Lemon SAFFRON Tea Bread

This is a lovely, aromatic bread, that has the texture of a scone. It is perfect for breakfast or brunch as it is not too sweet. An homemade whipped butter with a bit of lemon peel and honey would be “icing on the cake”.

Lemon Saffron Tea Bread

In a large bowl add the following dry ingredients and mix well…

1/2 TBSP fennel seed, crushed finely

2 cups of unbleached wheat white flour

3/4 cups almond flour

2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/8 tsp of salt

Set aside.

In another bowl cream together……..

1/2 cup of vegetable shortening

3/4 cup of honey

2 eggs

Zest and juice from one medium lemon.

In a small saucepan heat on low… for 15 minutes

1/4 cup of milk with

1/8 tsp of saffron threads

Add this to your dry ingredient bowl.

Lastly stir in the ingredients from your wet ingredient bowl. Mix slowly and gently, just enough to remove any lumps.

Line a loaf pan with parchment paper and butter. Pour in your batter. Bake at 350 for 60 minutes ( until a wooden tester comes out clean). Remove from oven. Cool for 15 minutes. Release from pan onto a cooling rack or cutting board, and let cool for 1 hour.

Once fully cool, the bread needs to be stored in an airtight bag or container. This avoids it drying out too fast. If you live in a humid climate, I would refrigerate it to avoid molding as well.

I recommend a standard icing or glaze with powder sugar and lemon juice. I mixed in a bit of orange/citron marmalade with my glaze. It gave the top of my bread a really professional look. Do this when fully cool or the glaze will not set.

SAFFRON is the stigmas from the Crocus sativus plant. This plant is cultivated in many countries and can be easily grown in US gardens. In the early spring an onion like corm sends up several thin, long leaves from its base. The grey/green leaves have hairy edges. and are surrounded by a tubular sheath. In late summer each corm produces 3-4 funnel shaped lilac flowers. It has long red style, 3 yellow stamens and 3 yellow stigmas. 

Saffron thought to be a nervous system tonic. While not common in the West it does show up in Ayurvedic and Tibetan medicine. It helps to calm and regulate many things in the body. Historically small doses have been used for cough, fever, asthma, shock, childhood illnesses, stomach cramps, depression, high cholesterol, insomnia, to increase circulation and as a sedative. This herb is thought to support the liver, digestion and cool heat disorders. Externally it can be used to treat pain and bruises. Saffron is the worlds most expensive spice and a common yellow dye. Saffron compounds are currently being scientifically researched to treat Covid 19 symptoms. This idea comes from an ancient Egyptian medicine containing saffron that is still in use today.

Flavor:bitter, sweet, pungent

Energetics:dry

Element:fire

Contraindications/Caution-can be poisonous and cause kidney damage. A powerful narcotic that can be lethal. Avoid all but the smallest doses. Do not use long term or during pregnancy. Use only under the supervision of an expert practitioner.

Sunrise Chai (Tulsi)

When I drink this tea I imagine the phrase “rosy fingered dawn”. It is perfect hot or iced first thing in the morning. I like to consume it out in my garden before my noisy and demanding teens have gotten up. I savor it while listening to the birds and watching the light slowly change as the sun rises. I feel ready to do my yoga routine and start the day in a really good place. Green tea is great to consume right before exercise.

Sunrise Chai

In a quart sauce pan add…..

1/2 TBSP “gunpowder” green tea

2 green cardamon pods crushed or ground

2 TBSP of dried rose petals

1 TBSP of dried tulsi or finely chopped fresh leaves/tops

1 star anise pod crushed or ground

2 TBSP of fresh milky oat tops or dried oat straw

Pinch of cinnamon powder, cloves, and nutmeg

Pinch of dried ground ginger powder (fresh would over dominate the taste)

Bring 2 cup of water to a boil

Add

1/4 tsp of pink salt

1/8th tsp of baking soda

Lower heat, and simmer for 5-10 minutes, until liquid is reduced by half

Add one cup of ice cold water poured from high above.

Place liquid in an aerator or blender and blend until it turns pink. You can VERY small pinches of baking soda to help the process but be careful as your do not want to ruin the taste.

Strain and let cool

Reheat and add..

1 cup milk or substitute of your choice

Sugar 2-4 TBSP

Reheat and then serve hot or iced. Garnish with dried rose petals

This is based off of an Afghan recipe served at weddings and special occasions.

I have dozens of books on herbal medicine. Many of which are well known and popular. I also have a few books on Ayurveda. I was very disappointed that there was so little about tulsi in my home resources.

A far as a physical description, all varieties of basil will be frost tender annuals. Leaves will be oval shaped and opposite. These will not be downy. “Basil” leaves tend to be smooth and flat, same color top and bottom. Tulsi leaves will be much smaller than cultivated Italian basil, they may be slightly serrated. Tiny flowers will grow in whorled clusters or along a spike at the ends of stems past the large mature leaves. Light pink/purple or white petals are fused, the flower funnel shaped, with a large bottom lip. Hence why it is popular with bumble and native bees. Like other members of the “mint family” , tulsi will be high is volatile oils with a distinctive scent. It will have have square stems. Coloration of leaves and stems will vary just like other “mints” with lots of cultivated varieties. You may see hints of red or purple.

I have decided not to describe the medicinal qualities of tulsi as it it were Italian basil. You can read about that in other posts were I have featured that specific plant. Rather I will only list what is unique or special to tulsi based on internet research.

Tulsi reduces the inflammation associated with viral and bacterial infections. It is thought to purify the blood and remove serious toxins. This plant has a history of being used to treat heat conditions related to the eyes, skin, heart, liver or lungs. As herbal medicine it has been used for kidney stones, migraines, fevers, dental disease, gout, arthritis, stress, anxiety, fatigue, gas, bloating, parasites, poor appetite, ulcers, cancer, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, bronchitis, flu, allergies, asthma, swelling and pain. It may support weight loss by boosting metabolism. It may have anti-aging properties like reducing memory loss and boosting vitality.

As a poultice it has been used to remove venom from bites or stings. As an external wash it may help when there is acne, eczema, scars, hair loss, dandruff, rashes, fungal infections, and aging skin It can be burned as a disinfectant to purify or remove negative energy.

Latin name: Ocinum tenuiflorum/sanctum

Parts used: leaves and flowering tops

Energetics: pungent, bitter, warm, dry. In Ayurveda or vitalistic traditions, Tulsi is used to cool heat conditions.

Element: Fire

Spiritual/Emotional uses: Mastery and accomplishment through self control hard work and confidence. An expanded state of awareness that is positive, protective and supports achieving goals or manifesting dreams. Inspiration. To release any inner tension that constricts the spirit. Helps to increase self-esteem or courage. Can be used in a mild tea, external wash or bath to ease transitions or remove sorrow.

Contraindications: individuals experiencing diabetes, infertility, or who are pregnant. Large quantities may cause diarrhea and nausea.

Gluten Free Bee Balm Cookies

These bee balm cookies have an aromatic scent that is pleasing to the nose and exciting to the taste buds. They are perfect for a book club tea or summer brunch.

Ingredients

1/2 cup salted butter (room temperature). Do not use a coconut oil ingredient substitute.
1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 egg

1/2 cup of almond flour and 1/2 cup of tapioca flour
4 to 5 tbsp chopped fresh or dried bee balm flowers and leaves
4 tsp fresh orange zest or 1 TBSP of powdered orange peel

Pinch of clove, cardamon, and nutmeg

1/2 tsp of almond extract

Instructions

In a medium bowl, beat together the butter, crushed flowers and leaves, fresh orange zest, and sugar until well mixed. Add the flour and mix well.. If the dough is too “wet” try chilling it a bit first before removing it from the bowl. Wrap tightly in parchment paper, roll into a cylinder shape, and chill for about 2 hours.

Once chilled, slice about 1/4″ thick. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, about 1″ apart. These cookies have a tendency to spread due to the high content of butter and gluten free flours. The chilling may not be enough, especially if it is summer. If you do get spreading, use a biscuit cutter after the cookies are done and cooled. I thought about trying to change the recipe but these cookies are so amazing with their taste and texture. So just eat any bits once they are cut out and serve the rest.

Bake in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 6-8 minutes on a rack placed in the middle of your oven. If your oven is on the hot side, be sure to check the cookies after 5 to make sure they are not burning. You want the cookies to be done but not quite yet turning “golden brown”.

Serve with Fig Jam

Monarda is a perennial herb that is native to the United States. This herb grows 2-3 feet high. It has opposite, ovate/lanceolate, serrate, deep green leaves. Like all members in the mint family it has square stems. These are hairy, slender and branching. This plant has numerous, tubed shaped, two lipped and irregular flowers with united sepals and petals. These grow in solitary terminal heads/clusters. M. fistulosa has hairier leaves and flower parts and a stronger volatile oil/scent.

Historically monarda has been used to treat, gas, colic, nausea, vomiting, fever, colds, flu, headache, parasites, menstrual cramps, candida, inflammation, sepsis, and stress. Externally it has been used for rashes, burns, wounds, bleeding and rheumatism. As a gargle for sore throats, gum disease, and bad breath. As a steam it loosens phlegm when there is congestion or respiratory infection.

Latin name: Monarda didyma (rose or light purple flowers). Monarda fistulosa (scarlet flowers)

Common names: Oswego tea, bee balm, mountain mint, wild bergamot

Parts used: leaves and flowers

Energetics: cool, astringent

Contraindications: due to the volatile oils do not use in pregnancy.

Beard Whip (Nettles)

This whip is not waxy like a salve. It is also not meant to be used as a styling (shaping and holding ) product. Rather it is meant to be used to improve the health and condition of your beard.

What does a beard whip do? It nourishes, supports growth, hydrates, thickens, moistens, softens, prevents/relieves beard itch, removes tangles, reduces dandruff, repairs damage, adds volume and protects.

When to use the beard butter? Apply it after your hot shower. This is when the skin is most receptive to being moisturized. It can also be applied it after washing your face.

How much to use? Start with a dime sized amount. A little will go a long way. You can always add a bit more or rub any extra into other parts of your skin. Adjust the amount needed depending on the size of your beard.

Caution-Less is more as they say. Using too much beard butter or applying it too often may cause irritation. If you notice red spots, infected follicles, or acne-take a break until the skin heals. If you observe that the beard feels greasy, clumpy or damp after use-reduce the amount or frequency to find your perfect balance.

Steps towards a better beard

1)Wash your beard using only warm water.

2)Use a hair dryer on cool setting to gently dry your beard.

3)Use your fingers to comb out any tangles.

4)Rub dry hands together to get them warm. Scoop out some beard butter, about the size of your thumb nail. Apply it to the beard and the skin of your face underneath. Lightly massage both the beard and skin.

5)Use a beard brush to distribute evenly. Use fingers to fluff and add volume if desired.

Beard Whip Recipe

1 cup of “beard oil” (infused organic olive oil of nettle , rosemary, yarrow, and calendula)

8 oz of shea butter (solid)

1/4 cup of Apricot oil

1/4 cup of Almond oil

2 TBSP of castor oil

2 TBSP of jojoba oil

1/4 tsp of vitamin E oil

1/4 tsp of argan oil

A few drops of essential oils as desired (rosemary, clove, cedar, sandalwood, orange, bay)

Melt your shea butter in a double boiler. Add in all the other ingredients but the essential oils. Stir well. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Stir in the essential oils. Place your pan in the freezer for 10 minutes. Remove. Scoop out contents and place into a food processor. Whip in batches. You want a light fluffy consistency. When you are happy with the result place into tins or jars. Store in a dark, very cool place.

Nettle is hardy perennial in the Urticaceae family that grows 2-7ft high. It has dark green hairy/downy (underneath) stinging leaves that are lance shaped with serrated margins. Arranged alternately on stinging square stems. The yellow roots are tough and tangled. The flowers are very tiny, light green, and on auxiliary clusters. It can be found growing in large abundant patches in the woods, along rivers, roadsides, in fields and cultivated in gardens. It prefers likes sun and nitrogen/organic matter rich soil. It does not like dry conditions. Male and female reproductive parts occur on separate plants.

Nettle has a nasty sting but it is strong and very useful medicinal plants. The young tops are high in vitamins, chlorophyll, and minerals making them a nutritious spring green that can be used in soup, stews, stir fry, pesto, and baked goods. It is one of the few foods that has vitamin C with iron for perfect absorption. This herb counteracts inflammation, supports the body to produce antihistamine, and binds immunoglobulin G-making it helpful for all kinds of allergies (food and seasonal). Supports the secretion of uric acid. It builds and cleanses “blood” for females of all ages and increase circulation. Historically it is has been used to treat anemia, internal bleeding, arthritis, rheumatism, gout, asthma, enlarged prostate, urinary problems, kidney stones/issues, poor milk supply, menstrual problems, heavy periods, colds, bronchitis, sinus infections, high blood sugar/diabetes, cardiac disease, high blood pressure, fluid retention, fever, blood clots, acne, yeast infections, hives, tendonitis, sciatica, poor circulation, sore muscles, night sweats, low blood sugar, neurological problems/infection, hypothyroidism and headaches. Nettles assist the body to clear poison and venom.

Humans have also used nettles for rope, cheese making, textiles, paper, dye, insect repellant and compost.

Parts used: aerial tops, leaves, stems, rhizomes and roots.

Energetics: cool, bitter, dry, salty.

Element: fire

Emotional/Spiritual Uses: releasing an anger that “stings” , establishing boundaries.

Contraindications: Eating late season plants uncooked/raw may damage the kidneys (due to high levels of nitrates) and irritate the digestive tract. The “hairs” on the fresh plants will inject an irritating substance under the skin that can cause pain and rashes. Handle with care. Most people consume this plant only by drying or cooking it. In sensitive/deficient individuals it may irritate the kidneys with prolonged use. Otherwise it is very safe for everyone.

Colic and Stomach Spasm Ease Tea (catnip)

In my thirties I was diagnosed with a hiatal hernia. A congenital weakness in my diaphragm that allows the stomach to bulge through the muscle, creating acid reflux when I east certain foods. I can go years without problems if I am careful with my diet. But lately it has gotten worse due to menopause and aging. When I have “an attack” all my symptoms are worse and I have the added issue of epigastric spasms adding to the pain and duration. Even an antacid, ginger, or aloe vera juice no longer helps with it in the acute phase or as a preventative. Carminatives, digestive enzymes, avoiding certain food are not really helpful either. I know there is a trigger and I have yet to figure out what it is. After some research I created this tea. It has made a big difference in my symptoms. I can take it during an attack without making it worse and it immediately calms the spasms. My attacks usually happen before bed so the addition of some herbs to my tea formula allows me to also fall asleep quicker and rest instead of being up for hours.

My formula has equal parts of catnip, chamomile, skullcap, valerian, and vervain, marshmallow root, hops, and mint. Plus 1 tsp-1 TBSP of lavender flowers depending on how much you are making. Lavender can be pretty strong and overpowering in a mixture so use caution. I use 1 TBSP of the mixture to a cup of hot water, let steep for 5 minutes, and then strain.

Nepeta cataria has small white/pink flowers clustered down a stalk. The heart oval shaped leaves are arranged alternately on a square stem. . This plant has its own distinctive strong scent which cats obviously love. It can be confused with other members in the mint family like lemon balm or spearmint. Catnip has more “silver” green leaves which are fuzzy in texture, with a toothed margin and a lighter underside. The stem is also hairy. It can grow 3-4 feet high, especially as it shoots up to flower. This plant has become an invasive species in many ecosystems. You will find it in backyards, wastelands, in grazing areas, along a stream as you hike in urban corridors, or in cracks in the sidewalk. It is a self seeding perennial that likes a lot of sun and does well in poor soil. There is a similar plant in the Nepeta family called “catmint” This herb has purple flowers and much smaller leaves. It is more likely to be a cultivar that found in the wild. All Nepetas have similar properties and uses.

Catnip has been used for food and medicine since ancient times. It contains powerful chemical constituents that are powerful sedatives, pain relievers, euphorics, and aphrodisiacs. No wonder kitties love it. Nepeta moves energy, relaxes the nerves and clears heat. This herb contains many volatile oils. It has such an affinity for the energy of kids, supporting them when they feel feverish, anxious, restless or sick. It is great for babies as a weak tea or bath for colic, teething, insomnia, or crankiness. A hot tea promotes sweating. It is thought to be an excellent remedy for colds, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, childhood illnesses, menstrual problems, headaches, and motion sickness . This plant is has been used for all manner of stomach complaints like , gas, and diarrhea, parasites and indigestion. Externally people have used catnip for pain, injuries, hemorrhoids, acne, dandruff, arthritis, eye inflammation and allergies.

Family: Laminaceae/mint

Parts used:Leaves and flowers

Energetics: pungent, bitter, cool, dry

Element:water

Contraindications:Do not use in pregnancy. Very large doses can cause nausea and vomiting.