I have decided that Mondays I will be sharing My Apothecary.
I have been foraging for plants for many years, and I have decided to share what I have been collecting.
This is also helping me get everything catalogued and organized. Seems like a win win for everyone!
Please know that I do not sell my remedies, and I am not a doctor. My advice is to research everything. We should always be mindful in what we do to heal our vessels, our body. Many of these remedies are good for the spirit to. We are all spiritual beings, the plants are just and connected to mother earth as we are. Even more so.
It is very important to honour all beings, with respect and love. There have been times that I have gone to pick medicines, and I have heard NO. I offer the tobacco and give thanks for the wisdom.
Everyone has the knowledge to their own path of well being.
Benefits of Nettle:
Kidney/Gallbladder Stones
Hemorrhoids
Improves Circulation
Detoxifies the Body
Aids in Pregnancy/lactation
Promotes Feminine Health
Osteoporosis and Bone Health
Treats Respiratory Issues
Protects Heart Health
Prostate Health
I remember as a kid, being pushed into a huge patch of nettle in the apple orchard. OHHHHHH the sting. Now, I am lucky to pick nettle with very little irritation.
Wear gloves and long sleeves when harvesting!
The animals won't eat it fresh here. (I don't prefer fresh either...lol) I dry as much as I possibly can! I use it as a green (aka 'italian parsley') in a lot of my cooking for the winter. Pasta sauces, eggs, soups, stews...everything! It also gets added to the animal feed. It dries/dehydrates quickly. I prefer the younger plants, but I think that harvesting until mid summer doesn't hurt the plant. If I am using the fresh plant, I usually saute it and add it to my favourite dish.
There are many plants that we can add to our diets that grow readily everywhere. This weed is extremely beneficial for our bodies!
I love this plant. It is my go to for feminine health, and for my blood sugar elevations (diabetes).
It is a staple here. I drink it as a tea, when I need to be mindful with certain things.
Nettle is high in vitamin c, iron, and boron. I wash this plant very little. It is a good source of natural minerals for us.
Not sure why the picture is loading sideways. Having trouble with Steem and internet this morning. :)
I use it fresh(cooked), dried and as a tea.
Dried
I pick the plants around 10 am. After the dew and moisture are off the plants. I hang them upside down in small bunches to dry in a warm area out of the sun. You could also use a dehydrator.
Tea
Using fresh or dried flowers/stems/leaves, lightly crush and add to boiled water. Let steep for desired time. Teas are good for internally. I also use strong teas for baths, compresses, and washes.
