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The New American Farmer, 2nd Edition
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Ginkgo
Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo biloba
by Evelyn Leigh, HRF Editorial Director by Evelyn Leigh, HRF Editorial Director
The remarkable effects of Ginkgo biloba on brain function and circulation have made this venerable tree one of the most extensively studied and widely used botanicals in the world. The remarkable effects of Ginkgo biloba on brain function and circulation have made this venerable tree one of the most extensively studied and widely used in the botanical world. Millions of Americans and Europeans now enjoy the benefits of ginkgo for memory, cognitive function, circulatory disorders, and conditions of the eyes and ears. Millions of Americans and Europeans now enjoy the benefits of ginkgo for memory, cognitive function, circulatory disorders, and conditions of the eyes and ears. No other known circulation enhancer, natural or synthetic, can increase blood flow not only to healthy areas of the brain, but also to areas already damaged by disease. No other known circulation enhancer, natural or synthetic, can increase blood flow not only to healthy areas of the brain, but also to areas already damaged by disease. In addition, ginkgo’s powerful antioxidant effects have earned it an international reputation as an “anti-aging” herb among young and old alike. In addition, ginkgo’s powerful antioxidant effects have earned it an international reputation as an “anti-aging” herb among young and old alike.
Primary uses of Ginkgo Primary uses of Ginkgo
Improves memory and other cognitive functions Improves memory and other cognitive functions
Enhances circulation to the brain, heart, limbs, ears and eyes Enhances circulation to the brain, heart, Limbs, ears and eyes
May help reduce cardiovascular risks May help reduce cardiovascular risks
Potent antioxidant effects Potent antioxidant effects
Used in treating cerebral insufficiency, senile dementia, Alheimer’s disease Used in treating cerebral insufficiency, senile Dementia, Alheimer’s disease
Peripheral arterial disease, and certain eye and ear disorders Peripheral arterial disease, and certain eye and ear disorders
History History
Ginkgo has been used as food and medicine for more than 4,000 years, and traditional Chinese herbalists still rely on the plant for the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, and brain disorders. Ginkgo has been used as food and medicine for more than 4000 years, and traditional Chinese Re still rely on the plant for the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, and brain disorders. Often called a “living fossil”, the magnificent Ginkgo biloba tree itself is the last survivor of its botanical family. In fact, it is the oldest living tree species known to humankind, and individual trees may live as long as 1,000 years. Often called a “living fossil”, the magnificent Ginkgo biloba tree itself is the last survivor of its botanical family. In fact, it is the oldest living tree species known to human child, and individual trees may live as long as 1000 years. Beautiful and hardy, this Asian native is widely planted today as an ornamental and can be found lining the streets of many American cities. Beautiful and hardy, this Asian native is today widely planted as an ornamental and can be found lining the streets of many American cities.
Health Benefits of Ginkgo Health Benefits of Ginkgo
The wide-reaching benefits of ginkgo are thought to be largely due to its effects as an antioxidant, or free radical scavenger. The wide-reaching benefits of ginkgo are thought to be largely due to its effects as an antioxidant, or free radical scavenger. The plant contains compounds that absorb toxic chemicals, preventing cell damage (including that related to aging). The central nervous system and brain are especially susceptible to free radical damage, and it is believed that gingko’s antioxidant action is a major contributor to its “anti-aging” benefits. The plant contains compounds that absorbing toxic chemicals, preventing cell damage (including that related to aging). The central nervous system and brain are especially susceptible to free radical damage, and it is believed that Gingko’s antioxidant action is a major contributor to its “anti - -aging benefits.
By preventing free radical damage, ginkgo appears to stabilize cell membranes and render blood vessel walls and red blood cells more flexible, improving the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, limbs, and other areas supplied by tiny capillaries, such as the eyes and ears. By preventing free radical damage, ginkgo appears to stabilize cell Membranes and render blood vessel walls and red blood cells more flexible, improving the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain, Limbs, and other areas supplied by tiny capillaries, such as the eyes and ears. By thus enhancing microcirculation, ginkgo can improve a variety of brain functions, including memory, concentration, and problem-solving. By thus enhancing micro-circulation, ginkgo can improve a variety of brain functions, including memory, concentration, and problem-solving.
Ginkgo also helps support healthy circulation by inhibiting the effects of a blood clotting substance called platelet activating factor (PAF). Ginkgo also helps support healthy circulation by the Inhibit Blood Clotting effects of a substance called platelet activating factor (PAF). The body needs PAF for a number of functions, but excess PAF has been linked to allergies, asthma, inflammatory conditions, and cardiovascular diseases such as stroke. The body needs PAF for a number of functions, but excess PAF has been linked to allergies, asthma, inflammatory conditions, and cardiovascular diseases such as stroke.
In clinical studies, standardized ginkgo extract has proven effective in improving brain function and quality of life in people with Alzheimer’s disease and senile dementia. In clinical studies, standardized ginkgo extract has proven effective in improving brain function and quality of life in people with Alzheimer’s disease and senile Dementia. The extract has been shown to improve circulation to the limbs, reducing symptoms such as coldness, numbness, and cramping. The extract has been shown to improve circulation to the Limbs, reducing symptoms such as cold ness, numb ness, and cramping. Benefits have also been reported in ear and eye conditions that include tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and dimming vision due to oxygen deprivation. Benefits have also been reported in ear and eye conditions that include tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and dimming vision due to oxygen deprivation.
State of Knowledge State of Knowledge
Clinical (human) research Clinical (human) research
Laboratory research Laboratory research
History of use / Traditional use History of use / Traditional use
Safety record Safety record
International acceptance International acceptance
Stars indicate level of knowledge on a scale from 0 - 5 Stars indicate level of knowledge on a scale from 0 to 5
Research Findings Research Findings
With hundreds of published scientific studies to document its complex and varied effects, Ginkgo is among the world’s best studied herbs, and the evidence continues to grow. With hundreds of published scientific studies to document its complex and varied effects, Ginkgo is among the world’s best studied herbs, and the evidence continues to grow. Current trials are exploring its potential in the treatment of intermittent claudication, asthma, cataracts, drug-resistant depression, hearing loss, head injuries, and a variety of other conditions. Current trials are exploring its potential in the treatment of intermittent claudication, asthma, cataract, drug-resistant depression, hearing loss, head injuries, and a variety of other conditions. Most trials use a ginkgo extract standardized to contain 24% ginkgo flavone glycosides. Most trials use a ginkgo extract standardized to contain 24% ginkgo flavone Glycosides.
Specific Actions: Specific Actions:
Enhances microcirculation, improves blood flow and oxygenation to the brain and limbs, protects cells from free radical damage, inhibits platelet activating factor (PAF). Enhances micro circulation, improves blood flow and oxygenation to the brain and Limbs, protects cells from free radical damage, Inhibit platelet activating factor (PAF).
Specific Studies: Specific studies:
Clinical Study: In a placebo-controlled, double-blind, 52-week trial involving 202 patients with mild-to-severe dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease or multi-infarct dementia, stabilization or improvements were seen in a number of daily living and cognitive functions. Clinical Study: In a placebo-controlled, double-blind, 52-week trial involving 202 patients with mild-to-severe Dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease or multi-infarct Dementia, Stabilization or improvements were seen in a number of daily living and cognitive functions. The researchers stated that benefits could be equated with a “six month delay in the progression” of Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers stated that benefits could be equated with a “six month delay in the progression” of Alzheimer’s disease. (LeBars, et al. 1997) (LeBars, et al 1997)
Clinical Study: In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study involving 166 patients over the age of 60, results “confirmed the efficacy of ginkgo extract in cerebral disorders due to aging” after 3 months of treatment. Patients most affected by disease appeared to benefit most from ginkgo. Clinical Study: In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study involving 166 patients over the age of 60, results “confirmed the efficacy of ginkgo extract in cerebral disorders due to aging after 3 months of treatment. Patients most affected by disease appeared to benefit most from ginkgo. (Taillandier, et al. 1988) (Taillandier, et al 1988)
Clinical Study: Significant improvements in mental performance, including short-term memory and concentration, were seen after 6 weeks of treatment with standardized ginkgo extract in a placebo-controlled double-blind trial involving 90 patients with cerebral insufficiency. Clinical Study: Significant improvements in mental performance, including short-term memory and concentration, were seen after 6 weeks of treatment with standardized ginkgo extract in a placebo-controlled double-blind trial involving 90 patients with cerebral insufficiency. (Vesper & Hansen, 1994) (Vesper & Hansen, 1994)
Meta-Analysis: In five placebo-controlled trials, there was a highly significant increase in pain-free walking distance after treatment with standardized ginkgo extract in patients with peripheral arterial disease. Meta-Analysis: In five placebo-controlled trials, there was a highly significant increase in pain-free walking distance after treatment with standardized ginkgo extract in patients with peripheral arterial disease. (Schneider, 1992) (Schneider, 1992)
Safety Safety
Gingko appears to be extremely safe and is well tolerated by most people. Gingko appears to be extremely safe and is well tolerated by most people. No major adverse effects or drug interactions were noted in any clinical trials, and side effects of any kind are rare. No major adverse effects or drug interactions were noted in any clinical trials, and side effects of any kind are rare. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort and headache. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort and headache. However, very large doses may cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and restlessness. However, very large doses may cause Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and restless business.
Using Ginkgo Using Ginkgo
Almost all of the clinical research on ginkgo has been done on one form of standardized extract, a 50:1 concentrated extract. Almost all of the clinical research on ginkgo has been done on one form of standardized extracts, a 50:1 concentrated extract. Standardization ensures that an extract contains a consistent level of active compounds, and ginkgo extract is standardized to contain 24% ginkgo flavone glycosides. Standardization ensures that an extract contains a consistent level of active compounds, and ginkgo extract is standardized to contain 24% ginkgo flavone Glycosides. In the clinical studies, the effective dose of the standardized extract was 40 mg three times a day, a total of 120 mg of ginkgo extract a day. In the clinical studies, the effective dose of the standardized extract, 40 mg three times a day, a total of 120 mg of ginkgo extract a day.
Unstandardized Ginkgo extracts are available in tincture, capsule, and tablet form, but there is no clinical research to support the effectiveness of these preparations. Unstandardized Ginkgo extracts are available in tinctures, capsule, and tablet form, but there is no clinical research to support the effectiveness of these preparations.
The officially recommended usage levels, and those used in research studies are: The officially recommended usage levels, and those used in research studies are:
* Standardized extract capsules, tablets, or tincture: In clinical trials, effective dose was 40 mg three times a day of extract, standardized to contain 24% ginkgo flavone glycosides. Standardized extract capsules, tablets, or Tincture: In clinical trials, effective dose was 40 mg three times a day or extract, standardized to contain 24% ginkgo flavone Glycosides.
Important Note: Important Note:
The effects of ginkgo are not immediate. The effects of ginkgo are not immediate. In the clinical studies, from 4 to 24 weeks of treatment were required before benefits were observed. In the clinical studies, from 4 to 24 weeks of treatment were required before benefits were observed. The use of ginkgo or other herbs is not a substitute for other medical treatment in cases of serious illness. The use of ginkgo or other herbs is not a substitute for other medical treatment in cases of serious illness. Many conditions are not appropriate for self-diagnosis or self-medication and require the supervision of qualified health care providers. Be sure to tell your doctor about any herbs you are taking. Many conditions are not appropriate for self-diagnosis or self-medication and require the supervision of qualified health care providers. Be sure to tell your doctor about any herbs you are taking. Educate yourself and use caution when practicing self-care. Educate yourself and use caution when practicing self-care.
Recommended Reading Recommended Reading
Ginkgo, Elixir of Youth by Christopher Hobbs. Ginkgo, Elixir of Youth by Christopher Hobbs. Botanica Press, 1991. Botanica Press, 1991.
Ginkgo by Steven Foster. Ginkgo by Steven Foster. American Botanical Council, 1990. American Botanical Council, 1990.
This page and all contents © 2001 by The Herb Research Foundation, Boulder, CO, USA. This page and all contents © 2001 by The Herb Research Foundation, Boulder, CO, USA.
Boosting Immunity
With Herbs With Herbs
by Rob McCaleb , HRF President by Rob McCaleb, HRF President
For over 4,000 years, the Chinese have used certain herbs to prevent common diseases. For over 4000 years, the Chinese have used certain herbs to prevent common diseases. The ancient Chinese knew nothing of bacteria or viruses, yet some of these herbs were said to “strengthen the exterior”, or the “shield”. The ancient Chinese knew nothing of bacteria or viruses, yet some of these herbs were said to “strengthen the exterior,” or the “shield”. Modern scientific research is confirming that they were right. Modern scientific research is confirm that they were right. Thousands of years later, and sixty years after the discovery of penicillin, the study of herbs affecting the immune system is one of the hottest topics in pharmacological research. Thousands of years later, and sixty years after the discovery of penicillin, the study of herbs affecting the immune system is one of the hottest topics in pharmacological research. Can herbs really strengthen our resistance and help us lead healthier lives? Both the wisdom of centuries of observation, and the scrutiny of the scientific laboratory, support the view that they can. Can herbs really strengthen our resistance and help us lead healthier lives? Both the wisdom of centuries of observation, and the scrutiny of the scientific laboratory, support the view that they can.
HOW THE IMMUNE SYSTEM WORKS Immune HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS
Our immune system recognizes and destroys anything foreign to the body, including cells like bacteria and other microbes, and foreign particles including toxic compounds. Our immune system recognizes and destroy anything foreign to the body, including cells like bacteria and other microbes, and foreign particles including toxic compounds. This recognition and destruction is performed by cells in the circulatory and the lymphatic systems. This recognition and destruction is performed by the cells in the circulatory and lymphatic systems. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and lymphatic tissue (thymus, lymph nodes, spleen and tonsils) respectively. These cells are produced in the bone marrow and lymphatic tissue (thymus, lymph nodes, Spleen and tonsil) respectively. The cells begin their lives as “stem cells”. These cells are so featureless that there is no way to determine what type of blood cell they will ultimately become. They may develop into any of a number of different kind of cells, for instance: red blood cells, various types of white blood cells, etc. These cells are then released into the blood stream and are carried to all parts of the body. The cells start their lives as “stem cells”. These cells are less feature so that there is no way to determine what type of blood cell they ultimately will become. They may develop into any of a number of different kind of cells, for instance: red blood cells, various types of white blood cells, etc. These cells are then released into the blood stream and are carried to all parts of the body. There are essentially two types of cells, one of which is called “memory cells”. Essentially there are two types of cells, one of which is called “memory cells”. Memory cells, as the name implies, remember specific foreign cells or chemicals to which they have been exposed, and react immediately when they are next exposed to those compounds. Memory cells, as the name implies, remember specific cells or foreign chemicals to which they have been exposed, and react immediately when they are next exposed to those compounds. Drugs which effect the memory cells stimulate immunity only to one disease or antigen. Drugs which effect the memory cells stimulate immunity to only one disease or antigen. Vaccines are an example of drugs which effect memory cells. Vaccines are an example of drugs which effect memory cells.
Most herbs for the immune system don’t affect memory cells, but are general immune system stimulators (immunostimulants). They increase the activity of the immune system but are not specific to a particular disease or “antigen” (a protein against which immune cells act). Most herbs for the immune system do not affect memory cells, but are general immune system stimulators (immunostimulants). They increase the activity of the immune system but are not specific to a particular disease or “antigen” (a protein against which immune cells act). Rather, they increase resistance by mobilizing “effector cells” which act against all foreign particles, rather than just one specific type (ie a measles virus). Rather, they increase resistance by Mobilizing “effector cells” which act against all foreign particles, rather than just one specific type (ie a measles virus).
Remarkably, since the discovery of penicillin, our scientists, in search of drugs against infectious disease, have looked only for chemicals which kill bacteria or viruses. Remarkably, since the discovery of penicillin, our scientists, in search of drugs against infectious disease, have looked only for chemicals which kill bacteria or viruses. Finally, they are coming to realize that it is possible to boost the immune system, which can then fight naturally against infectious agents, without the drawbacks of antibiotic therapy. Finally, they are coming to realize that it is possible to boost the immune system, which can then naturally fight against infectious agents, without the drawbacks of antibiotic therapy. While immune stimulants cannot replace antibiotics in some cases, they have proven far superior in others. While immune stimulant can not replace antibiotics in some cases, they have proven far superior in others.
Here are a few of the best researched immune boosters available in natural food stores: Here are a few of the best researched immune boosters available in natural food stores:
ASTRAGALUS Astragalus
Chinese astragalus root, Astragalus membranaceus , is widely used throughout the Orient as a tonic food and medicinal plant. Chinese Astragalus root, Astragalus membranaceus, is widely used throughout the Orient as a tonic food and medicinal plant. In Asia, this plant is sold as dried slices of root, six to twelve inch long. In Asia, this plant is sold as dried slices of root, six to twelve inches long. Research has shown that this root and its extracts are powerful stimulators of the immune system. Research has shown that this root and its extracts are powerful stimulators of the immune system. In Asia the roots are frequently boiled, along with other herb ingredients—and frequently some chicken broth—to produce a tonic/medicinal soup. Astragalus has been used for thousands of years in China. In Asia The Roots are frequently Boiled, along with other herb ingredients - and frequently some chicken broth - to produce a tonic / medicinal soup. Astragalus has been used for thousands of years in China. First mentioned in the Divine Husbandman’s Classic of the Materia Medica , an ancient Chinese medicinal text, astragalus is said to “tonify the Spleen, Blood and Qi”, and is used for “wasting and thirsting syndrome”. First mentioned in the Divine Husbandman’s Classic of the Materia Medica, an ancient Chinese medicinal text, Astragalus is said to “tonify the Spleen, Blood and Qi”, and is used for “wasting and thirsting syndrome. Some of the specific Chinese uses hint at a stimulant effect on the immune system. Some of the specific uses Chinese hint at a stimulant effect on the immune system. For example, it used as a tonic for the lungs, for frequent colds or shortness of breath. For example, it used as a tonic for the lung, for frequent Colds or short ness of breath. The Chinese also use it (internally) for chronic ulcerations and other persistent external infections. The Chinese also use it (internally) for chronic ulcerations and other external persistent infections.
Astragalus stimulates virtually every phase of immune system activity. Astragalus stimulates virtually every phase of immune system activity. It increases the number of “stem cells” in the marrow and lymph tissue, and stimulates their development into active immune cells which are released into the body. It increases the number of “stem cells in the marrow and lymph tissue, and stimulates their development into active immune cells which are released into the body. Research documenting this also demonstrated that astragalus could promote or trigger immune cells from the “resting” state into heightened activity. Research documenting this also demonstrated that Astragalus could promote or trigger immune cells from the “Resting” state into heightened activity. Another study on an astragalus-based Chinese remedy demonstrated “the tendency to stimulate immune response” without suppressive effects. Long-term use (for 35 days) heightened the activity of spleen cells. Another study on an Astragalus-based Chinese remedy demonstrated “the tendency to stimulate immune response without suppressive effects. Long-term use (for 35 days) heightened activity of the Spleen cells. The remedy also decreased negative side effects of steroid therapy on the immune system. The remedy also decreased negative side effects of steroidal therapy on the immune system. The author recommended using it in combination with steroid therapy “to alleviate the adverse effects” of the steroid. The author recommended using it in combination with steroidal therapy “to alleviate the adverse effects” of the steroids.
Perhaps the best evidence to date for the powerful immunostimulant effects of astragalus come from the University of Texas Medical Center in Houston. Perhaps the best evidence to date for the powerful immunostimulant effects of Astragalus come from the University of Texas Medical Center in Houston. There, scientists tested damaged immune system cells from cancer patients, compared against cells from the blood of normal human subjects. There, scientists tested damaged immune system cells from cancer patients, compared against cells from the blood of normal human subjects. Astragalus extracts were able to completely restore the function of cancer patients’ immune cells.... Astragalus extracts were able to completely restore the function of cancer patients’ immune cells .... In some cases, the compromised cells were stimulated to greater activity than those from normal human subjects. In some cases, the compromised cells were stimulated to greater activity than those from normal human subjects. The study concluded, “a complete immune restoration can be achieved by using a fractionated extract of Astragalus membranaceus , a traditional Chinese medicinal herb found to possess immune restorative activity in vitro “. The study concluded, “a complete immune restoration can be achieved by using a fractionated extract of Astragalus membranaceus, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb found to possess immune restorative activity in vitro.
Astragalus has also been found to stimulate the production of interferon, and increase its effects in fighting disease. Astragalus has also been found to stimulate the production of interferon, and increase its effects in fighting disease. The combined effect of interferon and astragalus root “resulted not only in decreased common cold incidence but also in shortening the course of illness... The average course of illness of the patients in the combined treatment group was 2.6 days as compared to 4.6 days in the control group.” The combined effect of interferon and Astragalus root “resulted not only in decreased common cold incidence but also in shortening the course of illness ... The average course of illness of the patients in the combined treatment group was 2.6 days as compared to 4.6 days in the control group. “ In the same study, the astragalus root was found to increase the life span of human cells in culture. In the same study, the Astragalus root was found to increase the life span of human cells in culture. The authors report no toxicity to human cells. The authors report no toxicity to human cells. “On the contrary, cell counts indicated that the vital cells in cultures treated with this drug for three weeks were markedly more numerous than those without treatment”. “On the contrary, cell counts indicated that the vital cells in cultures treated with this drug for three weeks were markedly more numerous than those without treatment. The treated cells also became resistant to a common virus and astragalus promoted regeneration of cells in the bronchi of virus-infected mice. The treated cells also became resistant to a common virus and Astragalus promoted regeneration of cells in the bronchi or virus-infected mice.
As if this weren’t impressive enough, another study probed the activity of macrophages, one of the major cells responsible for consuming invading microbes. As if this were not impressive enough, another study probed the activity of Macrophages, one of the major cells responsible for consuming invading microbes. The activity of the macrophages was significantly enhanced within six hours of treatment, and the enhancement persisted for at least seventy-two hours. The activity of the Macrophages were significantly enhanced within six hours of treatment, and the enhancement persisted for at least Seventy-two hours. The extract also significantly inhibited the growth of tumor cells in mice, especially when combined with the extract Ligustrum lucidum (privet). The authors remark that astragalus extract “may thus restore immunocompetence; potentially beneficial for cancer patients as well as AIDS patients”. The extract also significantly inhibited the growth of tumor cells in mice, especially when combined with the extract Ligustrum lucidum (Privet). The authors remark that Astragalus extract may thus restore immune competence, potentially beneficial for cancer patients as well as AIDS patients.
Most consumers probably use astragalus to prevent and treat colds and other minor diseases. Most consumers probably use Astragalus to prevent and treat Colds and other minor diseases. In the Chinese research mentioned above, astragalus reduced the incidence of common colds among users, and shortened the duration of colds by almost half. In the Chinese research mentioned above, Astragalus reduced the incidence of common Colds among users, and shortened the duration of cold by almost half.
ECHINACEA Echinacea
Echinacea is a very popular American wildflower and garden plant, the purple coneflower. Echinacea is a very popular American wildflower and garden plant, the purple coneflower. It’s also one of America’s most popular herbal products, also used to prevent and treat the common cold, influenza and infections. It’s also one of America’s most popular herbal products, also used to prevent and treat the common cold, influenza and infections. Echinacea is the best known and one of the most researched of immunostimulants. Echinacea is the best known and one of the most researched of immunostimulants.
Echinacea was among the most popular herbs used by Native American Indians. Echinacea was among the most popular herbs used by Native American Indians. At least 14 tribes used Echinacea for a coughs, colds, sore throats, infections, toothaches, inflammations, tonsillitis, and snake bites, among other uses. At least 14 tribes used Echinacea for a Cough, Cold, Sore throat, infections, toothaches, inflammation, tonsillitis, and snake bites, among other uses. It was used by the Dakotas as a veterinary medicine for their horses. It was used by the Dakotas as a veterinary medicine for their horses.
By the early Twentieth century, echinacea had become the best selling medicinal tincture in America, used for a variety of internal and external conditions. By the early Twentieth century, echinacea had become the best selling medicinal Tincture in America, used for a variety of internal and external conditions. But by 1910 it had been dismissed as worthless by the AMA, although it continued to be used. But by 1910 it had been dismissed as worthless by the AMA, although it continued to be used. Echinacea fell into disuse in this country in the 1930’s. Echinacea Fell into disuse in this country in the 1930’s. However, Europeans began growing and using echinacea, especially the Germans, and to this day have produced the best scientific documentation of its value. However, Europeans began growing and using echinacea, especially the Germans, and to this day have produced the best scientific documentation of its value. The extract’s popularity in the US grew rapidly during the 1980s, and the plant is now again among America’s best-selling herb extracts. The extract’s popularity in the U.S. grew rapidly during the 1980s, and the plant is now again among America’s best-selling herb extracts.
The most common anecdotal reports about the use of ecinacea are from people who begin taking the extract at the first sign of a cold. The most common anecdotal reports about the use of ecinacea are from people who start taking the extract at the first sign of a cold. Often to their surprise, they find the cold has disappeared, usually within twenty-four hours, and sometimes after taking the extract only once. Often to their surprise, they find the cold has disappeared, usually within twenty-four hours, and sometimes after taking the extract only once. Anecdotal evidence carries little weight in scientific circles, but plant drug researchers have conducted over 350 scientific studies about echinacea. Anecdotal evidence carries little weight in scientific circles, but plant drug researchers have conducted over 350 scientific studies about echinacea. Here’s what some of those studies say about echinacea: Here’s what some of those studies say about echinacea:
The most consistently proven effect of echinacea is in stimulating phagocytosis, or the consumption of invading organisms by white blood cells and lymphocytes. The most consistently proven effect of echinacea is in stimulating phagocytosis, or the consumption of invading organisms by white blood cells and lymphocytes. To prove this, scientists incubate human white blood cells, yeast cells and echinacea extract. To prove this, scientists incubate human white blood cells, yeast cells and echinacea extract. They examine the blood cells microscopically and a count the numbers of yeast cells gobbled up by the blood cells. They examine the blood cells microscopically and a count the numbers of yeast cells gobbled up by the blood cells. Extracts of echinacea can increase phagocytosis by 20-40%. Extracts of echinacea can increase phagocytosis by 20-40%. Another test, called “the carbon clearance” test, measures the speed with which injected carbon particles are removed from the bloodstream of a mouse. Another test, called “the carbon clearance test measures the speed with which Injected carbon particles are removed from the blood stream of a mouse. The quicker the mouse can remove the injected foreign particles, the more its immune system has been stimulated. The quicker the mouse Injected can remove the foreign particles, the more its immune system has been stimulated. In this test too, echinacea extracts excel, confirming the fact that this remarkable plant increases the activity of immune system cells so they can more quickly eliminate invading organisms and foreign particles. In this test too, echinacea extracts excel, confirm the fact that this remarkable plant increases the activity of immune system cells so they can more quickly eliminate invading organisms and foreign particles.
As with astragalus, echinacea causes an increase in the number of immune cells, further enhancing the overall activity of the immune system. As with Astragalus, echinacea causes an increase in the number of immune cells, further enhancing the overall activity of the immune system. Echinacea also stimulates the production of interferon as well as other important products of the immune system, including “Tumor Necrosis Factor”, which is important to the body’s response against cancer. Echinacea also stimulates the production of interferon as well as other important products of the immune system, including “Tumor necrosis factor, which is important to the body’s response against cancer.
Echinacea also inhibits an enzyme (hyaluronidase), which is secreted by bacteria, and helps them gain access to healthy cells. Echinacea also Inhibit an enzyme (hyaluronidase), which is secreted by bacteria, and helps them gain access to healthy cells. Research in the early 1950’s showed that echinacea could completely counteract the effect of this enzyme, and this could help prevent infection when used to treat wounds. Research in the early 1950’s showed that echinacea could completely counteract the effect of this enzyme, and this could help prevent infection when used to treat Wounds. While echinacea is usually used internally for the treatment of viruses and bacteria, it is being used more externally for the treatment of wounds. While echinacea is usually used internally for the treatment of viruses and bacteria, it is being used more externally for the treatment of Wounds. It also kills yeast and slows or stops the growth of bacteria, and helps to stimulate the growth of new tissue. It also kills yeast and slows or stops the growth of bacteria, and helps to stimulate the growth of new tissue. It combats inflammation too, further supporting its use in the treatment of wounds. It combats inflammation too, further supporting its use in the treatment of Wounds.
Research in 1957, showed that an extract of echinacea caused a 22% reduction in inflammation among arthritis sufferers. Research in 1957 showed that an extract of echinacea caused a 22% reduction in inflammation among arthritis sufferers. That is only about half as effective as steroids, but steroids have serious side-effects. That is only about half as effective as steroids, but steroids have serious side-effects. Steroids also strongly suppress the immune system, which makes them a poor choice for treating any condition in which infection is likely. Steroids also strongly Suppress the immune system, which makes them a poor choice for treating any condition in which infection is likely. Echinacea, on the other hand, is non-toxic, and adds immune-stimulating properties to its anti-inflammatory effect. Echinacea, on the other hand, is non-toxic, and immune-stimulating properties adds to its anti-inflammatory effect.
Most people use echinacea for warding off colds and influenza. Most people use echinacea for warding off Colds and influenza. Extracts, either alcoholic or non-alcoholic, are the most commonly used form, and the usual amount taken is one dropperful at a time (15-25 drops). Extracts, either alcoholic or non-alcoholic, are the most commonly used form, and the usual amount tasks dropperful one at a time (15-25 drops). This is taken at the first sign of a cold and repeated two or three times a day. This task is at the first sign of a cold and repeated two or three times a day. European clinics do not use continuous doses of echinacea but rather alternate three days on and three days off. European clinics do not use continuous doses of echinacea but rather alternate three days on and three days off. This is because some testing shows that the immune system in healthy subjects can only be stimulated briefly before returning to its normal state. This is because some testing shows that the immune system in healthy subjects can be stimulated only briefly before returning to its normal state. After several days without stimulation, immunostimulants can again be effective. After several days without stimulation, immunostimulants can again be effective.
Echinacea has an excellent safety record. Echinacea has an excellent safety record. After hundreds of years of use, no toxicity or side-effects have been reported except rare allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. After hundreds of years of use, no toxicity or side-effects have been reported except rare allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The purple coneflower is a truly American contribution to world health care through herbs. The purple coneflower is a truly American contribution to world health care through herbs. This safe and effective immune stimulant was discovered and first used by the Native Americans and is now a major medicinal plant used throughout Europe and the US This safe and effective immune stimulant was discovered and first used by the Native Americans and is now a major medicinal plant used throughout Europe and the U.S.
The Herb Research Foundation (HRF) is dedicated to returning safe natural remedies to prominence in modern health care. The Herb Research Foundation (HRF) is dedicated to returning safe natural remedies to Prominence in modern health care. We conduct, support and encourage research and educational projects in the areas of health, conservation and international development. We conduct, support and encourage research and educational projects in the areas of health, conservation and international development.
————————————————————— —————————————————————
Astragalus References: Astragalus References:
Bensky, D. Bensky, D. and Gamble, A., Chinese Herbal Medicine , 1986, Eastland Press. and Gamble, A., Chinese Herbal Medicine, 1986, Eastland Press.
Rou, Ma and Ren Fu-Xie, Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine , 1983, 3(3) pp. Route, Ma and Ren-Fu Xie, Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1983, 3 (3) pp. 199-204. 199-204.
Iwama, H, et al. , 1986, Planta Medica , pp. Iwama, H, et al, 1986, Planta Medica, pp. 247-50. 247-50.
Mavligit, GM et al. , 1979, J. Mavligit, GM et al, 1979, J. Immunology , 123, pp. Immunology, 123, pp. 2185-88. 2185-88.
Sun, Y., Cancer , 52(1), 1983, 7/3, pp. Sun, Y., Cancer, 52 (1), 1983, 7 / 3, pp. 70-3. 70-3.
Chu, D., et al., Clin. Chu, D., et al, Clin. Immuno. Immuno. and Immunopathology, 1987, 45, pp. and Immunopathology, 1987, 45, pp. 48-57. 48-57.
Chu, D., et al., J. Chu, D., et al, J. Clin. Clin. Lab. Lab. Immunol., 1988, 25, 125-9. Immunol., 1988, 25, 125-9.
Yunde, H., Chinese Medical Journal, 1981, 94(1), pp. Yunde, H., Chinese Medical Journal, 1981, 94 (1), pp. 35-40. 35-40.
Lau, B. et al., Phytotherapy Research, 1989, 3(4), pp. Lau, B. et al, Phytotherapy Research, 1989, 3 (4), pp. 148-53. 148-53.
This page and all contents are © 1997 by The Herb Research Foundation, Boulder, CO, USA. This page and all contents are © 1997 by The Herb Research Foundation, Boulder, CO, USA.
http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/tom/
[All are live links at url...]
USDA/ARS/Power Tomatoes: Here’s how to grow more and better tomatoes
Feed the soil using only minimal amounts of fertilizer!
Avoid black plastic film’s cost and landfill woes!
Reduce your worries about weeds!
Best of all, plan for a bumper crop of everybody’s favorite midsummer crop!
Whether you’re a backyard tomato baron or a commercial producer, you can do it yourself—almost effortlessly!
Transplant your tomato seedlings into a home-grown cover crop which you convert into a soil-feeding mulch by mowing!
This simple tomato-growing system, which works well for other vegetables too, was developed by scientists at USDA’s Agricultural Research Service in Beltsville, Maryland. Check out these tomatoes…
ItemA Gardener’s Freebie—A free brochure, detailing this innovative system!
Item How You Do It—Learn how to grow tomatoes in a cover crop of hairy vetch.
ItemHairy Vetch—Hairy what???
ItemThe Project and the Scientists—Sparking a sustainable ag revolution.
ItemNational Agricultural Library—A cornucopia of agricultural information from USDA.
Return to:
ARS Vegetable Laboratory | ARS Weed Science Laboratory | ARS Publications
Last Modified: 03/13/2009
http://www.ars.usda.gov/News/docs.htm?docid=1261
ARS, Australian Researchers Team Up against Fruit Bugs
By Dennis O’Brien
March 13, 2009
Controlling two species of semitropical bugs that damage a variety of fruit and nut crops is the objective of a joint research project between the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and Australian researchers.
Entomologist Jeffrey Aldrich and chemist Ashot Khrimian, both with the ARS Invasive Insect Biocontrol and Behavior Laboratory in Beltsville, Md., are evaluating a synthetic pheromone they produced for use in traps.
The researchers had previously identified what they suspect are distinctly different pheromones emitted by the banana spotting bug Amblypelta lutescens and the fruit spotting bug A. nitida to attract mates. Aldrich and Khrimian are now evaluating a compound that they believe replicates the pheromone released by A. lutescens males to attract females. Scientists also hope to eventually develop a compound to attract A. nitida.
The work is part of a cooperative research project between ARS and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries. The Australians are funding the research because the insects are major pests in tropical and semitropical areas, attacking mangoes, pecans, papaws, cashews and avocadoes. The insects are unpredictable, impossible to see and produce rotten spots that make the fruit unmarketable.
As part of the agreement, Australian scientists are capturing A. lutescens, putting them in glass containers and pulling air over them and into filters to extract the gases given off. They use solvents to extract the compounds from the filters. The ARS researchers are comparing the chemical composition of those compounds with the compound they have synthesized.
The effort could also help U.S. farmers. The insects belong to a group called the leaf-footed bugs that are members of the coreid family. Scientists have yet to identify attractant pheromones for any coreids.
Coreids also are an emerging threat because of the proliferation of genetically modified crops. Genetically modified corn, cotton, soybeans and other crops target specific pests and have reduced the need to spray insecticides, but periodic spraying kept coreids in check.
ARS is the principal intramural scientific research agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
http://www.ibiblio.org/ecolandtech/links/start-392001/msg00393.html
[This was issued about 1999]
Questions About Mulching
Ruth Stout was all about mulch. Layers, piles, heaps, mounds, more. She captured Organic Gardening readers’ attention with her passion for no-work gardening. In this entry from How to Grow Vegetables and Fruits by the Organic Method, Stout addressed readers’ FAQs about her approach to gardening.
Ruth Stout
Ruth Stout, the Maven of Mulch,
with her husband and 2 friends.
People are always asking Ruth Stout a great many questions about the year-round mulch method: what kind of mulch to use; how much; when to apply it. Here are some of her answers.
Kind: Hay, leaves, straw, seaweed, pine needles, sawdust, weeds, garbage—any vegetable matter which rots. Some people write me and complain the bales of “hay” they bought were all coarse stalks, weeds, etc. That is all good mulch.
All kinds of leaves: Yes.
Aren’t oak leaves too sour? People say so. Put on a little more lime if your soil is acid.
Don’t some leaves decay too slowly? Then they remain mulch just that much longer.
Don’t leaves mat down? Somewhat but that makes no difference, since they are between the rows of growing things, not on top of them.
Can you use leaves without hay? Yes, but I prefer a combination of the two, if you can get it.
How much mulch do you need? The answer to that is: more than you would think. You should start with a good 8 inches of it.
How can tiny plants survive between 8-inch walls? And the answer to that is: the mulch is trampled on, rained on, and packed down by the time you are ready to plant; it doesn’t stay 8 inches high.
How often do you put it on? Whenever you see a spot that needs it. If weeds begin to peep through, don’t bother to pull them; just toss an armful of hay on them.
What time of year do you start to mulch? NOW, whatever the date may be.
Would it be better to wait until the crop is up? No, for by that time the sun will have had a chance to bake the soil, and the weeds will be making progress.
Now, the million-dollar question: Where do you get your mulch? That is difficult to answer but I can say this: if enough people in any community demand it, I believe that someone will be eager to supply it.
Also, use all your leaves. Clip your cornstalks into foot-length pieces and use them. Utilize your garbage, tops of perennials, everything. In many localities the utility companies chop up branches which they cut when they clear their wires; you can probably get these for nothing if you can haul them away.
Now for the drawbacks. People have complained to me that mulching does not kill everything. I just got a letter from someone saying that it won’t kill cockleburs, morning glories, Johnson grass, nut grass. She left out witch grass. I know it won’t kill that and neither will it pick your peas or plant your seeds. I am just saying (in a friendly, sarcastic way) that just because it does 100 things for you, should it be expected to do 101?
How to Grow Vegetables and Fruits by the Organic Method
Excerpted from the How to Grow Vegetables and Fruits by the Organic Method. Edited by J.I. Rodale and Staff. Copyright 1961, by J.I. Rodale. Renewed 1999, Rodale Inc. To get a free 21-day preview of the classics, call (800) 848-4735.
Organic Gardening has been helping gardeners and concerned consumers get the most healthful, purest food possible since 1942.
http://www.prairienet.org/pcsa/recipes/purslane.htm
Purslane
History:
Think of it as a weed, and you’ll be missing out on one of the most nutritious greens on the planet. Purslane has more beta-carotene than spinach*, as well as high levels of magnesium and potassium. Historically it has been used as a remedy for arthritis and inflammation by European cultures. Chinese herbalists found similar benefits, using it in respiratory and circulatory function. Recently, it’s been found that purslane has alpha linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Researchers see evidence that these substances lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as make the blood less likely to form clots. And, purslane has only 15 calories per 100 g portion.
World wide there are approximately 19 genera and approximately 500 species of purslane. The U.S. is home to 9 genera alone. It is most commonly found in the warm temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. Purslane exhibits the most species diversity in Western North America and South Africa, where it is likely to have originated. Part of the reason for its evolutionary success is that a single plant can produce up to 52,300 seeds. What’s more, purslane seeds can survive for up to 30 years in undisturbed soil. Several ancient cultures have included purslane as a part of their cuisine, including those of Greece and Central America. Russians dry and can it for the winter. In Mexico it is called verdolaga and is a favorite comfort food. There, it is eaten in omelets, as a side dish, rolled in tortillas, or dropped by handfuls into soups and stews.
In recent years, purslane has become the darling of chefs, including New York’s acclaimed Daniel Boulud of Daniel.
* Thomas M. Zennie and C. Dwayne Ogzewalla (1977) Ascorbic Acid and Vitamin A Content of Edible Wild Plants of Ohio and Kentucky Journal Economic Botany 31:76-79.
Storage:
Best if used fresh. But, if you must store it, wrap purslane in a moist paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the vegetable bin of your refrigerator.
Preparation:
Wash. Remove larger stems. Some recipes use leaves only. Purslane can be substituted for spinach or wild greens in lasagnas, filled pastas, and Greek-style tarts.
Recipes: [Live at link above]
Anatolian Purslane, Lamb and Lentil Stew
Cucumber Purslane Yogurt Salad
Mexican Pork & Purslane
Mexican Purslane Stuffing
Purslane Potato Salad
http://www.prairienet.org/pcsa/recipes/currants.htm
Black Currants
Storage:
Remove any mashed berries prior to storing. If storing for several days, place currants in a single layer in a dish lined with paper towels in the vegetable bin of your refrigerator.
Preparation:
Remove leaves and green stems, do not worry about brown “tails.” Wash just before using in a colander.
Recipes:
Black currants are not the same as the tiny Corinth grapes of which English scones are often made. Instead, their earthy, rich flavor is used to make the liqueur, Cassis, as well as provide flavoring for many desserts. Black currant sauces also are good with grilled foods.. Black currant’s flavor is complemented by cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, as well as chiles. These berries also go well with dark chocolate, vanilla, and pear.
Black Currant Sauce
Wash currants and measure. Place currants in a heavy, non-aluminum sauce pan. Add sugar in an amount equal to half or all of the currants, depending upon your preference. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally to mash berries and make sure they don’t stick. When the mixture becomes a thickened sauce after about 10 minutes, remove from heat and let cool. If mixture is not sweet enough, add more sugar and reheat until sugar is dissolved.
Use sauce over vanilla ice cream and serve with chocolate brownies.This sauce also is good over poached pears or pear ice cream. Alternatively, you can mix this sauce into your favorite barbecue sauce and add some chili pepper (a single chipotle works well) for a spicy, sweet sauce that is great on poultry and seitan. You may also add a pinch of cinnamon, a dash of cloves, and/or a few gratings of whole nutmeg to this sauce.
Black Currant Italian Sodas & Black Currant Brownies
Put the finished sauce from above through a fine sieve or food mill. The juice/syrup can be added to soda water to create something that resembles an Italian soda. Save the resulting paste to flavor brownies by replacing an egg with two tablespoons of currant paste. Store the syrup in a sterilized glass bottle in your refrigerator as you would fruit pancake syrups. The paste can be refrigerated for several weeks or frozen in a freezer bag.
Black Currant Preserves
For each pound of currants, add one pound of sugar, and 1 cup of juice (raspberry, red currant, or cranberry). Heat together in a non-aluminum sauce pan until mixture reaches boiling. Do not stir, but shake the pan occasionally. Skim foam with a spoon being careful not to remove berry mixture. Boil for 10 to 15 minutes. Pour into just cleaned jars. Store in refrigerator, or if making a large quantity, process with a pressure cooker. Use on English muffins, crumpets, or in recipes like Black Currant Tea and Cassis Brownies.
Black Currant Sorbet
CSA recipes:
http://www.prairienet.org/pcsa/recipes.htm
Home Page:
http://www.organicconsumers.org/
http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_17251.cfm
* Union of Concerned Scientists, March 2009
Straight to the Source
Contents
1. FDA approves first engineered animal - without public input
2. Diversity in U.S. farming is growing
3. Earth-friendlyvision comes to USDA with Merrigan, People’...
4. USDA says antibiotic use in animals can be reduced at rea...
5. What You Can Do: Learn about meat CSAs
1. FDA approves first engineered animal - without public input
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first commercialization both of a drug from a genetically engineered (GE) animal and of the animal itself. Although the agency previously assured the public that it would offer opportunities for public input into decisions to approve GE animals, the FDA made the approval without requesting input either from the public or an FDA advisory committee. The animal is a goat engineered to produce milk containing a human protein that is intended to prevent blood clots. A Massachusetts company is raising a herd of the GE goats to produce the protein. Under the FDA’s process, there were no discussions of the safety or ethical implications of the approval, nor were regulations developed to keep the goats and their milk from contaminating the food supply. The FDA is using drug laws as the basis to regulate all GE animals, even though most GE animals do not produce drugs, and even though the drug laws affirmatively discourage public participation, transparency, and appeal of approvals. Read more from The New York Times.
“The behind-closed-doors process used to approve the first GE animal shows why the use of the drug laws for GE animals is wholly unacceptable. We need new legislation to require a transparent, participatory regulatory system for GE animals.” ~ Margaret Mellon, Food & Environment Program Director
2. Diversity in U.S. farming is growing
The latest nationwidefarm census shows that new farms are raising a more diverse mix of crops and livestock than U.S. farms overall. Read more...
3. Earth-friendly vision comes to USDA with Merrigan, People’s Garden
President Barack Obama recently appointed Kathleen Merrigan, a long-time supporter of organic and sustainable farming practices, as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). If she is confirmed for the department’s number two position, she will likely play a major role in developing key USDA policies. As a Senate aide and later administrator of the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, Merrigan helped write and implement the nation’s organic food law. She currently directs the Agriculture, Food and Environment graduate program at Tufts University. In other encouraging news, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has established a People’s Garden at the USDA headquarters in Washington, D.C. The garden will showcase eco-friendly practices, including water conservation and native plantings, and will have an energy-saving rooftop garden component. Read more about Merrigan and about the People’s Garden.
4. USDA says antibiotic use in animals can be reduced at reasonable cost
There are moderate-cost alternatives to the routine use of antibiotics in animal agriculture, according to a new USDA report. Read more...
5. What You Can Do: Learn about meat CSAs
Spring is in the air, farmers are getting ready to plant, and many people are signing up for regular deliveries of fresh seasonal produce through community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. Did you know that you can join a meat CSA too? These operations are run by local farmers and ranchers who tend to raise animals using more environmentally sound, sustainable practices. Check out our new fact sheet to learn more about CSAs and particularly meat and egg CSAs and buying clubs. Joining a CSA is a great way to improve the quality and freshness of your family’s food, preserve local farmland, and keep your food dollars in your community. Find a CSA near you.
For more information on this topic or related issues you can search the thousands of archived articles on the OCA website using keywords:
The Sacred Landscape of the Incas
Society for American Archaeology Review: [untitled] Author(s): Anthony Aveni Reviewed work(s): The Sacred Landscape of the Inca: The Cusco Ceque System by ...
www.scribd.com/doc/13296795/The-Sacred-Landscape-of-the-Incas - 10 hours ago - Similar pages
This I do not understand, need to check it out, found the title on a NGO site, someone looking for a copy and was curious:
[Bank Biotech report]
Man asked the question and I googled it:
[1999 report links did not work for me]
Interesting Research Reports re Composting from the New Alchemy
Institute
(Online)
THE COMPOSTING GREENHOUSE AT NEW
ALCHEMY INSTITUTE:
A REPORT ON TWO YEARS OF OPERATION AND MONITORING
MARCH 1984 - JANUARY 1986
Abstract
This research report summarizes more than two years’ research on the
design,
construction and testing of an experimental composting greenhouse
developed by
the Biothermal Energy Center and the New Alchemy Institute in early
1983. A
joint research project at the Institute’s 12-acre research and education
farm on
Cape Cod, Massachusetts combines modern composting and horticultural
practices
in the same structure. Compost is enclosed in an insulated chamber
within the
greenhouse. Heat and carbon dioxide liberated by bacteria during
composting are
used to enhance the production of greenhouse crops and eliminate fuel
costs
normally associated with running greenhouses, and offset costs of
running this
moderately-sized composting operation. The 576-square-foot test
composting
greenhouse produced more than 100 tons of compost and tens of thousands
of
seedlings in its first full year of operation. Research is continuing to
improve
the materials handling system, study the nitrogen dynamics and adapt the
prototype to practical applications on several different scales.
http://www.fuzzylu.com/greencenter/rr/rr003.htm
Bruce Fulford
INTRODUCTION
Our prevailing methods of waste disposal, resource management, and
agriculture
are ecologically unsustainable. The soil is being drained of its
fertility and
eroded at unprecedented rates while an abundance of nutrients are
allowed to
leach from organic waste products and contaminate precious water
resources.
Unless profitable means of conserving topsoil nutrients are developed,
standard
waste management practices will continue to sacrifice the inherent value
of
these renewable assets. The composting greenhouse is a physical shell
and
economic mechanism through which the symbiotic technologies of
thermophylic
composting and greenhouse horticulture are united. Composting within
commercial
greenhouses can increase plant yields and reduce production costs by
capitalizing on the thermal and gaseous cogenerants of the composting
process.
This provides an economic incentive to recycle underutilized and
problematic
organic recources. In the past, biothermal energy has made major
contributions
to the agricultural self-sufficiency of population centers in cold and
temperate
climates, and holds the potential to do so again. Several recently
constructed
composting greenhouses have proven to be technically and economically
feasible.
This promising biotechnology will require expanded research and
development for
it to root in its crucial niche, and can benefit from the contributions
of a
diverse and sophisticated composting industry. The successful evolution
of the
concept could markedly affect the implementation of sustainable methods
of
agriculture and waste treatment.
http://www.fuzzylu.com/greencenter/rr/rr001.htm
Several reports here:
http://www.compost.org/OnsiteComposting.html
[a snippet]
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food guidelines, composting of greenhouse wastes is considered the preferred organic waste management method. While avoiding trucking to landfills or land application sites, composting also converts the biodegradable wastes into a stable and useful product, which can generate revenues for the greenhouse operators. For these reasons, a project to investigate on-site composting of greenhouse wastes has been undertaken by the B.C. Hot House Growers Association in conjunction with The University of British Columbia (UBC).
Crop health and yield are critical to the success of greenhouse operators and the industry; accordingly, crop management techniques are constantly being refined to optimize production. Disease is an ongoing problem that continues to impact productivity and product quality. To counter the effects of disease, new cultivars as well as many chemical and biological control agents have been developed. Utilization of specific organic amendments can provide another tool against disease, by providing a general suppression of pathogens.
continued
Welcome to the thread, you have excellent ideas.
It is fantastic that you found extra land to farm, that is a miracle in this day and age.
Will the crop be safe? Does the owner live there? Did you put a contract in writing?
Without a contract, you could find someone else owned your crop, at harvest time.
A seed swap, would need to be cleared with Mr. Robinson first, I would think, as he would be involved as the owner of the site.
I see nothing wrong with it, gardners have always shared what they had, plants and seeds multiply, that is God’s intent.
You might find you want to take full control of the project and it could be done as a Freeper project, but using a Yahoo group as the base for it.
Here in the Kingman area, we found the old varieties and some of the oriental greens would grow, but the new hybrids do not produce at all, we are dry, hot in the day and cool at night.
Good luck with your garden, you will find out what real work is and also the joy of seeing all that food growing.
[This is a must see site, a custom builder of Chicken houses....]
http://www.forshamcottagearks.com/
Chicken Housing and Much More for 2009
If you’re passionate about country living then Forsham Cottage Arks is going to be well worth making a favourite in your bookmarks for 2009.
We’ve just launched a brand new site in January focusing on country living, and we’re now venturing out into new markets starting with a wire and mesh site, and just recently our new electric fencing website.
[All kinds of housing, LOL]
http://www.ibiblio.org/ecolandtech/links/start-392001/msg00331.html#info
Plant extracts
* Nettle tea: High in nitrogen and is used as a liquid plant feed
* Comfrey Juice: High phosphate and is used as a liquid plant feed
* Rubarb juice: High in pyrethrins is used as an insectacide
* Garlic juice: used as an insect repelant
* Woad as a dye
* Weld as a dye
Many plants are used by people in many different situations at present I use a few but wish to develop this area more when time permits.
>>>THE COMPOSTING GREENHOUSE AT NEW ALCHEMY INSTITUTE:<<<
Granny, the New Alchemy Institute was quite a place - they had about 10 or so acres way up on Cape Cod. If my memory serves, John Todd founded it and they really did some neat things.
Back in the 70’s I spent a few days up there and came away with the tilapia fish that I started raising.
It’s a shame that they folded about 15 years ago, but much of their research continues to inspire...
LOL Not all hippie types were duds... (just most of them).
Obama Requires YOU to SERVE, H.R.1388, “The Give Act” to reform the National Service Laws
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/2206670/posts
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