Empowering Self-Reliance and Sustainable Living & Microbiomes
Empowering Self-Reliance and Sustainable Living & Microbiomes
As a young woman tending to my first little garden, I was filled with an earnest determination to create a flourishing outdoor space free from weeds. I had read that a clean slate was essential for any successful garden—absolutely devoid of invasive plants that would choke out the good stuff. …
As a child, walking on a back road, I saw a plant I had never seen before. It was tall. It had big, prickly leaves and big purple flowers. I reached out to touch it and as soon as I touched a leaf, I felt a sharp pain and pulled …
Basil, renowned for its aromatic leaves and unique taste, stands as both a culinary delight and a medicinal treasure. Its vibrant green leaves, fragrant aroma, and distinctive flavor have captivated chefs, herbalists, and home cooks for centuries, making it a beloved herb in gardens and kitchens around the world. But …
More Than Just Another Basil Growing up, basil has always been that reliable companion in my garden. Her aroma and flavor have filled my kitchen with bursts of joy, a familiar presence that makes every dish sing. I can’t think of cooking without her, whether it’s tossing her leaves into …
Not all gut herbs kill. Some nourish. Some soothe. Some create the conditions where balance naturally returns without force or disruption. Aloe vera is one of those herbs. Most people think of aloe as something you put on sunburn. And yes, the gel from its thick, succulent leaves does cool …
Ketchup (tomato ketchup) and mustard (along with mayonnaise) are more than just everyday condiments; they carry a rich history and have become essential staples in kitchens worldwide. These sauces have evolved through centuries, bridging culinary traditions and inviting creativity with every use. For a chef, resorting to store-bought versions of …
From my first encounter with yarrow in the wild pastures of Canada, this unassuming herb captured my heart and soul. Known as Soldier’s Woundwort, yarrow is a beacon of resilience and healing, with its delicate white flowers and finely cut leaves exuding an aura of ancient wisdom. It’s a plant …
Roses, with their velvety petals and intoxicating fragrance, have captivated humans for centuries, not only as symbols of love and beauty but also as powerful healers in the natural world. Rooted deeply in cultural and medicinal traditions, roses offer a wide range of health benefits that enhance well-being and promote …
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is well known as a tropical spice. We grow it for its spicy and refreshing taste and its delicious aroma. Ginger is a “cultigen,” a plant that has never been discovered in the wild. It’s thought to have originated as a natural hybrid somewhere in the region …
Mexican Tarragon, or “Tagetes lucida,” is like a vibrant thread woven into the rich tapestry of Mexican culture and spirituality. Unlike its more common cousins—French and Russian Tarragon—this hardy herb thrives in warm climates, exuding a charismatic personality that’s both bold and welcoming. Encountering Mexican Tarragon is like meeting an …