’t scared of the flu yet, do a little research on viral infections and replication–it’s terrifying!) Anyway, Elder just snaps that little viral arm right off and it can’t do its evil viral business in your cells anymore! (It‘s a little more complicated than I am making it seem, it’s more of an enzymatically mediated arm breaking than a literal one).  Researchers have recently discovered that taking the syrup of Elderberry reduces the duration of the flu to just 3-4 days in most cases and promotes increased levels of antibody production. It has been shown in in-vitro studies to be effective at inhibiting ten different strains of the influenza virus!  I have made an Elder syrup that combines the immunostimulating, viral arm-disabling, antibody-boosting properties of Elderberry with the gentle but powerful diaphoretic** effects of the Elder flower.  Here at the Radicle lab, I make a Black Elderberry glycerite (Sambucus nigra) and a Blue Elderberry tincture (Sambucus cerulea) and they both taste lovely (Thanks, Elder!). With flu season in full swing, I recommend stocking your medicine cabinet full of fine preparations such as these. Most of us have lowered resistance this time of year after battling some of the more common viruses, and that’s when the dastardly flu attacks. This season- Fight Back with Elderberries!

Elder flower
*A word of caution: Though the medicinal properties of Elder leaf, root and bark are espoused in many ancient texts, I cannot recommend taking them internally for any reason. These plant structures contain tricky compounds that are violent purgatives, laxatives and emetics. There have even been cases of poisoning from the leaves and stems due to the presence of active cyanide-like compounds. Only the flowers and blue or black berries from a properly identified Elder plant are safe to ingest.
**A diaphoretic is a substance that reduces fever by causing you to sweat. While the standard practice is to suppress a fever,  herbalists tend to support the process, encouraging its quick resolution. Unless a fever becomes dangerously high, fevers are healthy response and play an important role in disrupting viral takeover.

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A Heart to Heart with HAWTHORNE! Friend and Tonic to Humans and Bears

Posted in Introductions, Plant friends, Straight Herbalism, Uncategorized, Wildcrafting, tagged , , , , , , , on 09/25/2012 | Leave a Comment »

Dear Readers,

Here’s one from the vault! This article appeared in my very first issue of the Radicle Review in 2008 (printed on paper back then, if you can believe it!). You will see that I have moved ever nearer to my beloved Hawthorne patch in NE Washington, where I am writing to you from now. I’ve finished up the Haw harvest once again this year, and have gallons of cordials and tinctures made from it. I am, as always, smitten with this plant, and I may just drink them all myself if you don’t claim some.

Crategus douglasii (among many other species)
The featured plant in this issue is the Hawthorne tree.  Hawthorne is a native to North America, though there are a few European escapees that have naturalized here, and the ever-popular varieties that are sold in nurseries as ornamentals. Many of these are also medicinal, and I have used the cultivated Hawthorne in the past with success as well as the wild, which I prefer.  I traveled last month to North Eastern Washington in a mad dash to gather ripe Hawthorne berries in order to make my famous Hawthorne Cordial.  Since Hawthorne grows abundantly throughout Washington, I did debate this long journey eastward as an impractical use of my time, seeing as how I could probably obtain them closer to home. However, I am nothing if not impractical, and I am partial to these particular trees that are growing on my friend Phyllis‘ land.  So, familiarity won out, and I made the trek across the North Cascades Highway, gathering wild ginger and pipsissewa from high in the mountains as I went.

Phyllis’ property is at elevation, a large meadow bordered by a beautiful stream to one side and a forested area to the other.  It rained the night before, but the grasshoppers had returned to the eternal chirping that signals the end of summer. One step through the tall grass sends hundreds (seemingly) leaping hither and thither, just to fall in the path of your next step, and so on and so forth.   The Hawthornes grow on the edges of the meadow, on the banks of the stream and edge of the forest. They look like tall shrubs when they are young, only after many years do their trunks require you to acknowledge them as a proper tree. They tend to grow closely together in a clump or thicket, with their thorny branches hanging low, protecting the heart of the tree.  The thorns appear more wicked and bloodthirsty than they actually are, and I am rarely stabbed when I gather the abundant, reddish black berries that hang in clusters off the branches.  Hawthorne doesn‘t wish to harm anyone, it just knows how to protect itself.  This, it turns out, is one of its virtues.
Herbalists know Hawthorne to be a superior heart tonic. Unlike many herbs, which exert equal influence on multiple organ systems, Hawthorne’s effect is direct and focused on the cardiac muscle. The activity of this plant is a mystery to science, as only the whole plant preparations show any physiologic effect (a confounding trait when you are focused on isolating the active constituent and removing it from its crude form- tree form, in this case).  Though it won’t reveal its secrets, the effects are predictable.  Therapeutically, Hawthorne dilates blood vessels and arteries, increasing blood supply to the heart muscle, and reducing spasms and the likeliness of a heart attack.  It is also effective in relieving shortness of breath, tachycardia (rapid pulse), brachycardia (slow pulse), and the general effects of aging on your most important pump. In combination with other herbs it is useful in treating both hypertension and arteriosclerosis, and many other heart related disorders. The berries contain flavonoids that are both anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory.  Hawthorne nourishes and tones the heart muscle, I like to think of it as heart food. As you can see by the broad range of effects, Hawthorne is an all-purpose heart herb, capable of normalizing function depending on what is needed. It can dampen excessive function or nourish and support deficient function.  And you don‘t even have to tell it what to do, it just knows!  This is but one example of the intelligence of plant medicine. (After having evolved with plants over hundreds of thousands of years, you could say that the plant kingdom has got our number).

Through my many dealings with the plant, I have found Hawthorne to promote openheartedness and soften grief and anger.  I give Hawthorne not only to those who suffer from heart related pathology, but also those that are working on developing courage and maintaining healthy boundaries in relationships.  If I may borrow liberally from Chinese Medicine, Hawthorne seems to strengthen what is called the ‘Heart Protector’, and therefore ones ability to allow experiences and emotions to touch the heart without damaging the person.  Our defenses must be intact but permeable so that life can penetrate and change us. As Hawthorne demonstrates with it’s thorns just visible beneath a protrusion of berries, true generosity has limits.  An attempt to ravage the tree would leave you rightly shredded. Indeed, a healthy level of self-protection is what allows us to remain open and giving without fear.

As I gathered berries that day in the meadow, I ran across a disturbingly large pile of fresh bear droppings, studded with partially digested Hawthorne berries!  It seems that humans are not the only creature to make use of this tree’s generosity. I nervously finished picking and packed my things to go, hoping that this particular bear may have been a little less prone to an irrational burst of anger and dismembering after its meal of medicinal berries?  As I did not catch a glimpse of the bear, we can imagine Hawthorne engenders a sense of rational self-protection and equanimity in bears as well.
The effects of this gentle, safe plant are felt (in humans) after a month or so of continuous use, so do not expect a quick fix. However, the benefits are long lasting and it has no recorded side effects.  I suggest those with clinical heart conditions try my Hawthorne Heart Tonic, a blend of the fresh flowering tips and the dried berries.   Those who wish to work on the emotional heart primarily will enjoy a nip of my Hawthorne Cordial each evening.  You will be pleased to know that both are ranked among the most palatable of all of my creations.

TROUBLED? DOWN? TAKE HEART! TAKE HAWTHORNE HEART TONIC!

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Shepherd’s Purse- A plant pal that could save your life

Posted in Introductions, Plant friends, Straight Herbalism, Wildcrafting, tagged , , , , , , on 06/27/2012 | 4 Comments »

Shepherd’s Purse, or Capsella bursa-pastoris, is a country plant. It has a few predictable effects, relatively simple chemistry and a gentle nature. It is also one the only herbs that could save your life as you lay dying.
The main claim to fame here is that Shepherd’s Purse is a styptic herb. This term (along with the terms hemostatic and anti-hemorrhagic, which you may also encounter when researching Shepherd’s Purse) describes its ability to arrest bleeding. Uses include- treating a nosebleed, a heavy menstrual period, a cut that won’t quit, gum bleeding due to aggressive tooth flossing, or excessive uterine bleeding after childbirth. (It is employed by many midwives to help check bleeding in this situation). In World War I it was used to slow bleeding on the battlefield when other medicines weren’t available. (Wouldn’t be my first choice for a bayonet wound, though).
There are a few herbs that can be used in this manner and they combine well with Shepherd’s purse for bleeding issues. These include Yarrow (another E. Washington native), Cinnamon, and Cottonroot bark. Of these, Shepherd’s Purse if probably best known, most used, and the easiest to gather. After a few words of caution, I will provide instructions on doing so.
Cautions: This may seem obvious, but if my arm got bitten off, I would never rely on this humble weed instead of, say, a tourniquet. Or use it in a life threatening situation if there were any better, more modern treatments at my disposal. This is an herb for non-fatal bleeding issues, like a heavy period or a flossing accident, or something to take while you wait for the ambulance. Most home birth midwives carry something like this (and the stronger stuff, too) to births just in case. It is considered a great first aid plant for wilderness medicine. If its all you have around, you’ll be glad you have it.
In the case of Capsella, fresh plant tinctures work best, although a tea of the recently dried plant is sometimes used as well. The dried plant loses potency rather quickly and even the tincture has a limited shelf life. One study showed that Shepherd’s Purse tincture is at its peak potency and effectiveness within 3 months of manufacture. Since I can only get the fresh herb during its growing season (now!), I make a new batch every year and throw out the old stuff. It is still effective after a year, but it’s blood staunching genius is most pronounced when its hot off the tincture press.
In the Northwest, look for Shepherd’s Purse in June or July before it gets too dried out. It has a wide range across globe and it flowers all summer long (all year long in more temperate climates), so chances are its something you can find. I usually come across it growing in alleys and overgrown yards, behind a barn, around the margins of parks. It loves growing by its friend Cleavers (Galium aperine). Shepherd’s Purse is not known for its good looks, being a rather plain looking member of the mustard family. Graceful, slender stalks support nondescript white flowers sporting 4 tiny petals each. These mature to become cute little triangular heart-shaped green seedpods (SP’s most distinguishing feature) that alternate up the stalk. There are a lot of mustard family plants that look similar, but the heart shaped seedpod is a dead giveaway. The entire plant is usually only 6-18 inches or so and easy to overlook, growing as it does, in wayward places.  Gather the above ground parts of the fresh green plant from a clean area because Shepherd’s Purse can concentrate heavy metals in the ground. That said, it doesn’t always grow in clean areas, so be discriminating here. Chop up the whole plant except the roots (basal leaves, stalk, seeds, flowers), then just pack mason jar with the chopped fresh herb and cover it with vodka. In three weeks, strain your tincture and store in a dark amber bottle for up to one year. Most likely, anything you could buy in commerce is far older than that, so well done, you.
To check bleeding, Shepherd’s Purse tincture works best in a pulse dosing pattern. That means you take it frequently in smaller doses. I usually recommend 1 dropperful (1ml or 30 drops of the tincture) every 10 minutes until bleeding slows or stops (usually within an hour). Then you can do it every hour or two to maintain the results if you still require it. For uterine bleeding from fibroids or a heavy period you may start with this pulse dosing pattern for an hour and then take 1 dropperful 4 times a day for the rest of your period. It won’t make it stop completely if its your time of the month, but it may make it more tolerable and spare your sheets, good undies and iron stores. It works by inducing the little arteries in the uterus to clamp down, and due to this stimulating effect, it is not advised during pregnancy.


Other skills? Shepherd’s Purse helps to excrete uric acid from the body, so it can be helpful for gout and inflammation in the urinary tract. It has a peppery, weird taste. Did I mention it stops bleeding? It doesn’t really need any other skills.
Shepherd’s Purse is an essential part of an herbal first aid kit, and like so many things, much better when you do-it-yourself.

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Flora gets photographed

Posted in Classes, Introductions, Straight Herbalism, tagged , , , , on 02/22/2012 | 2 Comments »

Here are some photos of Spokane’s hottest new herb clinic:

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An Herbal Clinic is born!

Posted in Classes, Introductions, Straight Herbalism on 01/10/2012 | Leave a Comment »

My apologies for giving all of you the silent treatment for a brief spell there, but I have some exciting news to announce and you will soon forgive me.  This new year I have been hard at work preparing to open Spokane’s first herbal clinic devoted to western herbs!  Flora Herbal Clinic is opening next week and I will be offering herbal consultations and classes as well as top notch herbal tinctures and teas out of this unique healing space.  My new location is in the historic Binkley Building on the corner of 7th and Maple.

Imagine a place where there is always tea brewing, the smell of fragrant herbs in the air, books about healing plants and medicine, and someone to listen to your health problems and help you figure out what you can do about them. A place to take classes, fill your herbal formulas and be part of an herbal community. This place exists now! I am looking forward to sharing this herbal hot spot with all of you, whether it’s for classes, workshops, or herbal consultations for those of you wishing to get serious about healing with plants.

I am offering a special discounted price for my Spokane readership- For the month of February, you can come in for an initial consultation (60-90 minutes) for only $40! (This is a major steal, by the way).  A consultation gives me the time and information to get at the root, so to speak, of your health challenges. Sometimes it takes personalized attention to find the right combination of herbs, nutrition and supplments to deal with long standing issues or complicated conditions. All of my clients receive individualized treatment plans and custom herbal formulas from the on-site dispensary.

My emphasis is on giving you the information and resources to use plants wisely (and the freshest, most vibrant herbal products around, of course). Having a dedicated space here in Spokane allows me to do that better- and help us all make connections with other interesting plant people in our community.

To schedule your consultation, please call 509-570-2777

Here’s the link to the new website- www.floraherbalclinic.com

More information to come-  Look for the new Winter/Spring class schedule and the dates of our upcoming OPEN HOUSE!

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Rhodiola rosea (or Rhody Rose for short)

Posted in Introductions, Plant friends, Straight Herbalism, tagged , , , , , , on 10/25/2011 | 3 Comments »

Some plants just sing. From the forest or meadow, where ever they grow, I can hear them calling to me. However, it is rare that a plant that I have never met in person exerts this mysterious pull on me. It is not as common that the pages of a textbook sing where it is described, where the dried herb sings from its jar on the shelf of an herb shop. This is precisely the case with Rhodiola. While I have taken the herb myself, and dispensed it to many of my clients and customers, I have yet to observe it growing free.
Here is how I imagine our meeting: I am high in a mountain range. Siberia? Tibet? The Olympic Mountains? (Rhodiola grows circumboreally, this fantasy could be taking place at any of these locations). A chill grips me, but I press on. Wind whips my hair around a fashionable fur cap that I am wearing. (Mongolia?) God, I’m cold.  I’m beginning to feel a bit flimsy up on this mountain alone, my muscles are fatigued from the days of hiking. As time wears on, my mind reels with anxiety from the mental challenge of enduring the elements.  I rest on a rocky outcrop, where I succumb to a feeling of utter hopelessness, and despair. I can’t go on. (Despite the thermos of delicious hot Yak soup that I am carrying.)

In a typical fashion, I decide to just give up at this point. I move to the protected side of the rocky outcrop to lie down and probably die. As I curl up pathetically against the frigid stone, I notice a light from somewhere near the ground.  Not an artificial light, but the subtle bioluminescence that emerges from the deepest source of living things. A golden glow is emanating from the flowers of a tall, sturdy looking plant. A robust succulent-  a stonecrop? In one of the coldest regions on earth, at elevations above 10,000 feet, there stands a flower. I recognize it at once. Rhodiola rosea. Rhody rose. Thus fortified by our meeting, I make it down the mountain with my new friend.     The End.

This deliberately phrased anecdote attempts to illustrate the metaphoric and literal challenges that Rhodiola can help you through. People of the high altitude regions of Siberia, China and Tibet have all used Rhodiola to help their bodies adapt to the punishing climate (something I think this plant can relate to) and promote physical endurance and mental harmony. Of all of the adaptogens, Rhodiola is best for reigniting the spirit when it is at its lowest ebb. When describing this herb to people, I always use the word “bright”.  As in it brightens depressive states, lifts the veil that keeps you from really seeing and participating in life. Lightens your burdens. Washes your windows.

The science behind this, though a bit more limited in its choice of descriptive phrasing, is still there. Rhodiola appears to have a monoamine modulating ability, which influences seratonin and dopamine levels (and is the rationale behind a whole class of antidepressant drugs, the MAO inhibitors).
In the case of Rhody rose, I find this less compelling than the cold hard empirical data that I have been amassing. For anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue- everyone totally loves Rhodiola. This is a what you might call a shamanic spirit plant. It calls you back to yourself.

Other handy skills? Rhodiola nourishes and strengthens the adrenals, thyroid, nervous and immune systems. It is reported to improve fertility and sexual performance (and inclination) in both sexes. In fact, one of it’s primary uses is to improve athletic performance, so I guess you can use that how ever you like. (wink).

The flavor is sort of astringent, and floral. The name stems from both the rose color of the root and also its rose-like smell (due to the presence of Geraniol a fragrant volatile compound famously found in roses). Yes, Rhodiola goes down easy. The combination of color, fragrance, flavor and medicinal affect, with the archetypal story of blooming despite staggering environmental hardships makes it a contender for Best Plant Ever. Can you hear its sweet song?

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Adaptogen of the hour- Tulsi vana

Posted in Introductions, Plant friends, Straight Herbalism on 09/28/2011 | 2 Comments »

Preface to the Adaptogen Monographs
How do you choose an adaptogen? Most herbs are multi-taskers. As you read through the articles that follow, [quite possibly in stunned disbelief] you will find that these herbs share the ability to regulate stress hormones, but they also have a unique character and a specific skill set. Some will nourish the nervous system better than others, some will be better for women than men, some will support the liver or kidneys. Some are more stimulating, others more calming. Or some may call to you in a way that you don’t fully understand. My advice is to go with it.

HOLY BASIL!

What’s in a name? Well in the case of Ocimum sanctum or Tulsi, quite a lot. This humble, leafy herb has been known by many names, with common translations including “Holy Basil”, “Sacred Basil”, “ The Incomparable One” and “The Beloved One of Vishnu”.  Though botanically quite similar to ordinary basil, this is not the stuff of pesto. This is literally the stuff of legend.

Tulsi is a revered herb in India and throughout Southern Asia. In India it is considered to be a Goddess that took form on earth in order to aid humanity. Through regular use, Holy Basil is said to cultivate virtue in human beings. Just your every day, basic virtues like Compassion, Enlightenment, Spiritual purity, and Perfect Health. While I cannot vouch for all of the above claims, they do not strike me as outlandish. I truly believe in the power of pants to transform our ways of thinking and relating to the world and our bodies. And Tulsi does have a certain way about it.

As an herbalist, there is quite a bit of science to support this herbs wide application for physical complaints, if not the metaphysical ones. Tulsi is classified as an adaptogen, and as such helps improve our resistance to stress. In addition, it has been shown to have a normalizing effect on blood sugar and on triglycerides and cholesterol, with obvious benefit for those with diabetes and heart disease. Tulsi also exhibits a profound effect on mental performance. In addition to being a top notch anti-oxidant, Holy Basil improves cerebral circulation, mood, memory, concentration and presence of mind. (Enlightenment?) In terms of psychic benefit, I would equate a cup of Tulsi tea with about a 20 minutes of yoga practice or meditation (this is not an exact conversion).

On the more banal side of things, as a warming aromatic herb Tulsi improves digestion and reduces acidity in the stomach. It is also an excellent tonic for those with asthma and a treatment for bronchial congestion, sinusitis, colds and influenza.

“And where can it be found?” you might ask. Well, though it seems exotic, its as easy to grow as common basil. Alternatively, you will find it in my newest tea for the fall and winter which I simply call “Tea of Many Virtues.”  (For obvious reasons).

Oh, and the clincher- Holy Basil tastes….. divine. Really.

Tea of Many Virtues contains: Holy Basil, Nettle, Oat Seed, Astragalus, Licorice.

Deeply restorative to the nervous, immune and adrenal systems. You probably need a cup right now.

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Adaptogens- The Perfect Thing For You

Posted in Introductions, Plant friends, Straight Herbalism, tagged , , , , , , , on 09/12/2011 | 1 Comment »

I'm talking to you.

Please allow me to do something I try never to do- prescribe something to each and every one of you, without even knowing who I am speaking to, let alone your physical constitution or state of health. I will also be making claims that are not legal, and may sound hyperbolic and hard to believe- but every one of them is true. Yes, dear readers, at the risk of sounding like a charlatan, I present to you the most important class of herbs in the world- The Amazing ADAPTOGENS.

Adaptogens are poorly understood by researchers because they are so damned incredible. They seem to work primarily upon the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis. This means that they help improve communication between your brain and your adrenal glands. The adrenals become less reactive to non-life threatening stressors and we stop squirting out adrenalin and cortisol when they aren’t needed. In consequence, we sleep better, and suffer less anxiety, depression, and in general, diminish the ravaging effect of stress on our bodies. We have nourished and pacified our depleted adrenals. In this manner, we are better able to weather the storms of life. Adaptogens make us cool, calm and collected.

The term adaptogen was coined by a Russian scientist and researcher in the 1940’s to describe a class of substances that possess these 3 criterion: (Guess what “substances” these are- plants!)
1. Adaptogens are non-toxic. Most adaptogenic herbs are taken for long periods of time and only good things happen.
2. Adaptogens increase resistance to stress in non-specific ways. This means that regardless of the origin of stress (emotional, physical, environmental), adaptogens help your body respond better to it.  Adaptogens help you adapt to stress so the physiological consequences are reduced. You become fortified, self possessed.
3. Adaptogens have a normalizing effect on the body. This means if an organ system is hypofunctioning an adaptogenic herb can stimulate function, and if it is hyperfunctioning, an adaptogenic herb may sedate function. This will happen without you telling it what to do. Adaptogens are super smart.

Adaptogens do these miraculous things by strengthening the body’s regulatory systems,  namely, the neuroendocrine system and the immune system. They can also normalize cardiovascular, pancreatic and renal function. Many of them are potent antioxidants that protect cells of the brain, liver, heart, and lungs from oxidative damage. Some of the herbs that we now classify as adaptogens have long been revered and used to promote longevity in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda (the ancient medical system of India).

This may sound a bit dry to those of you that aren’t into physiology but love my plog anyway. Here’s what you need to know:
I use adaptogens most commonly for the following conditions (with great success):

Unrelenting stress, grief, anxiety or depression from any cause. Insomnia.
Hormone imbalance in men and women- including menopausal symptoms, infertility, pms, endometriosis, postpartum depression, erectile dysfunction and low libido.
Immune dysfunction- lowered immunity or autoimmune conditions.
Improved athletic performance- increased stamina and recovery time, improved performance of lungs and cardiovascular system during exercise.

This is where I may strain my credibility a bit, but bear with me- there is more.
Adaptogenic plants are also used for mental focus, weight management, cardiovascular health, improved digestion, blood sugar regulation, longevity and even cancer prevention. I could literally go on and on, but it is just unbelievable! (To be fair, no one adaptogenic herb does all of these things. I am generalizing here.) But most adaptogens have broad and varied effects. They each have many talents.

As a class of herbs, adaptogens are capable of correcting nearly any imbalance in your body, because your body is capable of this feat. Adaptogenic herbs support your innate healing mechanisms and can “re-regulate” the body’s important control systems that govern literally every function of the body. Sound important? They are. In the next post, I will highlight adaptogens that I use frequently. I have a feeling some of these compelling plants will be speaking to you.

Yours Truly,  Sarah “Cool as a Cucumber” Patterson


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Chamomile Baby Drops for All God’s Children

Posted in Introductions, Plant friends, Straight Herbalism, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , on 08/10/2011 | 4 Comments »

Cham drops in the making

I have just finished pressing a fresh batch of Chamomile Glycerite, or what I like to call ‘Baby Drops’. Chamomile’s quiet, faithful service over many years has caused it to be regarded as generally prosaic and kind of a bore, as far as herbs go. There are flashier and trendier herbs, straight out of the rainforest, with drug-like specificity. But as a tireless advocate for common herbs, I must spring to its defense. When used appropriately, Chamomile demonstrates powerful medicinal effects, especially on the very young and very old. In these more delicate populations, predictability and subtlety in herbal therapy are virtues. For babies and young children, it is an essential herb to have on hand. The effects of Chamomile in children and babies is four fold: as a carminative for colic and gas pains, as a digestive bitter to alleviate constipation and indigestion, as a relaxant for fussiness, insomnia and hysteria, and as an anti-inflammatory for teething pains. And sometimes, as we know, these four miseries gang up on your kid all at once.

I have used Chamomile baby drops successfully for all of the childhood woes listed above. When baby’s incessant crying has been diagnosed a ‘colic’ and the nursing mother has tried various dietary modifications, Cham drops work wonders to soothe and comfort when the parent’s heroic efforts are proving futile. A few drops can be put directly on the baby’s tongue (perhaps as it arches it back, and wails loudly with its mouth wide open, inconsolable). Or it can be painted on the nipple before nursing. My Chamomile Baby Drops are made with fresh chamomile flowers and pure vegetable glycerin and are alcohol-free, resulting in a product that is safe for even very young babies. (And it tastes lovely and sweet).

The same goes for irritable, fussy and tired babes and kids. Cham drops will calm the nervous system and settle the tummy, allowing them to mellow out enough to rest and regain their infant composure. (I believe Chamomile to be the herbal equivalent of a soft hand rubbing circles on your back and a soothing voice saying “There, there now, shhhh.”) And for the painful business
of cutting teeth, Cham’s anti-inflammatory effect soothes swollen tissues and heals abrasions in the gum tissue. (Teething tip: make a strong infusion of Chamomile blossoms, freeze in an ice cube tray and give it to baby in a soft cloth to suck on- Amazing!) For constipation try a little Chamomile to stimulate the flow of bile (our endogenous stool softener) and some baby probiotics. Sometimes it just takes a bit for babies to master the complicated task of digestion and elimination. Cham can help.

You may be wondering “Can grown-ups use this?” The answer is yes, just take more. A strong cup or tea or few dropperfuls of the glycerite ought to do. Just don’t expect a powerful sedative effect, as this property doesn’t seem to translate from babies to adults. What does translate are the gas relieving, anti-spasmodic and digestive qualities. Chamomile also exerts a powerful protective effect on the stomach lining, and can really help with healing ulcers (usually as a tea combined with marshmallow, calendula, and licorice). I highly recommend it for those taking nsaids as a prophylactic against developing ulcers. (Again, better as a tea, here.)

Once again, the common herb we’ve overlooked has got our back. Mercifully, I have found flora to be very forgiving.

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