blackbirdsbackyard

Herbal Honey (CLARY SAGE)

If you have not tried to make an electuary or herb infused honey you are in for a treat! They are a plant based medicine that can be made all year round. In summer I infuse fresh flowers like elder, hyssop, rose or lavender. As a honey I drizzle it over fresh fruit or iceContinue reading “Herbal Honey (CLARY SAGE)”

Chilblain Salve (horehound)*

My teen daughter gets the worse chill blains on her hands and feet this time of year. She has the bad habit of going outside without shoes and socks. Like her peer she is often underdressed during winter. I remember those years of bundling her up in wool to protect her vital energy and “kidneys”.Continue reading “Chilblain Salve (horehound)*”

Matcha and Fresh Mint Sugar Scrub

February can be a cold, dry, and dark month. A time when the mind and skin feels dry and in need of and care. This scrub is fresh and invigorating. It helps to move energy and blood, clearing stagnation. It exfoliates the skin , leaving it silky smooth, nourished, hydrated and “brighter”. (properties of greenContinue reading “Matcha and Fresh Mint Sugar Scrub”

Herbal Bundles (feverfew)

Some years there is an overabundance of particular plants. I try to plan for this as I harvest during the herbal year. They can be very useful to decorate my care packages. I dry them tied in bundles in my large dehydrator. This keeps their shape and vibrant pigments. So pretty when tied to theContinue reading “Herbal Bundles (feverfew)”

Basil, Lemongrass, Lime, and Ginger Lotion Bars*

My skin gets so dry in a high desert climate. Lotion bars are a great way to easily restore it to a healthy an happy condition. I like to apply one right as I get out of the shower. It does not leave a greasy residue on my clothing when I get dressed. The heatContinue reading “Basil, Lemongrass, Lime, and Ginger Lotion Bars*”