ѕєα's posts with tag: information
| Start: | Jun 20, '08 3:00p | | End: | Jun 24, '08 11:45p |
Do not edit your pages for the next few days until we hear more from Multiply...many issues right now concerning CSS and html codes. My own page is distorted, fonts are lg. and I cannot edit everything either. Dont change your themes or anything for a couple days. This from MUDS- CSS & HTML Parsing Issues ARE Reported - Delay Editing Because there are so many threads about sites and themes being distorted, this issue has been reported and Customer Service is aware. The report was sent yesterday with followup today. Currently it seems that the CSS editor is stripping out several things including width and heights, /*comments/remarks*/ and adding additional line breaks. Some appear to be breaking the image url's as well. Until this issue is resolved, don't try to edit your CSS. Once you edit, it will strip the code and there's no putting it back in. We are waiting on word that this issue is resolved. HTML issues have also been noted and reported so you should delay editing any html you have on your page also until we find the issue is resolved. Here is the link to this to see the updates http://usersupport.multiply.com/notes/item/4132?mark_read=usersupport:notes:4132&replies_read=12
My bf tried to get into his Photobucket account last nite and couldnt. He was getting some weird page. We just thought it was a temporary glitch. So he tried again this morning and still cant. I tried to get into mine and cant either. I found a site that said clear your DNS cache and so I did it and was able to login but......... I still cant access my albums. I wandered online looking for info on this and apparently its an attack by hackers on DNS. I hear they got Youtube also. Some people can see their albums and some cant. I guess Photobucket has fixed this issue but it will take time to work its way thru their whole system. Heres the article I found about all this if you want to read more.
http://www.thatdanny.com/2008/06/18/photobucket-hacked-and-how-not-to-handle-your-customers-when-you-get-hacked/
Heres an update from the photobucket page itself that has been redirected to atspace.com.....they were hacked.
IMPORTANT! Photobucket.com problem read here:
Last night Photobucket.com DNS at register.com was hacked by malicious people that are trying to compromise our business!
We are in no way affiliated with such bad deeds and cooperate with photobucket in capturing these individuals.
They have pointed the domain photobucket.com to an account hosted on our systems!
We have blocked that and photobucked techs have restored the domain pointing to its original location!
ALL account information and pictures on photobucket.com are OK, please have patience!
Unfortunately the complete DNS replication usually takes 24-48 hours and during this time caches DNS records might still point to us!
The normal operation of Photobucket is restored and as soon as the replication is complete there should be no further such issues!
We would like to emphasize that we are in now way responsible for what happens with photobucket and all users bumping across our systems!
We are a legitimate web hosting company operating since 2003 and in no way tolerate such hacking attempts!
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at abuse@zettahost.com!
Thanks for your patience and understanding!
My son told me he posted this in one of his forums today. Our Declaration of Independence. No new news here except...............read the parts he made bold and think about this country as it is now. I keep saying there's a revolution coming.............. and history always repeats itself.
IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776 The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America  hen in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world. He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good. He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them. He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only. He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures. He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people. He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within. He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands. He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers. He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries. He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance. He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures. He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power. He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation: For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us: For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States: For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world: For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent: For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury: For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences: For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments: For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever. He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us. He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people. He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation. He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands. He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions. In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people. Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends. We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor. — John Hancock New Hampshire:
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton Massachusetts:
John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry Rhode Island:
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery Connecticut:
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott New York:
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris New Jersey:
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark Pennsylvania:
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross Delaware:
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean Maryland:
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton Virginia:
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton North Carolina:
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn South Carolina:
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton Georgia:
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton
 This week I decided to blog about adaptogenic herbs. Yes I know many of you don't know what they are. I was aware of them but not deeply, until this week. My allergies have been really bad this yr. I know many are suffering badly this yr for some reason. And I take meds for it daily. Ive been looking for herbs tho that work on allergies and found a few that sound like they might but I haven't had really good results. So the other day I got an email survey from an herb magazine I subscribe to. They wanted to know what kind of articles I would be interested in. So I took the survey, went down the list of many articles and let them know ......except one article really caught my eye.
It was an article about herbs that could help your allergies, and they mentioned that allergies are caused by an overactive immune system. Now I never thought of it that way. Ive taken Echinacea to boost my immune system when Ive been sick. But I never thought it could ever be overactive. So I decided to do some research here online. Apparently arthritis and allergies and many others things are caused by and over active immune system. I have those first two. So I looked online for herbs that could help that since I had no idea when that article would come out or if it would on that survey. I have been miserable this yr so I couldn't wait for that.
I found out Ginseng is one of the suggested herbs. Now I have a triple ginseng capsule here in my house. I give it to my bf daily for energy. And I used to take a ginseng tincture when I needed energy, especially when I travelled. I found it useful for fixing jet lag when I travelled over seas. I could stay awake all day using it then fall asleep naturally at nite. Used a couple days and I was ok in that time zone. For me tho I found it was almost like taking coffee and I couldn't take it late at nite. So when I read this about using it for allergies, I was a bit skeptic. I just didn't want to be buzzed. There are several different kinds of ginsengs and that one I used was Siberian ginseng. This one I have now is all three.
So the last two days I took a chance and experimented with it. I'm stunned. I found I still took my allergy meds in the morning, I wake up stuffy and sneezing as usual. And I didn't want to take the ginseng on an empty stomach fearing a major buzz so I took it with my lunch once I knew the allergy meds wore off. I found that it did take away the god awful fatigue Ive been having with these allergies. I wasn't buzzed .....just had energy for a change. And I didn't need the allergy meds till late at nite when it wore off. Now normally when the sun started to go down and it started to get cool here at nite I would start coughing and sneezing alot till I took my meds. I couldn't leave the doors open on a nice day either. Sundown came and the house got closed up and I took meds. The last two days I didn't have to. And the other nite the door was open till 10pm. I still need meds to sleep at nite but this has already shown improvement in two days.
Since ginseng is an adaptogenic it will take some time to balance my system but I'm very encouraged already.
Others who have Herbal Thursday blogs are:
kathyinozarks has all about growing herbs http://kathyinozarks.multiply.com/journal/item/861?mark_read=kathyinozarks:journal:861
Heidi has one about Dill http://starfishred.multiply.com/journal/item/379/HERB_THURSDAY-DILL
Grandfatheroak always has a selection of different things http://grandfatheroak.multiply.com/journal
rionariona has a blog about Herbology http://rionariona.multiply.com/journal/item/4
ruraldiva has a blog about an herbal preparation for women to use http://ruraldiva.multiply.com/journal/item/672/Herb_Thursday_Pycnogenol......often_called_the_womens_herb.
awakingthelion has one about Dutchmans Breeches http://awakingthelion.multiply.com/journal/item/115/Herbal_Thursday_-_Dutchmans_Breeches
Diana has a blog about Elecampane http://dianahopeless.multiply.com/journal/item/33?mark_read=dianahopeless:journal:33
 What Is an Adaptogenic Herb?
Although they have been around for centuries, many people remain unaware of exactly what an adaptogenic herb is. Inclusive of a number of rare plants, an adaptogenic herb does not produce a specific response in the body, but rather a general improvement and increase in resistance to stress. Stressors that these plants are said to be effective against include physical, mental, and chemical.
One unifying characteristic among the group of adaptogenic herbs is that every one of them contains antioxidants. Much touted for their health benefits, antioxidants are not the most important aspect of these plants. Further, adaptogens are considered to be nontoxic, and they are said to enhance homeostasis, allowing the body to “adapt” to stresses and deal accordingly. To create homeostasis, an adaptogenic herb is proposed to balance the immune system, as well as balance hormones in the endocrine system. Whether your body is hypofunctioning or hyperfunctioning, an adaptogenic herb is said to bring it back to homeostasis. An over active immune system causes the body to attack “normal” substances in the body as well as bacteria, viruses and foreign substances. Autoimmune diseases result from an over active immune system. Some of these diseases include allergies, hypothyroid, Addison’s and Cushing’s diseases, vitiligo, lupus, hemolytic anemia and uvitis.
Using adaptogens, one can become more resistant to the effects of everything from pollution in the environment.
So what is an adaptogen? An adaptogen is an herb such as Ginseng or Holy Basil that is nontoxic, affects a broad range of systems in the body, and has a normalizing effect on the body. Got a weak immune system? Adaptogens can strengthen it. Got an overactive immune system? Adaptogens can calm it down. These herbs bring your body into a state of dynamic balance known as allostasis, like riding a surfboard, allowing you to achieve more vitality and resilience in everything you do.
Who should take adaptogens? Pretty much everyone, given the state of our environment, and our long and stressful workweeks. But be careful taking just any adaptogen! Some may be overstimulating or otherwise inappropriate for you. Each must be carefully selected to work with your body and health conditions.
ADAPTOGENIC HERBS
Adaptogenic Herbs are arguably the most important Herbal Supplements in the world.
Adaptogenic Herbs have the ability to:
- Enhance the body and mind’s capacity to adapt optimally and accurately to changes in the environment.
- Increase endurance
- Reduce fatigue
- Stimulate the immune system indirectly
- Build the body’s resistance to non-specific stresses such as chemicals in the environment, overwork, poor diet, and emotional factors
- Boost immunity by supporting and balancing the endocrine (glandular) system
- Support adrenal functions
- Help cells to use oxygen more efficiently
- Increase cellular respiration
- Stimulate a specific white blood cell called a macrophage, which eats up or destroys pathogens in the blood, and is our first line of defense. Stimulating this aspect of our immune system protects us from colds, flu, and other types of infections.
The goal is to enhance overall vitality. Adaptogens do this well. In Chinese and Oriental Medicine, adaptogens were called kingly, or elite herbal supplements because they were the most effective. Adaptogens have been used for centuries. Adaptogenic herbs can help in time of challenges and changes. These herbs help elderly people keep their strength and stamina. Adaptogens reinforce and balance the whole body, and increase the vitality of your system.
Adaptogens increase our responsiveness. For example, when we are exposed to a pathogen, our immune system gets excited and deals with the pathogen. When we are exposed to both stress and a pathogen, our immune system is so busy dealing with the stress, there is no energy to deal with the pathogen, and so we get sick. Adaptogens build our responsive capacity so that we have the vitality to respond to pathogens and to stress. Adaptogens build responsiveness. If there is not enough energy in our body, our liver will not respond correctly. You can pump nutrients into the liver, but if there is not enough energy, the liver will not detoxify and the immune system will not respond properly. Stress affects us in non-specific ways, usually compromising our weakest areas. For some people, that’s headaches. For others, it’s depression and/or anxiety.
Re: Adaptogenic Herbs in Clinical Practices
Abascal K, Yarnell E. Increased vitality with adaptogens. Alternative & Complementary Therapies. 2003; April:54-60.
Adaptogenic herbs have been found to benefit both those who have a stream of minor ailments and those with chronic diseases. They alleviate both physical and mental stress and may stimulate a non-specific stress response via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal systems.
American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) was used as a tonic by Native American tribes. Overharvested in the wild, organic, woods-cultivated American ginseng products are now available. In the past, cultivation under other conditions may result in products with fungicide and other residues. American ginseng has shown hypoglycemic action in clinical studies of patients with type 2 diabetes and has had other beneficial effects on diabetic patients. With ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), it has reduced hyperactivity in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In vitro and animal studies have found antioxidant and immunoenhancing effects. In animals, it has been shown to be neuroprotective and memory-enhancing. American ginseng has antineoplastic effects and has been found to enhance the effects of most breast cancer chemotherapy drugs in vitro. The authors use American ginseng in their clinical practice to help middle-aged men and women handle midlife stressors and for older patients suffering from the results of earlier poor lifestyle choices, women experiencing menopausal symptoms, and those with breast cancer. The authors state that the breadth of research on and uses of this herb partly explain why it is considered an adaptogen.
While Abascal and Yarnell say that there have not been very many studies that have tested the use of adaptogens as such, they cite fewer studies on Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) than might be expected. Like other adaptogens, its efficacy for any particular condition has yet to be proven. However, Asian ginseng extracts reduced stomach, lung, and liver cancers in a case-controlled study in Korea; in another study, combined with conventional treatment and other herbs, it improved survival in patients with small-cell lung cancer. Research into Asian ginseng's reputed ability to enhance physical endurance has produced mixed results. Some studies have found it superior to trazodone for erectile dysfunction. It has also been found to raise men's sperm counts. A long-term controlled study found that it benefited patients with human immunodeficiency virus. Animal and in vitro studies have found Asian ginseng and/or its components to be antineoplastic, antiulcerogenic, and radioprotecive. The authors use Asian ginseng for patients weakened by age or serious disease, but also express concern about fungicide and pesticide residues in commercial supplies (organic Asian ginseng is virtually nonexistent).
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosis; formerly called Siberian or Russian ginseng), has been used to increase vital energy, improve sleep quality, improve appetite, treat back pain and rheumatoid arthritis, and may be the best-studied adaptogen. However, most of the existing research is in Russian. Studies of over 6,000 people tested eleuthero's ability to improve mental alertness, work output, and work quality in individuals with difficult working conditions or requirements with generally positive results. In one study of children with acute dysentery, those who received eleuthero and monomycin recovered more quickly than those receiving monomycin alone. Eleuthero is not traditionally used for acute conditions. Other studies have found that eleuthero may be useful in pneumonia, pyelonephritis, or cancer. The authors use eleuthero for younger patients suffering from stress or for athletes seeking alternatives to steroids.
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) berries are used traditionally for nervous conditions, coughs, liver ailments, and depleted fluids. It enhances immune responses, and reduces fatigue and sleeplessness. In vitro and in vivo studies have found schisandra and its constituents to be neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, renal-protective, antineoplastic, antioxidant, and immune-enhancing. It has stimulated liver regeneration, produced strong antihepatitis-C activity, enhanced cognition and memory in animals, and improved endurance. A sweet schisandra glycerite is useful for children who need an adaptogen. The authors use it for patients with chronic liver or heart ailments and for menopausal women and others experiencing night sweats.
Ashwaganda (Withania somnifera) root is a traditional general tonic for energy and health and a component of Ayurvedic formulas for arthritis, rheumatism, and disease prevention in both elderly and pregnant individuals. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study of 42 patients with osteoarthritis found that ashwaganda, in conjunction with other herbs, reduced pain and disability significantly. Other studies found improved hemoglobin levels in healthy children and adult men. Ashwaganda has stimulated neurite growth in human brain cells. In animals and in vitro, it has stimulated thyroid function, increased endurance, and shown hepatoprotective, renal-protective, antineoplastic, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulating effects. The authors use ashwaganda for low libido in patients suffering from stress or anxiety, those with arthritis, and for elderly patients with dementia.
Rhodiola (a.k.a. golden root, Arctic root; Rhodiola rosea) is used in mainstream Russian medicine for fatigue, infection, and psychiatric and neurological conditions, and, in healthy individuals, to relieve fatigue and to improve concentration, memory, and productivity. (See HC 040233.241.) Traditional uses include enhancing fertility, speeding adaptation to high altitudes, and treating gastrointestinal ailments and infections. In open and double-blinded human studies, rhodiola reduced fatigue, insomnia, weakness and headache; improved quality and quantity of work; and improved general well-being. Animal and in vitro studies have found antioxidant, cardioprotective, anticarcinogenic, and strengthening effects. The authors use rhodiola for individuals whose stress and fatigue stems from intellectual work, including students; for those who have trouble concentrating; and for insomnia.
Several Aralia species, closely related to the ginsengs, are found in the U.S. and Asia. Asian aralias have been found to induce phase II enzymes in vitro, to be antioxidant, to normalize kidney function in diabetic rats, and to be hypoglycemic. Not enough is known of American aralias' constituents to determine if these same results might be found with their use. Following Michael Moore, director of the Southwest School of Botanical Medicine (Bisbee, AZ), the authors use aralia for patients with chronic lung problems. Either roots or berries are used; the berry tincture has a more pleasant taste.
Devil's club (Oplopanax horridum) is a member of the Araliaceae family. Used by Native Americans for rheumatism; stomach and bowel cramps; coughs, colds, and various pulmonary disorders; and as a purgative, some tribes used it to promote weight gain and as a blood tonic while others used it for diabetes. There is little research on devil's club. It has been found to inhibit various bacterial, viral, and fungal species. Again following Moore, the authors use devil's club in type 2 diabetes and for young women with recurring yeast (Candida albicans) infections. Moore also recommends it as an expectorant and respiratory stimulant, and for people with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders.
In summary, the authors write that stress is the root of most modern ailments. Adaptogens - those discussed and others - may help patients overcome stress. While differing subtly, they are, "in many respects, interchangeable and a high quality but less specific...product will usually work better than a lower quality product that matches...a patient's condition more exactly."
Others who have Herbal Thursday blogs are.......
Heidi has one on Calendula http://starfishred.multiply.com/journal/item/309?mark_read=starfishred:journal:309&replies_read=1
Kathyinozarks has one on Sassafras http://kathyinozarks.multiply.com/journal/item/787?mark_read=kathyinozarks:journal:787
Grandfatheroak posted this yesterday but for those who didnt see it , its good info http://grandfatheroak.multiply.com/journal/item/292?mark_read=grandfatheroak:journal:292&replies_read=3
Today for Herbal Thursday I thought Id post info about carrier oils. These are oils you use when you mix things to use on your body. Essential oils should be mixed into a carrier oil. Most cannot be put on skin without it or it will cause a possible reaction. The only one I know that will not cause any issues is Lavender essential oil. They say Tea Tree also but if you read my back blogs you will see what happened to me when I used Tea Tree oil on a spider bite. Now I did over do it but .........that just goes to show you that you must be careful even when told you can do it straight.
These carrier oils are good when you are making lotions, butters, skin or hair products but some are better than others for certain situations. I personally have found that I like Grapeseed oil when I want something to be absorbed into my skin faster, like when you get a massage or want to stop pain. Grapeseed gets absorbed easy and isn't greasy. I love Almond oil tho when I want to moisturize my skin. And I use Shea Butter straight on the tough spots like rough elbows and to soften my feet. There is refined and unrefined Shea butter. Unrefined is supposed to be the best with all the vitamins and such still in it. It is yellow. Refined Shea Butter is white but sometimes its necessary for a nice looking product color when you are blending with other ingredients.So here is a list of carrier oils and the best ways to use them when you create your own herbal therapies.
 |  | | Adding an essential oil, drop by drop, to carrier oil. | | | | A carrier oil is a vegetable oil derived from the fatty portion of a plant, usually from the seeds, kernels or the nuts. If applied to the skin undiluted, essential oils, absolutes, CO2s and other concentrated aromatics can cause severe irritation or reactions in some individuals. Carrier oils are used to dilute essential and other oils prior to application. They carry the essential oil onto the skin. Each carrier oil offers a different combination of therapeutic properties and characteristics. The choice of carrier oil can depend on the therapeutic benefit being sought. Natural lotions, creams, body oils, bath oils, lip balms and other moisturizing skin care products are also made using vegetable (carrier) oils. From a simple essential oil/carrier oil blend to a more complex natural lotion, your choice of carrier oil can make a difference in the therapeutic properties, color, overall aroma and shelf life of your final product. Essential vs. Carrier Oils
Essential oils are distilled from the leaves, bark, roots and other aromatic portions of a botanical. Essential oils evaporate and have a concentrated aroma. Carrier oils, on the other hand, are pressed from the fatty portions (seeds, nuts, kernels) and do not evaporate or impart their aroma as strongly as essential oils. Carrier oils can go rancid over time, but essential oils do not. Instead, essential oils "oxidize" and lose their therapeutic benefits, but they don't go rancid. Vegetable Oils/Fixed Oils/Base Oils
The term carrier oil is generally limited to use within the practice of aromatherapy. In natural skin care, carrier oils are typically referred to as vegetable oils, fixed oils or base oils. Not all fixed oils/base oils are vegetable oils. Emu oil (from the emu bird) and fish (marine) oils are also classified as fixed/base oils, but these animal-based oils are generally not used for aromatherapy work. The Aroma of Carrier Oils
Some carrier oils are odorless, but generally speaking, most have a faintly sweet, nutty aroma. If you come across a carrier oil that has a strong, bitter aroma, the carrier oil may have gone rancid.
Almond, Sweet Oil
This is one of the most useful, practical, and commonly used oils. It is great for all skin types as an acting emollient and is best known for its ability to soften, soothe, and re-condition the skin. It is truly marvelous as a carrier oil and is equally superb for addition to body care products.
Apricot Kernel Oil
A wonderful oil similar to Sweet Almond, but more suitable for sensitive and prematurely aged skin. Our Apricot Kernel oil is a deep gold color, and can be used liberally in most body care recipes.
Avocado Oil
This ultra rich organic oil is a delightful treasure containing high amounts of Vitamin A, B1, B2, D, and E. Also contains amino acids, sterols, pantothenic acid, lecithin, and other essential fatty acids. Highly prized to those with skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, and other skin ailments and our variety makes a lovely salad oil for dressings and condiments. Highly recommended to those with sensitive skin, problem skin and other irritations that require vitamin rich oil.
Castor Oil
A natural source oil from certified organic Castor beans. A hard and shiny oil found in most cosmetics that acts as a barrier agent and protective medium against harsh conditions and extremes. Very soothing to the skin when included into cosmetic applications
Coconut Oil
This is a great oil for general moisturizing and serves as a protective layer, helping to retain the moisture in your skin. It also acts as a mild oil suitable for those with inflamed and irritated skin, and those with skin sensitivities. Coconut oil is without a doubt, the number one lather-producing agent used in soaps. And is the first choice for most people in the cosmetics and soap industry.
Grapeseed Oil
It has a mild green color with a pleasant odor, superb taste, and great absorption rate. Generally employed as a base oil for many creams, lotions and as a general carrier oil; this Grapeseed oil can also be employed as a delicious salad dressing or cooking oil. Grapeseed is especially useful for skin types that do not absorb oils too well, and it does not leave a greasy feeling. Wonderful for those with skin sensitivities because of its natural non-allergenic properties.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil comes from the beans of the shrub like plant, simmondsia chinensis. This is the highest grade certified organic, cold pressed oil (actually a liquid plant wax). It is bright and golden in color and is regarded as the most favored in the carrier oil family because of its advanced molecular stability. Also makes a great scalp cleanser for the hair, and is equally wonderful for the skin because it has absorption properties that are similar to our skins own sebum.
Kukui Nut Oil
The Kukui nut tree is the official tree of Hawaii and has been used by natives of this island for hundreds of years. They recognized the oil's high penetrability and soothing properties and currently they put it to use in helping sooth sunburns and chapped skin. A fabulous ingredient for your cosmetics, or as a stand-alone application Kukui nut oil contains very high levels of the essential fatty acids linoleic and alpha-linolenic. This oil is readily absorbed into the skin, providing tissues the essential elements that it needs and is particularly good for dry skin, psoriasis, acne and eczema.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is by far the most universal oils used for a multitude of purposes including cosmetics, as a carrier oil, for hair care solutions, and in cooking.
It has a rich, full bodied flavor with a strong aroma and is golden brown in color. Has a great conditioning effect in body care recipes and can be used in almost all applications because of its stable nature.
Pomegranate Seed Oil
A luxurious and deeply penetrating oil from the cold pressed organic seeds of Pomegranate fruit. This highly prized oil which is naturally high in flavonoids and punicic acid is remarkable for the skin and has numerous dietary benefits as well. Deeply nourishing to the outer epidermal layer, Pomegranate seed oil provides powerful anti-oxidant benefits for numerous skin ailments including eczema, and psoriasis and gently challenges free radicals that damage and age the skin. A great ally to have in your cosmetic creations or as a stand alone product to help nourish and develop healthy skin cell regeneration.
Pumpkin Seed Oil
Also known as "green gold", pumpkin seed oil is one of the most nutritious oils available. It contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, Vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc. Pumpkin seed oil has a pleasant and mildly rich flavor making it suitable for culinary applications.
Rosehip Seed Oil
A rich, amber colored organic oil from the ripened fruit of the famed Rosehip, also known as Rosa Mosquita. This unique oil is extremely high in essential fatty acids and has carried much respect amongst professional journals and organizations as being a great agent in the fight against dry, weathered, and dehydrated skin. It works wonders on scars and is the predominant oil used for treating wrinkles and premature aging. Can be used in all fine skin care recipes.
Safflower Oil
A highly moisturizing oil with an exceptionally high amount of Oleic acids.Deeply soothing and one of the first choices for skin care recipes requiring moisturizing benefits.
Sesame Oil
This ultra fine crude oil comes from pure expeller pressed Sesame seeds. It is a true and whole sesame oil with no other extraction methods employed and it has a rich golden color, with a bold, nutty flavor. Sesame oil is naturally active in vitamins A and E and essential proteins. Because of its relatively stable shelf life it is superb in body care products, natural cosmetics and provides a strong stable base for all your creations.
Shea Nut Oil
A beautiful oil with a deep golden color which is delivered to us from cold pressing the nut seed of the Shea (Karite) Tree. Shea oil is a byproduct of Shea butter production where the pressing of the seeds produces a fractionated oil. This oil leaves a smooth and healthy feel to the skin and offers benefits for numerous skin problems including dermatitis, eczema, burns, cutaneous dryness and other irritations. Highly recommended as a protective agent against harsh weather conditions where a mild barrier against the elements is desired.
Sunflower Oil
An oil wealthy in Oleic acids with high amounts of Vitamins A, D, and E, also has beneficial amounts of lecithin, and unsaturated fatty acids. Deeply nourishing and conditioning for the skin and it is highly recommended for recipes designed to treat dry, weathered, aged, and damaged skin.
Vitamin E Oil
A natural Vitamin E oil obtained by vacuum distillation of vegetable fats. Great for preventing rancidity in cosmetics and it acts as an anti-oxidant in creams, lotions, baby products, cosmetics and more. Recent studies have suggested that Vitamin E oil assists in maintaining a healthy heart and blood vessels. Suitable for food use and measures 7500 I.U./Oz.
Wheat Germ Oil
This ultra rich, unrefined Wheat Germ oil is a great ingredient high in natural source Vitamin E, A, D, proteins, Lecithin, and Squalene. Wheat germ has been applied externally for numerous irritations including roughness of the skin, cracking, chaffing and many crafters of cosmetics use it successfully to help reverse the effects of wrinkling. The first ingredient in quality skin care products.
Cocoa Butter
An aromatic solid butter pressed from the roasted seeds of the Cacao tree (Theobroma nucifera) and further processed to yield a warm color and delightful odor. Will soften at body temperature and adds a rich, creamy, and thick consistency to lotions, soaps, creams, and toiletry items to help reduce cutaneous dryness and for the improvement of skin elasticity. A soothing ingredient commonly found in most cosmetic preparations.
Mango Butter
Cold pressed and rendered from the seed kernel of the Mango tree, this highly prized butter is an exceptional quality base ingredient for body care products and soap making recipes. Mango Butter has beneficial moisturizing properties for lotions and acts as a mild lubricant for the skin, and is very similar in color and texture as cocoa butter making it an exotic and fun alternative for toiletry products. Great source of essential fatty acids.
Shea Butter
This raw unrefined butter is derived from the vegetable fat of the Karite Tree. The first choice in natural skin care and fine body care products, this butter forms a breathable, water-resistant film and is the leading natural product for moisturizing. A wonderful base for cosmetic recipes or used as a stand alone application, this comes highly recommended for those concerned about naturally healthy skin.
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kathyinozarks has a late entry about funeral herbs http://kathyinozarks.multiply.com/journal/item/749?mark_read=kathyinozarks:journal:749
Spring brings cleansing and rejuvenation. Most often the liver is the target of a cleansing herbal regimen, since the liver is one of the most important organs in the body. It processes our hormones, contributes to proper digestion, cleanses the body of toxins, and many other important duties. A good cleansing regimen, however, will also cleanse and support other vital organs, such as heart, kidneys, blood, and digestive system. It will also do wonderful things for your spirit! It is vital to consume lots of water, with lemon is ideal, and get fresh air to flush these toxins out of your system.
DANDELION ROOT: Dandelion Root can be made into a bitter tea (don’t sweeten it, the bitterness is how it works – you’ll get use to it) as an excellent tonic for the liver and blood purifier. Dandelion roots are very high in vitamins and minerals. The common dandelion is an unusually nutritious food. Its leaves contain substantial levels of vitamins A, C, D, and B complex as well as iron, magnesium, zinc, potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon. Worldwide, the root of the dandelion has been used for the treatment of a variety of liver and gallbladder problems. Other historical uses of the root and leaves include the treatment of breast diseases, water retention, digestive problems, joint pain, fever, and skin diseases. The most active constituents in dandelion appear to be eudesmanolide and germacranolide, substances unique to this herb.
MILK THISTLE: Milk Thistle is the best in cleaning our blood and liver and is a traditional way to get our health back on track and revitalize and nourish our entire internal ecological system from the ravages of winter. Milk Thistle is an excellent cleansers for the liver. Cleansing is one of the more important roles of Milk Thistle as it helps to prevent a host of problems our bodies can acquire from internal and external toxic overload.
BURDOCK ROOT : Burdock root helps to purify blood and restore the liver to aid in a restful sleep. Helps to reduce build up of toxins in the skin resulting in boils. Helps gallbladder functions and stimulates the immune system. Seed forms are also used.
NETTLE: Nettles are invaluable as a food, rich in vitamins and minerals. Only the young, tender tips are suitable for cooking, the stalks and lower leaves are not edible. They can be cooked then pureed for soup or vegetable accompaniment. Nettles make a valuable tonic after the winter and are an excellent remedy for Anemia, their vitamin C content ensures that the iron they contain is properly absorbed. Nettles increase the quality of the blood helping to give a healthy glow to the skin.
YELLOW DOCK : Yellow Dock is applicable to all the purposes for which the other species are used. The root has laxative, alterative and mildly tonic action, and can be freely used as a tonic and laxative in rheumatism, bilious complaints and as an astringent in piles, bleedings of the lungs, etc. It is largely prescribed for diseases of the blood, from a spring eruption, to scurvy, scrofula and chronic skin diseases. It is also useful in jaundice and as a tonic to the stomach and the system generally. It has an action on the bowels very similar to that of Rhubarb, being perhaps a little less active, but operating without pain or uneasiness. Rumicin is the active principle of the Yellow Dock, and from the root, containing Chrysarobin, a dried extract is prepared officially, of which from 1 to 4 grains may be given for a dose in a pill. This is useful for relieving a congested liver, as well as for scrofulous skin diseases.
ECHINACEA : First used by the Indigenous North Americans who harvested the plants for extensive use in the treatment of infectious wounds and burns or eruptive skin complaints. It enhances the phagocytic activity of white blood cells- identifying and retiring bacterial, viral and fungal infections, in addition to the clearance of these from the lymphatic system. Higher doses are often used for affecting acute immune responses.
ASTRAGALUS : To be used after colds or infection to rebuild immunity, Astragalus is a sweet tasting herb effective in restoring both resilience to future respiratory infections, and efficiency of metabolism to ensure optimal nutrition for immune reserves to fight off those spring colds. This herb is the best for restoring energy to the body very quickly.
GARLIC : Garlic was worshipped by the ancient Egyptians, chewed by Greek Olympian athletes and thought to be essential for keeping vampires at bay! But it is also good for zapping bacteria, keeping your heart healthy, warding off coughs and colds. Garlic is an antibiotic that can actually kill infecting bacteria and at the same time protect the body from the poisons that are causing the infection. It is known that the most sensitive bacterium to garlic is the deadly Bacillus anthracis which produces the poison anthrax. Vapor from freshly cut garlic can kill bacteria at a distance of 20 cms!
MARSHMALLOW : Marshmallow stimulates the immune system and the production of white blood cells. It also soothes inflammation, slows production of mucus, and reduces sugar levels in the body.
Spring is a time of new beginnings, new growth, planting seeds, purification, and for clearing out the old. Following the rhythms of nature and developing harmony with the ways in which nature cares for itself, we can also create balance within our own lives. Trees, plants, grasses and seeds that have laid still throughout the winter slowly emerge from their dormancy. Buds develop and grow into new leaves and flowers, plants and grasses emerge through the ground from their resting roots, and seeds sprout; all from the extended sunlight, warmth, rains, and fall’s nourishment. Jasmine
Jasmine is a bold, sweet scent. Jasmine is the greatest aphrodisiac of all. These night blooming flowers are picked at their height to bring out one of the most sexy scents. Associated throughout history with the compassionate Goddess of the Moon, Jasmine, grown along the Nile in ancient Egypt, is represented Isis, the Egyptian Mother Goddess who held the secrets of fertility, magic and healing. Patchouli
Patchouli is a sweet, earthy scent. Its smell is intense and spicy. From an energetic point of view, Patchouli, like Jasmine, is warm and yet anti-inflammatory in action. It combines a calmative property with a gentle stimulating effect that uplifts the spirit! Patchouli is a sweet and grounding harmonizing fragrance! Neroli
Neroli is distilled from bitter orange trees. It has a refreshing, spicy aroma and is known for its sensual, exotic effect. Neroil oil is emotionally unifying and soothes with harmonizing effects. Described as both sensual and spiritual, Neroli helps to reestablish the link between a disconnected mind and body. Neroli paves the way for a gradual release and allows us to recall hope and joy! Rose
The Mother of All Flowers, the Rose has amazing powers of love, trust and self acceptance. Roses are representative of faith, hope and love and has the qualities to restore the very center of one's being. A gentle tonic of the heart, Rose oil's psychological properties lie mainly in its effect on the mind, the center of our emotional being. Rose oil calms and supports the heart and helps to nourish the soul! Peppermint
Peppermint oil is the most extensively used of all the volatile oils, both medicinally and commercially. The characteristic anti-spasmodic action of the volatile oil is more marked in this than in any other oil, and greatly adds to its power of relieving pains arising in the alimentary canal. From its stimulating, stomachic and carminative properties, it is valuable in certain forms of dyspepsia, being mostly used for flatulence and colic. It may also be employed for other sudden pains and for cramp in the abdomen; wide use is made of Peppermint in cholera and diarrhea. Lemon
Lemon is a fresh sunny scent that is cold pressed from the rind itself! Lemon has antiseptic-like properties and contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune function. It may serve as an insect repellent and may be beneficial for the skin. Diffuse it in your house for a fresh alternative to air sprays. It compliments the Oil of Oregano to neutralize the over growth of Candida. Put a few drops on a tissue and vacuum it into your vacuum bag to freshen the smell of your carpets and furniture coverings. 1 drop is also very refreshing and purifying when taken in a glass of water. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus was first employed by Australian aborigines, who not only chewed the roots for water in the dry outback but used the leaves to treat fever, cough, and asthma, and European settlers quickly adopted it as medicine. You can also use a few drops of eucalyptus oil in boiling water or in a bath as an inhalant. Eucalyptus is often used for - Sore muscles, Insect repellent, Tension headache, Cold, Cough, Sinusitis, Rheumatoid arthritis, and Strains/sprains. Orange
Orange essential is obtained from the rind of the fruit and used principally as a flavoring agent Orange oil is an antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, digestive, febrifuge, phototoxic sedative, tonic. Orange oil helps spreads sunshine on gloomy thoughts and depression, has a very comforting and warming effect and dispels tension and stress and helps revive when feeling low on energy. Orange oil calms the stomach both for constipation and diarrhea. Stimulates bile which helps digestion of fats. Has a beneficial effect on colds, bronchitis and fever. Helps with the formation of collagen - vital for tissue repair and hair growth. Also helpful with muscular pains. Helps anxiety and insomnia. Possibly reduces blood cholesterol levels. Orange oil helps dry skin conditions softening wrinkles and dermatitis. An excellent skin tonic. Orange oil can make the skin photosensitive to sunlight.
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There is so much information out there about using nettle, that Ive just kept a few links here for you to read when you have time. I like to use a nettle tincture on occasion. Many people used to take a spring tonic of it yrs ago and theres a reason, its just loaded with vitamins and minerals and tons of good things for good health. Others have herbal blogs for you too......
Diana has one on Passion Vine http://dianahopeless.multiply.com/journal/item/12?mark_read=dianahopeless:journal:12&replies_read=6
kathyinozarks has one about Warming herbs http://kathyinozarks.multiply.com/journal/item/723?mark_read=kathyinozarks:journal:723&replies_read=3
LadyDrago has one on Thyme http://ladydrago.multiply.com/journal/item/96?mark_read=ladydrago:journal:96
Magicmomma has one for Pasta and Veggie Pesto http://magicmomma.multiply.com/journal/item/175/HERB_THURSDAY--Pasta_and_Veggie_Pesto_Recipe
Starfishred has one on Parsley http://starfishred.multiply.com/journal/item/137
akunacumara has one on Green Tea http://akunakumara.multiply.com/journal/item/60
http://www.rain-tree.com/nettles.htm
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/stinging-nettle-000275.htm
http://www.surfingtheapocalypse.net/cgi-bin/forum.cgi?noframes;read=190586
Nettle leaf tea is a classic spring tonic. It stimulates the kidneys, cures diarrhea, stops internal bleeding, cleans the blood, and is an important source of iron, calcium, and vitamin C making it valuable in anemia.Nettle tea has been used to treat asthma,wheezing, and shortness of breath.The tea is also diuretic and has been used for cystitis and high blood pressure. To make the tea steep two teaspoons of nettle leaves in a cup of boiled water for about ten minutes. The dose is 1/4 cup four times a day, not with meals.
The decoction of the root is useful for diarrhea and dysentery and can also be used as a scalp wash to stimulate hair growth. It is used as an external wash for old wounds, itching conditions and for gangrene. To prepare the root, chop it and simmer about two teaspoons per cup of water for twenty minutes in a non aluminum pot with a tight fitting lid. Take about 1/4 four times a day.
The fresh juice of nettles can be taken to improve digestion and to increase milk flow in nursing mothers.The dose is one teaspoon in a glass of water, three times a day. It can also be rubbed into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
Nettles can be added to soups and quiches, the older plants must be cooked thoroughly but the young plants gathered in spring can be eaten fresh in salads. Add nettles to winter time teas to increase circulation and to warm the body.
Recent studies have shown that nettles are an effective antihistamine when taken for seasonal allergies and that they are also anti-inflammatory for arthritis.
Note on Nettles: These are a great and healthful green to eat, but they are only eaten cooked. Take care when handling, they will sting while raw. It takes very little cooking to shed the stinging.
Tips for handling nettles:
* Don't touch fresh nettles with your bare hands. Use tongs or a large fork to move them.
* Cook nettles until 'soggy' or completely wilted before eating. A quick sauté is not sufficient to de-activate the sting. If making nettle tea, be sure to strain nettles out and don't eat the leaves unless they've been thoroughly cooked.
* If picking wild nettles for eating, harvest only the top four inches of the plant.
* You may want to remove thick stems from nettle tops before cooking.
* Nettles combine well with less 'green' tasting greens such as chard, spinach, kale, collards in such dishes as spanakopita, baked pastas, quiche, omelettes, & frittatas
* Sorrel and nettles combine nicely for a lemony-green flavor
MINERAL-RICH VINEGAR INFUSION
Fill a quart jar loosely with baby Nettle tops, leaving an inch of headroom in the jar. (You can also add leaves and flowers of Dandelion and Red Clover.) Pour in organic cider vinegar to the top. Cover, label, and date. Store at room temperature for six weeks. Strain through cheesecloth or a sieve into a salad cruet or other storage bottle. Use freely in salad dressings and marinates. For a nutritious drink add a teaspoonful to a glass of apple cider or plan water, and honey to taste if you wish.
Spring Tonic Nettle Soup
* 3 Tablespoons butter or olive oil
* 2 leeks, cut into rounds
* 1/2 pound wild nettle tops (for handling tips, see Stinging Nettles 101)
* 1 quart filtered water
* 1 bouquet garni (little bundle of herbs tied with a string) containing any or all of these: a bay leaf, sprigs of thyme, parsley stems, and sage leaves
* 2 egg yolks
* 1/2 cup crème fraiche, sweet cream, or half and half, or to taste
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Nutmeg to taste
1. Sauté leeks in butter or olive oil. Add water and bring to a boil.
2. Add nettles (being careful not to touch them with your bare hands!), bay leaf and water.
3. Cover, bring to a boil, and simmer until the nettles are very soft.
4. Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the cream, crème fraiche or half and half.
5. Remove the bouquet garni from the soup, turn the heat to low, and puree using an immersion blender, adding a generous pinch of salt and a grind of pepper.
6. Take a ladleful of soup and stir it into the egg mixture.
7. Return the egg-nettle mixture to the soup and stir gently over very low heat (do not let it boil again)
8. Grate some fresh nutmeg into the soup, taste and add more salt as necessary to make it savory and delicious. To serve top with a dollop of crème fraiche and a little fresh ground pepper and nutmeg on top.
Cornish nettle soup:
This really is a delicious soup. It is obviously very inexpensive and was always prepared as a spring tonic. Nettles are high in vitamin C and iron.
2lb young nettle tips
2lb spinach
1 1/2 pints chicken stock or vegetable stock
cold milk
4 cold cooked sausages
3 tablespoons soured cream
3 tablespoons flour
seasoning
Method
- Use gloves to gather young nettles.
- Wash the nettles and blanch with boiling water.
- Wash the spinach and add to the nettles.
- Pour the hot stock over the nettles and spinach in a saucepan.
- Season and simmer for three quarters of an hour, adding more stock if needed.
- Leave soup to cool and blend in blender.
- Mix the flour to a smooth paste with some cold milk.
- Add this to the soup and bring back to the boil, stirring all the time.
- Chop the sausages into small rounds and add to the soup.
- Swirl in the sour cream just before serving.
Energizing Spring Tonic Tea
Work with nature's cycles, uplift your spirits, wake up your energy, and detoxify your liver with this great spring tonic.
1 part dried damiana leaves
1 part dried St. John's Wort flowers
1 part dried mugwort leaves
1 part dried nettle seed
1 part dried rosemary leaves
1. Use about 1 cup of dry ingredients per quart of boiling water. Place herbs in a pot or jar, cover with the boiling water and allow to steep for 20 minutes or longer.
2. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day, a few days a week.
Nettle Frittata Yield: 6 portions
½ lb. Cleaned Nettle Tops
4 Tbls Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Garlic Clove, Chopped
6 lg Eggs
¼ C Heavy Cream
Salt & Pepper to Taste
Preheat oven to 300º Cook 1/3rd of the nettles in one tablespoon of the olive oil in a non-stick pan. Cook until tender adding a small amount of water if needed. Repeat this 2 more times adding the garlic on the third batch. Place all of the cooked nettles on a cutting board and chop finely. Place the nettles in a bowl of a food processor with the eggs, salt, pepper and process until the nettles are incorporated into the eggs. Add the cream and process for 10 seconds. Heat the non-stick pan on medium with the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the nettle mixture and with a rubber spatula move the eggs around to get the entire mixture warm. Place into the oven and cook for about 12 minutes. Let cool for 3 minutes then turn the frittata out onto a plate and cut.
Nettle Tisane
Nettle tea is pleasantly herbacious without tasting like you are steeping a suburban lawn. I find the ‘afternotes' especially pleasant and mellow. Nettle tea is reported to be a great blood and liver tonic. A nice thing about this recipe: you can use the whole leaf and stem, no need to remove the leaves from the stems. I use a little tea strainer when pouring the final tisane into cups.
1 pyrex measuring cup
boiling water
nettles to loosely fill 1/3 to 1/2 of the measuring cup
1. Soak the nettles in cool/cold water for a few minutes.
2. Boil the water
3. Rinse nettles, using tongs or dishwashing gloves to not sting your hands.
4 Place cleaned nettles in measuring cup or teapot or glass bowl, pour water over to fill cup, and steep the ‘tisane' (a tea made with fresh herb) for 5 or so minutes.
Sauteed Nettles with Green Garlic & Olive Oil serves 6
1 ¼ lb. Nettles, Cleaned
3T Green Garlic (Chopped)
1/2 cup Olive Oil
Salt & Pepper (To Taste)
First preheat a large sauté pan on medium high heat, (one large enough to accommodate the nettles, you can even use a large pot as well). Second pour ¼ cup of the olive oil into the preheated pan. Then put all of the green garlic into the pan sauté briefly for about 30 seconds, just enough time for the green garlic to release its essential oils, being sure not to brown or burn the green garlic. Place the nettles into the pan and give it a good stir, let sit for just a second and then continue the stirring process. Once the nettles are completely wilted place them on a plate, drizzle with the rest of the olive oil and place a couple of lemon wedges for garnish.
Note: The nettles do not have the water content like spinach or other similar greens. So it might help to put a couple Tablespoons of water into the pan after the nettles have started cooking, just to hurry the cooking process. Myself I do not put the water, because I like the texture of the nettles when you sauté them. It is like little crispy nettle leaves and it also brings about a certain nuttiness.
Fettuccine with Nettle & Ricotta Pesto serves 8
1lb. Fettuccine (Preferably Fresh)
1/2 pound Nettles
6 oz. Ricotta
5 oz. Pine Nuts
1/4 cup Pecorino
2 T Parmesan
3 T Green Garlic (Chopped)
1 ¼ cup Olive Oil
8 T Sea Salt
6T Butter
First you blanch the nettles in salted water. Bring 1 gal. of water and 4 T of sea salt to a boil. Then place the nettles into the boiling water, just blanching them for about 1 minute. Take them from the water and place them into a strainer so that the excess water can drain away and so they can cool down to room temperature. Then rough chop the nettles and squeeze them dry as best you can. Place the nettles into a blender or food processor; add your oil, 4 ounces of pine nuts(saving the rest as a garnish) and the Green Garlic. Blend until all ingredients are combined about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Place the combined ingredients into a bowl, add your pecorino, parmesan and ricotta. Finish the pesto by folding in the three cheeses just until it looks like everything has come together.
In a separate pot bring 2 qt. Water and 4 T sea salt to a boil to cook the pasta (you should be able to taste the salt in the water, if not add more). In a separate large sauce pan or large sauté pan place about just less then half of the pesto mixture, 6 T butter and about a ¼ cup of the pasta water, heat all ingredients just till hot but not boiling or popping. In the pot cook the pasta for approximately 2-4 minutes pull the pasta from the water and toss with the warmed pesto sauce, cook on medium heat for just about 2-3 minutes so that the sauce has time to infuse into the pasta.
Potato Nettle Soup
2 cups Nettle Leaves (young shoots)
1 Onion
6 small Potatoes
8 cups Water
1 tsp salt
1 tsp. Parsley
3 cloves Garlic OR 3 stalks green garlic
Puree onion, garlic, and nettles with 1 cup of water. Cut potatoes into small pieces. Simmer pureed mixture with potatoes and remaining water for 45 minutes or until tender. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes making the soup thick and creamy.
Nettle Cornbread
Quick breads are a delicious way to bring wild greens into the diet. The oregano and onion complement the nettle resulting in a savory, nutritious bread for a light meal.
Start with ingredients at room temperature. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Grease 10” cast iron skillet with oil of choice and set in oven to heat.
Mix together:
-¾ cup all-purpose flour (can be any part whole wheat)
-2-½ teaspoons baking powder
-1/3-cup sweetener…sugar of choice, (we like maple syrup which is included in the wet ingredients below)
-½ teaspoon salt
-½ cup dried nettle leaf
Add:
-1 ¼ cups cornmeal (part coarse adds texture)
Beat in separate bowl:
-1 egg
-2-3 tablespoons melted butter, olive oil or pan drippings
-1-cup fresh goat milk (any milk will do)
-2 tablespoons shallot or red onion
-2 tablespoons chopped fresh Greek oregano
Add wet ingredients to dry and combine with rapid strokes. Pour batter into the pre-heated skillet. Bake ½ hour or until done. The skillet gives the bread a crusty finish on the edges.
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