medicinal herb hike and workshop schedule friday, may 6, 2016

1

Medicinal Herb Hike and Workshop Schedule Friday May 6 2016 900-1230 Embark upon the hike 1230-200 Herbal Luncheon (Included in workshop fee) 200-400 Concurrent Hands-On Workshops or Classes (Fees for workshop

materials are due to the teacher before class begins Please bring cash or check to expedite this process)

Celebrate Capsicum Herb of the Year 2016mdashSusan Belsinger Material fee $45

Using the Herbs You Grow MedicinallymdashKatrina Bogdon Material fee $45

Village Herbalists of the OzarksmdashSasha Daucus No material fee Growing Selected Medicinal HerbsmdashTina Marie Wilcox No material fee

Identifying and Using Wild MushroomsmdashPhyllis Williams No material fee

400-500 Visit the Ozark Folk Center Craft Village and Herb Merchants 700-900 Evening Ozark Highland Music ConcertmdashLarge Auditorium

Saturday May 7 2016 900-1015 Using Essential Oils in the GardenmdashTina Marie Wilcox 1015-1030 Break 1030-1200 Cultivating Capsicums for their Medicinal amp Healthful VirtuesmdashSusan

Belsinger 1200-130 Herbal Luncheon (included in workshop fee) 130-300 Time-Honored Wisdom and New Frontiers for Todayrsquos HealthmdashExploring

Different Paradigms of HealingmdashKatrina Bogdon 300-330 Break 330-500 The Healthy Pig and Pasture a synergistic system using diverse native

plants fermentation and herbs for high-quality porkmdashMerry Schepers 700-900 Women in Mountain Music Special ConcertmdashLarge Auditorium

2

Proceedings for Friday May 6 2016

Celebrate Capsicum Herb of the Year 2016trade

presented by

Susan Belsinger

Ginger Cayenne Ointment

Excerpted from Capsicum Herb of the Year trade and printed with permission by Marge Powell

Hot peppers bring to mind images of Mexican dishes Thai food and maybe even chutney But letrsquos

venture a little further afield from food and think about hot peppers and what they can do for our skin

and joints and circulation Penelope Ody recommends the infused oil of hot pepper for use in chills and

if the skin is not broken the oil can be heated and applied AROUND a varicose ulcer to encourage blood

flow away from the ulcer She also advises it as a massage oil for arthritis(1) Vicki Pitman cautions

against prolonged use in pregnancy but advises that hot pepper can counter shock and normalize blood

pressure though she notes the ability of hot pepper to quickly penetrate tissue her only

recommendation is a preparation to be taken internally of ldquo14 to 1 teaspoon (powdered dried

peppers)hellip mixed with juice or waterrdquo( 2) Robin Rose Bennett says she sprinkles cayenne powder mixed

with dusting powder into socks or shoes in winter to keep feet warm She does warn that it will stain

your socks(3) These authors generally refer to cayenne pepper as hot pepper or red peppers But there

are far more hot peppers than the common cayenne and they are not all red Some are yellow some are

orange or purple The effective element of these peppers is capsaicin Jim Duke notes that an ointment

with capsaicin has successfully treated postherpetic neuralgia in shingles as well as arthritis and has

been effective in treating psoriasis(4) Clearly the external use of hot peppers has a significant and

beneficial history

What follows is a formula for creating an ointment used externally that takes advantage of the capsaicin

in hot peppers Technically an ointment or a salve has no water as an ingredient However this

formula calls for the addition of two different tinctures Tinctures are made by infusing alcohol with

1 Ody Penelope 1993 The Complete Medicinal Herbal New York NY Dorling Kindersley Inc

2 Pitman Vicki 1994 Herbal Medicine the Use of Herbs for Health and Healing New York NY Barnes amp Noble Inc

3 Bennett Robin Rose 2014 The Gift of Healing Herbs Berkeley CA North Atlantic Books

4 Duke PhD James A 1997 The Green Pharmacy New York NY Rodale Inc

3

herbs the alcohol I use is 100 proof vodka which is 50 water This is not a lot of water but it does move

us out of the definition of an ointment Because the water and alcohol used is less than would be used in

a lotion and because this formula is intended to be used as an ointment would be used I call it an

ointment though it is really a hybrid

As we grow older and we are all aging - some of us just further along the path than others - our joints

and our circulatory system necessarily age with us And while the access to conventional medical

intervention for these issues is available to many of us there are many reasons for using herbal

remedies in our self-care Its important to note that we all need to recognize when self-treatment

ceases to be an option and seek conventional medical assistance

I have used this treatment for arthritic reasons My feet seem most afflicted by this condition so when

they bother me I apply the ointment all over my feet put on my socks and then I am set for the day I

have found this to be helpful and my customers tell me they find this balm useful for joint pain and

muscle aches

Making this ointment takes time because unless you have them on hand you must first make the

ginger tincture and pepper oil These both need to infuse for six weeks before it is used in the formula

The willow bark tincture can be easily purchased at a health food store

While the name of this preparation is Ginger Cayenne any hot pepper can be used It is preferable to

use hot peppers you have grown yourself but if this is not available to you dried cayenne peppers

should be easy to find I would not use powdered cayenne pepper as it is likely to be old The formula

also uses emu oil Emu oil was used historically by the Australian aborigines for the treatment of burns

wounds and bruises and as a pain reliever for bone muscle and joint disorders The emu oil enhances

the benefits of the ointment and can be found through online sources The olive oil is not only a good

moisturizer but has also been found to have a beneficial effect on arthritis The use of organic olive oil is

preferred but it should not be extra virgin olive oil because of the scent The essential oils in the formula

ndash wintergreen nutmeg clove bud and cinnamon leaf all have a purpose Wintergreen and nutmeg are

good for muscular pain cinnamon leaf and clove bud are both anti-infectious and anti-fungal and have a

role in preserving the ointment However any one or all of these essential oils could elicit a reaction in

some people Therefore it is wise to mix a drop of each essential oil individually into 10 drops of olive

oil Then apply these mixtures to the inside of your elbow one at a time If there is any reaction within

24 hours DO NOT USE THAT ESSENTIAL OIL The ointment can be made with any combination of the

essential oils or none of the essential oils depending on your reaction If you omit the wintergreen and

nutmeg oils the preparation will have less than its full potency if you omit the cinnamon leaf and clove

bud oils store your product in the refrigerator


Because of the infusion times carefully read the formula so you can plan accordingly and be sure that all

of the necessary ingredients are on hand when you need them If you are using your own peppers you

4

will need to dry them first because infusing fresh peppers in the oil will cause mold to grow and render

the infusion unusable

The pepper oil

Makes about 9 ounces

What you will need

Disposable gloves

155 ounces dried hot peppers

12 ounces olive oil

A blender

A quart glass jar with lid

How to do it

Put on the gloves before handling the peppers Assemble approximately 155 ounces of dried hot

peppers These can be all one variety such as cayenne or a combination of varieties In my last batch I

used 4 ounces rooster spur peppers 35 ounces cayenne peppers 15 ounces hot Thai peppers 25

ounces lsquoAji Limarsquo peppers 15 ounces lsquoAji Eschabechersquo peppers 25 ounces lsquoAji Cristalrsquo peppers

Place the dried peppers in a blender jar with 12 ounces of olive oil Be sure the pepper stems have been

removed but not the seeds and ALWAYS use gloves when handling the peppers Blend the oil and the

dried hot peppers until the peppers are in very small pieces Place the pepper oil in a quart jar and set in

a dark place for 6 weeks Check occasionally to be sure no mold has invaded the mixture This will only

happen if the peppers were not completely dry and if it does happen you must start over

After six weeks strain the oil into a clean jar This should measure about 9 ounces Press firmly on the

remaining peppers in the strainer to be sure all of the oil has been squeezed out

South American heirloom hot peppers

The ginger tincture


What you will need

3 12 ounces fresh ginger sliced

4 ounces 100 proof vodka

A regular size blender or a mini blender (a mini blender is easier to handle for this)

5

A small glass jar with lid

How to do it

In a mini blender place 3 12 ounces of the sliced fresh ginger There is no need to peel the ginger but

do cut off any old ends on the ginger where it may have been previously cut Cover this with 4 ounces of

100 proof vodka Whirr the blender until the ginger is in very small pieces Put the ginger vodka mixture

in to a glass jar and cover and let sit in a dark place for 6 weeks

After six weeks strain the oil into a clean jar This should measure about 4 ounces Press the ginger bits

firmly to be sure all of the tincture has been squeezed out Discard the bits of ginger

The ointment

Makes approximately 20 ounces

What you will need

Disposable gloves

Glass jars and lids to hold the 20 ounces of finished ointment ndash I find a 2 to 4 ounce size works well

Isopropyl rubbing alcohol ndash 70

Cotton pads or a spray bottle

The strained pepper oil

The strained ginger tincture

A glass jar to hold the strained ginger tincture

2 ounces emu oil

32 ounces unbleached beeswax

8 ounces willow bark tincture

2 ounces wintergreen essential oil

2 ounces nutmeg essential oil

1 ounce clove bud essential oil

1 ounce cinnamon leaf essential oil

An instant-read thermometer

2 strainers

6

A stick blender

A saucepan large enough to hold 24 ounces

A spatula for scraping out the saucepan

Labels for the jars of finished ointment

Put on the disposable gloves This protects your hands as well as prevents contamination of your

product

Place about an ounce of the alcohol in the spray bottle and heavily spray the alcohol on the inside

of the jars and the inside of the jar lids then set aside for the alcohol to evaporate while you

proceed with the ointment If you do not have a spray bottle use cotton pads to wipe the inside of

the bottles and lids with the alcohol

Use one of the strainers to again strain the ginger tincture into the glass jar There should be no

ginger particles in the strained tincture Use the other strainer to again strain the pepper oil into

the saucepan There should be no pepper bits in the strained oil

Measure the emu oil into the saucepan

Add the beeswax into the saucepan

Heat the oil gently until the beeswax has melted This should be at 165ordmF Remove the saucepan

from the heat Watch the oil closely do not leave it unattended Hot oil will ignite If the oil gets

hotter than 165ordmF let it cool back down but the oil should be between 165ordmF and 170ordmF in order

to proceed to the next step

Add the willow bark tincture and the essential oils to the jar with the ginger tincture

Using the stick blender blend the contents of the jar with the ginger tincture and essential oils

into the oil mixture in the saucepan until it is fully emulsified You will know you have reached

this point when you cannot distinguish between the tincture mix and the oil mixture it will be

homogenous Continue blending if you think you have not reached this point Now the ointment

is finished

Use the spatula to scrape the ointment into the jars that have been treated with alcohol Label the jars

with the contents and date This ointment will keep indefinitely but it is always a good idea to store any

extra jars in the refrigerator until they are needed Lovingly use as needed

Marge Powell has been an herbalist for over 25 years and an avid plant person her entire life Her herbal

interests span both the culinary the medicinal and body care She completed a medicinal herbal

apprenticeship with Susun Weed and was introduced to herbal body care in workshops conducted by

Rosemary Gladstar In 2000 she incorporated Magnolia Hill Soap Co Inc (wwwmagnoliahillsoapcom)

where she sells soap lotions and ointments with plant-based ingredients She is currently a board

7

member of the International Herb Association (IHA) and the International Herb Association Foundation

and is past president of IHArsquos former Southeastern Region She has also contributed to previous Herb of

the Year publications

Chili Powder

Over the years we have enjoyed experimenting with chili powders We may even have saved

some money but our main motivation has been to have the flavor and to know the proportions of

a custom blend Many commercial chili powders use New Mexico andor ancho chile molido as

a base then add spices herbs salt and MSG If you cant find all the dried chiles by all means

experiment with what is available to you The guajillo chile is a good addition for flavor and

japones and pequins are good for heat The paprika here is for color and the cayenne for heat

leave them out if you like the powder before adding them or add more of each Using many

different dried chiles helps the chili powder to play across your chili dishes and palate like a

skilled pianist with a great deal of subtlety and resonance This recipe is excerpted from The

Chile Pepper Book by Susan Belsinger and Carolyn Dille Interweave Press

Makes about 2 cups

6 large California or New Mexico dried chiles

3 large dried ancho chiles

3 large dried mulato chiles

3 large dried pasilla negro chiles

6 dried chipotle chiles

6 tablespoons cumin seed

6 tablespoons coriander seed

1 tablespoon whole cloves

6 tablespoons dried Mexican oregano

3 tablespoons paprika optional

1 tablespoon ground cayenne optional

Wearing rubber gloves remove the stems and most of the seeds from the dried chiles Break the

chiles into large pieces Toast them in 2 or 3 batches on an ungreased comal griddle or skillet

over low heat for about a minute The chiles should just begin to smell fragrant Do not let the

chiles darken or they will taste bitter Cool the chiles to room temperature on a platter

Toast the cumin coriander and cloves in an ungreased skillet comal or griddle over low heat

until they release their aroma about 3 minutes They should be lightly colored Cool the spices to

room temperature on a plate

Break the chiles further by hand or in a food processor Grind the chiles in small batches in a

spice grinder or a clean coffee mill

8

Grind the toasted spices and the oregano in small batches in a spice grinder or coffee mill Mix

the ground chiles and spices together Grind again in small batches to make a fine powder

Blend the paprika and cayenne well into the powder if you are using them Store the chili

powder in tightly-sealed labeled glass jars away from light and heat

Village Herbalists of the Ozarks

Village Herbalists are compassionate and knowledgeable plant lovers who share their knowledge about herbs in their community Some have small herbal businesses but many donrsquot They help their friends neighbors and people at work Village Herbalists fill a slightly different niche than full-fledged professional herbalists Though some may eventually become professional herbalists (or are retired from being professional herbalists) at this time they donrsquot expect to earn a full living from their herbal work You probably know a Village Herbalist Maybe you are one already or on your way to becoming one They spread the word about herbs and are the face of living herbalism in our communities The following people exemplify the path of the Village Herbalist Each one shares a recipe remedy here related to her special knowledge and experience with herbal healing Nancy Smith Doniphan Missouri Former owner of Peace and Plenty Herbs nancysourceressgmailcom Nancy Smith has been interested in herbs her whole life but became more involved when she bought a farm in the Doniphan area in 1980 In 1993 she opened a store and that really deepened her involvement in herbs

She says ldquoWhen I first started the store I sold decorationsmdashpotpourri made from herbs grown in my garden and wreaths Customers came in and needed health advice That motivated me to learn more about herbsrdquo As her skill and knowledge increased her store became an herb-lovers lsquodestination storersquo She sold herbal good and hosted classes and herbal festivals

A few years ago her professional interests took a different direction Now she stays involved with herbs on the level of a Village Herbalist answering questions about herbs often through Facebook

Her advice to people who want to be Village Herbalists is ldquoTrust your instincts but study Step out

and let your compassionate nature carry you along to a deeper use of herbs

Nancy Recommends St John Wort Oil amp Salve Use flowers only Pick them when they are at the height of blooming around Summer Solstice-- June 20-- also known as St Johnrsquos Day

9

Pack clean flowers in a jar Cover with organic olive oil Let sit in sun for 2 weeks Strain out flowers by pouring oil through a coffee filter Discard flowers Repeat process with same oil filling jar with flowers and using the oil you filtered from the first batch to pour over the flowers Let sit in sun again for 2 weeks and again filter out flowers Discard the flowers and store the oil in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight To make a salve using this oil melt one-ounce beeswax per cup of oil For complete directions on making a salve refer to a good herbal like The Creative Home Herbal by Susan Belsinger and Tina Marie Wilcox

Nancy Smith I use St Johnrsquos Wort for burns bruises and add lavender oil for sunburn Irsquove had guests who got badly sunburned while floating on the Current River near my house We used the oil on the sunburn and all that was left the next day was a light pink

I also had a man come to the store when I had the herbal business He fell and was badly bruised We used St Johnrsquos Wort oil on him It worked so well he came back and wanted to market it

When I travel I always bring some of the salve One time I was heating tea in a

microwave When I took the mug out and I grabbed the handle it was so hot it burned a strip

across my palm My friends were so upset saying that now I wouldnrsquot have a good vacation I

used St Johnrsquos Wort on it The next day I could barely tell Irsquod burned my palmhellip and I had a

wonderful vacation

Betty Queen Pottersville MO Owner of Nature Works 417-257-7544 Betty Queen got her start as an herbalist by planting a basil and oregano plant at her home in Omaha At that time she didnrsquot know that herbs could be used to heal or that the Sambucol remedy she used for her immune system was made from an lsquoherbrsquo elderberry When she moved to the Ozarks in 1993 she found out elderberries grew in the area and that kicked started her deep interest in herbs

Eventually she started her own small local business Nature Works creating kits for people to make their own Elderberry Tonic She sells the kits in health food stores and health centers around where she lives

She says ldquoMostly I gained my expertise through a study group on herbs that I saw advertised in the newspaper and got curious As I had access to information and learned more my interest increased Now I use herbs every day and grow herbs From that knowledge I can make suggestions

ldquoYou donrsquot have to be a full time everyday professional herbalist Itrsquos something you can do as it comes to you The subject comes up and someonersquos health could benefit-- something you know would make a difference Just last week in the doctorrsquos office I was talking to my friend about using turmeric and ginger for arthritis Someone heard us and asked us for more information Sharing information is ongoing

ldquoYou find unlikely people who want to have a discussion I just give them information and tell them how I have used it I donrsquot make any guaranteesmdashI tell them how it helped It feels really good to make a difference to people around yourdquo

Bettyrsquos suggestion for people who want to deepen their knowledge of herbs is ldquoSeek out places

to take classesmdashseminars like the one at the Ozark Folk Center are wonderful You get to learn things

and also meet other people with similar interests local people and people from further away

10

Betty Recommends Elderberry Shrub 1 cup fresh elderberries OR 13 cup dried elderberries 2 cups apple cider vinegar 2 ndash 3 slices fresh ginger (approximately 1 tablespoon) 2 sticks cinnamon Combine all ingredients in an enamel or glass cooking pot Bring to a boil and simmer 20 minutes Cool strain out solids Measure liquid and add an equal amount of honey To take drink a shot straight add to water or tea or other beverage

Betty Queen This is a good way to introduce people to herbs It tastes good and is healing People tend to remember that

I use elder every day It helps me and my husband and others I know with arthritis In the summer when it is hot mostly I used this mixed with ice water In the winter I take a similar remedy that I call Elderberry Tonic in warm water I sell kits to make the Tonic through my business Nature Works

Elderberry has made a huge difference in my personal health and keeps me active It works for other people too An herbal friend said that when she drank the elderberry in water before a hard day at work with plants later her muscles werenrsquot as sore

I had a friend whose husband had pretty severe arthritis and he was able to get up and walk after taking the elderberry for just a few days Another friend took it while on an Alaskan cruise and said she and her husband were the only ones that didnrsquot get sick

Donna Dohrn Mountain Home AR dlherbgirlyahoocom Donna Dohrn became interested in herbs when she moved from the Chicago area to the Ozarks She was a public school teacher and that love of teaching and learning has formed the basis of her Village Herbalist activities She has taught many programs on herbs-- as the President of the local herb club to Master Gardener groups on radio and at churches and public schools ldquoI am proud of that accomplishment of passing things onrdquo she says

She was motivated to learn about health due to illness in her family She began studying herbs in 1994 through a study group she helped found ldquoI hadnrsquot known much about plants in Chicago and one of the reasons I moved to the Ozarks was to be in nature observing and understanding The experience of being in nature opened me up and started me moving in the direction I was meant to liverdquo

Her tip is ldquoIf you want to get involved and there isnrsquot anything in your area you may have to

form a club yourself When I get together with friends herbs and healing is what we are interested in

and it is what we talk aboutrdquo

Donna Recommends Making Bone Broth Soup After you get done eating a chicken put bones in a pot with 2 tablespoons vinegar An electric crock pot works well Fill the crock pot with water to cover the bones Cook 24 hours on low The cartilage and bones melt into the water making it delicious and very high calcium Strain the broth throwing away the bones Store broth in refrigerator and use to make soup Add anything yoursquod like to make your soup like onions celery greens and peas

11

Donna Dohrn I use this broth frequently in various soups It has helped me a lot My mother had bad osteoporosis when she was my age and I donrsquot have it at all I just finished building a wall lifting heavy stones some up to 100 and I had no back strain

Mary Schule Midway AR Skin Soothers wwwSkinSootherscom Mary Schulersquos interest in herbs began when she started creating allergen-free body care products to help her husband who had a lot of allergies ldquoHe canrsquot use anything scented He even had problems with scented shampoos I started with lotions because it was difficult to find unscented lotionsrdquo she says

Eventually her explorations led her to create a small local business of herbal body care products She offers things she originally made for herself then wanted to share because they worked so well

To learn she read a lot She started with a few recipesmdashmodifying to make them just right for what she wanted She read on which herbs and essential oils were good for what She got involved in a study group and an herb club She says ldquoGetting together with other people who share my interests was a real boostrdquo

Now she says about her herbal work ldquoIt has given me a sense of purpose It is satisfying to know what I put in the product and that it is good for skin I love doing it myself and helping others It is very gratifying to see neighbors use my products and healrdquo

Her tip for others is ldquoDonrsquot give up Market yourself at Farmerrsquos Markets Try to get in to local stores in your community Decide to put on seminars in health food stores libraries churches or on your ownrdquo

Mary Recommends Mango Orange Sugar Facial Scrub

1 Tablespoon Mango Butter 4 ounces White Sugar 10 ndash 12 drops Orange Essential Oil 2 teaspoons Glycerin 1 teaspoon Calendula Oil Add in enough carrier oil of choice to make a paste May add finely ground oatmeal if

desired

Mary Schule I formulated this because I felt the regular sugar scrub was too abrasive and not nourishing enough for the face The mango butter is so good to prevent wrinkles and helps with age spots and is very nourishing The essential oil in it adds to the sensual appeal I gave some to a friend who is my tester and she loved it so much shes been using ever since I have two clients in other states that order it all the time as they havent been able to find anything similar

Because it is all natural it cleans your pores yet with the oil in it nourishes the skin all day without having to apply additional oil or lotion so its really a one-step product

Rose Scarlet West Plains MO Rscarlet3yahoocom Rosersquos interest in herbs was a natural outgrowth of her life path of caring for others She mostly practices intuitively getting a nudge to make a remedy and then someone comes along who needs it

To learn shersquos read a lot ldquoIrsquom a librarian now and once I became a part of that world those are the books I gravitated to When I was younger and a single mother I bought magazines and books at

12

yard sales and I got Rodalersquos Back to Basics I bought that for the information on quilts but then I got really interested in the herbal sectionrdquo she says

After joining a local herbal study group she gained the confidence and support she needed to begin putting in to practice what she learned ldquoIt gives me a warm feeling inside to help The more I take the chance to offer help the more confident I get Recently I did a presentation at the West Plains Home Show Before the presentation I asked people on Facebook what they wanted ndash they wanted something on pain relief so I talked about bloodroot for cold sores and cinnamon ginger and turmeric for arthritis and lavender oil for burnsrdquo

Rose suggests ldquoRelax itrsquos not as hard as you think I was interested for years and years and read and kept articles but didnrsquot do much with it Then I learned how easy it is to make herbal tinctures teas and all that Often the ingredients are free to you You just need to get up and pick them

Rose Recommends Hawthorn Berries for Migraines

Use capsules tincture or Dr Christopherrsquos Hawthorn Syrup in doses recommended on bottle to relieve migraines Hawthorn capsules tincture or Syrup can be purchased at a local health food store or you can make up your own For Syrup recipe see the writings of John R Christopher whose books are available at health food stores or online

Rose Scarlet This is one of those accidentally stumbled upon remedies and itrsquos been helpful to people Using hawthorn for migraines is not something that Irsquove read about I learned it through helping a friend who was plagued with migraines At one point she also was having trouble with her heart I picked hawthorn berries off the trees around where I work and made up a hawthorn syrup I sent it to her and when she started taking it the migraines went away Then another friend had migraines and I remembered this first experience I suggested she take hawthorn to relieve the migraines and it worked again

One caution a friend who had diabetes used the Dr Christopher Hawthorn Syrup and it seemed to negatively affect his blood sugar so if you have diabetes use with caution

Sandra Rice Mountain Home AR sriceherbladygmailcom Sandra Rice started her herbal path when she realized that the doctors couldnrsquot help her young daughter recover from a severe immune system deficiency ldquoThe doctors had run out of answers so I went to the health food store and read a reference book that was there I walked out of the store with Echinacea and it helped my daughter That gave me a thirst to learn and I wanted to do more and more I got books and went to seminars and gatherings of people who were interested in different aspects of herbal knowledge like growing or medicinal or wild plant identificationrdquo

Now friends call her and when she can she goes over to visit them and see whatrsquos really going on ldquoBack in the old days doctors went to homes knew everybody and talked to them They knew their environment It helped them know what needed to change Herbalists get to know people It feels goodmdashitrsquos a relationshiprdquo she says

ldquoI get phone calls a lot and I am especially good with spider bites and snake bites I donrsquot have an herb sign plastered to my forehead but people find merdquo

She says that one of the most satisfying things about having this knowledge is the sense of security it gives her ldquoIt makes the world less scary I feel more confident If I needed to I could take care of myself and others This is the way we need to bemdashmore connected to the Earth Walking around in the dirt after it has been tilled is one of the best feelings you can have Doctors have their place but herbalist

13

gardeners-- people who have a knowledge of the community both the people and the land including rivers and hills -- are importantrdquo

Sandrarsquos tip is ldquoHave a group of people you can lean on not just one person If you get confused you can call someone friends and people who are mentors Strive to gather as much information as you can You need to know and identify plants properly and know the safety rules Most herbs are safe but you need to know for surerdquo

Sandra Recommends Snake or Spider Bite Remedy

Echinacea Tincture and Tea Goldenseal Tincture Fresh Plantain leaf andor Plantain Tincture Fresh Boneset Tincture St Johns wort This remedy is best used in consultation with a skilled herbalist Sandra uses the herbs both internally as teas andor tinctures and also externally as poultices and considers that a very important part of the reason shersquos had so much success She also says ldquoTIME is important when starting this remedy The faster you start this remedy the less time the poison damages the area where the bite occurred and the less time it has to damage the bodyrdquo

Make a poultice by taking fresh plantain and chewing it up or mashing it to allow the liquids of the plantain to free up Put the plantain on a piece of gauze or cloth add drops of Echinacea Goldenseal Plantain St Johnrsquos Wort and Boneset tincture on the fresh Plantain and apply to the bite Change poultice every 1-2 hours especially the first 24-48 hours after a bite

Also take the recommended dose of Echinacea Goldenseal Plantain St Johns Wort and Boneset tinctures by mouth every 4 hours

Soak the bite in strong Echinacea tea with Epsom salt just before applying a fresh poultice Do this each time you change the poultice This is very important especially for snake bites Snake bites are usually on a foot or ankle which makes it easy to do the soaks If itrsquos not where you can submerge the body part soak the area by taking a wash cloth and apply it by dipping the wash cloth into the tea and holding it over the affected area repeating this for 10 ndash 20 minutes

Echinacea tincture can be taken internally as often as every 2-3 hours if advised by your herbal consultant

Sandra Rice I think a lot of my success goes back to what my mentors taught memdashitrsquos important to have a sense of what people are willing to do I treated the husband of a friend after he had been in the hospital twice for a snake bite and he was walking 2 days later and able to go on vacation This man wouldnrsquot take Echinacea internally as a tea or tincture so I suggested an Epsom salt soak with the herbs You have to adapt treatments if people wonrsquot do what you suggest When I told this manrsquos wife what he should do she said lsquoHe wonrsquot do thatrsquo so I tried to turn things a little bit and figure out what he would do

Another time a girl in Forsyth got a baby copperhead bite Baby copperheads have more venom than adult snakes The girl was a cheerleader and wasnrsquot going to be able to go the cheerleading competition because she couldnrsquot even put her foot on the ground I treated her and she was able to go the competition She couldnrsquot compete but she could walk around

14

Becky Long Alton MO ozarkianherbsyahoocom Becky Longrsquos family are native Ozarkians and she grew up playing among the herbs on the banks of Ozark streams while her mother fished ldquoI get this awesome feeling in the spring-- that feeling of rebirth I felt that as a child and I still dordquo says Becky

She started getting interested in using herbs for healing in 2003 when she tried Echinacea from the health food store and it helped her ldquoI knew it grew around here and I just wanted to know how to make it into medicine myselfrdquo she says ldquoI had a friend getting into herbs and I thought it would be cool to be able to identify plants in the wild so I could eat them and make medicine from the plants growing around me My knowledge grew slowly I started going on herb walks That is so exciting It keeps the knowledge fresh to go out in the fresh air to learnrdquo

ldquoNow we use herbs at home Several people talk to me about herbs at work They bring in herbs or send me photos to identify them Irsquom in several wild edibles groups on Facebook and I always share information from those into my Facebook newsfeed so people I know see some of that Irsquove learned in those groups to be more confident identifying herbs when I am askedrdquo

ldquoWhen we give people information it builds them up Therersquos an interest out there and itrsquos growing It feels good to be askedndash I know some things off the top of my head Others I look up Mostly the herbs I know are the ones that grow around hererdquo

Becky suggests ldquoStart with the local herbs in your area Choose one and connect with the plant I first connected with poke because it can be used both as food and as medicine and it has to be used with caution My family also used to eat it when I was young so it connects me to my roots and my familyrdquo

Becky Recommends Poke Greens a la Ozarkia Pull tender top leaves of poke when first coming up I take the stem off (not everyone does) Wash it all up Put leaves in a pot and cover with water Bring to a rolling boil and pour off the water Repeat once or twice more Put bacon grease in a skillet and heat until very hot Cut up an onion and add to hot skillet Press out as much water as possible from the cooked poke leaves and add the leaves to the skillet as well Cook until tender then whip up 2 eggs and stir it into the poke Cook until eggs are done

Becky Long I eat poke every year I also use other greens that I donrsquot need to cook in two waters like chickweed shawnee [Virginia Waterleaf] nettles violet leaves and if I find curly dock I will use some of those leaves too

I feel I get all of this energy all of a sudden when I can eat the greens The wild greens have more nutrients than spinach growing where the land is right for them

15

Organic Gardening By Tina Marie Wilcox

Before the advent of chemical fertilizers and pesticides farmers and gardeners plowed or dug the earth

to cultivate plants Farming contributed to the civilization of mankind because food could be produced

and stored near the safety and stability of home rather than by migrating to hunt and gather

Some farmers burned the chaff left on the fields some manured the ground Some moved crops to new

ground when the crops grew poorly Food was produced all over the world interspersed with periods of

abundance and famine

On the scientific front our definition of lsquoorganicrsquo and lsquoinorganicrsquo began in 1807 when a Swedish chemist

Jőns Jakob Berzelius developed a classification system to divide substances which were obtained from

living organisms from substances which were not from living organisms All living creatures and the

substances produced from living things like sugar from sugar cane olive oil from olives and maple syrup

from maple trees were classified as organic Sand water rocks metals and saltmdashvirtually everything

else in the environment was classified as inorganic Chemists used heat to test substances and found

that organics could be changed to inorganics when super heated Inorganics were believed to remain

inorganic and stable forever regardless of how they were treated Organic substances seem to contain

some kind of mysterious lsquovital forcersquo that could not be replicated in the laboratory

In 1827 the German chemist Friedrich Wőhler heated an inorganic substance ammonium cyanate

which became urea an organic substance that leaves our bodies everyday in liquid form As

experiments and thinking continued it was discovered that all substances classified as organic contained

at least one carbon atom Carbon is the tie that binds and splits organic chemistry to and from organic

gardening

The carbon atom can link with other carbon atoms and other elemental atoms to create very long and

strong chains As a result of this characteristic we get carbon dioxide which is used by plants for

photosynthesis and carbon monoxide that pollutes the atmosphere and threatens life on the planet

Scientists through manipulation of the carbon atom have created new substances like plastics super

fuels pesticides artificial sweeteners and margarine

In 1924 Rudolf Steiner of Austria delivered lectures that started a movement called Biodynamic

Gardening Check out wwwbiodynamicscom During the late 1930rsquos a British agricultural scientist Sir

Albert Howard began to publish papers that described methods of fertilizing crops by turning animal

wastes into the soil Now known as the father of organic farming and gardening he was opposed to the

use of artificial fertilizers and poisonous insecticides suggesting instead that farmers observe how

balance is achieved in nature lsquoOrganicrsquo editors began publishing garden and farm magazines to spread

the message of organic gardening throughout Europe and the United States

Now we are gardening and farming in a new century Consumer and organic farmers have worked with

the US government to create standards for growers who market produce as lsquoorganicrsquo Check out the

website wwwamsusdagov for all the information

16

There are as many organic gardening techniques as there are organic gardeners The basic common

denominator is to raise healthy vigorous plants without the use of harmful chemicals If the plants are

grown for food then we want the food to be highly nutritious Regardless of the end use of the plants in

our gardens we want to nourish the environment in which we live Organic gardeners are practicing a

philosophy that man-made substances and improvements on natural substances are foreign often

harmful and unnecessary to grow plants

Foundations All gardening requires input from us including mental physical financial emotional and spiritual

energy As we think about our gardens we need to understand these basic concepts Plants grow all

around us without any input from us These are native and immigrant plants that are well adapted to

the conditions in which they grow The conditions include the climate sun and wind exposure air and

water quality humus micro herd and mineral content of the soil the soil type (sand silt clay loam)

and seasonal rain

We choose the site We decide what part of the country in which we live and garden We place

ourselves in particular climatic zones We decide between country and city gardens When we take the

shovel tiller or plough out to the site we choose where to break ground We choose the plants we

want to grow and research what the lsquochosenrsquo need for optimal growth We can add powdered minerals

and compost to the soil We can bring water to the site We can drain water from the beds We can

provide shade We can make decisions about providing sun We can block wind We can space plants

for air circulation In short gardens are the place in the world where we have the most freedom to

decide to alter interact with and create our own reality

This class addresses organic herb gardening Herbs are beneficial plants and encompass virtually all

plants on the planet To narrow our scope let us agree that we are interested in raising vegetables

edible flowers Mediterranean and native American herbs

The Site Go outside and really look around at the environment What is the lay of the land Is the ground high

and dry down in the bottoms on a slope or flat If you are on a slope where does the sun rise and set

in relation to the garden

Trees and buildings cast shadows and alter the soil Trees take up water and nutrients from the

surrounding soil to live Buildings altered the native soil when they were built Heavy equipment

compacts scrapes and moves topsoil Plumbing electric and telephone lines connect the house to

public utilities and must not be disturbed Repairs and maintenance of the building will take tolls on

gardens and vice versa--we must think about human nature and plant growth

Gardens by definition have boundaries that set them apart from the rest of the site Look at the

established plants on site Do the plants look healthy Are there weeds If there is a lawn what sorts of

grasses grow there Are the plants annuals or perennials How do they multiply and grow How will

you control the growth of the established plants as you defend the boundaries of your new garden

17

Think about defense of your chosen plants by observing the established life forms on site What bugs

live on and around the established plants What wild animals live in the area Do you have pets What

will you do in advance to defend your garden from predators

Now sink a spade in the earth and lift the topsoil Squeeze a fistful and then open your hand If it feels

gritty and does not hold together the site has sandy soil If the consistency reminds you of talcum

powder it is silty soil If it is sticky and retains the shape of your palm it is clay soil If it is crumbly and

dark colored the soil is loam All soil types are good for growing something and all can be altered with

amendments to create a healthy garden

Look at the soil life Are there earthworms Do you see wireworms and grubs Are sow bugs and snails

feeding on the organic matter Soil is teaming with life Some of that life can be seen with the unaided

eye

Smell the soil Is it pleasant sour chemical sweet stinky like rot or potent like digestion Use your

senses to test the site as you decide how to invest your physical and financial energy

Fill the hole left by your soil test with water Fill it to the top As the water soaks in to the surrounding

soil fill the hole again The water should continue to drain fairly rapidly unless you want to grow a bog

garden

Get a soil test done by your State Extension service Tell them what you want to grow The test will tell

you what nutrients are sufficient and deficient for the desired lsquocroprsquo From there you can determine

what amendments to use to bring your soil to the desired level of fertility Soil of all types and fertility

will benefit from the addition of compost

You can be a successful organic gardener without getting a soil test It is important to know if your soil is

acid or alkaline so you can choose the ground minerals you may wish to incorporate For instance

gardeners in south Texas have alkaline soil They do not need to use oyster shells in their gardens

Compost Applying compost to the soil is our first line of organic plant nutrition The compost contains nitrogen

phosphorus potassium calcium and many trace elements It inoculates the growing medium with

beneficial micro- and macro-organisms plus nucleic and carbonic acid Humus in compost holds

nutrients and water and aerates the soil

It is recommended that you make your own compost because it makes sense to turn household and

garden lsquowastersquo in to a valuable garden resource Bagged compost is available on the market but the

materials inside the bag are of unknown origin If you have to buy compost buy close to the source as

in community compost projects and local farmers

Well-made aerobic compost piles are layered with ideal proportions (approximately 70-30) of carbon

(leaves sawdust and dried weeds) and nitrogen (green plant material manure animal fur hair alfalfa

blood meal cotton seed meal soybean meal etc) This ratio is expressed as C N Nitrogen is contained

in every protein molecule Carbon is contained in all organic material

18

Oxygen must be introduced to the pile by turning forking inserting a pipe with holes drilled in it or

layering tree branches throughout to create air space within the pile The pile must be kept evenly

moist When these elements are provided the compost will heat up to 120deg to 150deg F 140deg F is

adequate to pasteurize the heap At the Ozark Folk Center soybean meal is chopped into the piles

every time they are turned The nitrogen (protein) in the soybean meal interacts with undigested

carbon to reheat the pile Several turns of the pile insures even composting of the entire heap

Ground minerals such as soft rock phosphate green sand and crushed oyster shells are layered into the

compost heap when it is first turned The carbonic acid produced by the compost helps to make the

minerals water soluble and available to plants for nutrition Prepared in this way high-quality

pasteurized compost is made at the Heritage Herb Gardens Ground minerals are not necessary to make

compost however it makes sense to put them in an environment that will speed their availability to

plants See the Resources Section sources

Billions of micro-organisms called the ldquoaerobic micro herdrdquo by cutting edge organic gardeners

proliferate in the heap They are energized by oxygen and the sugars contained in carbon and fed by the

organic matter and minerals introduced to the pile

A foul smelling compost heap has either too much protein (chop in carbon sources and aerate) or is too

wet (chop and turn the pile to aerate and cover during extended periods of rain)

Slow working compost needs more time nitrogen water or oxygen In the fullness of time organic

material will be digested and broken down by the micro herd present in the soil We can wait or we can

take action to speed the process

Fertilizer Gardeners and farmers are soil miners Our plants take elements from the soil to grow flower fruit

and make seed In nature leaves and dead plants fall to the surface of the ground Water and soil

organisms break the tissues and digest the elements back into the topsoil We interrupt the natural

cycle when we harvest the plants and clean up the garden taking the elements with us We plant crops

that require more nutrients than are present in the native soil Natural soil fertility varies from garden

to garden It is up to us improve what is naturally present and replace what we use The following is a

description of the major and minor elements needed for plant and soil health

NPK Nitrogen expressed as N is a primary component of protein and amino acids (protein building blocks)

Nitrogen is present in all living tissue Nitrogen combines with other elements Nitrate the compound

produced when nitrogen combines with other elements to make a salt produces green leaves

Ammonia nitrogen expressed as NH is the compound made by nitrogen and hydrogen is used by

plants to produce fruit and seeds Ammonia nitrogen is a gas and volatilizes into the air Too much

nitrogen causes plants to grow too fast and become soft weak and more susceptible to the attack of

insects and disease Nitrogen is not useful to plants during periods of extreme cold and heat

19

The two forms of nitrogen switch back and forth depending upon conditions and other elements in the

soil Blood meal (10-14) ground poultry feathers (15) fish (8) soybean meal (7) and alfalfa

pellets (245) are sources we use for nitrogen

Legumes fix nitrogen from the atmosphere in their root nodules due to bacteria called rhizobium

Beans soybeans vetch alfalfa and peas are grown as cover crops to improve land and may be

interplanted in any garden to add beauty interest and utility to the organically grown landscape

Phosphorus expressed as P helps plants transport and assimilate nutrients During photosynthesis it

helps plants produce sugars Phosphorus is essential for healthy growth strong roots fruit

development and disease resistance Soft rock phosphate (20) bonemeal (15-25) and fish emulsion

(7) provide the highest percentages of naturally occurring phosphorus

Potassium expressed as K and commonly called potash enables plants to develop strong thick stems

tough dermal tissue healthy roots and large plentiful fruit Tough stems and roots resist damage from

cold and drought Strong dermal tissue is not as easily damaged as tender stems Disease organisms

enter plants through injuries In this way potassium helps plants be more resistant to diseases

Potassium plays a leading role in plant sugar production Kelp (225-65) greensand (7) and granite

dust (3-6) are good sources of potassium Hardwood ash (10) is rich in potash but is drying to the

soil and may create an overly alkaline soil if used in large quantities

Calcium expressed as Ca is a major building block for plant tissues and is the major element against

which other elements react to release energy Calcium neutralizes toxins It is needed for all plant

growth throughout the life of the plant Calcium is usually added to soil to correct over acid soil pH in

the form of dolomite lime Crushed oyster shells (35-55) available from feed stores as chicken grit

contain calcium carbonate and trace elements from the ocean Oyster shell particles stay in the soil

over a period of years slowly releasing nutrients

Principal trace elements are needed in such small quantities that compost ground mineral rocks and

the use of agricultural meals such as alfalfa should provide all that is needed Trees and alfalfa are

deeply rooted and reach trace elements contained in the sub-soil Use these and other green plants in

the compost Boron chlorine copper iron magnesium manganese molybdenum sulfur and zinc are

essential to plant growth and fruiting Organic matter holds elements buffers and releases them slowly

to plant roots If nutrient deficiency symptoms occur in plants seek out professional guidance before

resorting to the addition of raw trace elements

Balanced Blending Ground mineral rocks and agricultural meals may be blended to provide fertilizer to plants Bear in

mind that ground rocks and agricultural meals must be released through the action of soil organisms

and chemical reactions in the fullness of time Organic blends will not reflect the same values as

chemical fertilizers Chemical fertilizers are synthesized from coal and natural gas or rock minerals

treated with acids to form salts that can be represented with exact available percentages of soluble

nutrients Agricultural meals differ in nutrient analysis because the content is determined by the health

of the living organism when it was harvested where it was grown and how the fertilizer was processed

20

The nutrient value of ground minerals is represented by the amount of nutrient available in solution and

does not adequately express the long-term release of the minerals in an organically rich soil For

example Soft rock phosphate has a mineral analysis of 0-3-0 but the total mineral content is 32

phosphate Humus in the soil will secrete acid slowly dissolving the ground rock and making it available

to plant roots over a period of several years Greensand granite dust and other rock dusts become

available to plants in the same way

We work with ldquopartsrdquo in our formulas using coffee mugs yogurt containers or coffee cans as measures

If we are blending smaller amounts for container plant growing medium we measure the amendments

with the coffee mug into a coffee can If we are adding amendments to a garden bed or compost pile

we measure parts for larger amounts with a coffee can We maintain the intent to provide balanced

amounts of NPK and trace elements

Agricultural Meals

Alfalfa Meal (rabbit pellets) N 245 P50 K 210 Alfalfa is a legume grown as a cover crop to fix

nitrogen in the soil and used as a high protein feed for animals The roots plunge as deep as 23 feet

capturing and transporting plant nutrients to the surface As a plant fertilizer alfalfa is valued for its

trace element content including sulfur iron magnesium manganese and selenium A Michigan State

University study isolated the growth regulator Triacontanol that when sprayed on a variety of crops

increased growth and yields

Bat guano is mined from caves of Southwest America and the South Pacific coastal islands west of the

Andes Nutrients particularly nitrogen are preserved in mixture of droppings and dead bodies of the

bats Fertilizer values vary from N 5-6 P 25-16 K 0

Bloodmeal is collected from slaughterhouses dried and ground It contains about 14 nitrogen by

weight plus 13 phosphorous Always work it into the soil immediately to avoid attracting animals to

the garden

Bonemeal sold as fertilizer is commonly steamed to remove fats The steaming process decreases the

available nitrogen to 1-2 and increases phosphorus to 30 It also makes grounding easier and faster

resulting in a fertilizer that breaks down quickly in the soil to become available to plants

Feathermeal is a byproduct of the poultry industry Feathers are steamed dried and ground to a meal

that contains 135 nitrogen

Fishmeal is made from dried fish wastes It has 8 nitrogen and 7 phosphorus

Kelp (seaweed) comes from any number of plants that grow in the sea High in potash it also contains

nitrogen potassium trace minerals and chlorophyll Kelp helps to release minerals in the soil and has

growth-producing hormones which aid in plant maturation It is available in dried powdered form and

also liquid concentrate and is easily made into teas

21

Manure whether from horses cattle sheep goats rabbits or poultry not only provides the big three

elements it also provides trace minerals Most importantly it furnishes organic matter which becomes

humus in the soil which in turn helps plants to absorb nutrients Fresh manure which is rich in

nitrogen generally should not be used around plants since it may burn them Horse poultry and sheep

manure are highest in nitrogen and are considered hot It can be put into piles for aging worked into

compost or it can be made into manure tea and fermented for at least 30 days It can be worked into

the garden but should not be planted for at least 4 weeks afterwards On the other hand aged or

composted manure can be worked into the garden or made into tea Manure tea is especially good

when transplanting and before plants flower

Soybean meal contains 7 nitrogen and 23 potassium

Worm castings are 50 organic matter One analysis shows 05-05-03 plus 11 trace minerals The

food source of the earthworms will determine the analysis of the castings

Mineral Meals Oyster shells contain calcium ranging from 35-55 40 carbon dioxide and at least 8 trace elements

They are crushed and sold at feed stores for poultry

Granite Meal contains 1-4 total potassium plus 67 silica and 19 trace elements

Greensand also called Glauconite contains 7 total potassium silica and 32 trace elements

Rock phosphate contains 32 total phosphorus 32 calcium and 11 trace elements

Sul-Po-Mag contains 22 potassium 11 magnesium 22 non-acid forming sulfur Do not use with

dolomitic limestone because it too has magnesium

Fertilizer Blends Spring and early summer mix 1 part blood meal 11-0-0

1 part fish meal 10-2-2

1 part bone meal 5-12-0

1 part kelp meal 1-05-25

2Tbls sugar ________

27-145-45 divided by the four major nutrient sources equals 68-36-1

Late Summer and Winter Mix

22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______

17-145-45 divided by the three nutrient sources equals 56-48-15

These meal mixes are used as ldquofast foodrdquo for plants and are used in small amounts in planting holes

worked into vegetable plots before planting and dug in as a side dressing as needed during the growing

season We use meal mixes in our growing medium for container plants Adjustments to the formulas

are made when needed

Botanical Teas Botanical teas are made with water and botanical and mineral fertilizers Preparing cold-infusions or

sun tea extracts the essential oils vitamins and minerals of the fertilizers and suspends them in solution

The tea is brewed the solids and sediments strained and the tea is sprinkled around plant roots or

sprayed on plant leaves The strained solids are added to the compost pile We recycle the original

fertilizer solids through the compost pile the plants take up the nutrients they need and the excess is

flushed out into the surrounding soil to be assimilated If botanical teas are ldquobrewedrdquo for three days

and stirred or boxed every day friendly flora or ldquoaerobic micro herdrdquo of the tea will grow which in turn

will increase the aerobic micro herd of the soil

Teas are used when planting or transplanting to feed plants during the growing season when we water and given as a tonic to ailing plants Teas with high amounts of nitrogen should only be used during periods of active growth Teas can be used strained or unstrained in the garden but are better strained when used on plants growing in containers or for foliar feeding

The ldquoaerobic micro herdrdquo is a coined phrase to name the beneficial soil organisms that consume fungal

and bacterial diseases break down organic matter into humus help minerals become water soluble and

make nutrients available to our plants

Foliar teas must be well filtered so that they do not clog up the sprayer Pour the mixture through a strainer lined with fine cheesecloth or use a jelly bag Use a fine mist on the underside of leaves in the late afternoon and very early morning and never during periods of temperature extremes Late afternoon is the best because pores on the underside of the leaves tend to open at night The pH of the tea should be slightly acid about 60-65 Test the tea and add either a bit of baking soda to increase alkalinity or vinegar to increase acidity

To Make a Botanical Tea Get a five gallon plastic bucket and add to it a small coffee can of natural fertilizer Fill the bucket with

water and add a tablespoon of molasses Molasses speeds up microbial growth especially bacteria Box

it back and forth to an empty bucket back and forth If desired let it age three days boxing it back and

forth at least once per day The boxing or stirring adds oxygen which keeps aerobic bacteria happy and

23

growing Sometimes we add humic acid andor enzymes to the formulas to increase the growth and

vitality of container and garden plants

Household Tea or Grey Water

Over the years we have lived in drought-like situations in different places When water is plentiful we

donrsquot think about how much we use but when it is in short supply we realize what a precious

commodity it is So we recycle water whenever we can When we make a smoothie we rinse out the

blender and water our plants with this nutritious water We rinse the grounds from our coffeepots and

the teaherbs from our teapots swishing the water around to loosen the particles and use that to water

or pour on the compost pile Whenever we boil a large pot of water to cook pasta or fill the canner for

a hot water bath afterwards we let the water come to room temperature and use it for watering We

also wash our dishes using biodegradable soap in a basin and use another basin for rinse water Once

room temperature we use this grey water to water plants too The nutrients from this saved water are

indeed a kind of household tea which provide plants with vitamins and minerals that otherwise would

be thrown away everyday

Natural Fertilizers for Botanical Teas Blue green algae (spirulina and chlorella) are highly nutritive human supplements containing protein B

vitamins and a host of other attributes The protein contains nitrogen and B vitamins are used to reduce

shock when transplanting

German chamomile flowers Matricaria recutita have antifungal properties that we believe prevents

damping-off disease in seedling flats Flowers are steeped in cold water for one or two days strained

and sprayed on germination media just before planting

Herbs and Greens contain minerals vitamins enzymes and essential oils that we process in water for

our bodies and our gardens We research the anti-fungal and insect repellent herbs to make remedies

We have an over abundance of some plants and are happy to use the bounty in botanical teas to nourish

the garden Cold water extracts much of the nutritive qualities from plants for use in the garden We

gather the plants roughly chop them and cover with cold water We leave the tea to macerate for

three days then strain the liquid We used the finished tea as a concentrate adding it to irrigation

water or use it undiluted around plants in need of stronger lsquomedicinersquo

Compost when well made is our first line of organic plant nutrition The compost contains nitrogen


beneficial micro- and macro-organisms (an aerobic micro herd) plus nucleic and carbonic acid Compost

tea is a mainstay in our feeding and watering programs It never hurts to use compost in a botanical tea

blend

Fish emulsion is made from dried ground fish waste The odor can be offensive to some and stays

around for a day or two However it is a fast-acting fertilizer and makes a good tea for transplants and

throughout the growing season N 4-10 P 1-9 K 3-19

24

In an organic system we are concerned with feeding the soil which in turn will feed the plants

Mulch Mulch can be likened to a security blanket for the soil and the plants growing in it In summer mulch

retains moisture in the soil slowly releases nutrients and suppresses the germination of weed seeds In

winter mulch helps to hold cold in the soil reducing the amount of heaving caused by alternate freezing

and thawing and helps perennials stay dormant in late winter

Deeply rooted plants such as trees and shrubs can be mulched with hardwood or pine bark Bark will

use nitrogen from the topsoil as it breaks down The roots of these plants will not be adversely affected

by the loss of nitrogen though it is a good idea to dust the ground with a nitrogen source before adding

the bark mulch

Straw is used around vegetables and annual herbs and flowers Like bark it will use nitrogen from the

topsoil but not so much Straw breaks down quickly within two years contributing humus to the soil

structure It is prudent to add organic fertilizer with nitrogen to the topsoil before mulching with straw

Squash bugs and blister beetles take refuge in mulch It is good to remove and compost or turn the

straw into the soil after growing plants that invite these pests to the garden

I would have to be very desperate to ever use hay in my gardens again Hay introduces so much weed

seed that it is difficult to find the benefit of using it

Mediterranean herbs need mineral mulch This can be coarse sand crushed oyster shell granite dust

and greensand Pebbles are also good The idea is to provide fast-drying mulch that slowly adds

minerals to the soil Fungal diseases that attack the Mediterranean plants are controlled in this way

Preparing New Ground Unless you are going completely natural the new garden will need boundaries to visually define and

defend Boundaries keep the peace between those that mow and those that garden Edge with bricks

stone logs milled ties or plasticmetal edging buried in the ground

A prudent extra step is to dig out established plants and topsoil from a path around the outer

circumference of the new garden The topsoil from the path is transferred to the growing beds Edging

can be installed on the outer boundary The path is filled with bark shells stone or gravel to bring the

path back up to level with the surrounding lawn Encroaching lawn grasses and weeds can then be

controlled with flame boiling water horticultural vinegar very strong soap solution or other

environmentally friendly weed control measures The controls will be performed on the path rather

than up close to the garden plants and soil

If there is wildlife in the area or you have pets the best thing to do is put fencing up on the front end of

the project It is frustrating to do all the work in a garden only to have it eaten tread and lain upon or

dug up by animals

25

The strictly organic way to start a new garden is to completely dig out the established plants with a

spading fork Spade up the soil Get the weeds roots and all Shake the soil off the roots Dry the

weeds in the sun and then add them to the compost If the established plants are annuals and easily

killed perennials then tilling and plowing is possible Bermuda grass bindweed bull nettle poison ivy

and perennial vinca are examples of plants that are only encouraged by tilling and plowing These must

be carefully rooted out Any bit of stem or root left in the new site will live and spread

As soon as the ground is cleared of unwanted plant material compost should be added and light mulch

applied to the surface In this way we nurture the living soil The aerobic micro herd is stimulated when

we introduced oxygen by disturbing the soil They begin to feed on humus By adding compost after

disturbing the ground we provide food to those living creatures instead of forcing them to deplete the

existing humus Mulch retains life-giving moisture protects soil organisms from overheating reduces

annual weed germination and protects the soil from erosion Humus and nutrients are increased as we

feed the life in the soil Thinking of soil as a living organism is key to successful organic gardening

Bibliography Anderson Arden The Anatomy of Life and Energy in Agriculture Kansas City MO Acres USA 1989

Asimov Isaac The World of Carbon New York London Collier Macmillan Publishers 1979

Bradley Fern and Ellis Barbara Rodalersquos All-New Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening Emmaus PA

Rodale Press Inc 1992

Staff Organic Gardening magazine The Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening Emmaus PA Rodale

Press 1983

Resources National Pesticide Telecommunications Network toll free service Monday-Friday 800Am-600PM

Central Standard Time 800 858-7378

Nitron Industries 800-835-0123

PO Box 1447

Fayetteville AR 72702

Identifying Wild Edible Mushrooms

Presented by Phyllis Williams

Never eat a Mushroom unless you are 100 sure it is an edible mushroom

Parts of a mushroom

26

Season- Mushrooms often come up by seasons

Substrates ndash What the mushroom is growing on- Wood or decaying matter ground living tree

Where the mushroom is found- under what tree in a meadow single or in a group

Cap-color texture size shape

Gills Pores tooth or jelly ndash what is under the mushroom cap

Stem-yes or no And what does it look like

Veil-

Volva-

Odor- Some mushrooms have a sweet odor some musty some rancid etc

Taste ndash ONLY if you have experience with hunting mushrooms Never eat raw ndashtaste and spit out

Spores ndash Place black and white paper together and place mushroom in middle where spores can fall on

each color Cover with plastic bowl and check in about 24 hours Note color of spores

Wash with salt water ndash donrsquot soak

Cooking mushrooms ndash use in any recipe that calls for mushrooms ndash Never eat a wild mushroom raw

NEVER EAT A MUSHROOM UNLESS YOU ARE 100 SURE IT IS AN EDIBLE MUSHROOM

Mushrooms Ethics

1 Ask permission if not hunting on your own property this includes parks Cannot pick mushrooms in

State Parks

27

2 Try to leave a few mushrooms in an area to spread spores for new mycelium growth

3 Gather in a basket or net bag to spores can fall out and spread as you hunt more

4 Be careful not to destroy other nature around you

5 If you are gathering non-edible only take 1 or 2 specimens for ID purposes

6 Never eat mushrooms raw and make sure you gather where no pesticides have been sprayed

7 If you are trying a mushroom for the first time set a few aside in the refrigerator so that if you have a

reaction it can be identified and correct remedy can be given

8 When gathering do not let your unknowns or poison ones touch your edibles Wrap each in foil or wax

paper

Reference

Arora David All That The Rain Promises and Morehellip Ten Speed Press 1991

Lincoff Gary H and Knopf Alfred A The Audubon Society Field guide to North American Mushrooms

Chanticleer Press Inc New York NY 1981

Lyle Katie Letcher The Complete Guide to Edible Wild Plants Mushrooms Fruits and Nuts Falcon

Guides Helena Montana 2010

McKnight Kent H and McKnight Vera Peterson Field Guides Mushrooms Houghton Mifflin Company

New York NY 1987

Miller Orson K Jr Mushrooms of North America EP Dutton New York NY 1977

Pisto John Cooking with Mushrooms Pistorsquos Kitchen Pacific Grove CA 1994

Stone Maxine Missourirsquos Wild Mushrooms Missouri Department of Conservation Jefferson City MO

2010

Tatum Billy Joe Wild Foods Field Guide and Cookbook New York NY 1976

httpwwwmushroomexpertcom

httpwwwmushroominfocom

httpwwwmssforg

httpmushroom-collectingcom

httpenwikipediaorg

httpwwwallaboutmushroomscom

28

Facebook Forays and Workshops ndash Arkansas Mushroom and Fungi Association ndashJay Justice

Saturday May 7

Using Essential Oils in the Garden from the creative herbal home

by Susan Belsinger and Tina Marie Wilcox To be at ease in the great out-of-doors we have to be smart and disciplined We can reduce contact with the pests and speed the healing of the hurts to reduce suffering Tina Marie uses physical barriers against sun bugs and poison ivyoak She applies antiseptic insect

repellent oil to her entire body She wears white long-sleeved cotton blouses and trousers gloves and

boots She tucks her trousers into the tops of her boots and secures the cuffs to her ankles with elastic

straps that fasten with Velcrotrade (These are available in the sporting goods section of stores) Tina Marie

waterproofs her leather boots and gloves with insect repellent neatsfoot oil She dusts her feet and the

inside of her boots with gardenerrsquos foot powder to deter bugs athletesrsquo foot fungus and absorb

perspiration White cotton tea towels sprayed with insect repellent vinegar and draped around her

neck absorb perspiration and reflect sunrays Finally she tops off her gardening uniform with a wide-

brimmed straw hat

chiggers mosquitoes and ticks

Chiggers also known as red bugs Thrombicula alfredduges are soft-bodied mites that pester gardeners

in the Eastern United States They perch on the tops of plants and wait for prey As we work in the

garden chiggers climb onto our bodies find a nice tender place and insert their mouthparts into the

skin It is a myth that they burrow in and live under the skin The chigger larval stage feeds by injecting

an enzyme into the epidermis The enzyme simultaneously breaks down the skin cells and creates

intense itching at the site of the bite The mites have soft bodies To kill many of them before they bite

you simply hand-rub your skin and clothes often by brushing up and down when working in the garden

Mosquitoes and ticks inflict itchy bites that can become infected but even worse they and carry

seriously debilitating diseases Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk and in shady moist areas

They need standing water to reproduce To control their numbers eliminate standing water as much as

possible and consider using ldquoBtrdquo (Bacillius thuringiensis var israelensis) a bacterial larvicide applied to

ponds rain barrels and bird feeders Bt is harmless to all life forms except the larvae of mosquitoes

fungus gnats and black fly

Though ticks are active through the mild days of winter they tend to be most active in the heat of

summer where animals such as deer cattle and even lizards roam serving as hosts for feeding and

breeding Adjust the timing and location of your gardening activities to keep yourself safe from harm

29

Use wide masking tape to stick and capture ticks that walk on you When you do get bites treat them

aggressively and seek prompt medical attention if disease symptoms occur

We apply antiseptic insect repellent skin oil several times a day The essential oils speed the healing of

bites and repel insects as they volatilize The carrier oil smothers pests by shutting off their breathing

apparatus in the exoskeleton of their bodies We think that if biting bugs light on oiled skin they dont

like that oily feeling on their little feet and proboscis The moisturizing and therapeutic effects of the oil

are enjoyable as it protects us from some insect bites This protection may last an hour

The insect-repellent essential oils we find that are most effective are citronella eucalyptus lavender

rose geranium lemon grass patchouli sandalwood and vetiver These oils diluted in a carrier such as

skin-nourishing seed oils vinegar or witch hazel seem to be effective against mosquitoes gnats

chiggers ticks and biting flies We have not found a repellent that is 100 effective Essential oils are

volatile by nature this means they evaporate quickly and must be reapplied regularly to work

antiseptic insect-repellent skin oil

Avoid applying this preparation to mucus membranes your eyes open wounds and rashes Oregano

thyme and tea tree are very strong and pungent essential oils so we suggest a skin test first if it burns

when you apply it do not use it or dilute it with more carrier oil

12 cup almond walnut or grapeseed oil

5 drops oregano thyme or tea tree oil

5 drops rose geranium lavender lemon balm peppermint or lemon grass oil

Pour the carrier oil into a clean dark glass bottle and then drop in a total of 10 drops of essential oils Tighten the lid and shake well before every use Label contents in bottle keep out of reach of children Reapply to exposed skin when insects bite Keep the bottle in a cool place and use it within two weeks

Always test products containing essential oils on the inside of the arm before applying to larger areas of

the body

insect repellent herbal vinegar

We pour our vinegars into spray bottles for easy application

2 cups fresh insect repellent herbs

2 cups apple cider vinegar

Crush the herbs with a mortar and pestle Place herbs in a clean glass quart jar and cover with vinegar Use a plastic lid to seal the jar (vinegar corrodes metal) Shake everyday for 3 to 7 days It is best to filter the vinegar in a week and use it up within the year The essential oils of the plants are volatile and degrade with time Store the vinegar in a cool dark place Label contents in bottle keep out of reach of children

30

The following herbs are some of our favorite insect repellents

catnip (Nepeta cataria)

East Indian lemon grass (Cymbopogon flexuosus)

eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

lemon eucalyptus (E citriodora)

lavender (Lavandula angustifolia and L x intermedia)

lemon thyme (Thymus xcitriodorus)

mountain mint (Pycnanthemum albescens)

insect-repellent neatrsquos-foot oil

To discourage biting bugs from hitching a ride we waterproof our leather boots with this combination It

can also use it on leather gardening gloves and leather tool pouches

12 teaspoon each eucalyptus and citronella essential oils

7 12 fluid ounces bottle neatrsquos-foot oil

Measure the essential oils directly into the neatrsquos-foot oil bottle and shake well before each use Apply to clean leather boots with a cloth The leather will darken Do not use on suede leather Store in a cool dark place The storage life of this repellent is indefinite however it will repel more bugs when applied to boots rather than left to sit in the bottle Tip Keep the application cloth in a labeled sealed container so that it can be used again Label contents in bottle keep out of reach of children

gardeners foot powder Athletes foot fungus loves damp conditions caused by perspiration and watering chores Lavender and

tea tree combat the fungus and the powders absorb moisture

14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda

10 drops each lavender and tea tree oil

31

Measure all ingredients into a small bowl Mix thoroughly and store in an airtight container Dust feet lightly before putting on shoes and after bathing Store in a cool dark place Use within one year Label contents in jar keep out of reach of children

jewelweed vinegar Jewelweed Impatiens capensis is a native plant in the Eastern United States that grows mostly in wet

places The plantrsquos juice is a handy remedy for any itchy skin irritation It grows in our gardens during the

summer We simply crush the stems and leaves then apply the juice to rashes and bites Preserve the

plantrsquos juice in vinegar to keep it handy for use at any time Vinegar is antibacterial and stings a bit We

use organic apple cider vinegar when we prepare this and refer to this infusion as invincible vinegar


1 cup fresh crushed jewelweed

Place the jewelweed in a clean glass quart jar Cover with vinegar and seal the jar with a plastic lid (vinegar corrodes metal) Label contents in jar keep out of reach of children Shake everyday for 3 days Strain the vinegar through cheesecloth Store jewelweed vinegar in a tightly-sealed dark glass container As we need it we pour the vinegar into a spray bottle for easy application Vinegar will attract vinegar flies if left unsealed After one year the jewelweed vinegar seems to lose some potency Make fresh every season Variation After straining add ten drops each insect repellent and antiseptic essential oils to one-pint of

the vinegar We pour the vinegar into a spray bottle for easy application We use the spray to treat itchy

skin conditions and to revitalize the repellent cloud around us

Always test for individual allergic reactions to homemade substances before applying them to large

areas of the body Simply drop a little of the concoction on the inner arm (elbow crease is convenient)

and wait 30 minutes to an hour especially if you have allergies or sensitive skin If the skin does not

redden or blister you should be good to go

The Medicinal and Health Benefits of Chile Peppers presented by

Susan Belsinger

Chiles are good for us

Most red chile peppers are quite rich in vitamin C as well as vitamin A Green chiles as well as

yellow peppersmdashboth of which are essentially immature fruitsmdashcontain a lesser amount of both

32

vitamin C and A Chile peppers also are a good source of B vitamins especially vitamin B6

Peppers contain potassium magnesium iron and folic acid

A few reasons why we should eat chiles daily

Chiles fire up the digestive system and vitalize the stomach colon as well as the lungs

stimulating and protecting digestive mucous membranes

They are used to treat colds flus and fevers as well as bronchial complaints Capsaicin stimulates

receptor cells in the body which signals the bronchial glands to produce more water which thins

down mucus

The capsaicin in chiles increases blood circulation and body temperature which causes

perspiration to cool down the body

When applied to the skin the capsaicin in chiles is used to treat aches and pains in joints and

muscles A liniment containing capsaicin helps to desensitize muscle and skin pain arthritis

rheumatism and shingles

The antioxidants in capsicums help to prevent damage to body tissues In countries where chiles

are consumed regularly the people have a much lower rate of cardiovascular diseases

Here is an excerpt from an interview with registered dietician Erin MacDonald In your

opinion what are the top 5 benefits of eating chili peppers

1 They can help lower LDL (ldquobadrdquo ) cholesterol which can reduce your risk of heart disease 2 They can help lower blood sugar levels which is important for people with diabetes or insulin

resistance 3 They are an excellent source of Vitamin C which acts as an antioxidant boosts immunity and

helps the body synthesize collagen 4 They are a great source of magnesium potassium manganese and iron which help with blood

pressure and controlling heart rate 5 Studies have shown them to be anti-cancer

httpwwwchilipeppermadnesscomchili-pepper-health-benefitsinterviews-with-health-

professionals-about-the-health-benefits-of-chili-peppersan-interview-with-erin-macdonald-about-the-

health-benefits-of-chili-peppers

Jethro Klossrsquo Herbal Liniment

This liniment recipe from Back to Eden written by Jethro Kloss and first published in 1939 has been

used by herbalists for many years He recommends it ldquofor all pains painful swellings bruises boils skin

eruptions of any kinds pimples etc apply every few minutes for an hour or twordquo

33

He also says it is effective for headaches (applied to the temples back of neck and forehead)

rheumatism toothache or sores inside the mouth (applied inside the mouth and outside the jaw) for

pain or cramps in any part of the body (applied externally) and for athletersquos feet

2 ounces powdered myrrh

1 ounce powdered golden seal

12 ounce cayenne pepper

1 quart rubbing alcohol (70)

Mix all ingredients together and let stand for seven days shaking well every day Decant bottle and

label

Infusion with Lemon Maple Syrup and Cayenne

Back in the late 60s when I spent a lot of time studying yoga in an ashram I was introduced to this

drink as well as golden milkmdashtwo wonderfully soothing and healthy beverages This beverage has also

been used as the basis for a detoxifying master cleanse in many weight loss programs however that is

not why I drink it I enjoy it for its taste and for its throat-soothing properties

Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon

About 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

Pinch or two of cayenne

About 8 to 10 ounces of near-boiling water

In a large mug combine the lemon juice syrup and cayenne Pour the hot water into the cup and stir

well Sip and enjoy

Marionrsquos Habanero Shrub

Our friend Marion Spear makes shrubs from all kinds of fruits and introduced us to shrub made with

habaneros it is killermdashhers is quite pungent The Herbinrsquo League musical duo Marion Spear and Tina

Marie belt down shots of Habanero Shrub when singing at outdoor festivals It really clears the pipes

34

We find this shrub an invigorating delicious tonic and it helps keep germs at bay It really helps with a

sore throat and colds and flus We have made this with habaneros fish peppers and fatali (as in fatal)mdash

and found all of them to work Often we combine chile pepper shrub with equal amounts of elderberry

shrub for a double whammy against cooties For less heat use fewer chiles

The recipe is easily multiplied we make the vinegar infusion by the quart or half gallon and add honey

to sweeten to taste The original recipe calls for near equal amounts of infused vinegar to honey

however Susan prefers less honey using about 2 to 3 cups honey to 1 quart vinegar For the best

medicine use local honey from near where you live We give it as gifts to friends and family who come

back for more

Besides sipping this shrub we add it to cocktails tomato juice salsas soups and sauces and it adds a

great kick to cabbage en escabeche coleslaw wilted greens and it is excellent in salad dressings

Makes 2 pints

About 12 cup ripe prepared blemish-free habanero peppers or other chile peppers

About 2 cups organic apple cider vinegar

Less than 2 cups honey

Wearing rubber gloves wash and halve or quarter chile peppers Put the chilies in a sterilized pint-size

jar and pour in the vinegar Cover tightly Place jar in a cool place out of direct sunlight We shake the jar

daily to activate the infusion process

In two to four weeks taste the vinegarmdashsometimes we leave the chiles in the vinegar for up to three

months After the vinegar has been infused with the flavor and heat of the habaneros and you are

happy with the tastemdashstrain out chiles Measure the infused vinegar and stir in honey to taste

Fire Cider Vinegar

This elixir is well known amongst herbalists I make this every fall after I harvest my chiles and

horseradish to use throughout the winter months for a general tonic and to fight colds and flu

Rosemary Gladstar created this recipe the first time I tasted Fire Cider Vinegar was when I took

her ldquoScience amp Art of Herbalismrdquo course in 2004 and have been making my own version ever

since it is potent

To make fire cider prepare ingredientsmdashI dont really measuremdashjust sort of follow the recipe

loosely I usually double the recipe so I have plenty for my family and some to share I try to

remember to shake it daily and let it infuse for anywhere from 4 to 6 weeksmdashalthough if I need

it I use it even after just 24 hours of infusion Sometimes I strain it off and other times I just

decant it as needed Some folks like to add a little bit of honey to make it more palatable which

also is great for coughs or a scratchy throat

35

Makes 1 generous quart

12 cup grated horseradish root

12 cup chopped onion

12 cup grated gingerroot

18 cup chopped garlic

1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper or 1 or 2 minced cayenne peppers

1 or 2 lemons halved lengthwise and sliced

1 quart organic apple cider vinegar

About 1 cup honey optional

Place all ingredients in a quart jar and cover with apple cider vinegar Cover tightly and label jar Steep

for 8 weeks strain into a clean jar add honey if desired

Fermenting Chile Peppers

The benefits of fermenting chiles rather than pickling them are many Fermentation results in

probiotics which are great for our digestive systems Since there is no need to heat the peppers as

in canning they retain more vitamins and minerals so they are a fresh vital food

Mountain Feed amp Farm is a great source for fermentation products from crocks and airlocks like

the ldquoPerfect Picklerrdquo as well as canning jars lids and farout drinking lids not to mention

fermentation books Sign up for their weekly newsletter or check out their recipes which are full

of great information and inspired preservation techniques Here is a link with an easy recipe for

fermenting your own chile peppers httpwwwmountainfeedcomblogslearn39471745-

fermented-jalapeno-peppers-the-most-delicious-pickled-peppers

Here is a link to a video of me showing you how to ferment chile peppers

httpwwwvegetablegardenercomitem61883fermenting-chile-peppers

36

Susan Belsinger became an official chile-head while traveling through the southwestern U S and

northern Mexico doing research for New Southwestern Cooking co-authored with Carolyn Dille

Macmillan 1985 and reprinted as Classic Southwestern Cooking Prima Press 1994 and then again in

1996 by Jessicarsquos Biscuit Co-author of The Chile Pepper Book A fiesta of fiery flavorful recipes

Interweave Press 1999 Susan has grown (well over 50 types) and cooked with capsicums for over 30

years She also contributed to Chile Peppers one of the 21st Century Gardening series published by

Brooklyn Botanic Garden and has published numerous The Chile Pepper Calendar over the years (look for

her newest calendar Chile Peppers Herb of the Year 2016)

2

Proceedings for Friday May 6 2016

Celebrate Capsicum Herb of the Year 2016trade

presented by

Susan Belsinger


Excerpted from Capsicum Herb of the Year trade and printed with permission by Marge Powell

Hot peppers bring to mind images of Mexican dishes Thai food and maybe even chutney But letrsquos

venture a little further afield from food and think about hot peppers and what they can do for our skin

and joints and circulation Penelope Ody recommends the infused oil of hot pepper for use in chills and

if the skin is not broken the oil can be heated and applied AROUND a varicose ulcer to encourage blood

flow away from the ulcer She also advises it as a massage oil for arthritis(1) Vicki Pitman cautions

against prolonged use in pregnancy but advises that hot pepper can counter shock and normalize blood

pressure though she notes the ability of hot pepper to quickly penetrate tissue her only

recommendation is a preparation to be taken internally of ldquo14 to 1 teaspoon (powdered dried

peppers)hellip mixed with juice or waterrdquo( 2) Robin Rose Bennett says she sprinkles cayenne powder mixed

with dusting powder into socks or shoes in winter to keep feet warm She does warn that it will stain

your socks(3) These authors generally refer to cayenne pepper as hot pepper or red peppers But there

are far more hot peppers than the common cayenne and they are not all red Some are yellow some are

orange or purple The effective element of these peppers is capsaicin Jim Duke notes that an ointment

with capsaicin has successfully treated postherpetic neuralgia in shingles as well as arthritis and has

been effective in treating psoriasis(4) Clearly the external use of hot peppers has a significant and

beneficial history

What follows is a formula for creating an ointment used externally that takes advantage of the capsaicin

in hot peppers Technically an ointment or a salve has no water as an ingredient However this

formula calls for the addition of two different tinctures Tinctures are made by infusing alcohol with

1 Ody Penelope 1993 The Complete Medicinal Herbal New York NY Dorling Kindersley Inc

2 Pitman Vicki 1994 Herbal Medicine the Use of Herbs for Health and Healing New York NY Barnes amp Noble Inc

3 Bennett Robin Rose 2014 The Gift of Healing Herbs Berkeley CA North Atlantic Books

4 Duke PhD James A 1997 The Green Pharmacy New York NY Rodale Inc

3













muscle aches
























4



The pepper oil


What you will need

Disposable gloves


12 ounces olive oil

A blender


How to do it













The ginger tincture


What you will need




5


How to do it







The ointment


What you will need

Disposable gloves







2 ounces emu oil








2 strainers

6

A stick blender





product



















is finished









7




Chili Powder











Makes about 2 cups





















8












9








wonderful vacation









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









3













muscle aches
























4



The pepper oil


What you will need

Disposable gloves


12 ounces olive oil

A blender


How to do it













The ginger tincture


What you will need




5


How to do it







The ointment


What you will need

Disposable gloves







2 ounces emu oil








2 strainers

6

A stick blender





product



















is finished









7




Chili Powder











Makes about 2 cups





















8












9








wonderful vacation









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









4



The pepper oil


What you will need

Disposable gloves


12 ounces olive oil

A blender


How to do it













The ginger tincture


What you will need




5


How to do it







The ointment


What you will need

Disposable gloves







2 ounces emu oil








2 strainers

6

A stick blender





product



















is finished









7




Chili Powder











Makes about 2 cups





















8












9








wonderful vacation









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









5


How to do it







The ointment


What you will need

Disposable gloves







2 ounces emu oil








2 strainers

6

A stick blender





product



















is finished









7




Chili Powder











Makes about 2 cups





















8












9








wonderful vacation









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









6

A stick blender





product



















is finished









7




Chili Powder











Makes about 2 cups





















8












9








wonderful vacation









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









7




Chili Powder











Makes about 2 cups





















8












9








wonderful vacation









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









8












9








wonderful vacation









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









9








wonderful vacation









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









10












11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









11









desired





12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









12












13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









13











14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









14









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









15





















gardening
















16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









16












and seasonal rain
























17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









17











eye





garden




















18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









18



































19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









19






































20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









20












Agricultural Meals












the garden











21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









21



























22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









22



1 part kelp 1-05-25

1Tbls sugar _______























23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









23
































blend




24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









24









the bark mulch























dug up by animals

25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









25



















Press 1983




PO Box 1447





Parts of a mushroom

26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









26







Veil-

Volva-








Mushrooms Ethics


State Parks

27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









27









paper

Reference







New York NY 1987




2010




httpwwwmssforg


httpenwikipediaorg


28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









28


Saturday May 7










brimmed straw hat


















29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









29






















the body






30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









30


















14 cup cornstarch

14 cup baking soda


31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









31

















Susan Belsinger




32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









32








down mucus





















33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









33









label






Makes 1 cup

Juice of 1 lemon





well Sip and enjoy





34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









34









back for more



Makes 2 pints










Fire Cider Vinegar





since it is potent







35
























36









35
























36









36









medicinal herb hike and workshop schedule friday, may 6, 2016

Documents