Posted on 07/24/2009 3:37:21 AM PDT by nw_arizona_granny
Weekly Roundup - Living On Nothing Edition Category: Roundups | Comments(15)
Did you hear about the guy that lives on nothing? No seriously, he lives on zero dollars a day. Meet Daniel Suelo, who lives in a cave outside Moab, Utah. Suelo has no mortgage, no car payment, no debt of any kind. He also has no home, no car, no television, and absolutely no “creature comforts.” But he does have a lot of creatures, as in the mice and bugs that scurry about the cave floor he’s called home for the last three years.
To us, Suelo probably sounds a little extreme. Actually, he probably sounds very extreme. After all, I suspect most of you reading this are doing so under the protection of some sort of man-made shelter, and with some amount of money on your person, and probably a few needs for money, too. And who doesn’t need money unless they have completely unplugged from the grid? Still, it’s an amusing story about a guy who rejects all forms of consumerism as we know it.
The Frugal Roundup
How to Brew Your Own Beer and Maybe Save Some Money. A fantastic introduction to home brewing, something I’ve never done myself, but always been interested in trying. (@Generation X Finance)
Contentment: A Great Financial Principle. If I had to name one required emotion for living a frugal lifestyle it would be contentment. Once you are content with your belongings and your lot in life you can ignore forces attempting to separate you from your money. (@Personal Finance by the Book)
Use Energy Star Appliances to Save On Utility Costs. I enjoyed this post because it included actual numbers, and actual total savings, from someone who upgraded to new, energy star appliances. (@The Digerati Life)
Over-Saving for Retirement? Is it possible to “over-save” for retirement? Yes, I think so. At some point I like the idea of putting some money aside in taxable investments outside of retirement funds, to be accessed prior to traditional retirement age. (@The Simple Dollar)
40 Things to Teach My Kids Before They Leave Home. A great list of both practical and philosophical lessons to teach your kids before they reach the age where they know everything. I think that now happens around 13 years-old. (@My Supercharged Life)
Index Fund Investing Overview. If you are looking for a place to invest with high diversification and relatively low fees (for broader index funds with low turnover), index funds are a great place to start. (@Money Smart Life)
5 Reasons To Line Dry Your Laundry. My wife and I may soon be installing a clothesline in our backyard. In many neighborhoods they are frowned upon - one of the reasons I don’t like living in a neighborhood. I digress. One of our neighbors recently put up a clothesline, and we might just follow his lead. (@Simple Mom)
A Few Others I Enjoyed
* 4 Quick Tips for Getting Out of a Rut * Young and Cash Rich * Embracing Simple Style * First Trading Experience With OptionsHouse * The Exponential Power of Delayed Consumption * How Much Emergency Fund is Enough? * 50 Questions that Will Free Your Mind * Save Money On Car Insurance
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm205681.htm
C. H. Guenther & Son, Inc. Announces Amended Voluntary Nationwide Recall of several products that contain pepper due to Possible Health Risk
Contact:
Ron Spies,
Tel: 210-351-6203
pepperrecall@chguenther.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 22, 2010 - San Antonio, TX – C. H. Guenther & Son, Inc. today announced a voluntary recall of products containing a pepper ingredient that may have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
The products are:
Bayou Heat Spicy Wings Seasoning
Shop’n Save Chicken Roasting Bag & Seasoning Blend
Carlita Fajita Seasoning Mix
La Tiara Taco Seasoning
Shurfine Pork Gravy
Shurfine Season ‘n Bake for Chicken-with bag
Western Family Pork Gravy Mix
Western Family Season ‘n Bake for Chicken with bag
HY-TOP Pork Gravy Mix
HY-TOP Fajita Seasoning Mix
HY-TOP Cooking Bag & Seasoning Blend for Chicken
HY-TOP Marinade Southwest-Flavor for Meat or Chicken
IGA Bag’n Bake – Cooking Bag and Seasoning Mix Chicken
Parade Fajita Seasoning Mix
Parade Pork Gravy Mix
Weis Chicken Season ‘n Bake – Roasting Bag and Seasoning
H-E-B Beef Stew Seasoning Mix
H-E-B Meat Loaf Seasoning Mix,
H-E-B Sloppy Joe Mix
The recalled products contain black pepper distributed by Mincing Overseas Spice Company. The pepper has been recalled by Mincing because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Salmonella is a common food borne pathogen that can cause severe illnesses, including fever, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. While most individuals recover in three to five days without medical intervention, the infection can be life-threatening to young children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Consumers with any of these symptoms should call their physician. For more information on Salmonella, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web site at http://www.cdc.gov1. For more information, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at www.cdc.gov2.
The following products were sold in grocery stores throughout the United States
Brand Description Net WT UPC
Bayou Heat Spicy Wings Seasoning
5 oz (141.7g)
0 51933 22970 9
W0004H
SHOP ‘n SAVE Chicken Roasting Bag & Seasoning Blend
1.37 oz (38.9g)
0 41130 35719 0
W9338O
Carlita Fajita Seasoning Mix
1.25 oz (35.4g)
0 41130 27048 2
W9324G, W9365B
La Tiara Taco Seasoning 1 oz (28.4g)
0 72134 55553 4
W9324B, W0012F, W0013F
Shurfine Pork Gravy Mix 1 oz (28g)
0 15400 86014 7
W0011QJAN1112
Shurfine Season ‘n Bake for Chicken-with bag 1.375 oz (38g)
0 15400 86045 1
W0034OFEB0312
Western Family Pork Gravy Mix 1 oz (28g)
0 15400 01198 3
W0011QJAN1112
Western Family Season ‘n Bake for Chicken with bag 1.375 oz (38g)
0 15400 01195 2
W9343ODEC0911
HY-TOP Pork Gravy Mix 1 oz (28 g) 0 50700 55274 3 W0011Q
HY-TOP Fajita Seasoning Mix 1.25 oz (35.4 g) 0 50700 05849 8 W9316C, W9317C
HY-TOP Cooking Bag & Seasoning Blend for Chicken 1.375 oz (39 g) 0 50700 04998 4 W0027P, W0028O
HY-TOP Marinade Southwest-Flavor for Meat or Chicken 1.25 oz (35.4 g) 0 50700 48366 5 W9309C
IGA Bag’n Bake - Cooking Bag and Seasoning Mix Chicken 1.38 oz (39 g) 0 41270 06592 4 W9338O, W0034O
Parade Fajita Seasoning Mix 1.25 oz (35.4 g) 0 50700 08172 4 W0014C
Parade Pork Gravy Mix 1 oz (28 g) 0 50700 07284 5 W0011Q
Weis Chicken Season ‘n Bake - Roasting Bag and Seasoning 1.37 oz (39g)
0 41497 56850 5
W9343O
H-E-B Beef Stew Seasoning Mix 1.5 oz/ CONT.NET 42g
0 41220 10271 6
W0005C
H-E-B Meat Loaf Seasoning Mix 1.5 oz/ CONT.NET 42g
0 41220 10274 7
W9320C
H-E-B Sloppy Joe Mix 1.5 oz/ CONT.NET 42g
0 41220 10276 1
W0004C
The code dates are printed on the side of master cases and embossed on the side seals of individual packages.
To date, C.H. Guenther & Son, Co. has not received any reports of illness associated with these products, but proceed to the FDA web-site (www.fda.gov3) for updated information.
Consumers who would like a refund or replacement product should return the unopened package to the store where they purchased the product.
Consumers with questions should contact CH Guenther at 1-800-847-5608 Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Central time.
###
RSS Feed for FDA Recalls Information4 [what’s this?5]
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2. http://www.cdc.gov
3. http://www.fda.gov
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5. http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/ContactFDA/StayInformed/RSSFeeds/default.htm
Page Last Updated: 03/23/2010
[See also the one above this post]
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm205669.htm
McCain Foods USA Announces Voluntary Recall of Frozen Potato Product Containing Black Pepper That May Pose Health Risk
Customer Service Contact:
Susan Malles,
Tel: 877-804-6198
Media Contact:
Susan Rogers,
Tel: 416-955-1713 or 416-843-7517
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 19, 2010 - Lisle, IL – McCain Foods USA today announced a voluntary recall of the McCain All American Roaster frozen potato product listed below which contains a pepper ingredient that could be contaminated with Salmonella.
The recalled product contains black pepper which has been recalled by Mincing Overseas Spice Company because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Food contaminated with Salmonella may not look or smell spoiled. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The recalled product was sold in grocery outlets throughout the United States.
Brand Product Name Size UPC Code Dates
McCain McCain All American Roasters 24 ounce bag 10072714037334
W91125
Production date: November 25, 2009
No illnesses have been reported, or complaints received by McCain Foods USA, to date involving the recalled product. The recall is taken as a precautionary measure and is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.
Consumers are asked to destroy the product or return the unopened product where it was purchased if a refund is desired.
###
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1. http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/ContactFDA/StayInformed/RSSFeeds/Recalls/rss.xml
2. http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/ContactFDA/StayInformed/RSSFeeds/default.htm
Page Last Updated: 03/23/2010
ATTRAnews - March/April 2010
Volume 18, Number 1
Newsletter of ATTRA - National Sustainable Agricultural Information Service (http://attra.ncat.org/): A project of the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) (http://www.ncat.org). This issue of ATTRAnews is available online (http://attra.ncat.org/newsletter/archives.html#attranews).
Break the Weed Cycle
Farmers, ranchers, and researchers are coming up with an increasing number of ways to manage vegetation using few or no herbicides. In this issue we look at some of the best techniques for keeping the weeds out of your fields.
In this issue:
* Manage Weeds Without Herbicides
* Using Animals to Manage Weeds
* The Roller/Crimper Revolution
* Rotation, Rotation, Rotation: Cover Crops Can Suppress Weeds
* ATTRA Webinars Available Online
* Learn about the NRCS Organic Initiative
* Weed Management Resources
* New and Updated Publications from ATTRA
Manage Weeds Without Herbicides
by Susan Tallman, NCAT Agriculture Specialist
This article is adapted from an upcoming series of publications about organic small grain production in the Northern Great Plains. The principles outlined here can be applied to many crops in other locations.
Weed management is one of the big concerns in organic crop production. Often when conventional growers consider organic farming, weed management without herbicides is their first objection. Clean, weed-free fields are a source of pride for most farmers, and it can be difficult to imagine clean fields without the use of herbicides
Out of 30,000 federally-funded projects, they found just 34 that they rated as strongly organic. Another 267 qualified as compatible with organic methods.
I was skeptical when I first encountered organic farming. In 1996 I was invited to tour three organic farms in Big Sandy, Mont. I was expecting to see fields covered in weeds, with poor, spotty stands of grain. Instead, I saw clean fields, healthy crops, and a crop diversity beyond the typical wheat and fallow system. The farmers were growing specialty wheats, sunflowers, buckwheat, alfalfa, lentils, and more. Compared with their conventional monoculture neighbors, their diversity was impressive.
These farmers were not “organic by neglect.” In other words, they didn’t keep on farming like their conventional neighbors, but neglect to spray herbicides. Instead, they learned the biological principles of pest control and put them into practice. This takes a different kind of knowledge and more effort and experimentation than using herbicides, but the important message is that clean fields are possible in an organic system.
Combine Techniques to Beat the Weeds
Conventional crop production manages weeds with herbicides applied at just one point in the weed life cycle—emergence. But in order to most effectively manage weeds without herbicides, farmers must combine many techniques to build a comprehensive weed management strategy.
Basic Principle: Minimize soil disturbance.
Weed Management Practices: Use no-till, reduced-till, and mulch (cover crops killed with a roller/crimper implement or chemicals).
- Basic Principle: Vary crop types.
- Weed Management Practices: Rotate between grass & broadleaf crops. Plant cover crops & green manures to break the weed cycle and enhance fertility.
- Basic Principle: Encourage rapid canopy development.
- Weed Management Practices: Increase seeding density. Plant in narrow rows. Select cultivars carefully.
- Basic Principle: Reduce seed bank.
- Weed Management Practices: Don’t let weeds go to seed. Provide habitat for seed predators (carabid beetles). Keep soil disturbance to a minimum.
- Basic Principle: Select largest seeds.
- Weed Management Practices: Grade out seed for largest size. Larger seeds within a variety compete better than their smaller counterparts.
These techniques include reducing tillage, selecting varieties for early emergence and canopy closure, spacing rows close together, grading for the largest seed, seeding at high density, careful timing of emergence and control, rotating crops, cleaning weed seeds from equipment, flaming, haying, planting cover crops, and intensive livestock grazing. See the resources listed below to learn more about these strategies.
Take Inventory of Your Weed Problems
Before thinking about organic weed control, it is important to take an inventory of your fields. Which weed species are currently a problem for you? Are they annuals or perennials, grasses or broadleaves?
Remember that weeds like to mimic their host crop. For example, a major weed in winter wheat is downy brome, or cheat grass. Cheat grass is a winter annual grass, just like winter wheat. The key to limiting cheat grass in a field is to switch to spring crops or broadleaf crops. Switching to a different crop allows a modified tillage window and gives the mimic weed no place to hide. By rotating through a diverse range of crops, you can limit the weed and disease pressure on your farm.
When taking an inventory of your fields, take special note of any difficult, persistent perennial species. Tillage seems to take care of annuals, but the perennials are more troublesome. In the Northern Plains, for example, Canada thistle and field bindweed are a major concern. Take particular care to control the most problematic weeds before beginning an organic crop system.
It goes without saying that you should never let weeds go to seed. Some weeds can produce up to 200,000 seeds per plant. These seeds can stay in the soil seedbank for decades. If weeds have become a major problem, it may be better to disc in the weedy patches of the field before they go to seed. Although this will sacrifice a portion of the cash crop, it may save you exponential problems in years to come.
Haying is another excellent option for controlling weed seed production. Farmers with a weedy grain crop may choose to hay it before the weeds go to seed. This gives you an option to have some economic return on your crop while controlling the weed seedbank.
Using Animals to Manage Weeds
Herbivores — cattle, sheep, goats, geese, and insects — can be used to reduce populations of specific weeds in special situations. Cattle, for example, relish Johnson grass. Weeder geese were commonly used in cotton fields before the advent of herbicides. Musk thistle populations can be satisfactorily reduced by crown- and seed-eating weevils. Sheep can graze understory vegetation in mature orchards without damaging the trees. Goats are used to manage large stands of various noxious plants.
Targeted Grazing: A Natural Approach to Vegetation Management and Landscape Enhancement (http://www.cnr.uidaho.edu/rx-grazing/Handbook.htm) edited by Karen Launchbaugh, University of Idaho, 2008, offers details on grazing sheep, goats and other animals to manage invasive weeds on farms, range, and wildland. ATTRA’s Linda Coffey and Margo Hale contributed to a very helpful Resources section.
Livestock Grazing Guidelines for Controlling Noxious Weeds in the Western United States (http://www.cnr.uidaho.edu/rx-grazing/Guidelines.htm) by Jason Davison et al., Universities of Nevada and Idaho Coop Extensions and Western SARE, 2007. Based on surveys with experienced weed managers, these guidelines detail the best ways to use livestock to manage a long list of troublesome weeds in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
The Roller/Crimper Revolution
No-till and reduced-till farming can be great ways to eliminate weeds, conserve soil moisture, prevent erosion, protect soil organisms, and provide habitat for spiders (insect predators) and beetles (insect and weed-seed predators). Conventional no-till systems rely heavily on the use of herbicides to kill cover crops that might compete with the following crop.
Roller/crimpers are relatively new mechanical tools that can help growers reduce or eliminate their herbicide use. These implements kill cover crops by crushing the plant stems. The killed cover crop becomes a protective mulch for the following crop.
For the operation to be effective, timing is very important. Crimping must be done when the crop is most susceptible, usually when it is heading out or beginning to flower.
The Rodale Institute is credited with building the first roller/crimper in the United States in 2002. Since then, innovative producers and researchers across the country have come up with many different styles of roller/crimpers. Some systems reduce passes through the field by mounting the roller/crimper on the front of the tractor and pulling a planter behind. See the ATTRA website for more information on which designs work best in various conditions.
Rodale Institute’s No-Till Revolution website (http://www.rodaleinstitute.org/no-till_revolution) has photos and articles as well as videos. Rodale’s Roller Crimper Gallery is a collection of photos (http://newfarm.rodaleinstitute.org/depts/notill/roller_gallery/index.shtml) of cover crop roller/crimper tools.
Michigan State University Roller/Crimper Research is part of the very extensive information on cover crops and weed management (http://www.covercrops.msu.edu/crimper/about.html) from MSU. Contact Dale Mutch, mutch@msu.edu, 1-800-521-2619, at the MSU Kellogg Biological Station Land and Water Program.
USDA-ARS National Soil Dynamics Laboratory Research, Alabama
Researchers Ted Kornecki, Dana Ashford, Wayne Reeves, Andrew Price, and their colleagues have studied various methods of using roller/crimpers to kill cover crops for no-till agriculture. Some of their research reports can be found online (http://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publications/publications.htm?SEQ_NO_115=237561 and www.ars.usda.gov/pandp/people/people.htm?personid=3104).
Rotation, Rotation, Rotation: Cover Crops Can Suppress Weeds
Weeds flourish on bare soil. Cover crops take up space and light, shading the soil and reducing the opportunity for weeds to establish themselves. The soil-loosening effect of deep-rooting green manures also reduces weed populations that thrive in compacted soils.
Some cover crops are especially useful because they are allelopathic, suppressing other plants that attempt to grow around them. Rye is one of the most useful of these cover crops because it is winter-hardy and can be grown almost anywhere. Rye residue contains generous amounts of allelopathic chemicals.
When left undisturbed on the soil surface, these chemicals leach out and prevent germination of small-seeded weeds. Weed suppression appears to be effective for one or two months. If the rye is tilled into the soil, the effect is lost. Wheat, members of the mustard family, and summer annual forages related to sorghum and sudangrass have a similar allelopathic effect.
ATTRA Publications about Cover Crops
+ Pursuing Conservation Tillage Systems for Organic Crop Production
(http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/conservationtillage.html)
+ Conservation Tillage
(http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/conservationtillage2.html)
+ Overview of Cover Crops and Green Manures
(http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/covercrop.html)
+ Rye as a Cover Crop
(http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/rye.html)
(This article was adapted from ATTRA’s Principles of Sustainable Weed Management for Croplands (http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/weed.html) and Overview of Cover Crops and Green Manures http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/covercrop.html).)
ATTRA Webinars Available Online
Over the past year, ATTRA agricultural specialists presented several webinars on important sustainable agriculture topics. These presentations are live, web-based seminars, with opportunities for questions from the audience.
If you missed the original presentations, you can watch them online anytime. See the link for ATTRA Webinars (http://attra.ncat.org/video/) in the Quick Links box on ATTRA’s home page.
Do-It-Yourself Biodiesel: Keeping It Safe, Keeping It Legal
http://attra.ncat.org/video/#biodiesel2
Making Organic Small Grains Work on Your Farm
http://attra.ncat.org/video/#small_grains
Getting Started in Farm-Scale Biodiesel Production
http://attra.ncat.org/video/#biodiesel
Sheep and Goats: What They Can Do For You
http://attra.ncat.org/video/#sheep_goat
Hoop Houses for Crop Extension
http://attra.ncat.org/video/#hoophouse
Webinars Planned for 2010
Farm-Scale Biodiesel Production: Taxes and Financial Incentives (April 8th) - Register now! (www.attra.ncat.org/webinars2010/biodiesel3)
Farm to Cafeteria/Local Foods (May)
Grassfed Beef (August)
Organic No-Till Options (September)
Organic Apple Production (November)
Learn about the NRCS Organic Initiative
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offers financial assistance for organic farmers to implement conservation practices on their land. Producers who are transitioning their farms to organic production systems may also apply.
This Organic Initiative is part of the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP). The specifics differ by state. The 2010 deadline was March 12, but farmers who are interested in applying for next year should learn the details and start planning their applications now.
To read about the Organic Initiative and how to apply, see the extensive information on ATTRA’s website, http://www.attra.ncat.org/eqip
Weed Management Resources
(Many of these publications are available to download for free from the listed websites.)
Michigan State University Extension (http://www.msuweeds.com/publications) offers many resources about weed management including several innovative free bulletins, such as Managing Your Farm to Increase Weed Seed Predation, Ecology and Management of Weed Seed Predators, and Weed Seedbank Dynamics.
Steel in the Field: A Farmer’s Guide to Weed Management Tools (http://www.sare.org/publications/steel/index.htm) looks at how farmers across the country are managing weeds with cultural and mechanical methods. Second edition, 2002. From SARE’s Sustainable Agriculture Network, this is available as a book ($18) or can be downloaded from SARE’s website for free. (301) 374-9696
The Sustainable Weed Control Rag: Notes for Sustainable Weed Management for Vegetable and Row Crops (http://www.sare.org/2008Conference/handouts/Schonbeck.pdf) is a presentation by Mark Schonbeck at the 2008 Southern SAWG Conference, Louisville, KY
Weed the Soil Not the Crop (http://www.newenglandvfc.org/pdf_proceedings/weedthesoil.pdf) by Anne and Eric Nordell. The Nordells are Pennsylvania market farmers well-known for their complex system of rotations and horse-drawn cultivation, which provides excellent weed management.
Crop Rotation on Organic Farms: A Planning Manual (http://www.sare.org/publications/croprotation.htm) by Charles Mohler and Sue Ellen Johnson, Natural Resource, Agriculture and Engineering Service and SARE, 2009.
Managing Cover Crops Profitably, 3rd Edition (http://www.sare.org/publications/covercrops.htm), 244 pages, Sustainable Agriculture Network, 2007.
Practical Farmers of Iowa Weeds page (http://www.pfi.iastate.edu/ofr/RT_weeds.htm) and the Weed Research page (http://www.pfi.iastate.edu/ofr/weed_management_research.htm) are good jumping-off points to learn about field trials on members’ farms.
Integrated Weed Management: Fine Tuning the System (http://www.msuweeds.com/publications/iwm_fine_tuning_the_system) by Erin Taylor et al., 2008, 132 pp, $14. From Michigan State University Extension, (517) 353-6740
Ecological Management of Agricultural Weeds by Matt Liebman et al., 544 pages, Cambridge University Press, 2001.
Weed ‘Em and Reap (http://hort.oregonstate.edu/WeedEmandReap) is a series of excellent DVDs with growers and researchers explaining their innovative weeding systems in the Northwest, Montana, Virginia, and North Carolina. Part 1: Tools for non-chemical weed management in vegetable cropping systems. Part 2: Reduced tillage strategies for vegetable cropping systems. From the OSU Dept. of Horticulture, Corvallis, Oregon. (541) 737-3464
ATTRA Resources for Weed Management and Ecological Pest Control
The following publications can be downloaded from the ATTRA website. Call 1-800-346-9140 for a free print copy.
Alternative Control of Johnsongrass
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/johnson.html
This publication suggests several means of controlling Johnsongrass infestations.
Biointensive Integrated Pest Management
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/ipm.html
Design agricultural ecosystems to the disadvantage of a pest and to the advantage of its parasite-predator complex. Bointensive IPM shares many components of conventional IPM, including monitoring, use of economic thresholds, recordkeeping, and planning.
Farmscaping to Enhance Biological Control
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/farmscaping.html
The types of information farmscapers need to consider is outlined and emphasized in this publication. Appendices have information about various types and examples of successful “farmscaping” (manipulations of the agricultural ecosystem), plants that attract beneficials, pests and their predators, seed blends to attract beneficial insects, examples of farmscaping, hedgerow establishment and maintenance budgets, and a sample flowering period table.
Field Bindweed Control Alternatives
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/bindweed.html
This publication outlines alternative cultural and physical controls and the use of cover crops and crop rotations to suppress field bindweed. It also discusses least-toxic herbicides and provides a list of resources for supplies and additional information about field bindweed control.
Flame Weeding for Agronomic Crops
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/flameweed.html
This publication discusses flame or thermal weeding as an alternative to chemical weed control, and offers enclosures that provide more information.
Flame Weeding for Vegetable Crops
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/flameweedveg.html
Flame weeding, a thermal weed control frequently used by organic farmers, uses propane gas burners to produce a carefully controlled and directed flame that briefly passes over weeds, searing the leaves and causing the weed to wilt and die. This publication discusses different strategies for pre-emergent flame weeding and post-emergent flame weeding, as well as infra-red weed control, and steam and hot water weed control. Further references, including sources of information and equipment, are also provided.
El Manejo Integrado Orgánico de Algunas Plagas de la Agricultura (online and CD only)
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/plagas.html
La idea detrás de este documento es de proporcionar una guía pictórica sobre los conceptos del manejo integrado orgánico de plagas, plagas importantes y insectos benéficos. El enfoque del documento aplica primeramente las estrategias ecológicamente-basadas para prevenir que las plagas lleguen a ser un problema. Hemos procurado limitar el texto para proporcionar sólo los mensajes útiles y prácticos para los granjeros.
Organic IPM Field Guide (online and CD only)
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/organic_ipm.html
The idea behind this field guide was to provide a pictorial guide about the concepts of organic IPM and important pests and beneficials. The focus of the document is implementing ecologically-based strategies to prevent pests from becoming a problem in the first place.
Principles of Sustainable Weed Management for Croplands
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/weed.html
This publication discusses several alternatives to conventional tillage systems, including allelopathy, intercropping, crop rotations, and a weed-free cropping design. A Resources list provides sources of further information.
Sources of “Spraying Prohibited” Signs for Organic Farms
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/sprayingpro.html
The use of warning signs is one practice, among many, that can help organic producers to prevent contamination of their crops by spray drift originating from adjoining lands, roadsides, and rights-of-way. While some farmers and ranchers make their own signage, manufactured signs are often well worth the cost. Several suppliers of appropriate signage are listed with information on their products and prices.
Thistle Control Alternatives
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/thistlecontrol.html
This publication focuses on cultural, biological, organic, and least-toxic methods available for the control of two of the more troublesome thistles (Canada and musk), with some coverage of other thistles such as plumeless, Italian, bull, and yellow star.
New and Updated Publications from ATTRA
Comparing Energy Use in Conventional and Organic Cropping Systems
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/croppingsystems.html
Dairy Farm Energy Efficiency
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/dairyenergy.html
Grazing Contracts for Livestock
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/grazingcontracts.html
Biodiesel: The Sustainability Dimensions
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/biodiesel_sustainable.html
Paddock Design, Fencing, and Water Systems for Controlled Grazing
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/paddock.html
Raising Dairy Heifers on Pasture
http://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/summaries/dairyheifer.html
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What does the fine-print say about biodiesel taxation for on-road use? What kinds of records do you need to keep for biodiesel taxation and incentive purposes? And what financial incentives are there for farm-scale production?
If you want to or are already brewing your own biodiesel, you need a good understanding of how federal and state laws apply to your operation.
On Thursday, April 8, ATTRA – National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service will host a FREE webinar titled Farm-Scale Biodiesel Production: Taxes and Financial Incentives. This free webinar is the third in a series on farm-scale biodiesel production.
Farm-Scale Biodiesel Production: Taxes and Financial Incentives will help you learn about federal and state fuel excise taxes that apply to biodiesel. The webinar will also cover excise tax refunds for off-road use, and exemptions and incentives that might apply to farm-scale biodiesel production. Finally, you will learn more about recordkeeping and resources that are helpful in properly paying fuel excise taxes or qualifying for refunds or incentives.
The webinar will be presented by NCAT biodiesel specialist Al Kurki and National Agriculture Law Center staff attorneys Shannon Mirus and Rusty Rumley. For more information on the speakers, click here (http://www.attra.ncat.org/bios.html).
This free webinar will be held Thursday, April 8 at 1 p.m. MDT. Please register in advance at http://www.attra.ncat.org/webinars2010/biodiesel3.
To see the previous webinars in this series, DIY Biodiesel: Keeping It Safe, Keeping It Legal and Getting Started in Farm-Scale Biodiesel Production, visit http://attra.ncat.org/video/.
ATTRA - National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (http://www.attra.ncat.org) is managed by the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) (http://www.ncat.org) and is funded under a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service (http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/index.html).
Don’t think their long thin legs attract much pollen - but they do nourish the soul...<<<
The soul does need nourishment.
It was just one of those fine points that I was never sure of.
Thanks for a good answer.
I can’t watch you tube on my dial up, thanks for sharing the link.
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-chat/2477579/posts
10 Search Engines to Explore the Invisible Web
MakeUseOf.com ^ | Mar. 14th, 2010 | Saikat Basu
Posted on Tuesday, March 23, 2010 3:15:34 AM by Daffynition
No, it’s not Spiderman’s latest web slinging tool but something that’s more real world. Like the World Wide Web.
Re: Plants as a water filter...
Posted by: “thanrose”
http://www.fotosearch.com/UPC103/kro16044/
Is this Ray Mears in the tree? Supposed to be a man drinking water from a tree.
I know that Moringa oleifera seeds are used to purify water by binding to toxins.
Trees are increasingly used for bioremediation, or phytoremediation to clean up groundwater, by the tree roots taking up and converting the toxins like nitrates and sulfides. Hardly an emergency supply.
Travellers Palm or Ravenala madagascariensis is often touted as a source of water, but it’s captured by the leaf bases from rainfall. Still it can store a good amount of water (and animal excreta, seeds, detritus) in the leaf bases.
Same with bromeliads. They will cup rainwater or irrigation water and can be drained/filtered/treated if you are in dire straits. Not at all appealing to me. I’d use other methods first.
And there is a device made that cocoons a bunch of leaves, causing them to fill the cocoon with potable water. Savior pod, I think it’s called. Because people who can’t afford electricity are going to buy stuff from Sharper Image?
As far as sap, if you can use it for syrup making, you can use it for drinking. I would not use something like black walnut or cedar or oak, but sweetgum and hickory would give you potable watery sap in the early spring in addition to maples, sycamores, birches already mentioned. That’s the closest I can come to trees from which you could drink the “water.”
Pat’s Crock Pot Granola
Posted by: “H.M.”
Pat gave me this recipe for a granola that you put together in the crockpot. I tweaked it a bit.
If you don’t have fruit or seeds, don’t add ‘em. Use whatever nuts you like and feel free to increase or decrease the amount. It’s a forgiving recipe.
-1 cup nuts (I grow almonds, walnuts, pecans and forage seeds from Pinus sabiniana, but anything will work, sunflower seeds, pumpkin, pistachio...)
-1/4 cup foraged seed (This morning I had some lambsquarters left from last year and some toasted dock seed)
-1/2 cup dried fruit (I used dried persimmon, dried apple and some dried berries)
-1 tsp. cinnamon
-1/4 cp veggie oil (I used coconut)
-5 cups oats
-2/3 cup honey mixed with 1 tsp vanilla (I make my own extract, but you don’t have to) or almond extract.
-1/2 cp water
Put everything into a crockpot, stir it up. Leave the lid ajar. Cook on low for 4-6 hours (till it’s dry), stirring occasionally. Sore in an airtight jar.
Heather
Re: getting rid of poison ivy rash
Posted by: “Steve Brill”
Hi Carrie,
Chemists synthesized the “active” chemical in jewelweed and put it into an ointment to create Preparation H. This info, and lots more about edible wild plants, is in my site.
And if you’re trying to wash off poison ivy, don’t use regular soaps, which contain oils that will spread the oil-soluble poison. Use an oil-free detergent, as in the poison ivy soaps they sell in drug stores.
Working with large groups of people, I’ve found that jewelweed always prevents poison ivy rash, except for my wife, who’s extremely sensitive, and that it’s good for reducing the rash in about half the people who tried it.
> While we’re all sharing our own personal poison ivy remedies....
>
> I agree that jewelweed is nature’s anecdote to poison ivy. I keep some of the “broth” (just the infused liquid) in ice cube trays in the feezer so that if i know I’ve been explosed I can rub the “cube” over the infected area.
>
> However, back before I knew about nature’s anecdote, only one tried and true remedy worked for me- HEMMEROID GEL!
>
> I’ve never gotten a really serious, life threatening rash, but I’ve definitely gotten my share of patch-like rashes from poison ivy. And the only thing I’ve found that “takes the red and itchiness out” and truly allows it to heal is the hemmroid gel. I dunno if it’s the combo of witch hazel, and isopropyl alcohol in the gel, or what, but it DOES THE TRICK. So if nature’s remedies aren’t working for you, go get some Preperation H Cooling Gel! Once you start applying the gel, (and you do have to apply a few times a day) your rash should be cleared up in about a week (mine always was!)
>
> Cheers!
What is interesting is that (to quote from “Wildman” Steve Brill’s site
http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com/Plants.Folder/Jewelweed.html )
“Jewelweed contains two methoxy-1, four napthoquinine, an
> anti-inflammatory and fungicide that’s the active ingredient of
> Preparation H.”
>
> I have personally found Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) to be very
> effective at reducing an existing Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)
> rash as well as preventing one if I applied it right after contacting
> Poison Ivy. I just rub the crushed stem on the affected area.
http://theessentialherbal.blogspot.com/
Spring Ideas from The Essential Herbal
Yesterday I sent an email reminder to some people who haven’t renewed their subscriptions (imagine!), and included some fun spring-y things to make.
Got to thinking - that’s blogworthy :-)
So here they are....
As we look forward to spring here on the hill, there are some great herbal ideas
Herb Garden Dip
We made this dip for a bus tour last year and did not write down the herbs as we snipped. Everyone wanted the recipe! The good news is, there isn’t a real recipe.
Snip a combination of herbs to equal 2 Tablespoons.
They could be:
Chives
Parsley
Sage
Rosemary
Oregano
Tarragon
Thyme
Savory
Dill
(you get the idea!)
Chop well, and blend with
1 C mayo (or substitute yogurt if desired) and 1 C sour cream. Mix well and allow to sit in the
fridge for at least an hour. I really like to add about 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds to the mix, too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Carpet/Vacuum Freshener
Since the growing season is upon us, you can be a little less worried about running out of your fragrant dried herbs. At this time of the year, I love to sprinkle them onto the carpet before vacuuming. Try:
Lavender
Lemon Verbena
Rose Geraniumor
Mint
It freshens up the whole house!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Apres Gardening Tub Tea
This blend can really help to rejuvenate and get rid of the itchies after a great day in the garden.
1 part dried mint (I like peppermint)
1 part dried eucalyptus
1 part dried rosemary
1 part dried tarragon
1 part dried comfrey leaf
1/2 part oatmeal
Blend together and put about 1/2 cup into a coffee filter. Tie
shut. Put the herb filled filter into a heat resistant
pitcher, and fill the pitcher with very hot water. Allow that
to steep while drawing a bath, and add it to the bath just
prior to stepping in.
If you prefer to use fresh herbs, just use it all for the bath or dry the leftovers appropriately.
If you’ve enjoyed these herbal ideas, consider a subscription to The Essential Herbal. The Mar/Apr issue is full of wonderful information, recipes, and crafts!
Click here to subscribe: http://www.essentialherbal.com/shop/?cat=2
download FREE ISSUE
Posted by Tina Sams
http://theessentialherbal.blogspot.com/
A Bit of Herbal Mythology Part II
A Bit of Herbal Mythology Part II
Many myths have made their way through the years in association with a variety of herbs. Here is part two of our slight history lesson regarding the myths and legends and stories associated with the use of herbs.
Lavender: • Legend says that the pleasant smell of lavender comes from the baby Jesus. After washing his swaddling clothes, Mary hung them to dry on a lavender bush. This gave the plant the scent of Heaven.
• In the Middle Ages, it was believed that couples who place lavender flowers between their bed sheets would never fight.
Mint:
• According to myth, Hades had developed a lust for a nymph named Minthe. Hade’s wife Persephone found out about Hades lust, and angrily transformed Minthe into a plant to be trampled on. Hades could not undo the spell, but he was able to ease it by giving Minthe a wonderfully sweet fragrance; one which would be released whenever her leaves were trampled on.
Oregano:
• The ancient Greeks believed that Aphrodite created oregano. They believed that if it grew around a grave, the deceased would have eternal happiness.
• In Germany, oregano was hung over doorways to protect against evil spells.
• In the Middle Ages, oregano symbolized happiness and love.
Rose:
• According to myth, the first roses did not have thorns. While Venus’ son Cupid was smelling a rose, a bee came out and stung him on the lip. Venus then strung his bow with bees. She removed their stingers and placed them on the stems of the roses.
• Myth also says that all roses were originally white until Venus tore her foot on a briar and all the roses were dyed red with her blood.
• In Christian lore, the red color of roses comes from the blood of Christ.
Rosemary: • From the times of ancient Greece through the Middle Ages, it was believed that rosemary strengthened the brain and memory. When they needed to take exams, students braided rosemary into their hair in order to help their memory.
• The ancient Greeks burned rosemary in order to repel evil spirits and illness.
• In some parts of Europe, it was believed that if an unmarried woman placed rosemary under her pillow, her future husband would be revealed to her in her dream.
Sage:
• The Romans believed that sage was a sacred herb which gave immortality.
• Up until the 18th century, it was believed that sage increased fertility.
• It was also believed that sage strengthened the mind.
Thyme: • During the Middle Ages it was believed that the scent of thyme inspired bravery. Knights wore scarves with thyme leaves sewn on them during tournaments.
• In English lore, if a person collected thyme flowers from hillsides where fairies lived, and rubbed the flowers on their eyelids, they would be able to see the fairies.
So now we know. I hoped you enjoyed this two part series and if for no other reason - at least this will provide some fun discussions at your next party get together!
Elizabeth Krause is owner of http://www.simpleitaliancooking.com, a website featuring many family Italian recipes which incorporate some of the spices and herbs mentioned. Sign up for her weekly newsletter where she gives additional recipes and cooking tips perfect for easy lunches and dinners!
Posted by Tina Sams at 5:35 AM 2 comments Links to this post
A Bit of Herbal Mythology - Part I
A Bit of Herbal Mythology - Part I
All through the ages, herbs have been used for many different things. Not only have they been incorporated into cooking, but also used for decoration and medicinal purposes as well. Their healing properties as well as being tasty, fragrant, and attractive, resulted in people throughout the ages believing the plants possessed magical qualities and attributed some interesting myths to them:
Bay Leaf:
• According to myth, the beautiful Daphne was changed into a bay as she escaped the clutches of Apollo. Thus, Apollo made a crown out of bay leaves and branches and wore it in her honor.
• In the 17th century it was believed that bay leaves repelled witchcraft. Pots of bay were placed in front of doorways in order to ward off evil spells and curses.
• It was also believed that bay would prevent one’s house from being struck by lightning.
Chamomile:
• The Anglo-Saxons believed chamomile was one of the sacred herbs given to the earth by the god Woden.
• In Victorian times, chamomile symbolized patience in adversity.
• Chamomile is believed by some to possess the power to attract money; therefore gamblers may be found soaking their hands in a chamomile infusion in order to increase their chances of winning.
Cinnamon:
• The Romans believed cinnamon to be sacred, and the emperor Nero burned bunches of it as a sacrifice at his wife’s funeral.
• In the Middle Ages, cinnamon represented wealth and power. At large banquets, hosts served cinnamon in order to impress the guests.
Cloves:
• When the fragrant clove forests were discovered in Indonesia, it was said that they must always be planted around water in order to flourish.
• For over 4,000 years, people chewed whole cloves in order to refresh their breath (ok, this has some merit so technically it isn’t a myth).
• It was also said in ancient China if anyone wanted to speak to the emperor, they were required to have a clove in their mouth.
Dill:
• Dill represented wealth to the ancient Greeks.
• During the Middle Ages, dill was believed to possess magical powers and could destroy evil spells.
• A drink made from dill leaves was the remedy for anyone who believed a witch had cast a spell on them.
• People also wore charms made from dill leaves to protect themselves from any evil spells.
Fennel:
• During the Middle Ages, fennel was hung above doorways and on rafters in order to ward off the devil.
• Fennel seeds were also placed inside keyholes in order to prevent ghosts from entering a house.
• In 470 BC the Greeks defeated the Persians at Marathon. They fought on a field of fennel, and this led to the belief that fennel inspired courage and strength.
• Greek and Roman soldiers chewed fennel seeds before entering battle.
Fortunately as the years have gone by, these myths and legends have been replaced with the more realistic culinary benefits of herbs. For example, bay leaf is often used in Italian sauces or stews. Chamomile is used in many teas helping to relax the muscles which is why it is often consumed prior to going to bed. Dill is used to season fish, and fennel is used to aid digestion.
This concludes part one of two for Herbal Mythology.
This post was contributed by Elizabeth Krause publisher of cooking website, SimpleItalianCooking.com. To visit her website, click
here and make sure to subscribe to her weekly newsletter featuring Italian recipes for easy and quick lunches or dinners.
Posted by Tina Sams
http://theessentialherbal.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-03-05T05%3A11%3A00-08%3A00
{Did you ever think about what makes a soapmaker different?
[Smile], She has captured a soapmakers mind on paper...granny}
Oh Spring? Bring it on!
We’ve spent the last few days whipping up our spring offerings. Normally, we’d wait a few more weeks, but the wholesale customers with my sister’s soap company have been shopping up a storm! It seems like we’ve been making soap constantly, but the shelves don’t show it. They are available for retail sale on The Essential Herbal website, too.
Since yesterday, we made a gorgeous batch of Happy Wanderer soap, made with jewelweed and plantain, and a little lavender and tea tree essential oil. In the summer, we gathered lots of extra jewelweed and plantain, and processed it so that it would be ready in the early spring.
We made rows of bottles of Git Spritz and several dozen Git Sticks. The Hiker’s Releaf Spray is all ready to go, too.
In between, we made a batch of Ocean Salt Spa Bars, some Granny’s Lye Soap, Apple Snap, Gardener’s (with cornmeal, comfrey and tea tree oil), Apricot Freesia, Honey ‘n Oats, Grapefruit Lily, Rosemary, Ginger, Lilac, and 4 half batches of test fragrances - all of which we love!
We still have some things to catch up on. Boo-Boo Balm is low, as are the Amber lotion bars and the Arnica Rub sticks. Oh and lip balms. And the Oats ‘n Flowers facials... But a few days of determined work, and we’ll be up to snuff.
AND we’ve started some earnest work on the next book from TEH - By the Hearth. By the Hearth will be a compilation of the Fall and Winter issues from the first five year, and be a companion to Under the Sun, which covers Spring and Summer from the same time period. There are a few other projects waiting to unfold, but for now just packing and shipping the orders as they come in is filling in all the gaps.
It feels great to get back in the groove :-)
Posted by Tina Sams
http://theessentialherbal.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-03-05T05%3A11%3A00-08%3A00
Bathing with Herbs
Bathing with Herbs
Jan/Feb ‘08 issue, The Essential Herbal
Now that the hectic holiday season is past, we have time to pamper ourselves a bit. Time to read those books we haven’t had time for, try some new recipes, and maybe even enjoy some luxurious herbal baths. Many times baths are a nice change from showers, but are still just a quick “wash-up”. However, they can be a relaxing, therapeutic experience! In times past the herbal bath was held in great regard, and in many cultures the bath was so important that social institutions were built around it. Herbs used in these baths were chosen depending on the benefits derived from them.
In Rome the bath waters were scented, but also disinfected, by tossing lavender into them. Catherine the Great had scouts traveling about in Europe and the Far East searching for herbs that would be beneficial skin tonics in her baths.
Adding herbs to the bath can be done in a couple of ways. Simply prepare a strong infusion of the herbs of your choosing. Strain and add about 4 cups to the bath water. You can also place a handful of herbs into a muslin bag with a long drawstring. Tie the string to the water tap and let the water flow through the bag as you fill the tub. Let the bag steep in the water and do its job as you relax and enjoy. To get some extra benefits from the herbs, scrub a bit with the bag.
As an added option when preparing your bath bags, mix an equal amount of oatmeal (not the quick kind) with the herbs. This will soften the water and soothe the skin.. Milk is also soothing to the skin. Mix some powdered milk with your herbs when making up the bags. Chamomile or calendula added to the milk will make skin especially soft.
Other ways to enjoy the addition of herbs to the bath are using an herb vinegar, herbal oil, or bath salts. Herb vinegar is excellent for softening the skin and it helps get rid of dry flaky, itchy skin. Bath salts soften the water and can be therapeutic when made with bicarbonate of soda, which neutralizes the acids of the skin. Essential oils added to a carrier oil make a fragrant and relaxing bath. Some ideas for bath blends:Herbs for relaxationChamomile, calendula, comfrey, lavenderStimulating herbal bathsRosemary, peppermint, sweet marjoram, parsleySoothing bath herbsCalendula, comfrey, catnip, rose, yarrow Try some of the following recipes, or experiment and see what you like the most. You will feel like you are visiting a healing spa!
Soothing Citrus Bath Blend
1-1/2 cups chamomile
1-1/4 cups comfrey
3/4 cups jasmine flowers
1-1/4 cups lemon balm
1-1/4 cups orange peel
Mix all ingredients and store in an airtight container. Use a handful in a bath bag for each bath.Calming,
Warming Bath Blend
1 cup rosemary
1 cup lavender
1/2 cup thyme
1/2 cup lavender
1/2 cup rose geranium
Cover 1/2 cup of the mixture with 1 cup boiling water. Steep 20 minutes. Drain liquid into bath water. Tie herbs into a thin washcloth to use as an herbal scrub. This mixture will make 8 baths.
Herbal Vinegar Bath Recipe
Add 2 handfuls of your choice of herbs (individual or a combination) to 5 cups vinegar. Bring to a boil and let stand overnight. Strain and bottle. Add 1 capful to the bath. Refrigerate and use as desired.
Bath Oil with Essential Oils
4 parts Turkey Red Oil Note: Turkey Read Oil is a processed castor oil that will mix into the water rather than floating on top.
1 part essential oil (a single fragrance or a mixture) Add to the warm bath water to soften the skin as you bathe.
Mary Ellen WilcoxSouthRidge Treasures-Herbs
Posted by Tina Sams
Nervines
Another guest column today. This came from David Brill of The Rosemary House:
Education and information has always been one of the cornerstones of our busy business since day one in March of 1968. Originally, founder and mom, Bertha Reppert did all of the classes and workshops but as we matured and our customers herbal knowledge grew it became time to bring in additional herbal experts. So now our schedule of events includes herbal enthusiasts from The Rosemary House staff and we enjoy bringing in guest speakers from around the country. In 2007, our herbalist was the famed Rosemary Gladstar, author of The Family Herbal, we were thrilled to be able to get her “down off her Mountain” in Vermont to come to Mechanicsburg for a day long lecture on medicinal herbs. She presented two intensives, one on Chasing Away the Blues, Stress and Anxiety. Where she spoke on herbs for the nervous system.. Rosemary also provided an in depth handout on this subject and she cheerfully agreed to share a part of it with The Essential Herbal Readers.
The Nervous System is our link to our environment. It has three basic functions: to receive, to interpret, and to respond. Within the limited paradigm of modern western science this involves only our physical being and the physical world in which we live. We have our five basic senses to experience our external environment and countless internal sensory neurons to monitor our internal environment. Then there are the some 12 billion cells that constitute our brain, the central computer. If that is all there is to the NS, it is enough to make it, far and away, the most important system of our body. It is what provides integration and coordination to our lives. It allows us to see, feel, touch, create, act and react. Without this basic physical NS there could be no life. To the degree that it is impaired, the quality, tone, color, and richness of life are diminished. If for no other reasons than these we must commit ourselves to keeping our NS healthy if we want a full life.
Herbs and natural therapies play a vital role in the health and well being of the Nervous System. Not only are herbs full of concentrated nutrients that are important both nutritionally and medicinally to the nervous system, but herbs also form a direct link between the body, mind, spirit connection. It is important within the framework of the Nervous System, perhaps more so than with any other system of the body, to address health and lack thereof from more than just a treatment of physical symptoms.
Herbal Nervines
The following categories are helpful in defining the action of herbs on the Nervous System.
1. Nerve Tonics
Herbs that feed, tone, rehabilitate, and strengthen the NS are called Nerve Tonics. Nourish the nerve tissue; generally high in calcium, magnesium, B vitamins and protein. Though effective, most are mild in action and can be taken over a long period of time. Herbs from this category are included in every formula for Nervous System disorders.
Examples: Oatstraw (Avena sativa), Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), Wood Betony (Betonica officinalis), Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis and related species), Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), Hops (Humulus lupulus), Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), Kava Kava.
2. Nerve Sedatives
Relax, help reduce pain, ease tension, aid in sleep. Do not deaden or block nerve endings.
Examples: California Poppy (Eschscholzia california), Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata), St. John_Wort (Hypericum perforatum), Catnip (Catnip cataria), Valerian (Valerian officinalis),, Hops (Humulus lupulus), Lobelia (Lobelia inflata),Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), Kava Kava, and Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus).
3. Nervine Demulcents
General action on the NS but are included in almost all nervine formulas for their soothing, healing qualities and nutritional concentration.
Examples: Slippery Elm Bark, Oats, Barley, Flax Seed, Marshmallow Root.
4. Nervine Stimulants
Mildly acting, herbal stimulants gently and nourishingly tone/activate the system. Often adaptogenic in action; feed entire system. Activate the nerve endings by increasing circulation, providing nutrients, increasing vitality. Examples: Peppermint, Gingko, Gota Kola, Spearmint, Wintergreen, Cayenne, Ginger, Bee Pollen, Eleococuccus, Ginseng, Spirulina, Rosemary, and Sage.
Posted by Tina Sams
http://theessentialherbal.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-03-05T05%3A11%3A00-08%3A00
http://theessentialherbal.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-03-05T05%3A11%3A00-08%3A00
Old Farmer’s Advice
The following wisdom came in an email from a friend several years ago, and was included in the May/June ‘05 issue of The Essential Herbal magazine.
I’m a little pre-occupied with things here on the hill right now, so thought that these little gems could stand in for me until my own thoughts are a little clearer.
Old Farmers Advice
*Your fences need to be horse-high, pig-tight and bull-strong.
*Life ain’t about how fast you run, or how high you climb, but how well you bounce.
*Keep skunks and bankers and lawyers at a distance.
*Life is simpler when you plow around the stump.
*A bumble bee is considerably faster than a John Deere tractor.
*Words that soak into your ears are whispered...not yelled.
*Meanness don’t jest happen overnight.
*Forgive your enemies. It messes up their heads.
*Do not corner something that you know is meaner than you.
*It don’t take a very big person to carry a grudge.
*You cannot unsay a cruel word.
*Every path has a few puddles.
*When you wallow with pigs, expect to get dirty.
* The best sermons are lived, not preached.
* Most of the stuff people worry about ain’t never gonna happen anyway.
* Don’t judge folks by their relatives.
* Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
* Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you’ll enjoy it a second time.
* Don’t interfere with somethin’ that ain’t botherin’ you none.
* Timing has a lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance.
* The easiest way to eat crow is while it’s still warm, ‘cause the colder it gets, the harder it is to swaller.
* If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is stop diggin’.
* It don’t take a genius to spot a goat in a flock of sheep.
* Sometimes you get, and sometimes you get got.
* The biggest troublemaker you’ll probably ever have to deal with watches you shave his face in the mirror every mornin’.
* Always drink upstream from the herd.
* Good judgment comes from experience, and a lotta that comes from bad judgment.
* Lettin’ the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier than puttin’ it back in.
*If you get to thinkin’ you’re a person of some influence, try orderin’ somebody else’s dog around.
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Leave the rest to Nature.
Posted by Tina Sams
http://theessentialherbal.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-03-05T05%3A11%3A00-08%3A00
Rose Beads
Susanna Reppert from The Rosemary House is doing a series on her blog about botanical beads and asked me if I had an entry about Rose Beads. At the time, I did not, but quickly came up with one. Here goes...
Making beads from plant materials is fun and very rewarding. There are several methods, and the following is one of the time-honored traditions amongst herbies. I think most people try this one at least once and the beads that result are really special.
Rose Beads
Adapted from Incense, Oils, and Brews by Scott Cunningham
3 parts fresh Rose petals from the most fragrant variety available
1 part fresh Rose Geranium Leaves
Rose Water
Remove the white stem ends from the rose petals. Cover the petals and leaves with plain water in a nonmetallic pan (editor’s note: some sources suggest using cast iron. We did, and the beads were lovely). Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes. Ensure that the mixture doesn’t actually boil. Turn off the heat and let soak until the next day. Repeat the simmering again for a half hour. Repeat this for three days in all, adding rose water when necessary (particularly using rose water instead of plain water on the last day). On the last day squeeze out all liquid until you have a fragrant mess. The mixture should be dry enough to hold its shape. Form into small, round beads with your hands, each about 1/4 inch long. Push a large needle or stiff wire through each bead while it’s still wet to form holes for stringing. Let dry for a week or so, moving them around to ensure even drying.
The beads will be black when finished, and when worn on the body they release a delicious rose scent. The fragrance can be refreshed by rubbing a tiny amount of rose oil into the beads. Rose beads have been made and handed down through generations.
If you’re more inclined to want a simpler version, try our pre-mixed botanical bead mixes, or learn to do them with our book on herb beads. Either way, it’s a wonderful project for a day immersed in herbs!
Posted by Tina Sams
http://theessentialherbal.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-03-05T05%3A11%3A00-08%3A00
Got Stress?
It seems odd to think that the time just following the holidays can be difficult, but there’s that let-down, along with the fact that it’s a long way off until the next time people get some time off work. We won’t even talk about how long we in the North East have to wait to plant our gardens!
There are many herbs that can help ease and calm a stormy day, or even a long period of difficulty. In fact, in thinking about writing about these herbs, I looked back over an article that I wrote for a small publication over 10 years ago. In addition to the herbs that were at that time cutting-edge, there are several more that hadn’t come to the forefront yet. Just the other day, Dr. Oz talked about Passionflower, and how it can be helpful - particularly for women who are constantly going from one task to the next, never finishing, and then having trouble shutting down for a restful night - know anyone like that?
We will start with mild and go from there, listing a few herbs that can help right now. One would additionally be sure to get lots of rest, see that their vitamin and mineral requirements were met, and look into some deeply nourishing herbs for the nervous system, as well. Many of these are said to take days or weeks to make a difference, but I can always feel a shift right away.
My first line of defense is always Chamomile. I like to drink a cup of tea and that will usually help. It immediately helps me to drop the shoulders and let out a long breath. Another possibility is 20 or 25 drops of tincture, because often if you had time to sit and drink a cup of tea, you wouldn’t be stressed, right? If at all possible, a nice warm bath with a few drops (no more than 10) of Lavender essential oil OR a spray of essential oil mist on the pillow case before bed will help to put a bad day behind and let a new day get a decent start.
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) tincture is a favorite for one of my friends. She uses it when her kids “get on her last nerve”, and suspects that’s how the herb got it’s name. This herb is well known for her helpfulness in menopause, but part of that is the way it helps with anxiety and ... stress!
Next in line is a St. John’s Wort. It is made it into a tincture here each year and taken only as needed. Some people take it daily, although it should not be taken in conjunction with any prescribed MAOI inhibitors. We also keep Eleuthero (aka Siberian Ginseng) on hand. Eleuthero was tested in large block factories in Siberia. The workers in one building took the herb daily, while the next building did not. The workers using the herb were found to do better in every measurable way - absenteeism, quality of work, cheerfulness, etc. Scientists are unsure exactly how it works, but it is stimulates cells of the immune system and protects the nervous system. Some people feel that the two (SJW and Eleuthero) work very well together.
Of late, these remedies weren’t cutting the mustard for me. Coincidentally, a few years ago I was looking for something for a friend who is a tax preparer. Four months out of the year the workload increases by (seriously) 1000% and the stress takes a visible toll. A couple new herbs became part of my daily routine.
Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum) - also known as Tulsi - came up in my research. That year it so happened that I had purchased a Tulsi plant at an herb festival, and she was large and busy, perfect for a quart or so of tincture. He and I shared it, and it was the first time in many years that I heard him laugh in March. Seriously. We sometimes use it in tea form, too. Besides helping with stress, Holy Basil is considered a tonic to the nerves, increases memory, is anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-oxidant, immune stimulating, and acids contained in the herb change the way our bodies release cortisol and the way we react physically to stress. In India, Holy Basil is used for nearly all ills. I have an entire flat on order for this spring!
In addition, we use Mimosa (Albizzia julibrissin), also sometimes known as “the happiness herb”. It is also sometimes called “herbal Prozac”, which I don’t like at all, but it seems to get the point across, and some herbalists include it in formulas for grief. Sometimes when we are stressed it is because we are grieving the loss of something. If you’ve ever seen Mimosa flowers, they are happy little flowers, pink puffs that sit on top of the leaves in bunches. Oddly, every time I gather Mimosa flowers, I smell cotton candy. There is almost no scent to Mimosa, so it may be something about the color that clicks something in my brain... Mimosa helps to reduce anxiety and stress. The flowers are thought to increase happiness while the bark is more grounding.
We use a combination here at home. I use it daily, and when my 18 year old starts getting weepy or angry during certain parts of her cycle, I will offer her a bit of the blend.
Those are the things we use here at The Essential Herbal. Almost all of them are available on our website if you don’t have them growing at your house!
Posted by Tina Sams
Natural just makes more sense to me.
Take time to visit this blog, she talks about their plans for the business and says they are selling out some of the herbs and a quarter of the stock is sold.
I had heard of them and have not ordered from them.
granny
http://www.possumcreekherbfarm.blogspot.com/
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Lemon Verbena
Aloysia citriodora
Family: verbenaceae
Shrub to 8 feet
Hardiness Zone 8
In the language of flowers, Lemon Verbena, means “enchantment”.
History:
Highly favored by Victorian ladies during the heat of summer, they placed leaves in handkerchiefs so they could inhale the lemony scent to ease the symptoms of heat. Leaves were also placed in water bowls to scent the air bringing about the “finger bowl” which is passed around the dinner table between courses to refresh and cleanse the fingers.
Lemon Verbena is a shrub with arching stems that branch out to narrow, sharply pointed pale green leaves that are whorled in groups of three and four. Blooms are not scented and though small, appear in July and August to give a clear white color to the top of the plant.
Lemon Verbena was named in 1784 to honor Maria Luisa, wife of King Charles IV of Spain and refers to the perfect lemony scent of the leaves. Possum Creek Herb Farm considers Lemon Verbena to be the best of the lemon scented herbs. It has such a true lemon scent that it lends itself to a multitude of tasks.
Cultivated for perfume, essential oil, absolute and concrete’. Leaves are cultivated for tea, potpourri, sachet and flavoring of food. Extracts and tinctures are used in the formulation of liqueurs. Lemon Verbena oil is considered GRAS (generally regarded as safe).
Constituents: Antifungal, analgesic and anti-diarrhea
Cultivation:
Hardy to Zone 8. Frost and wind protection is needed. Most gardeners treat Lemon Verbena as a tender perennial and bring the plants inside during the winter months. Plants grown in cool greenhouses lose their leaves through winter only to leaf back out in the warmth of spring. A neutral ph and well draining soil is best for this plant which does best in full sun. Susceptible to spider mites and white fly in hot, dry conditions.
Propagation: Cuttings from new growth. Layering has also been successful.
Lemon Verbena Potpourri
30 drops of Lemon Verbena essential oil
20 drops of Lemon Balm essential oil
5 drops Orange essential oil
5 drops Lavender essential oil
1/3 cup Orrisroot or oak moss sifted
3 cups Lemon Verbena leaves
2 cups Calendula flowers or yellow rose petals
¾ cup dried lemon peel ribbons
½ cup lemon scented geranium leaves
Add oils to orrisroot or oak moss and blend. Oils should rest for several days with the orrisroot or oak moss. Add oil blend to botanical and gently mix. Store in covered container for three weeks being sure to mix gently each day.
Finger Bowl
Small, pretty glass bowl
Several clean Lemon Verbena leaves
Water
Float three to four leaves in a bowl of water. Pass around the dinner table between courses with a clean towel.
Tea Blend-by the cup
6-8 Lemon Verbena leaves
2-3 Lemon Balm leaves
2-3 Orange mint leaves
½ teaspoon dried Ginger
2-3 whole cloves
Place blend in tea or muslin bag and place in mug. Pour just boiling water over the bag and let bag simmer for five to six minutes. Creates a very warming tea that is great for winter. For summer simmer the tea for ten minutes, remove bag and add ice.
Posted by Herbfarmer
http://www.possumcreekherbfarm.blogspot.com/
Creating an Herbal Wedding Bouquet
Herb gardens are indeed magic and with some special planning a very aromatic and symbolic bouquet can be conjured up from the earth. All brides dream of a bouquet that is unique and different and a herbal bouquet fulfils that desire. The herbs that we want to use are not readily available at your local florist, so we will have to grow the herbs ourselves. A homegrown wedding bouquet will keep the guests talking for months while they remember the fragrance, beauty and folklore.
The flowers and herbs have their own language:
Rosemary- for remembrance
Sage- virtue and esteem
Lavender- best wishes
Myrtle (Myrtus communis microphylla)- a symbol of love and fertility
Ivy- friendship
Globe amaranth- unfading love
Mint- virtue
Roses- love
Even the colour of the rose has meaning:
White roses signify simplicity
White and Red roses together- unity
Multiflora rose- grace
There are a number of great books about “The Language of Flowers,” although after reading many they sometimes contradict each other. All of the herbs and flowers for this project should be harvested early in the morning or in the evening, when they are full of moisture. Take clean containers of water with you out to the garden. Use a sharp knife to cut the stems on a slant. Remove any lower leaves and thorns. Let the floral material stand in clean tepid water for at least two hours, or ideally, overnight. This conditions the flowers so they will not wilt. The old fashioned fragrant roses are the best, but if you feel uneasy about the blooming time and the quality, order them from the florist. You will also need two or three stems of baby’s breath. There are many different types of bouquets, tussie mussie and cascade styles are the prettiest with herbs. Tussie mussies are round, easy to design and very attractive. The bouquet begins with a rose bud in the middle that you carefully surround with circlets of the wedding herbs- rosemary, lavender, more roses, mint, myrtle, ivy, baby’s breath and a circle of leaves (perhaps scented geranium or woolly lambs ear). Add a lace bow and place the flowers in a special tussie mussie holder or wrap the stems in an antique handkerchief. The traditional shape is a cascade design. Cascade is basically a round circle with trailing material at the bottom to create a vee shape.
What you will need:
1 colonial type oasis posy holder (at any florist)
3 feet of lace
1 antique handkerchief / tatting / special article that can be added to the bow
1 florist wire
1 florist pick
1 dozen roses
10 to 15 sage stems (I like to use a fruit- scented sage)
10 to 15 rosemary stems
15 to 20 lavender blossoms on long stems
3 to 5 stems of myrtle
3 long sprigs of ivy (12”,15”,17”)
6 shorter sprigs of ivy (approx. 6”)
3 or 4 stems of baby’s breath (approx. 5”)
Start by fashioning the bow. It can be made ahead of time. If you are having difficulties, have someone else make it for you. Just keep in mind the size of the finished bouquet- you don’t want the bow to be overpowering. Incorporate into the bow a lace handkerchief from Great Grandmother or an antique ribbon or tatting done by a family member to give that special flavour of heritage. Tie “Victorian Love Knots” in narrow ribbon; as you tie in the knots repeat the bride and groom’s names 3 times which is a symbol of luck for the bridal couple. Now the fun begins! Soak the posy holder in water until saturated. Place in a bouquet stand so the holder will be off the work area. If you don’t have a store bought stand use a tall, narrow vase to get the posy holder up into the air.
Have all your conditioned floral material gathered in separate vases or jars. When I harvest the herbs and flowers I gently secure the stems with an elastic band. When it’s time to work with them, the elastic is cut making the stems easy to handle. Place the greenery first. Rosemary sprigs can be gently pushed into the oasis (about 1/2”). Do this at quarter intervals around the posy holder. Repeat with the other green herbs each time in a new section: be very symmetrical. Always balance the stems opposite each other. To give the bouquet depth start in the outside perimeter. Then when the outside perimeter is full, start placing the greens in the middle. Insert the 3 long pieces of ivy into the bottom to establish the length of the cascade. The shorter ivy is to be placed throughout the top circle space. The shorter roses should be placed into the middle area to form a pleasing circle. Make sure there is a rose just off the centre point and all the rest will fall into place. Save 3 or 4 longer roses to repeat the line of the cascade with the ivy. Gather together 3 stems of lavender at a time and place throughout the bouquet. Use the baby’s breath and any other herbs and flowers you wish to add to fill in any gaps.Mist the bouquet well and add the bow that has been attached to the florist pick. Carefully push the pick into the oasis about 2/3 down the design, until it feels well secured. Place your finished HERBAL WEDDING BOUQUET in the refrigerator until picture thyme!!
If you feel that you have more of a green thumb than a creative one, why not grow the herbs and flowers and ask a florist to design the bouquet for you.
Oh yes, and after the wedding you may want to root some of the ivy, myrtle, mint and rosemary for the next HERBAL WEDDING BOUQUET.
SUGGESTED READING
· The Victorian Language of Herbs & Flowers, by Kathleen Gips, TM Publications, Chagrin Falls, OH 1990
· HERBS for Weddings & Other Celebrations , by Bertha Reppert , Storey communications, Inc. 1993
· Tussie - Mussies , by Geraldine Adamich Laufer , Workman Publishing, NY. 1993
. Planning an Herbal Wedding, request by emailing us at herbfarmer@bellsouth.net
Posted by Herbfarmer
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