I am facilitating an Herb'N Garden Workshop this Saturday, July 14, 2012 10:30am at the Cathcart Farm in Rock Hill, SC (30 MIN drive from Charlotte). We will discuss common medicinal and culinary herbs and their applications as well as easy & practical techniques to cultivate, harvest, and storage solutions. Inbox me or call 866-944-9560 for more information and directions. No cost to attend LOVE OFFERINGS ARE ACCEPTED.

It is finally ready!!! This season's first batch of freshly made Herb'N Spice Pesto!  I must say that the Herb'N Spice Pesto went over very well last year.  I quickly sold out almost as soon as I made each batch.  I held a private stash for my own personal use throughout the winter however, there were a number of those who continued to request more even after I suggested that they wait for the basil to grow in the garden once again so that I may make a fresh batch.  Since I knew their personal situation, I would give in and dip into my personal supply.  I was not so sure of it at first after summer months passed into fall and soon winter and the bright green color toned down into a deeper evergreen color.  However, the pesto held its own with the robust flavor and aroma of basil.  Most importantly, it maintained its potency and effectiveness!  I have to admit, I was proud.

Pesto, simply put, it a paste made out of fresh basil with extra virgin olive oil, organic apple cider vinegar, Herb'N Spice Seasonings, flax seeds, garlic, wonderful goodness & lots of LOVE!  I have known for some time that basil will alleviate allergic reactions but, it wasn't until last year that I found out how severe reactions can quickly be alleviated with a simple spoonful taken straight-up.  I have seen it first hand: anaphalaxis calmed and completely subsided as well as an asthma attack.  I suggest that people who are prone to these type of reactions and conditions keep Herb'N Spice Pesto in their fridge in addition to the Breathe Easy Formula.

Pesto is tasty in pasta dishes, casseroles, pizza, breads and sandwiches.  I also add into tomato-based dishes and hummus.  I am sure that the creative chef can offer even more ways that pesto can be enjoyed.  I make each batch with fresh, organic, garden-grown basil in small batches with quality & fresh ingredients.  

People are still telling me of how basil is coming to their aid.  I suggest that you try it for yourself.  $8 per jar of Herb'N Spice Pesto. $15 per 1oz. of Breathe Easy Formula.  These two make an excellent combination for anyone with respiratory challenges.  Call to request yours today 866-944-9560 ext 703.

Herb'N Gardening

It is that time!  Spring is here and the frost is not showing any sign of return and my mini greenhouse is full of herbs and vegetables.  My herb garden is staring some repeat performances from last season, parsley, oregano, sage, fennel, marjoram & thyme (just to name a few).  They all made it through the winter unscathed, not to mention the resilient and robust mints (lemon balm, catnip, chocolate mint, peppermint, etc...) that are relagated to containers to keep them from taking over the garden.  I moved the catnip to a new location so the neighborhood kittys looking for their high have to look elsewhere, to give the plant a break.  There have been times when I have found this plant to be covered in cat fur and the catnip so worn down that I wonder if the plant will survive.  If catnip is anything, it is a survivor.  It may take a while but, it always comes back to be better than what it was before. 

The echinacea is establishing itself rather well and this is the year that I can begin harvesting the roots but, I want to grow a significant amount more before I do, so I have a flat of seedlings that I have started and an herb garden at the Cathcart farm that is awaiting their arrival.  I divided the feverfew and the newly divided plants are really seeming to be happy.  The more plants the better.


The St. John's Wort shrubs and Chastetree and Witch Hazel trees seem to be doing well. The Rue has taken well to the pruning and is growing back even fuller than before.

Rosemary is a no-brainer and grows just about anywhere in this region.  I am glad that it grows so easily and well as rosemary is a very useful herb to deal with sinus congestion, pressure, headaches and so much more!!!  Plus who can resist its flavor, even as a tea? 

This year, I hope is a better year for the english lavender.  We will see.  Drainage is key to the happiness of lavender plants from my observation.  I hope to make more lavender wands and yawn as I weave the ribbons through. LOL!

I am anxious for the basil seedlings to be transplanted for another glorious summer of culinary & therapeutic uses.  I love basil for many reasons.  The taste, the fragance, it makes an excellent pesto (maybe I will share my recipe one day, maybe) & is a wonderful companion to tomatoes. To top it off, especially this time of year as seasons change, basil is the best aid to bringing severe allergic reactions to a halt. 

Here in the Southeast, the pollen is so thick that I daily sweep a layer of pollen off of the porch!  I have seen hives, irritation and swelling come down quickly.  Even yesterday, there was a client at Serenity Suites that began having an asthma attack and she forgot her inhaler at home.  I am so grateful that I was present to give her a dropperful of Breathe Easy formula and a spoonful of pesto that I keep on hand.  Almost immediately, her breathing returned to normal and she resumed her services.  Natural herbs are powerful and potent. It made me feel good to be able to tune into nature and pay attention to the gifts and messages that are awaiting us.

I am looking forward to the new editions:  borage, brazilian verbena, chervil, summer savory, and much more.  There is no time to go through them all but, there is a lot to look forward to and even more to explore!

Fenugreek: a nursing mother's answer to warding off the common cold & flu

Use Fenugreek to ward of viruses such as colds and flu.  This is excellent especially for nursing mothers who want to also enrich their milk supply.  I have veggie capsules of fenugreek available.  Check out the article in the link. For more information call 866-944-9560 ext. 703

http://www.ayurvedictalk.com/fenugreek-the-apt-remedy-for-common-cold/1561/

SPICED HONEY: adding spice to your life on a daily basis

Spiced Honey is a blend of spices that are chock full of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, vitamin c, natural immune support and defense, digestive aid, settles upset stomach, freshens breath, benefits circulation, improves metabolic functions, thins mucus, reduces blood sugar & cholesterol and so much MORE!   You know that you need to come & get you some!!!  This flavorful combination includes ginger, cinnamon, capsicum, & clove is based on Local Raw Honey that is found to also be beneficial for those who suffer from allergies when the seasons change.  This concoction is perfect for anytime of year but, especially for the holidays.  Spiced Honey has a sweet, warm and spicy flavor. One spoonful is all that is needed.  Add it to your favorite tea or to a cup of warm water and add a splash of lemon or lime for additional cleansing and decongesting.

Also Available in Spiced Agave.  Agave is a plant based natural sweetener that does not spike blood glucose levels.  It is diabetic friendly with a very pleasant taste.  Available upon inquiry. $10 and up.  Shipping fees apply when necessary.

Order yours today!

SPICE TIP: TUMERIC

This spice tip is inspired by a true story about a man I once knew who had several cavities and a couple of root canals.  He needed more as he had an exposed nerve.  Ouch!  I must admit that I was cautious at first approach.  This full grown man was near tears and it effected his ability to work. One side of his jaw had swollen to the size of a lemon. This was detrimental to this budding entreprenuer who still had deadlines to meet. When adults have tooth pain, it is usually something more serious that needs to be attended.  However, I know the need to ease pain and bring down swellings. I was dealing with an abscess.

I lightly dipped a cotton ball in olive oil and dusted it with powdered tumeric root and insert herb-side down and apply to area of gums (add powdered myrrh and/or goldenseal for added measure).  I administered this at bedtime and by morning,he swelling went down as the abscess had drained and looking like it was healing well. The guy was feeling much better.  He was ready to get back to work and his appetite was back to normal almost as nothing happened.  Surely.  He can resume his work as an entrepenuer so that he may grow his business but, dental work is in serious order and will need to be dealt with ASAP.

BONUS: 1/2 tsp of tumeric taken as Goody's/BC powders is excellent to aid in pain relief and cleanses the liver as well.  Powerful anti-inflammatory that makes tasty dishes, most notable in curry spices and meals.  Also noted to be great for skin.  Every home should have this spice on hand.

I don't like to be long-winded so look for more on tumeric spice tips.

SPICE TIP: CLOVE OIL

This tip is wrapped up in a story.

I have dealt with the bear that some people can become when dealing with tooth pain.  It is a sad sight truly for babies and adults alike.  I most recently had the pleasure of soothing the gums of my GodSun who will be 7months soon.  He is cutting his bottom teeth.  He gums anything he can get his hands on long enough.  He hasn't been sleeping like his usual self.  Poor thing.  He fusses and cries.  I can only imagine.  I don't remember teething as a baby but, I can remember my troubles  with the "Wisdom" teeth.  Ouch with  the swelling, throbbing pain.  There is inflammation, itchiness, pressure and aggravation.  So many little things can cause big headaches, really.  Eating is no fun either.  So I think of my experience and imagine a baby who may not know how to talk in grown up language but, he sure does know how to communicate!

So I listen...

He says, "Make it stop!  My mouth doesn't feel right!"

I respond, "Ok.  I hear you.  Please be patient ok?"

I get a small ceramic bowl and add a splash of olive oil. For those that NEED measurements, use 2 tbsp.  I follow with 3 drops of clove essential oil.  Get a cotton swab to stir the mixture and apply to needed areas along the gumline.

Grumpy baby turned happy says, "Thank you!  I feel so much better."
"Good. I am so glad that you feel better. You know I love to see you smile."
Happy baby smiles and laughs as he bounces with his legs while standing in his aunties lap, "Let's play!  What else is there to explore, Aura?"
I hug him tight and "The whole world, Yasir.  Better even to reach for the stars. For now, let's start over THERE!"

THE END