Category: Herbs

Rose Hips for Your Autumn Medicine Cabinet

Dog Rose (Rosa canina) is an indigenous herb to Europe, considered by some as an invasive weed found in hedgerows, scrub, woods, and wasteland. In autumn, the arching stems with downy hooked thorns bear clusters of flask-shaped scarlet fruit known as rose hips. These floral superfoods, bursting with winter medicine for our homes and communities, make eye-catching bait for birds. Be sure to share in this harvest as they are rich in therapeutic uses!

Rose hips were thought to be discovered for their high vitamin C content in Britain during WWII when scurvy was prevalent and citrus remedies were scarce. In modern times, as every practitioner knows, vitamin C supplementation is used to support the immune system. It is more beneficial to obtain nutrients from local whole food sources such as rose hips than non-bioregional plant species or through a manufacturing process.

The therapeutic use for rose hips are many and go beyond the scope of vitamin C. Rose hips contain a plethora of tonic and antioxidant (carotenoids) properties that work in synergy with vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, D, K; with beta carotene; and with minerals such as calcium, iron, selenium and zinc.

Rose hips have many actions. For example, they are anti-inflammatory, astringent (drying), stomachic (strengthening digestion), nervine (strengthening and nourishing the nervous system), and nutritive with sour and cooling qualities. These actions make it a useful food and medicine for colder times of the year, benefiting inflammatory based conditions by easing chronic inflammation and offering pain relief. They can cool the body to help lower a fever and are used internally for natural relief of colds, sore throat, influenza, blocked chest, and minor infectious diseases. They can help control diarrhoea and gastritis and act as a dietary supplement. (They are especially good for vitamin C deficiency.) They may help to eliminate waste, support the immune system, soothe nerves, relieve insomnia, and lift depression, e.g. seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Culinary use of rose hips includes wine making, vinegar, jam, jelly, syrup, soup, and tea. They are also used in a nutritional syrup supplement (especially for babies), which is sometimes added to cough mixtures and used to flavour medicines. Extracts are added to vitamin C tablets, food supplements, herbal remedies, and herb teas. As you can see, rose hips have a great deal to offer the autumn and winter medicine cabinet.

For the non-herbalists amongst us, here is a simple recipe you can safely carry out at home.  It’s also a fun project to do with children to help raise awareness of using nature to improve health.

Recipe for Organic Rose Hip Apple Cider Vinegar

This recipe has been adapted from various sources to simplify the process. Instead of using the conventional weight:volume ratio for fresh plant tinctures based on calculating the equivalent dry weight of the herb in g:ml, I have favoured a more traditional, user-friendly approach, including the use of a metric cup measurement.

Equipment:

  • Bag or basket
  • Sharp knife
  • Metric measuring cup
  • Colander
  • 1L Pyrex jug
  • Muslin cloth
  • Conical measure
  • 100 ml or bigger amber bottles with plastic caps (vinegar tends to rust lids otherwise)
  • Labels

Ingredients to yield approximately 600 ml:

  • Wild crafted, foraged rose hips (Rosa canina)
  • 1L organic apple cider vinegar (ACV)

Method

  • Identify and pick the rose hips in late autumn when the hips are bright red, soft and fleshy.
  • Wash the rose hips, discard anything damaged, and slit the skins using a sharp knife.
  • Measure 1 cup of slit rose hips to 2 cups of room temperature ACV.
  • Place the rose hips into a 1L sterilised pyrex jug and cover with ACV, leaving head room for the rose hips to swell.
  • Cover and label the project with the name of plant, plant part, menstruum (the liquid ingredient) and date.
  • Macerate (soak in a liquid) for two weeks to one month. (You may like to follow the path and cycle of the new or full moon.) Keep it in a dark place at room temperature and stir daily with a wooden spoon.
  • Strain the acetum (a preparation having vinegar as the solvent) through a muslin cloth to remove seeds and irritant hairs. Discard the marc (left over herbal material).
  • Return the crude acetum into a pyrex jug, cover and allow to settle overnight.
  • The next day, filter and decant into sterilised amber bottles. Cap and label. Store in a cool dark place (shelf life six months).

The recommended dosage is 5 ml three times daily before a main meal (neat or in 30 ml  filtered water) to benefit from the ACV digestive tract, tonic qualities. This recipe can be added to cooking (in marinades,  salad dressings, etc.) and is non-toxic and tolerated by most people, including those who are alcohol sensitive. If you experience any adverse side effects such as loose stools, which can be associated with excess vitamin C, stop taking the remedy for a day and reintroduce at half the recommended amount.

It is always good to consult a qualified herbalist before administering herbal medicine, especially if you or your client is pregnant, breast feeding, have a diagnosis and/or are taking prescription pharmaceutical drugs. For example, research indicates that rose hips have the potential to reduce blood glucose levels which can be suitable for treating diabetes.  However, large doses administered by those with hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) may cause side effects. The seeds also consist of short hairs which may irritate one internally. For those who are susceptible to irritable bowel syndrome or irritable bowel disease, take care to thoroughly strain the liquid. Rose hips are generally considered safe for use with children, convalescents, and the elderly.

Tips

When foraging for wild food or medicine, be sure to identify plant species correctly, and  harvest away from polluted areas such as busy roads and industry or where they might have been sprayed.  Remember to leave some autumn and winter food for wildlife!

One of my favourite hedgerow medicine guides for wild food and herbal medicine identification is: Hedgerow Medicine: Harvest and Make Your Own Herbal Remedies by Julie Bruton-Seal (Author, Illustrator), Matthew Seal (Author).

Should you decide to study herbal medicine (for example at the College of Naturopathic Medicine) this is the kind of practical, hands-on project you might study in the module Botany, Pharmacognosy, and Pharmacology.

About the Author

Emma Schade-Stylli has always felt a deep connection to nature and the cycle of the seasons with a passionate interest in exploring the science and healing art of plant-based medicine. Having graduated in Naturopathy and Herbal Medicine from CNM, Emma practices as a naturopath, herbalist and holistic lifestyle coach in the UK. She is also involved in a small holding project on the Isle of Anglesey, North Wales where she tends the land for pesticide-free vegetables and herbs. Emma can be contacted at info@contemporaryhealthcare.co.uk

About CNM
CNM offers Diploma Courses, Short Courses and Postgraduate Courses in a range of natural therapies, all based on a naturopathic approach to health. For the full range of courses, visit www.naturopathy-uk.com.

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  • Andersson U, Berger K, Högberg A, Landin-Olsson M, Holm C. (2012) Effects of rose hip intake on risk markers of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease – European Journal of Clinical Nutrition 66(5):585-90
  • A Modern Herbal by Mrs. M Grieve • Roses – Botanical.com
  • Bartram, T (1998) Bartrams Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. 1 ed. London: Constable & Robinson Ltd.
  • Bruton – Seal, J., & Seal, M. (2009) Hedgerow Medicine. Shropshire: Merlin Unwin Books Ltd.
  • Fitter, R.S.R (1974) Wild Flowers of Britain and Northern Europe. 2nd  ed. London: Harper Collins Publishers Ltd.
  • Make Your Own Whole Food Vitamin C Pills with Herbs -Learning Herbs
  • The Medicinal Benefits of Rose Hips -Permaculture 
  • Thomsen, M., & Gennat, H. (2009) Phytotherapy Desk Reference. 4th ed. Australia: Global Natural Medicine Pty Ltd.
  • Williams, S. (2013) Pharmacognosy and Pharmacy Day One, Pharmacognosy and Pharmacy. [Online] College of Naturopathic Medicine London.
  • Yard, Neils (2011) Cook, Brew and Blend Your Own Herbs. 1 ed. London: Dorling Kindersley Limited.
  • 2012, Department of Herbal Medicine. (Clinical Handbook Herbal Medicine) [pdf] London: The College of Naturopathic Medicine.

Review: Organic Root Cider by Barrier Island Organics

Barrier Island makes Mother’s Earth Organic Cider, which to me is very much a tonic. It reminds me of Shillington’s Total Tonic, but it’s better IMO. I told Mark Welch it was “rich,” and he said, “Yeah, there’s a lot of product in that cider; I can tell you that. We put for every nine pints of vinegar, we put ten pounds of roots and vegetables in there to start the process.”

If you have a sore throat or that tickle in your throat that could be the onset of a new bug to fend off, this is what you want to sip on. I would pour myself an ounce and sip on it for an hour like a fine scotch. It doesn’t taste as good, but you can play with the complexities and pretend.

People report wonderful testimonials including, “My inflammation seemed to be getting better every week,” and “No more knee pain, stiff neck, or swollen Achilles tendon.” They even report weight loss and blood sugar control. It makes sense, considering the ingredients:

  • Raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar provides essential nutrients that aid in digestion, metabolism, the lymphatic system, oxygen transport, and energy production. It balances the bodily pH levels and maintains them.
  • A whole lemon (with peel) cleanses and detoxifies the liver, flushes the digestive system, and provides tons of vitamin C.
  • Horseradish root provides lots of nutrients and minerals, aids in digestion, increases immunity, lowers blood pressure, increases metabolic function, and helps kill pathogens in the body.
  • Ginger root provides a strong antioxidant effect, boosts immunity, has anti-inflammatory compounds, and alleviates gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, which is imperative in this concoction!
  • Turmeric root “increases the antioxidant capacity of the body” which increases the cider’s anti-inflammatory properties, improves brain function, increases heart health, and fights cancer.
  • Garlic increases metabolism and lowers cholesterol while strengthening the immune system, especially against colds and upper respiratory infections.
  • White onion improves our absorption of vitamin C, regulates blood sugar, and helps protect us against chronic illness and disease.
  • Beets clean the blood and the circulatory system, lower blood pressure, boost stamina, and provide valuable phytonutrients to combat disease. They are high in fiber and offer anti-inflammatory properties for the body.
  • Serrano, habanero, and poblano peppers are rich in nutrients and vitamins and contain capsaicin, which lowers the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. They also have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties so they may provide relief for pain related to arthritis, fibromyalgia, skin aging, and psoriasis.

As a daily tonic, take at least a tablespoon daily. Sip on it if you have a sore throat or at the first sign of illness. Take it for digestive issues. Take it to prevent illness and to help return the body to health. It helps aid detoxification and adds tons of nutrition to the body. I’m hooked. We’re always going to have this is one in the house.

The Green Wonder: 5 Things You Want to Know About Matcha Tea

Organic Green Matcha Tea in a Bowl

Matcha tea is rapidly becoming a cult drink. Artisan coffee, Earl Grey, and generic green tea are all very popular in certain circles, but if you want to cause a stir at your next dinner party, offer your guests some Matcha tea.

So what is Matcha tea and what do you need to know about it?

Matcha is the preferred beverage of the rich and famous. Models drink Matcha shots at catwalk shows and health-conscious celebs such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham buy jars of the stuff.

Matcha tea originates from Japan and for centuries, Matcha has been used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies. The best Matcha tea comes from a very specific shade of green tea known as Tencha tea. It is well known for its health and wellness benefits, so if you are looking for a nutrient-rich beverage, Matcha tea is a good choice.

1. Match Tea Contains Caffeine

Unlike regular green tea, Matcha tea contains as much caffeine as a cup of brewed coffee. However, whereas drinking strong coffee will give you a serious buzz, a cup of Matcha tea promotes a sense of calm alertness. This is because Matcha tea contains a natural substance called I-theanine, which promotes relaxation. So if you need to chill, ditch the coffee and drink Matcha tea instead.

2. Matcha Offers Health Benefits

We all know green tea is good for us, but are you aware of how many health benefits you get from drinking Matcha tea? Matcha tea is made from whole leaves, so it contains much higher levels of nutrients. Matcha is an excellent source of antioxidants and some studies have found that Matcha can slow the growth of cancer cells.

3. It takes Ages to Make Matcha Tea

Grinding Matcha tea is a labor-intensive process. Traditional Matcha tea is ground using stone mills and it can take up to an hour to grind up to 40g of tea. Unfortunately, traditional tea grinding methods are the only way to make Matcha, as food processors and spice grinders would produce a different flavor of tea – and you probably would not like it half as much.

4. Lower Grade Matcha Tea May Be Contaminated

Tea plants in certain areas are exposed to pollution and may contain high levels of lead, so always buy the best grade of Matcha you can afford. High-quality Matcha tea products are more likely to be cultivated in rural areas free from contaminants.

5. Matcha Tea Powder is Very Versatile

Traditionally speaking, Matcha tea is prepared with a tea bowl and a bamboo broom, but you can use Matcha powder in your baking, for smoothies, and in lattes. (Although you lose many of the health benefits if you add it to cookie dough!) If you do decide to bake with Matcha powder, buy a cheaper product.

Part of the enjoyment of drinking Matcha tea comes from preparing it the traditional way, so have a Japanese tea making ceremony and enjoy your Matcha.

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Powerful Herbs That Fight Flu

Are you still thinking about getting the flu shot this season? According to research published in The Lancet, getting the flu from a flu shot is not only possible, but probable. Over the course of 12 flu seasons, researchers analyzed studies and found that 41% of study participants contracted the flu after being given the most commonly administered flu shot. So what should you take away from these statistics? Have a plan B.

Herbs as Medicine

Herbs have been used medicinally for centuries. Even in the last century herbs were being used by physicians to treat influenza. In 1918, the flu pandemic known as the “Spanish flu” broke out across the globe and killed 20 to 60 million people. At the time, advances in modern medicine were just being discovered, and many physicians still relied on herbs and other natural therapies to treat sick individuals. According to the written material published by these herb-wielding physicians of the early 1900’s, patients suffering from the Spanish flu who were treated with herbs had above average survival and recovery rates. There is now a renewed interest in the medicinal properties of herbs and, again, there are many physicians who are using herbal protocol to prevent and treat seasonal flu symptoms. The best part is that herbs are readily available and don’t require a prescription.

Elderberry

This herb yields amazing results when it comes to fighting the flu. Israeli researchers published a study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine that confirmed that elderberry extracts inhibited the growth of influenza. In fact, when study participants took 500 mg. twice a day, 90% recovered within three days.

Garlic

People in the ancient world have always held garlic and other members of the allium family in high regard because of their medicinal attributes. In more recent news, garlic is garnering some positive attention because of the antibacterial and antiviral properties of its main chemical component, allicin. Studies done at the University of Maryland Medical Center confirm that consuming garlic helped to prevent the onset of the flu and also helped hasten recovery times of those individuals who already had the flu.

Olive Leaf Extract

Another ancient remedy of note is olive leaf extract. With its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal capacity, olive leaf extract is a broad spectrum herbal medicine used to treat a number of ailments including influenza. Interestingly, some European physicians are now using olive leaf extract instead of traditional antibiotics to treat their patients. Many naturopathic practitioners recommend taking olive leaf extract for several months before flu season begins in order to strengthen the immune system.

Echinacea

Hailing from the purple coneflower native to North America, echinacea has been part of Native American herbal medicine for centuries. University of Maryland Medical Center studies confirm that echinacea does, indeed, ease flu symptoms by relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the immune system.

Ginger

Long coveted for its pungent culinary offerings, ginger has an extensively history of medicinal use by Asian, Arabic, and Indian cultures. As well as being a go-to therapy for anything related to stomach discomfort, ginger also soothes flu symptoms such as a sore throat, nasal congestion, cough, and body aches. Ginger is best taken as a tea.

Remember that even natural medicine can interfere with both prescription and over-the-counter medicines like Tylenol. Always consult your physician before starting an herbal protocol for the flu.

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Healthy Immune System Improved from Cinnamon Oil

 

Cinnamon is an aromatic spice that is made from the peeled and dried bark of cinnamon trees. It has been used not only as a spice, but also as a medicine and as a trade commodity for hundreds of years.

Benefits of Cinnamon Oil

Anti-inflammatory

Cinnamon oil is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve stiff muscles and joints. It is also recommended for people suffering from arthritis and can even alleviate headaches caused by colds.

Treatment for Type II Diabetes

Cinnamon has been found to decrease blood glucose concentration and enhance insulin sensitivity.

Chemopreventive drug

Cinnamon has become one of the most common herbal medicines used for inhibiting tumor growth, particularly in cervical cancer. The reports have shown that cinnamon can cause apoptosis, or cell death, of cervical cancer cells.

Improves Blood Circulation

Cinnamon contains blood thinning properties, which makes the blood circulate in the body effectively. Good blood circulation helps transport the oxygen through all parts of the body. This will result in the proper functioning of all the body systems. It will also prevent heart attacks and stroke.

Antibacterial Properties

Cinnamon oil also has antibacterial properties, as well as anti-fungal, antiviral and antiseptic properties. It is effective in treating infections outside the body and can penetrate deeper into the body as well. Cinnamon oil has also been found to destroy staph infections and germs in the gall bladder.

Different Healthy Ways to Include Cinnamon with Food

  • Add cinnamon to cereal and rice pudding.
  • Ground cinnamon is a great spice for fruit pies such as pear, peach, apple, prune, and apricot.
  • Ground cinnamon can be added to beef or lamb marinades.
  • Cinnamon tea with honey has added health benefits.
  • Boiled milk with a cinnamon stick improves sleep.
  • Make a healthier cinnamon toast without sugar – substitute honey.

Different Types of Cinnamon

Saigon Cinnamon

Saigon cinnamon or Vietnamese cinnamon has superior flavor and odor. It is used mainly in ground form. It is often found in baked goods and processed foods.

Ceylon Cinnamon

It has a subtle and mild scent and is slightly sweeter. It is often seen rolled as a cigar and is soft and crumbly to the touch. It also appears lighter in color. Ceylon cinnamon has low coumarin levels, which are linked to liver failure. So, for those who want to take cinnamon as a daily supplement, Ceylon is the perfect choice.

Cassia Cinnamon

Cassia cinnamon, also known as Chinese cinnamon, is hard, hollow and has only one layer.

Korintje Cinnamon

An intense and spicy cinnamon it is smoother than the others, which is why it is a common choice for bakeries. It is also cheaper, but has a great flavor.

Conclusion

The flavor of cinnamon oil has always been unique. Its aroma is one of the most fragrant and addictive. A daily dose of this spice has many health benefits that will help improve your immune system. So why don’t you try some now?