#MEDICINAL_PLANTS

[tameblog]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[ramestoryworld]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[alexha2210]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[angusstory]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[tumibaba]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[romaleen]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[monaleen101]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[iamownerofme]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[shelyold]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[iammeandmy]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[januishstory]

You may have heard talk about the benefits of elderberries, or even come across elderberry syrup on the shelf of your local health food store. But you likely never heard anything about the flowers. We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. Often overlooked, the lovely little white or yellow blossoms of the magical elder shrub are also edible and medicinal, with some very special benefits of their own. These enchanting little white or yellow clusters of flowers emit a summery sweet fragrance. The flower essence is said to instill a sense of youthfulness, vigor, and restore inner strength. These delightful blossoms have a long history of medicinal use and are often used to flavor food and drinks. Read on to learn about their miraculous properties and some of the many ways you can use elderflower. Medicinal Benefits Both the berries and the flowers of the elder plant have been used for medicine for thousands of years. While both have similar affinities for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection, elderflowers have some additional unique uses. As an immune stimulator, elderflower tea can provide soothing relief for acute cold systems. The blooms are a key component of a traditional tea blend taken to reduce fever. A concoction of elderflower, yarrow, and mint is a great fever fighter, and was often used historically for measles and chickenpox. Blooms can also be used to treat conjunctivitis and soothe red itchy eyes, reduce pain and swelling in acute joint inflammation, and relieve toothaches. They are natural antihistamines, and when taken prior to the appearance of pollen, can ease symptoms of seasonal allergies. As a nervous system support, it is said they have the capacity to heal deep grief, helping to open people’s eyes to the magic of the world. In vitro studies have even suggested that these flowers may help to reduce inflammation and blood sugar levels, potentially useful for addressing type 2 diabetes. Harvesting and Preparing for Use Depending on your climate, elder shrubs may bloom at various times over the summer between June and August. To harvest, pick a warm dry day when the plant is in full bloom. Harvest during the morning or evening to keep the picked flowers from wilting in the sun or try to find a shady place to set them while you work. Pluck off entire clusters of blossoms at the base, shake gently to dislodge any hidden insects, and place each bundle into your basket or bag. If you don’t have any elder plants in your yard don’t worry! Just look for wild ones on the edges of streams, ponds, or along other disturbed edges such as fences or roads. If you also plan to harvest the berries later in the season, pick flowers selectively, leaving some clusters intact here and there. Once harvested, you can preserve for later use by drying and storing in tightly lidded jars in a dark place. To dry, lay flowers on trays or mesh screen and leave in a dark, dry place for about a week. When fully dry, make sure they are still a similar yellow or white color to when they were fresh. Browning can be prevented by avoiding light during the drying process. If you prefer, you can also leave flowers attached to the stem while drying and hang in bunches in a cool, dark location. I often dry herbs in a back closet. Caution Before using for food or medicine, it is important to separate the flowers from the stems. Leaves, stalks, and roots of these plants are toxic and should not be consumed. Ways to Use for Food and Medicine There are so many great ways to use this enchanting herb. The following are a few ideas on ways to utilize them in food, medicine, and even cosmetics. Try out a few of these suggestions or concoct your own recipes! 1. Tea For relief from colds or flu, pour boiling water over fresh or dried flowers and steep in a covered container for 10 minutes. Mix in a spoonful of local honey and feel those pesky symptoms ease as you breathe in this steamy sweet beverage. The cool tea can also be used as a mouthwash. Gargle and rinse to combat sore throats, toothaches, and abscesses. 2. Tincture The flowers can be tinctured in alcohol for use as an herbal remedy for various ailments. Just place crushed dried flowers in a jar, cover with 60 percent alcohol, and let sit in a cool dark place for three to four weeks, shaking daily. Consult with a clinical herbalist and your doctor before starting any herbal medicine. 3. Salve for Inflammation Relief Use a salve or lotion made from the blossoms to reduce inflammation and pain from sprains and strains. You can incorporate other healing herbs such as calendula, comfrey, or st. John’s wort for additional support. 4. Soothing Eye Wash Make an eye wash for relief from itchy eyes, conjunctivitis, or hay fever. Just make a batch of elderflower tea, let cool, and rinse! You can also try soaking a washcloth in the cool tea and use as an eye compress. 5. Syrup A syrup for fighting off colds, flus, and winter blues can be made with flowers of the elder tree as well as the berries. Or combine them for maximum benefit and flavor! This article on elderberries includes an easy recipe for syrup (see unpublished elderberry harvest article) Just incorporate or substitute in the blossoms. 6. Cosmetics Back in the Victorian era, elderflower water was often used as a skin cleansing lotion, believed to keep the skin young and free of blemishes. Use of elder blossoms in cosmetics is beginning to make a comeback, and can often be found in lotions, oils, and body butters that claim to reduce wrinkles, soften skin, and slow aging. 7. Cordial A cordial is a type of sweet soft drink that is historically popular in Western Europe and has been brewed since the Roman era. Delightfully fragrant and sweet, this concentrated syrup can be added to drinks or even mixed into recipes such as cakes and pancakes. To make a cordial, boil the flowers for at least minutes, strain, and add in equal parts sugar to the remaining volume of water. Including a splash of lemon juice and citric acid will help preserve the cordial and add a pleasant tartness. To use in drinks, pour one to three tablespoons into a glass and add water, seltzer, tonic water, sparking wine, vodka, or gin. Tip: Make a large batch all at once and freeze the extra for later use. 8. Cocktails Try out a fun and unique cocktail. Simply mix the flowers with lemon or lime peel or lemon balm and infuse in vodka for a couple of weeks. Strain out the liquid, add sugar syrup, and let the concoction sit for two more weeks. This refreshing spirit will certainly make a splash at your next party! You can also experiment with other alcohol of choice. Personally, I love making elderflower gin and tonics! 9. Wine This one is a classic! Elderflower wine has a distinctive crisp, floral taste, and is very pleasant chilled with a picnic on a sunny afternoon. Here is the recipe I use: Ingredients 1-pint elderflowers destalked 8 pints boiling water 3 lbs sugar Juice and zest of one lemon Half ounce of yeast Directions Pour boiling water over flowers, lemon, and zest, and let it all infuse for three days. Strain out the solids and stir in sugar and yeast Ferment at room temperature until bubbling slows, stir, and let sit for 3 more days. Strain again and let age for a couple of months. Be sure to cover the wine but allow for air to escape so it does not explode! For more tips, methods, and equipment for beginning wine making at home, check out this helpful article on our sister site, Foodal. 10. Cooking with Elderflower Use the cordial and/or dried flowers in cakes, tarts, jams, pies, or pancakes! The blossoms are great when balanced with tart fruits such as rhubarb. They are also delightful baked with strawberries and raspberries. Cucumber Elderflower Sorbet via Foodal. Photo by Kendall Vanderslice. Light, floral, and delicious, these summer blossoms can really be incorporated in just about any dish. I have even seen recipes for elderflower yogurt! Want to try something a bit more out of the box? Check out this recipe for a refreshing cucumber elderflower sorbet. 11. Herbal Vinegar Steep the crushed herb in vinegar for about a month. Use your vinegar of choice. Apple cider, white wine, or champagne are all great options. Strain and use in salad dressings or sauces. In similar fashion, you can also infuse elderflowers in honey or cooking oil. Use your imagination! Taste the Magic With so many ways to use and enjoy them, I can’t help being drawn to the intoxicating aroma and pleasant aura of elderflowers. But don’t take my word for it, try out a few of the ideas above, and you may just become enchanted by elder magic too. Do you have experience harvesting and using elderflowers? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more information on growing and using elderberries, check out some of our other guides: ©Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published October 1st, 2019. Last updated February 28th, 2025. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock. The staff at Gardener’s Path are not medical professionals and this article should not be construed as medical advice intended to assess, diagnose, prescribe, or promise cure. Gardener’s Path and Ask the Experts, LLC assume no liability for the use or misuse of the material presented above. Always consult with a medical professional before changing your diet or using plant-based remedies or supplements for health and wellness. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '176410929431717'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); Source link

[phonemantra-blog]

The Benefits of Osha Root: Unlocking Nature's Healing Power At our company, we understand the importance of providing you with valuable information that can help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being. In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits of Osha Root, a powerful herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to promote overall wellness. By delving into the healing properties and therapeutic potential of Osha Root, we aim to equip you with the knowledge you need to harness its potential and improve your quality of life. The Origins of Osha Root Osha Root, scientifically known as Ligusticum porteri, is a perennial herb native to the mountainous regions of North America, particularly the Rocky Mountains. It has a rich history of traditional use among Native American tribes, who revered it for its medicinal properties. The root of the plant, which is the most commonly used part, contains a plethora of beneficial compounds that contribute to its healing abilities. Powerful Immune-Boosting Properties One of the key benefits of Osha Root is its potent immune-boosting properties. The root contains antimicrobial compounds that can help strengthen your body's natural defense mechanisms. By enhancing the function of your immune system, Osha Root may help reduce the frequency and severity of common illnesses, such as colds and flu. Natural Respiratory Support If you're seeking natural remedies to support your respiratory health, Osha Root may be the answer. This remarkable herb has been traditionally used to alleviate respiratory conditions, including coughs, congestion, and bronchial irritations. Osha Root's expectorant properties help to loosen and expel mucus, providing relief from respiratory discomfort and promoting clearer breathing. Potent Anti-Inflammatory Effects Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many chronic diseases. Osha Root contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. By mitigating inflammation, Osha Root may provide relief from conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and even certain digestive disorders. Enhanced Digestive Health Speaking of digestive disorders, Osha Root has also been traditionally used to support gastrointestinal health. Its antispasmodic properties can help relax the muscles of the digestive tract, thereby alleviating symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and cramping. Additionally, Osha Root's anti-inflammatory effects may contribute to a healthier gut environment. Stress Relief and Mental Well-being In today's fast-paced world, stress and anxiety have become prevalent issues. Osha Root offers potential benefits in this area as well. This remarkable herb has adaptogenic properties, which means it can help your body adapt to and cope with stress more effectively. By promoting a sense of calm and relaxation, Osha Root may contribute to improved mental well-being and overall stress management. How to Use Osha Root Now that we've explored the remarkable benefits of Osha Root, you may be wondering how to incorporate it into your wellness routine. Osha Root is commonly available in various forms, including tinctures, capsules, and teas. It is crucial to follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. [caption id="attachment_68944" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] benefits of OSHA root[/caption] Frequently Asked Questions about the Benefits of Osha Root 1. What is Osha Root? Osha root, also known as Ligusticum porteri, is a perennial herb native to the Rocky Mountains of North America. 2. What are the health benefits of Osha Root? Osha root has been traditionally used for its various health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. 3. Can Osha Root help with respiratory issues? Yes, Osha root is commonly used to support respiratory health and may help relieve symptoms of coughs, colds, and bronchitis. 4. Does Osha Root have immune-boosting properties? Yes, Osha root is believed to have immune-boosting properties, which can help strengthen the body's natural defense mechanisms. 5. Can Osha Root aid in digestion? Some people use Osha root to support digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal issues such as indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps. 6. Is Osha Root beneficial for allergies? Osha root is known for its potential antihistamine properties, which may help alleviate allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and congestion. 7. Can Osha Root be used as a natural pain reliever? Yes, Osha root is often used as a natural pain reliever, particularly for headaches, migraines, and muscle aches. 8. Does Osha Root have anti-inflammatory effects? Yes, Osha root contains compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, making it useful for reducing inflammation in the body. 9. Are there any potential side effects of using Osha Root? While Osha root is generally considered safe when used appropriately, it may cause mild side effects such as stomach upset or skin rashes in some individuals. 10. Can pregnant or breastfeeding women use Osha Root? No, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women to use Osha root due to the lack of scientific evidence regarding its safety in these situations. Osha Root, with its extensive history of traditional use and remarkable healing properties, is a powerful herbal remedy that can support your overall well-being. From boosting your immune system to promoting respiratory health, reducing inflammation, and supporting digestion, Osha Root offers a multitude of benefits. By harnessing the potential of this natural remedy, you can take proactive steps towards improving your health and embracing a more vibrant and fulfilling life.

[belladonnaslover]

Clover: Luck

Harvest: You can harvest year around but harvest in spring or summer for the sweetest results. All parts of the plant are edible and invasive to the USA and AUS

Do not forge from parks (pesticides can be deadly especially when heated)

Medicinal: known for treating colds and congestion as it has a variety of vitamins however these also provide a blood thinning agent so please be cautious with medications or diabetes.

Magickal Properties: drive out negativity while bringing in luck and prosperity. The colors of the clover directly effect that type of luck it brings (White clover: peace Red Clover: love)

https://www.thedailystruggle.co.uk/clover-health-benefits/http://www.bio.brandeis.edu/fieldbio/medicinal_plants/pages/White_clover.html#:~:text=White%20clover%20is%20alien%20and%20native%20to%20Europe.&text=Leaf%20tea%20used%20for%20colds%2C%20coughs%2C%20and%20fevers.&text=Flower%20tea%20used%20for%20rheumatism%20and%20gout.&text=Like%20many%20clovers%2C%20white%20clover,cancer%2Dpreventative%20and%20antioxidant%20activity. (edited)

[agventure007]

Verywell Health Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) also known as holy basil, is a medicinal herb used in Ayurveda & is a form of alternative medicine that originated in India. Closely related to culinary basil, tulsi is native to India and Southeast Asia. Tulsi is considered an adaptogenic herb. Adaptogens are plants that help to adapt the body to stress and boost energy. Tulsi contains a number of beneficial compounds including: Eugenol: a terpene with pain-relieving properties, also found in clove oil. Ursolic and rosmarinic acid: compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. Apigenin: a flavonoid that helps the body removes waste at the cellular level. Lutein: an antioxidant carotenoid important for eye health. Ocimumosides A and B: compounds that reduce stress and balances the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. . . . Double tap and follow us for more interesting information 👉@agventure007 . . Turn on post notifications. . . Tag all your friends. . . Dm for queries. . . #agriculture #agriculturestudent #agriculture_globally #agrian #horticulture #flori #india #indianagriculture #farmingindia #farmlife #farmer #instaphoto #agronomy #pathology #entomology #medicine #natural #medicinal_plants #photography #forestry #plant_world #biodiversity #botany #nature #naturalphotography #india #indianagriculture #icarindia #icarjrf #net #srf #ars (at Bengaluru) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDBshn4AIel/?igshid=19tsrevrslmkf

[indusviva]

Wellness Tip of the Day 

[floravii]

Common Juniper (Juniperus communis)

Boston, MA

Situated in an entry garden surrounding grass in the middle of the garden. Used to add an appearance of volume around a flat space.

Height: 4-6″

Preferred Solar Exposure: full sun

Preferred Soil Type: chalk, clay, loam, sand

Preferred Soil pH: acid, alkaline, neutral

Preferred Moisture Level: well-drained

Hardiness Zones: 3-9

Tolerance: deer, drought, dry soil, rocky soil

Maintenance: low

Health Value: used for diuretics, laxatives, and cough medicine.

Sources:

https://www.gardenia.net/plant/juniperus-communis-green-carpet

http://www.bio.brandeis.edu/fieldbio/medicinal_plants/pages/Common_Juniper.html