Usnea, or Old Man’s Beard, is a stretchy lichen that has a profound affinity for the respiratory system – which is no surprise considering its Latin name means “Lungs” or “The Forest”. When I spent time in Oregon last summer, it was an easy herb to spot on our hikes in the temperate forests. There’s…
Herbalism
The Perfect Sun Tea Recipe
Ahhh, sun tea. The perfect summer drink on hot Southern California days. Growing up, I remember my mom making sun tea in a huge gallon jar, sometimes with fresh lemon slices, on the hottest days of summer. She would add black tea bags, plenty of spring water, and then just let the sun do all…
How to Make Infused Cottonwood Oil for Balms, Salves, & Ointments
I’ve been on a bit of a cottonwood kick lately, but I just can’t get over how amazing this herb is! It’s just so good for so many things and has been one of my must-haves for pretty much every type of physical pain or bout of inflammation I’ve experienced. If you haven’t tried your…
Pedicularis Tincture for The Side Effects of Stress
I think this year, more than anything, I’ve felt the effects of burnout, stress, and its accompanying symptoms like insomnia (which I’ve never had before), feelings of apathy, and a lingering fatigue that lasts all day. It’s made things really difficult. It’s hard to get things done, and that’s sort of a big deal when…
DIY Elderberry Syrup for Cold and Flu – Potent, Quick, & Easy!
Around this time of year, when summer is about halfway over, I start to think about cold and flu remedies I need to get started before the weather gets cooler. You may be wondering why I need to start now and the short answer is – herbal remedies take a looong time, up to six…
How to Make Cottonwood Tincture
Ask any herbalist how they feel about cottonwood and you’d be met with a unanimous dreamy sigh. I think it goes without saying just how amazing these fragrant little buds are and they’re just so good for so many things! If you’re looking for a remedy renowned for its pain relieving, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties,…
How to Make Instant Fire Cider
Doesn’t it seem like as soon as flu season is over, another wave sweeps through the masses? At least, that’s what’s happening this year – even to those who already had the flu just a few short weeks ago. It’s not uncommon that the flu virus changes and mutates in order to proliferate. So, what…
Why You Should be Using Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has become increasingly popular as a revered medicinal plant known to strengthen those who are burnt out and tired and calm those who are anxious. This incredible herb is full of amazing properties that have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to help increase the body’s resistance to physiological and psychological…
Peach and Rose Summer Heat Elixir
Summer is the time for getting outdoors, hanging out with friends and family, and enjoying heaps and heaps of stone fruit. One of my favorites of course, is a perfectly ripe juicy peach that runs down your arm as you bite into it. I can often be found eating them over the sink with a…
3 Delicious Iced Tea Recipes for Summer
The Summer Solstice has come and gone and temperatures are steadily rising here is Southern California in preparation for the seemingly endless days of summer. It’s been such a joy to get out and hike the local trails, lay out by the pool, and do a bit of morning yoga and meditation out in the…
Hello friends! I teach you how to support your well-being with DIY herbal remedies, essential oils, and all natural skin care.
