Uncategorized – Blackbird's Backyard Pharmacy

Happy Heart Syrup (HAWTHORN)

This one has been on my list to make for awhile. Thanks to the squirrels I only had about 2 cups of red ripe hawthorn berries to harvest. Last summer they got to every single one while we were on vacation. I have been looking for ways to support my heart’s health as I age.Continue reading “Happy Heart Syrup (HAWTHORN)”

Menopausal Electuary (CHASTE TREE)

This was my year to experiment with honey as a medicinal base. I have used it in a burn ointment, to make floral infusions, and as electuaries. What is an electuary? It is a powdered herb mixed with raw honey. The texture can vary from more like a syrup when less powder has been addedContinue reading “Menopausal Electuary (CHASTE TREE)”

Pinto Bean, Purslane and Oregano Salad

I have a bumper crop of oregano this year. Homegrown fresh or dried oregano tastes so much better than anything you could ever buy in a store. Purslane also grows in my garden in great abundance. Highly invasive but also high in nutrients like Omega Fatty Acids and vitamins A, C, and E. Thankfully itContinue reading “Pinto Bean, Purslane and Oregano Salad”

A Time to Plant (and die)

I can’t believe that it is already March and that spring is less that two weeks away. There has been a lot of bad news posted on-line lately. Not to mention fear, panic, and chaos that is only going to get worse. It is too easy to get distracted by it and for valuable time andContinue reading “A Time to Plant (and die)”

Trick or Treat

I don’t enjoy shopping anymore. Too much noise, crowds of people, challenges to park, visual stimulation, and traffic just to get to the brand name store. Buying and driving less is a good thing. But there are things that I really do need and fewer options for where to buy them. I have come to dependContinue reading “Trick or Treat”