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| We picked up some cedar posts for $4 each to use for fencing posts. |
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 29, 2011
4 Thieves Vinegar
Here is a recipe for a type of thieves vinegar, rather than oil. It can be used as an insect repellent (lots of mosquitoes and ticks out there right now). This is great to have on hand and is made with fresh or dried herbs. Here is the recipe:
4 Thieves Vinegar
- 2 quarts - apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons - lavender
- 2 tablespoons - rosemary
- 2 tablespoons - sage
- 2 tablespoons - wormwood
- 2 tablespoons - rue
- 2 tablespoons - mint
- 2 tablespoons - fresh, chopped garlic
Combine dried herbs (except garlic) and vinegar in a one-gallon jar with lid, and soak in the sun for 2 weeks, shaking often. Then strain out the used herbs, and retain the herbal liquid mixture. Add several cloves of crushed garlic, and close lid. Let soak for three days, and strain out the garlic fiber and discard. This liquid tincture needs to be stored in a cool place, like the refrigerator, or it can be preserved by canning. Fill canning jar with boiling liquid tincture to within one-half inch of top. Cap with rubber seal canning lid, tighten ring, and turn hot jar upside down; leave it undisturbed until it cools to room temperature. This will cause the jar to seal. Don’t forget to date and label it.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Pic of the Day ~ Strawberries!
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| Although our plants are small, we are getting a couple strawberries daily. I suppose I should be putting them in the freezer as they ripen, but instead I give them to someone to eat... yesterday's batch of 4 strawberries went to G-ma Donna. |
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Pic of the Day ~ Naked Sheep in the Yard
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| Last Friday we had the sheerer out to sheer the sheep... now they are all naked! I bet they are enjoying being cooler now that it is getting hot! |
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Pic of the Day ~ Broody Hen
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| Here is our broody hen, she is sitting on 12 fertile Americana eggs... blue, green and pink! She's being such a good mama, won't let me in to take pics! :) |
Monday, April 25, 2011
Pic of the Day ~ Cabbage, Broccoli and Onions
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| The cabbage is starting to head. The onions have done well to keep the bugs away... still a few 'chew' holes but not like last year! |
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Yah Provides an Incubator!
Through a series of events only the Creator of the Universe could have orchestrated, we are getting an incubator to hatch eggs with! Here is the encouraging story of how the Father puts things into motion and we have no clue until the end result!
Several weeks ago while perusing Craig's List, I found someone hatching Americana eggs and offering them for sale when they hatched. I sent an email saying that I would like 25 of them and she said when they hatched (it takes 21 days) she would email or call and let me know.
A little over 2 weeks later, she emailed and said that there had been an accident and all the chicks were dead! I was so sad. I asked if she had other eggs that I could put under my broody hen to hatch and she did. She also said that she thought she would just get rid of the incubator. I ask her price, but she was hesitant.
The next week I met with her to get a dozen Americana eggs and asked her again about the incubator. Again she hesitated but said that it would probably be about $100 because it had a fan, turning trays and extra trays for smaller eggs.
The next day I was visiting a friend and she said she had a gift for me. (I had not told her about the incubator.) She handed me some money and I didn't count it, just asked why and finally stuck it in my pocket with grace (and much thanksgiving.) Later, during our visit, I told her about the incubator. She was excited for me, and being in the chicken business herself, told me I should get it if she decided to sell. I just said it would have to be a Yah thing and we dropped the topic.
Upon arriving home that afternoon, I got an email from the lady with the incubator telling me all about it, brand name, all the extras, etc. I researched and found that it is worth about $130-160. I emailed back and said I would take it. I remembered the money in my pocket and still hadn't counted it. I pulled it out and counted $100!
It is amazing what Yah can do when you just follow His lead... He guides our steps and brings blessings all along the way!
Several weeks ago while perusing Craig's List, I found someone hatching Americana eggs and offering them for sale when they hatched. I sent an email saying that I would like 25 of them and she said when they hatched (it takes 21 days) she would email or call and let me know.
A little over 2 weeks later, she emailed and said that there had been an accident and all the chicks were dead! I was so sad. I asked if she had other eggs that I could put under my broody hen to hatch and she did. She also said that she thought she would just get rid of the incubator. I ask her price, but she was hesitant.
The next week I met with her to get a dozen Americana eggs and asked her again about the incubator. Again she hesitated but said that it would probably be about $100 because it had a fan, turning trays and extra trays for smaller eggs.
The next day I was visiting a friend and she said she had a gift for me. (I had not told her about the incubator.) She handed me some money and I didn't count it, just asked why and finally stuck it in my pocket with grace (and much thanksgiving.) Later, during our visit, I told her about the incubator. She was excited for me, and being in the chicken business herself, told me I should get it if she decided to sell. I just said it would have to be a Yah thing and we dropped the topic.
Upon arriving home that afternoon, I got an email from the lady with the incubator telling me all about it, brand name, all the extras, etc. I researched and found that it is worth about $130-160. I emailed back and said I would take it. I remembered the money in my pocket and still hadn't counted it. I pulled it out and counted $100!
It is amazing what Yah can do when you just follow His lead... He guides our steps and brings blessings all along the way!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Things going on at Shekinah Farm
Well, as you can see I didn't get anything posted this past week. It has been one busy week!
Some interesting things that have happened...
After spending the day at the hospital with my Father on Sunday, I docked the sheep tails (as posted earlier), sprayed neem oil on my garden, and began preparing for Passover.
Monday held another busy day in which I split one of my bee hives, had the farrier here and at took her to a friend's home to trim more hooves, ran to the grocery store and got home in time to cook for Passover.
Passover Day we were supposed to go to a friends but my father was still not well, so we stayed home and had Passover meal with family here.
Wednesday I picked up 7 new little Americana pullets and 12 fertile Americana eggs to put under my broody hen in the nest box. The pullets are doing well and the broody hen is still sitting! Looking forward to new chicks! The rest of my day was taking Shelly to therapy and running errands in town.
Thursday, Shelly and I drove 5 hours round trip to pick up our co-op order and spent a wonderful time at a friend's home on our way back. She makes the best lemonade and is a wonderful hostess!
Friday was spent with people coming by to pick up co-op orders, getting ready for Sabbath and fielding many phone calls.
I will get pics today as I visit around the farm on my walk and post them this week... the azalias are in bloom and look beautiful!
Some interesting things that have happened...
After spending the day at the hospital with my Father on Sunday, I docked the sheep tails (as posted earlier), sprayed neem oil on my garden, and began preparing for Passover.
Monday held another busy day in which I split one of my bee hives, had the farrier here and at took her to a friend's home to trim more hooves, ran to the grocery store and got home in time to cook for Passover.
Passover Day we were supposed to go to a friends but my father was still not well, so we stayed home and had Passover meal with family here.
Wednesday I picked up 7 new little Americana pullets and 12 fertile Americana eggs to put under my broody hen in the nest box. The pullets are doing well and the broody hen is still sitting! Looking forward to new chicks! The rest of my day was taking Shelly to therapy and running errands in town.
Thursday, Shelly and I drove 5 hours round trip to pick up our co-op order and spent a wonderful time at a friend's home on our way back. She makes the best lemonade and is a wonderful hostess!
Friday was spent with people coming by to pick up co-op orders, getting ready for Sabbath and fielding many phone calls.
I will get pics today as I visit around the farm on my walk and post them this week... the azalias are in bloom and look beautiful!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Unhappy lambs
My lambs are not happy today. I castrated our little ram, Ben and docked his tail. I docked the tails on the other babies except the new one. I will dock her tail in a week or so. Needless to say they are all not very happy... I dock and castrate with a special rubber band that is made for castrating. After a few weeks the lamb's tails will fall off.
There is discussion whether it is necessary to dock tails. I have decided that for our sheep, taking off the tail is a plus. Last year we did not remove the tails and this year, during shearing, the clump of wool on the tails of last year's lambs was just a clump of poo! Yuk! Poo stuck to the end of the tails and made a big clump. That area of wool isn't saved anyway, so there is no reason to save the tail.
We do keep some of the tail to cover the anus and vulvae so that no infection can set in, otherwise the length of the tail comes off.
Ben will be our meat next spring. To keep him from mating with the girls this year, we castrated him and will use him for the freezer next year. For lamb, he should be slaughtered in the fall, but for mutton he will be slaughtered in the spring at about a year old. He will be full size and ready for the freezer. We may put a couple of the other lambs in the freezer as well, but the boy needed to be castrated so he wouldn't mate. We will also have fresh lamb for Passover. This year we will buy lamb for Pesach. We do not sacrifice the lamb/sheep. It is not an acceptable sacrifice to YHVH. We do butcher them for the freezer and use them for Pesach. Good meat!
Hag Sameach!
Happy Pesach!
There is discussion whether it is necessary to dock tails. I have decided that for our sheep, taking off the tail is a plus. Last year we did not remove the tails and this year, during shearing, the clump of wool on the tails of last year's lambs was just a clump of poo! Yuk! Poo stuck to the end of the tails and made a big clump. That area of wool isn't saved anyway, so there is no reason to save the tail.
We do keep some of the tail to cover the anus and vulvae so that no infection can set in, otherwise the length of the tail comes off.
Ben will be our meat next spring. To keep him from mating with the girls this year, we castrated him and will use him for the freezer next year. For lamb, he should be slaughtered in the fall, but for mutton he will be slaughtered in the spring at about a year old. He will be full size and ready for the freezer. We may put a couple of the other lambs in the freezer as well, but the boy needed to be castrated so he wouldn't mate. We will also have fresh lamb for Passover. This year we will buy lamb for Pesach. We do not sacrifice the lamb/sheep. It is not an acceptable sacrifice to YHVH. We do butcher them for the freezer and use them for Pesach. Good meat!
Hag Sameach!
Happy Pesach!
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Cold and Flu Remedies
For sore throat and upper respiratory
1 oz dried sage
3 c water
honey
lemon juice (1 Tbsp)
Cayenne
Boil sage in water until liquid is reduced to half. Let it cool. Strain and press to remove liquid from the sage. Reheat liquid to warm, add honey to taste. Let cool, add lemon and a pinch of cayenne. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Take 1 Tbsp - 1 cup as needed for upper respiratory or sore throat.
Steam for respiratory ailments:
2 oz eucalyptus
1oz sage
1 oz juniper
1 gal water
Bring to a rolling boil, remove from heat, cover head and bowl/pot with towel and breathe steam deeply into lungs. Return to heat and repeat as necessary. Add fresh herbs as aroma diminishes.
Sinus Infection Nasal Spray
5 drops each of the following tinctures:
eucalyptus
usnea
echinacea
sage
juniper
3 drops grapefruit seed extract.
Place tinctures in a 1 oz nasal spray bottle, add distilled water to make 1 oz.
Spray into nostrils as needed.
1 oz dried sage
3 c water
honey
lemon juice (1 Tbsp)
Cayenne
Boil sage in water until liquid is reduced to half. Let it cool. Strain and press to remove liquid from the sage. Reheat liquid to warm, add honey to taste. Let cool, add lemon and a pinch of cayenne. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Take 1 Tbsp - 1 cup as needed for upper respiratory or sore throat.
Steam for respiratory ailments:
2 oz eucalyptus
1oz sage
1 oz juniper
1 gal water
Bring to a rolling boil, remove from heat, cover head and bowl/pot with towel and breathe steam deeply into lungs. Return to heat and repeat as necessary. Add fresh herbs as aroma diminishes.
Sinus Infection Nasal Spray
5 drops each of the following tinctures:
eucalyptus
usnea
echinacea
sage
juniper
3 drops grapefruit seed extract.
Place tinctures in a 1 oz nasal spray bottle, add distilled water to make 1 oz.
Spray into nostrils as needed.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Sheep Shearing and Esther's New Lamb!
Here is the latest news...
Joel came by to shear the sheep this morning, 6 bags of wool fleeces to clean and spin! After he left, I went out to clean up the barn and bring the fleeces into the house and found Esther in the barn with a brand new baby on the ground still covered with the sack. She is small so I think maybe the stress of sheering brought her early.
Here are some pics of my naked sheep and new baby lamb.
Esther is a first mother, so we need to watch her close to make sure she lets the baby eat and takes care of her properly. Usually, it is instinctive, but sometimes new moms just don't always know what to do. She was cleaning and pawing at her to get her moving. She didn't want to get up right away, but finally, she was on her feet. Mama getting her sparkling clean!
Shabbat Shalom to everyone!
Joel came by to shear the sheep this morning, 6 bags of wool fleeces to clean and spin! After he left, I went out to clean up the barn and bring the fleeces into the house and found Esther in the barn with a brand new baby on the ground still covered with the sack. She is small so I think maybe the stress of sheering brought her early.
Here are some pics of my naked sheep and new baby lamb.
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| Posey |
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| Hadasah and our Angora Goat behind her (she is shivering!) |
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| Rachael and Esther with her new lamb |
Shabbat Shalom to everyone!
Cure for Intestinal Parasites
2 oz dried wormwood
2 qts filtered water
(this is very bitter)
Place wormwood in container, pour near boiling water over top and cover tightly. Let sit overnight.
Strain and press to remove as much liquid as possible.
Drink 1 cup, 4 times daily for 8 days to rid intestines of worms and parasites.
2 qts filtered water
(this is very bitter)
Place wormwood in container, pour near boiling water over top and cover tightly. Let sit overnight.
Strain and press to remove as much liquid as possible.
Drink 1 cup, 4 times daily for 8 days to rid intestines of worms and parasites.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Immune System Boosting Herbs and Foods
Top Ten Immune Boosting Herbs/foods
Ashwagandha (powerful coagulant)
Astragalus (Add Astragalus root to rice for a great immune boost.)
Boneset (Native to North America, exceptionally effective treatment of colds and flu)
Garlic
Ginger Root
Onion
Red Root Ceanothus spp (A 'need on hand' herb for infected wounds, lungs, and lymph system. Other Species include: California Lilac, cleavers (food herb) and poke root (drug herb) )
Shiitake Mushroom
Siberian Ginsing
Foods/Herbs high in Vitamin C
Herbal defenses against illness (Immune boosters)
Broth:
3 cups water
1/2 cup vegetable stock (to flavor)
6 slices dried astragalus root
3 Tbsp dried garlic powder (or 10 cloves peeled fresh garlic)
Simmer all ingredients for 2-3 hours covered. Strain. Use if you begin to feel ill... drink entire recipe. If you use fresh garlic, eat garlic separately with the broth.
Fall Soup (for Immune boosting)
8 c homemade vegetable or chicken broth
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 diced onion
1 minced large garlic bulb
1 piece of fresh gingerroot about 1 1/2 inches, grated
5 pieces sliced dried astragalus root
2 c fresh, sliced Shiitake Mushrooms
1 lg Reishi Mushroom, whole
Cayenne, salt and pepper to taste
Add other ingredients high in vit. C.
Saute onions, garlic and ginger in olive oil until saft. Add all other ingredients (except cayenne, salt and pepper) and simmer for 2 hours. Remove from heat and let stand 2 hours. Remove astragalus and reishi mushroom. Reheat and add spices to taste.
Ashwagandha (powerful coagulant)
Astragalus (Add Astragalus root to rice for a great immune boost.)
Boneset (Native to North America, exceptionally effective treatment of colds and flu)
Garlic
Ginger Root
Onion
Red Root Ceanothus spp (A 'need on hand' herb for infected wounds, lungs, and lymph system. Other Species include: California Lilac, cleavers (food herb) and poke root (drug herb) )
Shiitake Mushroom
Siberian Ginsing
Foods/Herbs high in Vitamin C
Herbal defenses against illness (Immune boosters)
Broth:
3 cups water
1/2 cup vegetable stock (to flavor)
6 slices dried astragalus root
3 Tbsp dried garlic powder (or 10 cloves peeled fresh garlic)
Simmer all ingredients for 2-3 hours covered. Strain. Use if you begin to feel ill... drink entire recipe. If you use fresh garlic, eat garlic separately with the broth.
Fall Soup (for Immune boosting)
8 c homemade vegetable or chicken broth
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 diced onion
1 minced large garlic bulb
1 piece of fresh gingerroot about 1 1/2 inches, grated
5 pieces sliced dried astragalus root
2 c fresh, sliced Shiitake Mushrooms
1 lg Reishi Mushroom, whole
Cayenne, salt and pepper to taste
Add other ingredients high in vit. C.
Saute onions, garlic and ginger in olive oil until saft. Add all other ingredients (except cayenne, salt and pepper) and simmer for 2 hours. Remove from heat and let stand 2 hours. Remove astragalus and reishi mushroom. Reheat and add spices to taste.
New Calf!
31 had her calf this morning. It's a girl! :) Mamma and baby are doing great! Looking forward to fresh milk, butter and cheese making.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Herbs for Food Borne Pathogens
Many food borne pathogens are contaminating our food supply. Even though most of us try to eat healthy, organic foods, these pathogens can come from many sources. Spices and herbs have been used since the beginning of time to keep us safe from these pathogens. Most traditional spice blends used today are known for their country of origin: Five-Spice, Mexican Salsa spice, Indian Curry Blend, Chili Powder. Here are some powerful blends of herbs and spices that you can create to keep you and your family safe.
Chili Powder
capsicums, onion, paprika, garlic, cumin, oregano
Five-spice Powder
white or black pepper, cinnamon, anise, fennel, cloves
Salsa
capsicums, onion, garlic, tomatoes, lime
Curry Powder
tumeric, curry leaves, cumin, cardamom, ginger, mustard, coriander
Effectiveness of Antibacterial Spices:
100% effective: garlic, onion, allspice, oregano
75-90% thyme, cinnamon, tarragon, cumin, cloves, lemongrass, bay leaf, capsicums, rosemary, marjoram, mustard
50-75% caraway, mint, sage, fennel, coriander, dill, nutmeg, basil, parsley
25-48% cardamom, pepper, ginger, anise seed, celery seed, lemon or lime juice
Chili Powder
capsicums, onion, paprika, garlic, cumin, oregano
Five-spice Powder
white or black pepper, cinnamon, anise, fennel, cloves
Salsa
capsicums, onion, garlic, tomatoes, lime
Curry Powder
tumeric, curry leaves, cumin, cardamom, ginger, mustard, coriander
Effectiveness of Antibacterial Spices:
100% effective: garlic, onion, allspice, oregano
75-90% thyme, cinnamon, tarragon, cumin, cloves, lemongrass, bay leaf, capsicums, rosemary, marjoram, mustard
50-75% caraway, mint, sage, fennel, coriander, dill, nutmeg, basil, parsley
25-48% cardamom, pepper, ginger, anise seed, celery seed, lemon or lime juice
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Cold and Flu Tea
This recipe is from Herbal Antibiotics by Stephen Harrod Buhner
2 tsp sage
juice of 1 lemon (1 tsp lemon balm herb)
pinch of cayenne pepper
1 Tbsp honey
Pour 1 cup boiling water over sage and allow to steep for 10 minutes. strain out herbs, add remaining ingredients and drink hot.
2 tsp sage
juice of 1 lemon (1 tsp lemon balm herb)
pinch of cayenne pepper
1 Tbsp honey
Pour 1 cup boiling water over sage and allow to steep for 10 minutes. strain out herbs, add remaining ingredients and drink hot.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Top 15 Herbal Antibiotics
Top 15 Herbs and plants with antibiotic properties: (information from Herbal Antibiotics by Stephen Harrod Buhner)
Acacia (used interally and externally as anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory, staph, salmonella, malaria, dysentary, e.coli, bacteria that cause Kidney and urinary tract infections)
Aloe (used externally for wounds and burns, internally as a purgative and smooth muscle contractions, staph, herpes 1&2)
Cryptolepsis (used in treatment of malaria, Staph, dysentary, gonorrhea, e. coli, candida, campylobacter/stomach flu/food poisoning)
Echinacea (used to treat staph, strep, tb, bites and stings, colds/flu, blood infections, and abnormal cells)
Eucalyptus (used to treat malaria, staph, dysentary, influenza, enterobacteria, e. coli, lung infections/pneumonia, candida, salmonella, H. Pylori, all microbes)
Garlic (used as a broad spectrum anti-biotic, treats tb, dysentary, staph, pneumonia/lung infections, candida, e. coli, strep, salmonella, campylobacter, urinary/kidney infections, herpes, influenza B, HIV)
Ginger (used to treat staph, malaria, dysentary, lung infections/pneumonia, candida, e. coli, strep, salmonella)
Goldenseal (used to treat staph,cholera, strep, candida, e. coli, pneumonia, salmonella, diphtheria, tb, gastro-intestinal parasites)
Grapefruit Seed Extract (used as a broad spectrum anti-biotic, treats h. pylori, staph, pneumonia, tb, candida, e. coli, strep, herpes 1, measles)
Honey (used internally to treat staph, strep, h. pylori, UTI, used externally to treat burns and wounds)
Juniper (used to treat staph, strep, pneumonia, dysentary, e. coli, candida, salmonella)
Licorice (used to treat malaria, tb, staph, strep, salmonella, e.coli, candida, cholera, fungal parasites of skin, hair and nails, roundworms)
Sage (used as a broad spectrum antibiotic, treats strep, staph, influenza, lung infections/pneumonia, e. coli, candida, salmonella)
Usnea Lichen (used to treat tb, pneumonia, staph, strep, candida, various fungal strains)
Wormwood (used to treat staph, malaria, candida, pneumonia, intestinal worms/parasites, internal amebal organisms)
Acacia (used interally and externally as anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory, staph, salmonella, malaria, dysentary, e.coli, bacteria that cause Kidney and urinary tract infections)
Aloe (used externally for wounds and burns, internally as a purgative and smooth muscle contractions, staph, herpes 1&2)
Cryptolepsis (used in treatment of malaria, Staph, dysentary, gonorrhea, e. coli, candida, campylobacter/stomach flu/food poisoning)
Echinacea (used to treat staph, strep, tb, bites and stings, colds/flu, blood infections, and abnormal cells)
Eucalyptus (used to treat malaria, staph, dysentary, influenza, enterobacteria, e. coli, lung infections/pneumonia, candida, salmonella, H. Pylori, all microbes)
Garlic (used as a broad spectrum anti-biotic, treats tb, dysentary, staph, pneumonia/lung infections, candida, e. coli, strep, salmonella, campylobacter, urinary/kidney infections, herpes, influenza B, HIV)
Ginger (used to treat staph, malaria, dysentary, lung infections/pneumonia, candida, e. coli, strep, salmonella)
Goldenseal (used to treat staph,cholera, strep, candida, e. coli, pneumonia, salmonella, diphtheria, tb, gastro-intestinal parasites)
Grapefruit Seed Extract (used as a broad spectrum anti-biotic, treats h. pylori, staph, pneumonia, tb, candida, e. coli, strep, herpes 1, measles)
Honey (used internally to treat staph, strep, h. pylori, UTI, used externally to treat burns and wounds)
Juniper (used to treat staph, strep, pneumonia, dysentary, e. coli, candida, salmonella)
Licorice (used to treat malaria, tb, staph, strep, salmonella, e.coli, candida, cholera, fungal parasites of skin, hair and nails, roundworms)
Sage (used as a broad spectrum antibiotic, treats strep, staph, influenza, lung infections/pneumonia, e. coli, candida, salmonella)
Usnea Lichen (used to treat tb, pneumonia, staph, strep, candida, various fungal strains)
Wormwood (used to treat staph, malaria, candida, pneumonia, intestinal worms/parasites, internal amebal organisms)
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Will Barter be next???
Headline:
Government May Seek to Make Forms of Barter Currency Illegal After Court Ruling...
Read the whole story!
Government May Seek to Make Forms of Barter Currency Illegal After Court Ruling...
Read the whole story!
Natural Remedies for Radiation Exposure
Someone sent me an email with this information... I could not find the source, but the information is valid and I thought some of you might like it. I wish I could give credit for the person who pulled it together.But I will give a "Thank You" and hope whoever wrote this will not be upset that I have posted it here. ~Christie
Fears about nuclear radiation have certainly come to the forefront in the past few weeks. It’s a peculiar kind of threat in our modern times – we can’t see it, nor, for the most part, do we really understand it. Depending on your age, your experience with nuclear threats could includeBert the Turtle and his advice to simply “duck and cover”, the meltdown at Three Mile Island, the horrifying spectacle of Chernobyl, or perhaps just the vague notion that it has something to do with the place where Homer Simpson works. We now add a new chapter – the continuing crisis at Japan’s Fukushima nuclear complex.
Fueled by fearful media speculation and a distrust of government reports, people are seeking ways to protect themselves and their animals from the looming threat of excessive exposure to nuclear radiation. In doing research for our customers about the best natural solutions, we were reminded of the profound powers of nourishing foods and herbs that, when used regularly, provide a protective barrier against all manner of current environmental threats, including nuclear radiation. The truth is, we live in a radioactive world. We receive radiation from the sun, from the earth, from the food we eat, from airplane travels, and from countless electronics in our day-to-day life.
Following are suggestions and shared recipes of simple herbs and foods to help prevent damage from radiation and other environmental toxins. They’re simple, affordable and effective, and it's easy to incorporate some or all of them into your daily life.
PLEASE NOTE: Potassium iodide has found itself in the limelight, despite the fact that no health care organizations, physicians or others in the health care community (including us!) are advocating its use unless you live in the immediate vicinity of a nuclear meltdown. Potassium iodide is potentially very dangerous to healthy individuals, it can only be used short term (no longer than two weeks), and it only protects the thyroid, not other parts of the body, in the event of extreme radiation exposure. Please be responsible and do your research before purchasing or taking potassium iodide.
Add Sea Vegetables (Seaweed) to Your Diet
(Kelp, Bladderwrack, Nori, Kombu, Wakame, Dulse etc.) The iodine in sea vegetables helps draw out radiation and protect the thyroid from radioactive uptake. If we have sufficient natural iodine in our bodies (Iodine 127 is the only natural iodine isotope), our bodies will not take in the heavier iodine 131 from radioactive particles. According to herbalist and internationally acclaimed seaweed expert Ryan Drum, if we continually take in 150 micrograms of iodine 127 daily, we will most likely be protected from adverse reactions to exposure to nuclear radiation, plus a host of other common environmental toxins. We can do this by eating 3-4 teaspoons (5-10 grams) or taking 6-8 capsules (00 size) of seaweeds daily.
Incorporate seaweeds into favorite foods like soups, rice, muffins, even cookies!! Mild dried seaweeds are pleasantly crunchy and salty, and make a delicious snack. For our animal companions we can sprinkle small amounts of powdered seaweed on their food. Humboldt Herbals offers Dot’s Wonder Pet Powders that contain seaweeds and immune supportive herbs.
Related to the seaweeds are the algae including Chlorella and Spirulina, a blue-green algae first developed as a supplement in Japan, which has undergone serious investigation for its antitoxic, antioxidant and antitumor effects. Interestingly, the Japanese are the biggest consumers of not only Chlorella but also seaweed, suggesting that Japanese are way out in front when it comes to addressing the issues of radiation toxicity.
Eat Orange and Dark Green Foods
Japanese researchers found that diets high in carotenes significantly reduced DNA damage in humans exposed to radiation. Supplements of beta-carotene (or of vitamins C or E) did not show this effect. Eating lots of orange and dark green foods (sweet potatoes, winter squash, beets, carrots, kale, collards, chard, and spinach, for example) can protect you from radiation-induced cancers.
Eat Your Broccoli
Guinea pigs bombarded with radiation lived a lot longer if they ate broccoli or cabbage. All cabbage family plants - including arugula, turnips, radishes, cauliflower, mustard greens, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, kale, collards, and of course broccoli - protect your cells from the damaging effects of radiation.
Miso Broth
Miso broth is the classic food for prevention of radiation damage. Miso is amazing medicine- containing live cultures, minerals, amino acids, and protein that support all the body’s systems and provide a radioprotective benefit. There’s twice the protection if a quarter-ounce/5 grams of dried kelp seaweed is added to the soup. In scientific studies, seaweed was able to neutralize radioactive isotopes in the human body. Researchers at McGill University say radioactive strontium binds to the algin in brown seaweeds to create sodium alginate, a compound easily and harmlessly excreted. Common black tea exhibited the same anti-radiation effects in several Japanese studies.
You’ll find a variety of miso pastes in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. Click this link to learn more about delicious miso.
Black & Green Teas
In Fighting Radiation and Chemical Pollutants with Foods, Herbs, and Vitamins (Vitality, 1991), Steven Schecter tells us that both black and green tea showed "radioprotective effects" whether taken before or after exposure to radiation. Among other modes of operation, tea catechins absorb radioactive isotopes and remove them from the body before they do damage. The action is similar he says, to that of sodium alginate (the "active ingredient" in kelp seaweed).
Mushrooms
Eating any amount of reishi (a mushroom) reduces damage from radiation. Shiitake mushrooms do the same. If eating mushrooms isn’t your thing, Life Shield Immunity capsules from New Chapter are a wonderful blend of medicinal mushrooms that offers comprehensive deep immune support and radioprotective benefits. (Available at Humboldt Herbals)
Burdock Root
Burdock root (Arctium lappa) removes radioactive isotopes from the body. A dose is 1-4 ounces/300-120 grams of cooked fresh root, up to a pint of infusion daily, or several large spoonfuls of vinegar (but only if made with fresh roots). You’ll find fresh burdock roots in the produce section at natural food stores. In Japanese cuisine it’s called “gobo.”
Daikon radish has been used for drawing radiation, post nuclear fall out. You can make a delicious shredded salad that’s cooling and detoxifying with daikon, burdock and carrots – yum!
Beans
Dried beans, especially lentils can reverse DNA damage done by radiation. So can red clover (Trifolium pratense) and astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) - two powerful members of the legume (bean) family.
Homeopathy
Homeopathic remedies can be taken before and after exposure to radiation: Plumbum (lead) is said to help those who feel overwhelmed and in need of protection. Belladonna is used to prevent and relieve radiation burns and pains - even long after the immediate exposure.
Eat Foods Rich in Selenium
Selenium protects DNA from radiation damage and helps prevent damage to the skin surface, too. Get plenty of selenium by eating a daily dose of 2 cups/500 ml of nettle infusion, one-half ounce/15 g kelp, 2 ounces/60 g cooked burdock root, or 1 cup/250 ml organic yogurt daily. Shellfish, green and black teas, and garlic contain significant amounts of selenium, as do many mushrooms. The best sources however are nettles (2200 mcg per 100 grams), kelp (1700 mcg/100 g), burdock (1400 mcg/100 g), catnip (Nepeta cataria), ginseng, Siberian ginseng, and astragalus.
American Ginseng
In clinical trial with humans, those who took American ginseng extract (Panax quinquefolium) for thirty days following exposure to radiation showed hastened recovery from injuries to their bone marrow, organs, skin, and blood cells according to Paul Bergner in The Healing Power of Ginseng, The Enlightened Person's Guide, Prima, 1996. He quotes Japanese researcher Dr M. Yonezawa as saying that "ginseng appears to be the most useful agent available for protection against radiation damage."
Nourishing Herbal Infusions
It’s important to keep yourself well nourished if you are exposed to radiation. Make it a habit to drink at least two big cups of nourishing herbal infusion daily. Nettles, red clover, and violet leaves supply generous amounts of the nutrients you need most: protein and minerals, especially potassium and zinc.
Other Herbal Allies
Great herbal allies to help your body eliminate heavy metals and radiation are nettle tea, cilantro, and milk thistle (helps your liver process toxins). Deep immune building benefits are provided by astragalus, eleuthero and ginseng. Yarrow Environmental Solution Essencefrom Flower Essence Services is a beautiful formula to support the body in environmental disasters, especially radiation. Teas from Humboldt Herbals including Detoxify Tea, Blood Building Tea, Calcium Support Tea, I Love My Liver Tea, and Immune Boosting Broth are a lovely way to fortify your body and immune system, and our Savory Seasoning Sprinkle is packed with seaweeds and nutritive herbs!
For best results, cook with the herbs (kelp, astragalus, Siberian ginseng, ginseng, reishi, cilantro and burdock), brew nourishing herbal infusions with them (nettles, red clover, astragalus, burdock, catnip, and ginseng), make mineral-rich vinegars with them (nettles, burdock, catnip, cilantro, ginseng, and astragalus), or take a high-quality tincture of them (burdock, ginseng, Siberian ginseng, astragalus).
Epsom Salt Bath
Many natural health practitioners recommend bathing in Epsom Salts and baking soda to help neutralize exposure to radiation, especially after x-rays or long airplane flights. Epsom salt is not actually a salt at all, but the natural mineral compound, magnesium sulfate. It can be used internally as a natural laxative, or externally, as a soothing, healing soak for the body. Why is an epsom salt bath beneficial? Because the magnesium and sulfates are readily absorbed into the body, imparting their own particular health benefits.
Magnesium is an incredibly valuable mineral, one that many people are deficient in. It is involved in hundreds of different enzyme activities. It is needed for the metabolism of other minerals, the proper use of insulin, efficient muscle and nerve function, and for restful sleep. Balancing with calcium in the body, magnesium helps to maintain a normal heart beat and blood pressure. It protects artery walls in times of stress, and prevents the calcification of soft tissue. Deficiencies can be linked to common issues, such as insomnia and irritability, and even heart disease. Sulfates disinfect the blood and flush toxins from cells. This detoxification effect may be why Epsom salt baths are soothing for people who suffer from arthritis and joint pain. Protecting the body against the harmful effects of pollution and radiation, they help to slow the aging process. Sulfates are also necessary for the synthesis of new collagen, which is needed for healthy, young-looking skin.
Baking soda, which is technically sodium bicarbonate, has an alkalizing effect on the body. This can be very important in cases of over-acidity, which is common with the typical western diet. Red meat, cheeses, sugar, and refined foods are acid-forming. A baking soda bath acts to neutralize this effect. It is also useful for detoxing from an overuse of alcohol, caffeine, medications, and nicotine. After soaking in this compound, the body generally feels refreshed and renewed, with the added benefit of soft, supple skin.
For the bath, add one cup each of Epsom salt and baking soda to a hot bath, stirring with your hand to ensure that everything dissolves. Soak for at least 20 minutes, then rinse in a warm shower. Ahhhhhhh. . . .
Recipes
To make a nourishing herbal infusion:
~ Put one ounce of dried herb into a quart jar; fill jar to the top with boiling water and cap tightly. ~ Strain after 4-8 hours and drink hot or cold. ~ Refrigerate what you don't drink right away; drink that within a day.
To make an herbal vinegar:
~ Fill any size jar with fresh herb (best!!) or one quarter full of dried herb (not nearly so good). ~ Pour room temperature apple cider vinegar over the herb, filling jar to the top. ~ Cover with plastic wrap or a cork. ~ Label with date and name of plant. ~ Let sit for six weeks. ~ Decant into a pretty bottle and use to season soups, beans, and salads.
Magical Medicinal Miso* Soup
Saute one onion, sliced thin, until translucent. Add water, seaweed of choice (Kombu and Wakame are especially tasty), shitake mushrooms (dried or fresh), burdock root, carrots, and any other hearty roots you like. Simmer for 25 minutes. If you’d like you can add shredded or sliced ginger near the end, so it’s strong, and some garlic. You can also add greens, like kale or spinach. Because you don’t want to boil your miso, it’s best to put a large dollop of miso paste in each bowl and then pour the broth on top to dissolve it. Drink bowls and offer bowls to all your loved ones and neighbors, kiddos and pets, family and friends.
Nourishing Sea Green Soup
(from Valerie Cooksley’s book: Seaweed)
This soup is detoxifying to the body, eliminating extra fluid and contaminants. It has cleansing, rejuvenating, and energy-giving properties, and is steeped with nourishing benefits owing to its high-mineral content and chlorophyll –filled sea vegetables and field greens. For heartier soup one can increase soup stock to 2 quarts and add whole wheat soba noodles during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
1 ½ quarts soup stock (or 2 low sodium vegetable broth cubes)
¾ cup dried sea vegetables (assortment of kombu, wakame, nori, dulse, hijiki, alaria, etc.)
1 large sweet onion chopped
2 celery stalks chopped
2 carrots thinly sliced
6 cloves of garlic, chopped
½ cup green onion
3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
2 cups fresh spinach, chard, beet greens cabbage etc. chopped
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Black Pepper to taste
5 slices fresh ginger root
2 tbsp. Soy Sauce or Tamari
1 tbsp. miso
½ tsp. Celtic Sea Salt
Get Your Daikon Easy Shredded Salad
Shred 1 carrot, 1 daikon radish, and one carrot-sized burdock root
Mix with sesame oil and a little umeboshi vinegar (also a great medicine!), sesame seeds, whatever fresh herbs you’ve got on hand (I love mint or cilantro), and a little tamari. Eat and feel alive and well thanks to the plants, the sun, the water and the farmers.
Sesame Kelp Brittle
Recipe courtesy of the folks at She Sells Seaweed
~1/2 Cup Brown Rice Syrup
~1/4 Cup Olive Oil
~Dash of shoyu soy sauce
~1 cup sesame seeds
~1/2 Cup crushed Almonds
~1/4-3/4 cup or to your liking of finely crushed kelp (set oven on low heat and bake kelp for 10 min or until crisp and grind in food processor)
~2-3 tsp of fresh finely chopped ginger root
Heat syrup, oil and soy sauce in small sauce pan. When mixture begins to foam up add seeds, nuts, kelp, and ginger, and stir thoroughly. Line a large cookie sheet w/parchment. Spread mixture onto parchment and then cover with another piece of parchment and roll out flat w/rolling pin (or glass or jar!). Remove top parchment. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes—and then for the last few minutes check every minute until golden. Remove from oven and rip away parchment after 5-10 minutes. Break into pieces and enjoy!!
Rosehip/Orange Jam (from Christa Sinadinos)
Concerned about potential radioactive exposure from Japan? Pectin is highly ionic and can draw and hold radioactive compounds, environmental toxins, and heavy metals. It enhances detoxification. Orange peel and rosehips contain pectin. Consider making a simple jam with 3/4 cup rosehips c/s 1/4 cup orange peel and 2 cups apple juice; steep overnight. Keep refrigerated and eat a tbs or two a day. Yum
Spring Detox Soup
1/2 celery bunch
1 butternut squash
2 cups shiitake mushrooms
1 onion
1 head broccoli
1 bunch beets
1 clove garlic
1 can tomatoes
6 cups stock
1 tsp smoked paprika
Chop up all the vegetables. In a large stock pot, add the beef stock and the chopped vegetables and the garlic and paprika. Add in the canned tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce and simmer for 30 minutes until the vegetables are cooked through. Puree in a blender.
Fears about nuclear radiation have certainly come to the forefront in the past few weeks. It’s a peculiar kind of threat in our modern times – we can’t see it, nor, for the most part, do we really understand it. Depending on your age, your experience with nuclear threats could includeBert the Turtle and his advice to simply “duck and cover”, the meltdown at Three Mile Island, the horrifying spectacle of Chernobyl, or perhaps just the vague notion that it has something to do with the place where Homer Simpson works. We now add a new chapter – the continuing crisis at Japan’s Fukushima nuclear complex.
Fueled by fearful media speculation and a distrust of government reports, people are seeking ways to protect themselves and their animals from the looming threat of excessive exposure to nuclear radiation. In doing research for our customers about the best natural solutions, we were reminded of the profound powers of nourishing foods and herbs that, when used regularly, provide a protective barrier against all manner of current environmental threats, including nuclear radiation. The truth is, we live in a radioactive world. We receive radiation from the sun, from the earth, from the food we eat, from airplane travels, and from countless electronics in our day-to-day life.
Following are suggestions and shared recipes of simple herbs and foods to help prevent damage from radiation and other environmental toxins. They’re simple, affordable and effective, and it's easy to incorporate some or all of them into your daily life.
PLEASE NOTE: Potassium iodide has found itself in the limelight, despite the fact that no health care organizations, physicians or others in the health care community (including us!) are advocating its use unless you live in the immediate vicinity of a nuclear meltdown. Potassium iodide is potentially very dangerous to healthy individuals, it can only be used short term (no longer than two weeks), and it only protects the thyroid, not other parts of the body, in the event of extreme radiation exposure. Please be responsible and do your research before purchasing or taking potassium iodide.
Add Sea Vegetables (Seaweed) to Your Diet
(Kelp, Bladderwrack, Nori, Kombu, Wakame, Dulse etc.) The iodine in sea vegetables helps draw out radiation and protect the thyroid from radioactive uptake. If we have sufficient natural iodine in our bodies (Iodine 127 is the only natural iodine isotope), our bodies will not take in the heavier iodine 131 from radioactive particles. According to herbalist and internationally acclaimed seaweed expert Ryan Drum, if we continually take in 150 micrograms of iodine 127 daily, we will most likely be protected from adverse reactions to exposure to nuclear radiation, plus a host of other common environmental toxins. We can do this by eating 3-4 teaspoons (5-10 grams) or taking 6-8 capsules (00 size) of seaweeds daily.
Incorporate seaweeds into favorite foods like soups, rice, muffins, even cookies!! Mild dried seaweeds are pleasantly crunchy and salty, and make a delicious snack. For our animal companions we can sprinkle small amounts of powdered seaweed on their food. Humboldt Herbals offers Dot’s Wonder Pet Powders that contain seaweeds and immune supportive herbs.
Related to the seaweeds are the algae including Chlorella and Spirulina, a blue-green algae first developed as a supplement in Japan, which has undergone serious investigation for its antitoxic, antioxidant and antitumor effects. Interestingly, the Japanese are the biggest consumers of not only Chlorella but also seaweed, suggesting that Japanese are way out in front when it comes to addressing the issues of radiation toxicity.
Eat Orange and Dark Green Foods
Japanese researchers found that diets high in carotenes significantly reduced DNA damage in humans exposed to radiation. Supplements of beta-carotene (or of vitamins C or E) did not show this effect. Eating lots of orange and dark green foods (sweet potatoes, winter squash, beets, carrots, kale, collards, chard, and spinach, for example) can protect you from radiation-induced cancers.
Eat Your Broccoli
Guinea pigs bombarded with radiation lived a lot longer if they ate broccoli or cabbage. All cabbage family plants - including arugula, turnips, radishes, cauliflower, mustard greens, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, kale, collards, and of course broccoli - protect your cells from the damaging effects of radiation.
Miso Broth
Miso broth is the classic food for prevention of radiation damage. Miso is amazing medicine- containing live cultures, minerals, amino acids, and protein that support all the body’s systems and provide a radioprotective benefit. There’s twice the protection if a quarter-ounce/5 grams of dried kelp seaweed is added to the soup. In scientific studies, seaweed was able to neutralize radioactive isotopes in the human body. Researchers at McGill University say radioactive strontium binds to the algin in brown seaweeds to create sodium alginate, a compound easily and harmlessly excreted. Common black tea exhibited the same anti-radiation effects in several Japanese studies.
You’ll find a variety of miso pastes in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. Click this link to learn more about delicious miso.
Black & Green Teas
In Fighting Radiation and Chemical Pollutants with Foods, Herbs, and Vitamins (Vitality, 1991), Steven Schecter tells us that both black and green tea showed "radioprotective effects" whether taken before or after exposure to radiation. Among other modes of operation, tea catechins absorb radioactive isotopes and remove them from the body before they do damage. The action is similar he says, to that of sodium alginate (the "active ingredient" in kelp seaweed).
Mushrooms
Eating any amount of reishi (a mushroom) reduces damage from radiation. Shiitake mushrooms do the same. If eating mushrooms isn’t your thing, Life Shield Immunity capsules from New Chapter are a wonderful blend of medicinal mushrooms that offers comprehensive deep immune support and radioprotective benefits. (Available at Humboldt Herbals)
Burdock Root
Burdock root (Arctium lappa) removes radioactive isotopes from the body. A dose is 1-4 ounces/300-120 grams of cooked fresh root, up to a pint of infusion daily, or several large spoonfuls of vinegar (but only if made with fresh roots). You’ll find fresh burdock roots in the produce section at natural food stores. In Japanese cuisine it’s called “gobo.”
Daikon radish has been used for drawing radiation, post nuclear fall out. You can make a delicious shredded salad that’s cooling and detoxifying with daikon, burdock and carrots – yum!
Beans
Dried beans, especially lentils can reverse DNA damage done by radiation. So can red clover (Trifolium pratense) and astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) - two powerful members of the legume (bean) family.
Homeopathy
Homeopathic remedies can be taken before and after exposure to radiation: Plumbum (lead) is said to help those who feel overwhelmed and in need of protection. Belladonna is used to prevent and relieve radiation burns and pains - even long after the immediate exposure.
Eat Foods Rich in Selenium
Selenium protects DNA from radiation damage and helps prevent damage to the skin surface, too. Get plenty of selenium by eating a daily dose of 2 cups/500 ml of nettle infusion, one-half ounce/15 g kelp, 2 ounces/60 g cooked burdock root, or 1 cup/250 ml organic yogurt daily. Shellfish, green and black teas, and garlic contain significant amounts of selenium, as do many mushrooms. The best sources however are nettles (2200 mcg per 100 grams), kelp (1700 mcg/100 g), burdock (1400 mcg/100 g), catnip (Nepeta cataria), ginseng, Siberian ginseng, and astragalus.
American Ginseng
In clinical trial with humans, those who took American ginseng extract (Panax quinquefolium) for thirty days following exposure to radiation showed hastened recovery from injuries to their bone marrow, organs, skin, and blood cells according to Paul Bergner in The Healing Power of Ginseng, The Enlightened Person's Guide, Prima, 1996. He quotes Japanese researcher Dr M. Yonezawa as saying that "ginseng appears to be the most useful agent available for protection against radiation damage."
Nourishing Herbal Infusions
It’s important to keep yourself well nourished if you are exposed to radiation. Make it a habit to drink at least two big cups of nourishing herbal infusion daily. Nettles, red clover, and violet leaves supply generous amounts of the nutrients you need most: protein and minerals, especially potassium and zinc.
Other Herbal Allies
Great herbal allies to help your body eliminate heavy metals and radiation are nettle tea, cilantro, and milk thistle (helps your liver process toxins). Deep immune building benefits are provided by astragalus, eleuthero and ginseng. Yarrow Environmental Solution Essencefrom Flower Essence Services is a beautiful formula to support the body in environmental disasters, especially radiation. Teas from Humboldt Herbals including Detoxify Tea, Blood Building Tea, Calcium Support Tea, I Love My Liver Tea, and Immune Boosting Broth are a lovely way to fortify your body and immune system, and our Savory Seasoning Sprinkle is packed with seaweeds and nutritive herbs!
For best results, cook with the herbs (kelp, astragalus, Siberian ginseng, ginseng, reishi, cilantro and burdock), brew nourishing herbal infusions with them (nettles, red clover, astragalus, burdock, catnip, and ginseng), make mineral-rich vinegars with them (nettles, burdock, catnip, cilantro, ginseng, and astragalus), or take a high-quality tincture of them (burdock, ginseng, Siberian ginseng, astragalus).
Epsom Salt Bath
Many natural health practitioners recommend bathing in Epsom Salts and baking soda to help neutralize exposure to radiation, especially after x-rays or long airplane flights. Epsom salt is not actually a salt at all, but the natural mineral compound, magnesium sulfate. It can be used internally as a natural laxative, or externally, as a soothing, healing soak for the body. Why is an epsom salt bath beneficial? Because the magnesium and sulfates are readily absorbed into the body, imparting their own particular health benefits.
Magnesium is an incredibly valuable mineral, one that many people are deficient in. It is involved in hundreds of different enzyme activities. It is needed for the metabolism of other minerals, the proper use of insulin, efficient muscle and nerve function, and for restful sleep. Balancing with calcium in the body, magnesium helps to maintain a normal heart beat and blood pressure. It protects artery walls in times of stress, and prevents the calcification of soft tissue. Deficiencies can be linked to common issues, such as insomnia and irritability, and even heart disease. Sulfates disinfect the blood and flush toxins from cells. This detoxification effect may be why Epsom salt baths are soothing for people who suffer from arthritis and joint pain. Protecting the body against the harmful effects of pollution and radiation, they help to slow the aging process. Sulfates are also necessary for the synthesis of new collagen, which is needed for healthy, young-looking skin.
Baking soda, which is technically sodium bicarbonate, has an alkalizing effect on the body. This can be very important in cases of over-acidity, which is common with the typical western diet. Red meat, cheeses, sugar, and refined foods are acid-forming. A baking soda bath acts to neutralize this effect. It is also useful for detoxing from an overuse of alcohol, caffeine, medications, and nicotine. After soaking in this compound, the body generally feels refreshed and renewed, with the added benefit of soft, supple skin.
For the bath, add one cup each of Epsom salt and baking soda to a hot bath, stirring with your hand to ensure that everything dissolves. Soak for at least 20 minutes, then rinse in a warm shower. Ahhhhhhh. . . .
Recipes
To make a nourishing herbal infusion:
~ Put one ounce of dried herb into a quart jar; fill jar to the top with boiling water and cap tightly. ~ Strain after 4-8 hours and drink hot or cold. ~ Refrigerate what you don't drink right away; drink that within a day.
To make an herbal vinegar:
~ Fill any size jar with fresh herb (best!!) or one quarter full of dried herb (not nearly so good). ~ Pour room temperature apple cider vinegar over the herb, filling jar to the top. ~ Cover with plastic wrap or a cork. ~ Label with date and name of plant. ~ Let sit for six weeks. ~ Decant into a pretty bottle and use to season soups, beans, and salads.
Magical Medicinal Miso* Soup
Saute one onion, sliced thin, until translucent. Add water, seaweed of choice (Kombu and Wakame are especially tasty), shitake mushrooms (dried or fresh), burdock root, carrots, and any other hearty roots you like. Simmer for 25 minutes. If you’d like you can add shredded or sliced ginger near the end, so it’s strong, and some garlic. You can also add greens, like kale or spinach. Because you don’t want to boil your miso, it’s best to put a large dollop of miso paste in each bowl and then pour the broth on top to dissolve it. Drink bowls and offer bowls to all your loved ones and neighbors, kiddos and pets, family and friends.
Nourishing Sea Green Soup
(from Valerie Cooksley’s book: Seaweed)
This soup is detoxifying to the body, eliminating extra fluid and contaminants. It has cleansing, rejuvenating, and energy-giving properties, and is steeped with nourishing benefits owing to its high-mineral content and chlorophyll –filled sea vegetables and field greens. For heartier soup one can increase soup stock to 2 quarts and add whole wheat soba noodles during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
1 ½ quarts soup stock (or 2 low sodium vegetable broth cubes)
¾ cup dried sea vegetables (assortment of kombu, wakame, nori, dulse, hijiki, alaria, etc.)
1 large sweet onion chopped
2 celery stalks chopped
2 carrots thinly sliced
6 cloves of garlic, chopped
½ cup green onion
3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
2 cups fresh spinach, chard, beet greens cabbage etc. chopped
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Black Pepper to taste
5 slices fresh ginger root
2 tbsp. Soy Sauce or Tamari
1 tbsp. miso
½ tsp. Celtic Sea Salt
Get Your Daikon Easy Shredded Salad
Shred 1 carrot, 1 daikon radish, and one carrot-sized burdock root
Mix with sesame oil and a little umeboshi vinegar (also a great medicine!), sesame seeds, whatever fresh herbs you’ve got on hand (I love mint or cilantro), and a little tamari. Eat and feel alive and well thanks to the plants, the sun, the water and the farmers.
Sesame Kelp Brittle
Recipe courtesy of the folks at She Sells Seaweed
~1/2 Cup Brown Rice Syrup
~1/4 Cup Olive Oil
~Dash of shoyu soy sauce
~1 cup sesame seeds
~1/2 Cup crushed Almonds
~1/4-3/4 cup or to your liking of finely crushed kelp (set oven on low heat and bake kelp for 10 min or until crisp and grind in food processor)
~2-3 tsp of fresh finely chopped ginger root
Heat syrup, oil and soy sauce in small sauce pan. When mixture begins to foam up add seeds, nuts, kelp, and ginger, and stir thoroughly. Line a large cookie sheet w/parchment. Spread mixture onto parchment and then cover with another piece of parchment and roll out flat w/rolling pin (or glass or jar!). Remove top parchment. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes—and then for the last few minutes check every minute until golden. Remove from oven and rip away parchment after 5-10 minutes. Break into pieces and enjoy!!
Rosehip/Orange Jam (from Christa Sinadinos)
Concerned about potential radioactive exposure from Japan? Pectin is highly ionic and can draw and hold radioactive compounds, environmental toxins, and heavy metals. It enhances detoxification. Orange peel and rosehips contain pectin. Consider making a simple jam with 3/4 cup rosehips c/s 1/4 cup orange peel and 2 cups apple juice; steep overnight. Keep refrigerated and eat a tbs or two a day. Yum
Spring Detox Soup
1/2 celery bunch
1 butternut squash
2 cups shiitake mushrooms
1 onion
1 head broccoli
1 bunch beets
1 clove garlic
1 can tomatoes
6 cups stock
1 tsp smoked paprika
Chop up all the vegetables. In a large stock pot, add the beef stock and the chopped vegetables and the garlic and paprika. Add in the canned tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce and simmer for 30 minutes until the vegetables are cooked through. Puree in a blender.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Picture of the Day ~ Jumping Cow (not mine)
This is not my pic (computer is still at the shop) but this is a great story! Where there's a will there's a way! Link to the story is below.
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20479330,00.html
 |
| Regina Mayer and Luna |
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20479330,00.html
Monday, April 4, 2011
The computer is dead! Long live the computer!
Well, I know I can live without my electronics, if necessary. But until I have to, I would prefer life with the computer as long as I can! I miss everyone! So here is the story:
About 6 months ago my computer started acting odd (screen issues). I took it to the store and they said to call HP to get it fixed under warranty. I called and they walked me through a series of steps to demagnetize my computer. Of course, that didn't work, but the problem was still intermittent and so I waited till it got worse.
Well, last week it was to the point I almost couldn't use it. So I took it to the store. They agreed it was a hardware issue and told me to call the extended warranty people.
Upon calling the extended warranty people I learned that the warranty that I paid for when I bought the computer was the wrong warranty and my computer was not covered! I called the store and they told me they would have to 'get back to me'. This was not sounding good at all, but I patiently waited. Finally, they called and said they will replace my computer and the warranty in exchange for the old computer.
I took my computer to the store and they told me that it will cost me about $100.00 for the upgrade to the new computer, the extended warranty, the software clean-up, and moving my stuff from the old computer to the new one. I agreed. When we got to the register and rung it up it ended up being $33. and I got a $50 mail in rebate! So, when all is said and done, I get a new computer, all my (well most) stuff moved to it and $17 in my pocket! I will get my new computer today or tomorrow.
And all I can say is, "I serve an awesome Creator!"
About 6 months ago my computer started acting odd (screen issues). I took it to the store and they said to call HP to get it fixed under warranty. I called and they walked me through a series of steps to demagnetize my computer. Of course, that didn't work, but the problem was still intermittent and so I waited till it got worse.
Well, last week it was to the point I almost couldn't use it. So I took it to the store. They agreed it was a hardware issue and told me to call the extended warranty people.
Upon calling the extended warranty people I learned that the warranty that I paid for when I bought the computer was the wrong warranty and my computer was not covered! I called the store and they told me they would have to 'get back to me'. This was not sounding good at all, but I patiently waited. Finally, they called and said they will replace my computer and the warranty in exchange for the old computer.
I took my computer to the store and they told me that it will cost me about $100.00 for the upgrade to the new computer, the extended warranty, the software clean-up, and moving my stuff from the old computer to the new one. I agreed. When we got to the register and rung it up it ended up being $33. and I got a $50 mail in rebate! So, when all is said and done, I get a new computer, all my (well most) stuff moved to it and $17 in my pocket! I will get my new computer today or tomorrow.
And all I can say is, "I serve an awesome Creator!"
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