Empowering Self-Reliance and Sustainable Living & Microbiomes
Empowering Self-Reliance and Sustainable Living & Microbiomes
I can feel it … the pulse of something long planted, now pushing its way to the surface. The Living Ground Store and Café is almost ready to open. And standing here, on this edge between what has been vision and what is becoming reality, I’m carrying a thousand stories …
In my 30s, roaming Canada’s wild corners, I felt stuck, like life had dulled my edges. Nettles were just childhood foes then, stinging my shins during backyard adventures. But one quiet day, I brewed a nettle seed tea, curious about its emerald-green glow. That nutty, vibrant sip woke me up, …
Recently, our local community in Vilcabamba, Ecuador, has been hit with a nasty chest infection that’s been especially tough on the kids. Picture our schools here—mostly open-air classrooms nestled in the valley, surrounded by lush greenery and mountain air. With this latest infection, many children have been diagnosed with bronchitis, …
When I was 30, I had the opportunity to visit my parents in South Africa, and I encountered a mountain-top experience that left a lasting imprint on my heart. Standing before the majestic Drakensberg mountains, I was enveloped by the joy of a breathtaking view, with flowering trees adding vibrant …
Parsley, often underrated as a simple garnish, is a herb with a rich history and a plethora of medicinal benefits that deserve recognition. Its journey from a seed containing the creative essence of earth and sun is a true marvel of nature. As the seed germinates, it initiates a transformation …
Strawberries, with their vibrant red color and luscious taste, are beloved by many worldwide. These juicy fruits are not only a delightful treat but are also packed with nutrients and health benefits, making them a popular choice among fruit lovers and health enthusiasts alike. The cultivated garden strawberry (Fragaria × …
Plantain, often seen as just a common weed, holds a remarkable position in the world of natural medicine. Known scientifically as Plantago, this perennial herb is easily identified by its broad, oval-shaped leaves that feature prominent parallel veins, growing in a basal rosette pattern. The leaves, smooth-textured and dark green, …
The fascinating world of tansy reveals both its historical significance and contemporary applications, showcasing a plant that has captivated human interest through the centuries. Tansy, or Tanacetum vulgare, with its rhizomic nature, sends a network of roots beneath the earth, mirroring the cycle of life itself. A resilient perennial, tansy …
Elderberry, with its vibrant clusters of berries, has long enchanted those who seek not only its deep, sweet taste but its powerful health benefits. To deepen the relationship between myself and this ancient botanical, I began crafting a yearly batch of elderberry syrup. By incorporating other natural sources of Vitamin …
In the realm of herbs, catnip stands as a silent testament to the balance of nature and the joy it can bring to both humans and animals alike. While many recognize catnip for its euphoric effects on cats, it emerges as a multifaceted herb full of surprises and benefits. Beyond …