December 2021 – Blackbird's Backyard Pharmacy

An Herb and Spice Holiday Season

Oh the sights and smells of the winter holiday season. As the days get colder, shorter and darker our physical and energetic body feels the need to rest. The process of journeying inward can lead to stagnation. That is why winter traditions incorporate the aesthetics and medicinal properties of certain plants. Spices known to stimulateContinue reading “An Herb and Spice Holiday Season”

Christmas Fruit Cake (SAFFRON)

This year I ordered organic crocus bulbs. I have always wanted to grow my own saffron. Marigolds and Calendula are a poor substitute. I planted them in large pot and moved them indoors for the winter to prevent the squirrels from digging them up. They are up and I look forward to flowers soon. ThisContinue reading “Christmas Fruit Cake (SAFFRON)”

Gluten Free Gingerbread (Ginger)

There are a lot of holiday desserts from my childhood. The first one that always comes to mind this time of year is gingerbread. Fresh out of the oven and still warm enough to melt a bit of butter that you have spread on a slice. I have tweaked our family recipe over the years.Continue reading “Gluten Free Gingerbread (Ginger)”

Headache Tincture (BASIL)

I have two girls in puberty at the moment. My youngest has started to have migraines. They are terrible, starting out of the blue with blurred vision, light sensitivity, a pounding headache, tears, and the need to lie down in a dark bed room for hours. In the late morning, as a preventative, I haveContinue reading “Headache Tincture (BASIL)”

Acne Tincture (OREGON GRAPE)

I have teenaged girls in the house. I am motivated to keep their skin healthy as it scars easily. A good acne tonic has herbs that sooth inflammation, reduce irritation, clear heat, cleanse “the blood”, fight infection, support the liver/other organs, promotes the movement of waste products like hormones, inhibits the growth of micro-organisms, healContinue reading “Acne Tincture (OREGON GRAPE)”