Our Herbs
Klip Dagga is an erect, loosely branched annual with strongly angled stems (square in the cross section) and the leaves are smooth, triangular and in pairs opposite each other. Flowers are in rounded, spiny clusters that encircle the stems so that it looks like the stems are growing right through the middle of the clusters. It has become naturalized in subtropical and tropical areas all over the world and is often found along roadsides and in abandoned fields where it can grow up to 3m tall. Klip Dagga has long been used in Africa for fevers, colds, asthma, and malaria. It is a good heart tonic and has anti-inflammatory properties used for relieving pain and inflammation in joints. When smoked the herb can induce dream states and exuberance.
Klip Dagga (Leonotis nepetifolia) & Egyptian Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)
An Egyptian water lily that has been used for thousands of years in the Egyptian culture as a sacred symbol and used to induce psycho-active awareness of dream states. t’s a small, round, blue, flowering species that floats atop lakes or other bodies of water. The flower buds rise to the surface over a period of two to three days and when ready, they open in the morning around and close in the early afternoon. It is used as a nerve relaxant or stimulant depending on what your body needs. It has been used as an aphrodisiac and has mood-lifting, euphoric properties.
Egyptian Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)
This deciduous shrub grows in temperate climates and is native to Europe and Asia. It has woody stems with thorns, pale green leaves, white flowers, and edible red berries. The leaves are used medicinally, and the fruit is widely used throughout the world as food. Raspberry Leaf has been used in folk medicine for hundreds of years and has astringent and stimulant properties making it popular for many ailments. The most common being a uterine tonic for female reproductive health, but it has also been used for sore throats, menstrual problems, vitamin C deficiency, diuretic, and blood cleansing. Mainly used as a tea medicinally and should not be used during pregnancy or during breastfeeding.
Raspberry Leaf
(Rubus idaeus)
An Egyptian water lily that has been used for thousands of years in the Egyptian culture as a sacred symbol and used to induce psycho-active awareness of dream states. It is a small, round, blue, flowering species that floats atop lakes or other bodies of water. The flower buds rise to the surface over a period of two to three days and when ready, they open in the morning and close in the early afternoon. It is used as a nerve relaxant or stimulant depending on what your body needs. It has been used as an aphrodisiac and has mood-lifting, euphoric properties.
Egyptian Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)
This deciduous shrub grows in temperate climates and is native to Europe and Asia. It has woody stems with thorns, pale green leaves, white flowers, and edible red berries. The leaves are used medicinally, and the fruit is widely used throughout the world as food. Raspberry Leaf has been used in folk medicine for hundreds of years and has astringent and stimulant properties making it popular for many ailments. The most common being a uterine tonic for female reproductive health, but it has also been used for sore throats, menstrual problems, vitamin C deficiency, diuretic, and blood cleansing. Mainly used as a tea medicinally and should not be used during pregnancy or during breastfeeding.
Raspberry Leaf
(Rubus idaeus)
An aromatic branched perennial shrub that has angular grooved green leaves with white bottoms and red brown stems. It has yellow to red brown flower heads during the months of July - September. An old-time traveler's remedy during the medieval times for protecting from fatigue and sunstroke. It has been used for insect bites and sometimes as a culinary herb. It aids with a healthy menstruation flow and female reproductive health tonic. Helps with disrupted sleep and for nights when you have trouble getting back to bed. Helps to recall, enhance the resolution, and complexity of dreams.
Mugwort
(Artemisia vulgaris)
Native to the Mediterranean Sea and Ethiopia this plant has grey green sulfur smelling leaves and flower spikes that grow 6 feet tall and bloom bright yellow flowers. This herb is great as a vulnerary for cuts, scrapes, and treating wounds. It is a diuretic and best known for supporting respiratory symptoms of cough, asthma, and bronchitis by clearing congestion as a mild expectorant, decreasing inflammation of the airways, and soothes mucus membranes.
Mullien
(Verbascum thapsus)
An annual aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean countries. Calendula bears many petaled orange or yellow flowering heads two to three inches in diameter. Also known as marigold or gold bloom and often grown in gardens and the flowers are used medicinally throughout Europe and Latin America. Calendula is a great herb for the gut and skin by reducing inflammation and soothing the skin. It is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-parasitic, and pain killing agents have made it great for minor topical infections and irritations. It is used widely throughout Europe for skin, mucous membrane, and gastritis disorders.
Calendula
(Calendula officinalis)
Rose is thought to be the Queen of Flowers and has been used as a symbol of love and romance, but it has also been used medicinally for hundreds of years. An herbaceous shrub that grows all over the world in temperate climates, used widely as a popular garden plant to uplift mood and open your heart chakra. The flower buds and petals of rose are used medicinally as an Antidepressant, anti-spasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, mild sedative, digestive stimulant, increases bile production, cleansing, expectorant, anti–bacterial, anti-viral, antiseptic, kidney tonic, menstrual regulator, and anti-inflammatory.
Rose
(Rosa centifolia)
A perennial herb native to Lake Baikal in Siberia, North China, and North America. Thrives in open grasslands and grows to a height of one to four feet and bears lance-shaped leaves and purple flowers. The root is used medicinally and has held a spot in Asian medicine for at least 2,000 years. It is primarily used as a anti-viral and anti-bacterial for respiratory infections, relieving allergies, anxiety, and asthma. It is used in Chinese medicine to relieve stress, anxiety, and headaches by lowering stress hormones, increasing energy, and improving cognition.
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
An aromatic shrub that grows in hot climates of Texas, Mexico, and Central America, and Namibia. It grows to a height of six feet and has stems with pale, smooth, green leaves, and small yellow flowers. The leaves are used medicinally and aid in reducing stress in the stomach and inflammation. It has been used with other herbs to aid with sexual trauma, libido, and lethargy. It is a stimulating nerve tonic used for depression, reducing bed wetting, and to aid digestion, and relieve constipation.
Damiana
(Turnera diffusa)
An indigenous plant to tropical Americas including Hawaii, the Caribbean, and tropical Asia. It is a shrub that has serrated light green leaves and grows tassels out of the stems that have light blue to purple flowers that taste like mushrooms. The leaves and flowers are used medicinally throughout the Amazon and tropical Americas and it has a wide variety of medicinal properties. Calming to the nerves relieving stress and anxiety. Mild sedative and anti-spasmodic to relax smooth and skeletal muscle cramps and pain. It is a nervine used to restore and protect the nervous system and cleansing to fluids that help protect and strengthen the liver. It is Anti-viral, Anti-microbial, Anti-fungal, and Anti-parasitic aiding in digestive and respiratory conditions of infections. It has Anti-inflammatory properties internally and externally and therefore has been used as a vulnerary for wound healing as well.
Tropical Blue Vervain
(Stachytarpheta cayennensis)
A light green climbing vine that is native to southeastern parts of America. It has unique shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors from white, purple, green, and red and produces round yellow sweet tasting fruit. The bright colored flowers make it a important food for certain species of butterflies and other pollinators. The leaves, flowers, and fruit are all used medicinally as a nervous system tonic and mild sedative for over two hundred years. It is a calming nervine herb that aids with anxiety, hysteria, depression, and insomnia. It is calming to the heart during distress and helps relax the muscles. Soothing to overstimulation and hypersensitivity to pain and cerebral fullness or mental exhaustion. Aids in letting go and calming the mind for those who cannot sleep and has been used to ease tension headaches. Respiratory soothing and cough suppressant and aids during PMS and menopause. Individuals taking prescription drugs or MAO inhibitors should consult with a physician prior to taking and avoid if pregnant as it may stimulate the uterus.
Passion Flower
(Passiflora incarnata)
A low growing perennial that has pairs of mint like leaves on opposite sides of a square stem and small white flowers. It is part of the mint family and native to the Mediterranean. It is known for it's aromatic components that has a sweet lemon scent and has been used since the Elizabeth era. It is Anti-Viral, Anti-bacterial, and wound healing externally as well as easing indigestion. It helps relieve gas and cramping in the stomach as well as reduce fevers as a diaphoretic. Aids with relieving anxiety and sleeplessness and relaxes muscle tension.
Lemon Balm
(Melissa officinalis)
Tulsi basil or Holy Basil is a sacred plant from India that has been widely used to restore all sorts of conditions of the body, mind, and spirit. It is most widely used in Ayurvedic medicine as an adaptogen to counter life's stressors. It's sacred healings can be seen from using any part of this beautiful plant and each part is used for different ailments. The leaves are green to purplish and have been used as teas for respiratory infections and to aid in reducing stress and anxiety. In India they place the plants at the front of their homes to remind themselves that they need to take time to come home to themselves, and for self-care. It has anti-inflammatory properties aiding in reducing arthritis pain, as well as other chemical components that have been used to reduce high cholesterol, and aid in lowering blood sugar in people with diabetes.
Tulsi Basil
(Ocimum sanctum)
A nutritive herb that grows in temperate regions of Europe and North America. It has serrated green leaves that have stinging hairs that if accidentally brushed will cause stinging on the skin, but once added to water or cooked this herb is like spinach. It is a nutritive tonic that supports the kidneys, intestines, lungs, and arteries toning and strengthening them. It is a great herb for childbirth and pregnancy supporting lactation, nutrition, and overall, wellbeing supplying the body with essential vitamins and minerals. Balances hormone levels and helps support and restore the adrenals.
Stinging Nettles
(Urtica dioica)
A superfood seaweed that has the highest concentration of digestible minerals anywhere. It is full of Phosphorus and Calcium both needed for strong bones, blood clotting, and heartbeat regulation. Iron which supports healthy blood and hemoglobin function, along with zinc which helps support a strong immune system. Seaweed also is full of chlorophyl which helps to remove heavy metals from the body and assists in oxygenating the cells of the body.
Dulce Seaweed
(Palmaria palmata)
This tropical medicinal plant has been used medicinally and as food for 1,000 years in Polynesia. All parts of the plant have been used medicinally and contains micronutrients and polysaccharides. It has been used as a nerve restorative and protective for stress induced impairment and a brain tonic for improving cognitive function. Antihistamine and anti-microbial properties used for wound healing, allergies, and coughs & colds. Immune stimulant and Antioxidant as well as Anti-inflammatory properties helping to aid against pain and arthritis. Liver strengthening and protective.
Noni
(Morinda citrifolia)
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Widely known throughout the world as a culinary herb used in many different cultures as food and medicine. This sprawling perennial herb with creeping stems that spread horizontally under the soil grows in wet fields along the shores of ponds and stream banks. Noticeable for its light green oblong serrated leaves that produce terminal headlike clusters of purple flowers and it’s fresh and airy aromatic scent. Native to Europe and western Asia, mints are a very complex plant group to classify as there are over 25 species with hundreds of varieties and hybrids. Highly valued today for commercial use in several industries; peppermint’s volatile oil and leaves are still well used medicinally and have been since the first century A.D. with it being used for over 40 different ailments making it one of the plants that had to be taken from Europe to the New World. Mint is most known for its use as a digestive aid, relieving gas and stomach upset. It is also known for its menthol properties in aiding respiratory ailments helping to open airways and soothe sore muscles. In the past and now, peppermint’s aroma and flavor have grown to be famously known for its deodorant properties removing odors and freshening up different products with its sweet and minty flavor.
Peppermint
(Mentha piperita)
This perennial herb is widely known throughout history as an ‘allheal herb’ and one of the ways in which it got this alternative name. Valerian as it is referred as in medicine comes from the plant known as Garden Heliotrope. Growing to 5 feet tall with erect stems and alternating leaves divided into narrowed leaflets that produce white to pale pink flower clusters at the end of the stems. Valerian is a widely popular nervine herb throughout Europe and has long been known for its aid as a sedative for so called nervous afflictions and helping with epilepsy episodes. Native to Europe and North America this popular nervine has been used for aiding in quieting the mind to help with falling asleep in cases of insomnia, as a digestive aid, easing headaches and migraines, and as a mild sedative for relaxing the bodies muscles and mind. Widely popular in Europe as the most common nonprescription herbal preparation sold as a sedative with its uses being validated by pharmacological studies. Anti-inflammatory for joints and muscles and antispasmodic to ease intestinal, menstrual, or muscle cramps and tension
Valerian
(Valeriana officinalis)
An annual herb growing up to 20 inches tall with daisy like flowerheads with yellow centers and white petals, cylindrical stems, and light green leaves. Found throughout Europe and North America this herb grew in popularity as a anti-inflammatory for relieving pain and swelling caused by arthritis or injury. The German’s called it the “completely trustworthy” plant ad Teutonic tribes dedicated it to their sun-god because of its yellow center’s resemblance to the sun and the white petals around it denoted to the sun’s forces to them. Commonly used as a digestive aid relieving gas, stomach upset, and inflammation in the intestines due to certain ingested foods. Also used as a mild sedative for insomnia and sleep disorders to aid in relaxation and quieting the mind of anxious energies. Treats eye infections and inflammations, Antibacterial, Anti-fungal, and aids with relieving symptoms due to allergies, asthma, and skin irritations. Has been used to aid with relieving morning sickness during pregnancy and restlessness in children due to teething or cholic. Helps to relax and calm anxieties within the body.
Chammomile
(Matricaria recutita)
A native to the Mediterranean landscapes, lavender is widely cultivated in gardens and commercially throughout much of the US and Europe. A perennial herb growing 2-3 feet tall with opposite gray-green leaves and purplish-blue flowers, flourishing in dry, well drained soils, and sunny locations. Lavender has long been known for its aromatic and calming effects on the brain and body, widely used for its aromatic scent and volatile oils in cosmetic and herbal products across the world. Historically, Lavender water or wine grew popular across Europe and by Queen Elizabeth in its many uses to dispel intestinal gas, freshen breath as a gargle, or to sniff, if in case the ladies of the court felt faint. Lavenders’ aromatic scent and oil were fist used by Egyptians as perfume to calm the mind and was also added to baths to bathe in it’s sweet relaxing scent. Often dried and placed in sachets to use as potpourri as the scent dispels moths from clothing drawers and closets.
Lavender
(Lavandula angustifolia)
A member of the legume family widely known for its adaptogenic properties and uses in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. It is a bushy shrub with hairy stems and tube-like flowers. A wonderful combination of strengthening and calming constituents assisting the nervous system and adrenals to relieve fatigue, nervous exhaustion, and mental chatter. Astragalus is strengthening and rebuilding to the digestive system, increasing metabolic activity, and stimulating to the immune system. This revitalizing herb is the perfect overall health tonic that can be taken daily to help rebuild, restore, and sustain a healthy immunity while increasing energy and vitality. Used to replenish chi energy supporting the liver and kidneys with cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties. Wound healing and anti-aging as a vulnerary that aids in regenerating and healing tissues and organs by fighting off free radicals and antioxidative stress in the body and skin. A wonderful addition to an everyday herbal tonic regimen.
Astragalus
(Astragalus membranaceus)
Ashwagandha, or otherwise known as Indian ginseng, is part of the tomato family and grows prolifically in India and Sri Lanka. It is a stout shrub that bears yellow flowers and red berry like fruits. Its name means ‘horse's smell’ in Hindi and is said to provide the strength of a horse in vitality and sexual energy. A widely known and important herb in Ayurvedic medicine for its adaptogenic properties for helping to regulate the body’s stress response. Builds and rejuvenates the body’s tissues, muscles, strength, and energy as it pertains to stress, weakness, and fatigue. Used throughout the world medicinally to overcome overwhelm of stressful situations, regulate cortisol, and blood sugar levels in the body, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Historically, used for over three thousand years to help the body manage stress due to chronic disease, overwork, weakness due to pregnancy, exhaustion, or trauma. Regenerates the hormonal system, promotes healing of tissues, aids in restoring calmness and focus on the mind promoting deep and dreamless sleep. One of the best herbs for the mind and body upon which it is nurturing and calming rejuvenating strength, vitality, and energy.
Ashwagandha
(Withania somnifera)
A perennial herb that grows up to 5 feet tall with a semi woody stem base and alternate, simple ovate leaves that produces single to several white flowers per leaf that turn into tiny multicolored spicy peppers when pollinated. Native to tropical America and domesticated long before the first Europeans arrived and used as food and medicine for hundreds of years. Prominent for uses as a stimulant tonic for the nervous and cardiac systems increasing blood flow and circulation. Used by Native Americans historically, as a powder rubbed on the body to remedy against arthritic joints and pain helping to reduce swelling. A decongestant and expectorant for lung and sinus congestion. Chili peppers and other peppers have a long history of use as a diaphoretic promoting sweating and as digestive aid for conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, stomachaches, cramping, gas, and stimulating digestive juices.
Hawaiian Chili
Pepper(Chili Capsicum
frutescens)
This sweet aromatic herb has long been used medicinally for its disinfectant properties and culinary uses. A perennial shrub averaging 2-4 inches in height with dark green, needle like, leathery leaves above and silver below. Native to the Mediterranean but grown throughout North America and Europe in mild sunny regions. In ancient Greece, Rosemary was said to strengthen the memory and sprigs of it would be worn in student’s hair as they studied becoming a symbol of remembrance for brides to remember their families and buried with the dead to signify, they would not be forgotten. Used aromatically as a disinfectant to cleanse and purify the air in the mid-16th and 17th century it became a large commercially used herb for sage bundles for cleansing and purification spaces and to spice up savory culinary dishes. Rosemary has been used for toothaches, headaches, gout, and to soothe coughs and respiratory infections with its aromatic properties and volatile oils. The undiluted oil should never be taken internally but is a great vulnerary with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties for use on scars, cuts, and minor wounds. Aids in improving mood, concentration, memory, and brain aging as well as boosting immunity.
Rosemary
(Rosmarinus officinalis)
Native to southern Europe and widely cultivated throughout North America this perennial herb is known for its presence as a common culinary herb used in soups and salads around the world. Growing up to 15 inches tall with woody stems and narrow gray-green leaves and lavender to pink/whiteish flowers. The leaves are known for there aromatic qualities and flavor widely used as a disinfectant effective against bacteria and fungi. In the Middle ages, the plant symbolized courage and was embroidered on scarves for the knights of the crusades by their ladies to keep up their spirits during battle and war. Used medicinally for hundreds of years as a stimulant and antispasmodic for respiratory issues, coughs, and sinuses acting as an expectorant loosing phlegm in the lungs. The volatile oils and herb have also been used as an antiseptic on the skin for treating fungal infections and wounds such as Athlete’s foot. Thyme oil is also widely used as a digestive aid and in use of cosmetic and pharmaceutical preparations.
Thyme
(Thymus vulgaris)
Also known as English Lemongrass, this perennial herb is a robust clump-forming grass that grows in dense tufts of 2-3 feet tall from short underground rhizomes, with linear narrow drooping leaves that are pale green and have a waxing bloom surface. Native to Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Indonesia and widely used as a commercial and home garden herb to aid in controlling erosion. It is also primarily used in asian culinary dishes and medicinal products as a flavoring or aromatic with its sweet lemon taste and smell. The volatile oil is commonly found in cosmetic products and as remedies for respiratory and digestive disorders. The oil is also well known for use as a mosquito repellent and perfume throughout Asia. Lemongrass has long been used in Ayurvedic medicine as use in detoxifying the body, pain relief, and assisting the body in boosting immunity. High in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals helping to restore and slow the degeneration of cells in the body; and the astringent and antiseptic properties in lemongrass help with acne and skin conditions reducing inflammation and protecting against toxins and free radicals. Lemongrass also has phenols that aid in defending and fighting off the biofilms of certain resistant bacteria’s, such as Staphylococcus aureus. Breaking down the bacteria’s biofilms with its anti-biofilm phenols that are affective in fighting off the bacteria’s biofilm activities in the host body helping to stop the bacteria from being able to spread the infection in the host body as well.
Lemon Grass
(Cymbopogon citratus)
This delicate vibrant blue flower is sweet and delicious, commonly known as Asian pigeonwings or Butterfly Pea, belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is a delicate vine with vibrant blue flowers that grows rapidly in the tropics and is native to Equatorial Asia, parts of Australia, and Africa. In India, it is revered as a holy flower, used in daily puja rituals and has also been commonly used as a natural dying agent for its vibrant indigo color. Used in Ayurvedic medicine, for its high number of antioxidants and bioflavonoids to help support the health of the eyes, hair, and skin. Helping to protect the skin from free radicals, premature aging, and cellular damage due to excess exposure to sun and toxins and for promoting thick, dark luscious hair. Aids in enhancing memory, focus, and overall brain health. Used medicinally as well as in the food industry for use as garnishes, food coloring and decoration in desserts, and for food coloring in drinks and cocktails.
Butterfly Pea
(Clitoria ternatea)
Well known for its vanillin constituent’s presence as a scrumptious sweet, aromatic, and flavorful addition to our culinary desserts, dishes, beverages, and to scent our cosmetic products worldwide as a commercially cultivated herb. This orchid vine grows up the outside of tree trunks and has wide flat leaves that produce long skinny vanilla bean pods caring seeds full of vanillin. Native to Mexico and some of the tropics of America and Hawaii this herb has long been used medicinally as well. Strong antioxidant helping the body in protecting against cellular degeneration, free radicals, and antibacterial properties that help in boosting immunity. The essential oil of Vanilla has long been used in skin and beauty remedies for helping against acne and anti-aging by escalating the skin’s healing process, reducing scars, and brightening complexion. Used as a hair oil to strengthen hair and increase blood flow that improves hair growth and shine. Anti-inflammatory and heart tonic for the cardiac system aiding in reducing cholesterol levels and improving heart function.
Vanilla
(Vanilla planifolia)
Burdock, a relative of the sunflower grows throughout the temperate zones of China, Europe, Australia, and North America. A biennial plant growing 6-8 ft tall in moist fertile soils near roadsides or abandoned areas. With exceptionally large wavy heart shaped alternate leaves and clusters of tubular purple flowers, reddish stalks with wholly undersides and burrs of fruit that spread themselves by attaching to animals and humans for distribution. The entire herb has been used medicinally and each part has a wide variety of medicinal benefits, but the largest use is as a nourishing herb and food. Rich in Vitamin C, Chromium, Iron, Magnesium as well as other vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The leaves and roots are used for salads and soups, nourishing tonics, and as a bitter agent for digestive bitters to help break down food. The leaves are great as an anti-septic vulnerary for wounds and minor cuts. A strong blood purifier, and detoxifier aiding the body in eliminating wastes. Cleansing and nourishing to the liver and gut as an active carminative and diuretic aiding the gut with issues of constipation; and assisting the body’s natural elimination process by removing toxins and waste in the body, gut, blood, and lymph glands. Has also been used to aid with certain skin problems, gout, fevers, dandruff, and issues pertaining to grounding, inner power, and emotional stability to the whole being.
Burdock Root
(Arctium lappa)
Dandelion is thought to be a common pesky weed growing in yards and along roads all over the world. Dandelion leaves have been used for centuries as food and medicine being a powerful nourishing herb for the whole body. All parts of the plant are used medicinally leaves, roots, flowers, and even the precious milky sap. A perennial herb with short stems hidden beneath a rosette of deeply toothed hairless leaves, slender hollow stalk that bears single yellow flowers. Flowers open in Am and close in the evening. When mature, flower heads turn to a downy white ball of fruit seeds. Flowers and roots can be used as a natural dye. Flowers are often made into a wine or added to salads along with the nutritive leaves. High in Vitamin C & A, riboflavin, and rich in minerals making it a great nutritive tonic as a medicinal tea, juice, or food. Dandelion has long been used for protecting, strengthening, and cleansing the liver for liver ailments and jaundice. The Roots and leaves have carminative and digestive stimulant properties aiding the digestive system as a mild laxative, reducing heartburn, a digestive bitter, diuretic, and aiding the body with detoxification and elimination. Has been used to cleanse joints easing arthritis, cleanse the blood, balance hormones, and protect the gallbladder, liver, and spleen. The sap and leaves are great for the breasts and skin; and it has been historically used as a bitter tonic to improve the health of the spleen, skin, pancreas, kidneys, nervous system, & liver.
Dandelion Root
(Taraxacum officinale)
An annual grass growing up to 4 ft tall with hollow jointed stems. Pale green leaves are narrow, flat, lance shaped and rough. It has pale green flowers borne in loose terminal clusters with spikelet’s consisting of two florets. The fruit is grooved and downy. Found in waste areas, plains, cultivated lands, banksides, and fields in the wild. Native to Europe, but cultivated throughout North America, Mediterranean, Middle East, China, Australia, New Zealand, and Africa. Traditionally Oats has been considered an easily digestible food full of good fiber and well-known nutritive herb, the Scottish used it for every day nourishment and support. Traditionally used as a remedy for nervous exhaustion, calming to the mind, emotions, and as an anti-depressant commonly prepared as an herbal wine. Oatstraw is a demulcent great for nourishing, soothing, and moistening mucous membranes in the body help cleanse and moisten fluids, joints, and the digestive system. Aids in easing tension, stress, anxiety, and improving sleep. Commonly used for skin disorders, like psoriasis, irritating & itchy rashes like chicken pox’s, and aiding in reducing the sign of wrinkles. Widely used as a cultivated grain as a rich protein and nourishing herb for feeding horses and convalutants as a valuable food source for anorexics, anemia, weak digestion, and digestive disorders. Rich in Vitamins A and C, calcium for strengthening bones, and vitamin B’s aiding the body in reducing stress and overwhelm to quiet the mind and emotions.
Oatstraw
(Avena sativa)
Turmeric is a perennial plant that is cultivated throughout Southeast Asia, China, Australia, and the South Pacific. The plant grows to a height of 0.9 to 1.5 m and bears large, oblong leaves and funnelshaped, dull-yellow flowers. The thick rhizome is yellowish on the outside and deep orange or reddish brown inside widely known as a medicinal herb and food in Asia and the Middle East and has been used for thousands of years. An immune stimulant, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, antiparasitic great for colds, flu, fevers, and infections. Strong anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic helpful for joints, body pain, inflamed intestines and urinary tracts, and arthritis. Liver protective, strengthening, and supportive to the kidneys digestive system and gallbladder. Increases circulation and heart function, cleansing to the blood, stimulating to the adrenal glands to produce cortisone and lowers histamine levels. Has been used for skin disorders like dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema for clearing skin internally and externally as a vulnerary for bruises and wounds. Also commonly used externally for ear infections, oral inflammations, and infected eyes or wounds
Turmeric
(Curcuma longa)
A common tropical fruit tree growing in many tropical and subtropical regions of the US. Found only in Hawaii, Florida, and parts of California and Texas, as they are overly sensitive to frost. Guava is a widely cultivated fruit tree used in food and medicine where the bark, leaves, and fruit have been used for a variety of ailments. A small tree in the Eucalyptus/ myrtle family (Myrtaceae), native to Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and northern South America. The Guava is a small fruit tree or evergreen shrub that produces fragrant white flowers followed by 2-4-inch-long round or oval shaped fruits. The fruits come in different varieties ranging from white, pink, yellow, or red. When ripe they are soft with a creamy texture and the juice is very sweet and highly nutritious. A wonderful digestive tonic aiding against a wide variety of intestinal bacteria such as E. coli, Strep, Salmonella, and Staph. It helps with indigestion, as an antacid for heartburn, and antibacterial for the gut and oral cavity of the mouth. Used as a gargle for sore throats, respiratory infections, and coughs soothing upper respiratory tissues. Reproductive and heart tonic regulating hormones and blood pressure, strengthening heart function, and calming to the nervous system. Antispasmodic for stomach and menstrual cramps as a nervine relaxant. Vulnerary for external wounds, skin ulcers and sores. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, balances blood sugar, and a gentle laxative for intestinal infections, diarrhea, and dysentery.
Guava
(Psidium guajava)
This ancient native Hawaiian plant is indigenous to Hawaii and cannot be found anywhere else in the world growing well in wet and diverse forests and stream beds. It is a part of the nettle family and grows into a shrub or tree with heart shaped leaves that have prominent red veins that produce edible white berries similar to mulberries growing along the branches. The leaves are great for pollinators and is an important native food source for only two native butterflies Pulelehua Kamehameha or the Kamehameha butterfly (Vanessa tameamea) and Koa or Blackburn butterfly (Udara blackburni) in Hawaii and has long been used as a medicinal herb for a variety of general debilities. Used historically by Indigenous Hawaiians as a food eating the berries and the bark. Fruits are used as a laxative and the leaves are made into tonic teas for cleansing the blood, releasing toxins, and to detoxify the body. Used for regulating blood sugar and supporting the liver and urinary system. Healing to the stomach, intestines, and colon for use as a digestive and nervine tonic to relax the stomach. Thought to be the herb of immortality as it aids with general weakness in the body increasing vitality and energy when feeling depleted bringing mana and life back. Mamaki’s dark red veins are thought to represent the medicinal value of the herb as many herbs have these similar depictions to identify there medicinal use. Mamaki being helpful to restore the cardiovascular and circulatory system by aiding in reducing high blood pressure and cholesterol as well as helping to strengthen the heart. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial making it a great vulnerary herb for the skin aiding in helping heal wounds and minor cuts.
Mamaki
(Pipturus albidus)
A Perennial woody plant with a single stem although classified as a shrub, it is a multi-stemmed woody plant that is less than 13 to 16 feet in height. Shrubs typically have several stems arising from or near the ground but may be taller than 5 meters or single-stemmed under certain environmental conditions. Moringa is a plant that is native to the areas of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. It is also grown in the tropics of the Polynesian islands. Moringa is used for a wide variety of ailments such as asthma, diabetes, obesity, symptoms of menopause, kidney stones, improving breast milk production, and as an anti-fungal for ailments of athlete’s foot and other funguses. It has been widely used as a nourishing herb for malnourished countries and is known for being a superfood rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, Calcium, Potassium, and essential amino acids. Oil from moringa seeds is used in foods, perfume, and hair care products, and as a machine lubricant. Moringa is an important food source in some parts of the world, especially drought areas, to fight malnutrition. The immature green pods (drumsticks) are prepared similarly to green beans, while the seeds are removed from more mature pods and cooked like peas or roasted like nuts. The leaves are cooked and used like spinach, and they are also dried and powdered for use as a condiment.
Moringa
(Moringa oleifera)
Native to Asia, but grows throughout the tropics and Polynesian islands. The root and flowers are used medicinally and as food, once called the “the universal medicine” used for over 5,000 years in India it is a warming and stimulating herb that is widely cultivated throughout the world. A herbaceous perennial which grows annual pseudostems (false stems made of the rolled bases of leaves) about one meter tall bearing narrow leaf blades. The inflorescences bear flowers having pale yellow petals with purple edges and arise directly from the rhizome on separate shoots. There are several varieties of ginger that produce different types of flowers and roots, Galangal ginger being represented in Asian cooking as a sweet ginger. Widely known as a carminative and digestive aid stimulating, reducing inflammation, and increasing blood circulation in the body. Anti-spasmodic to smooth and skeletal muscle relieving pain and reducing inflammation in joints and muscles. Eases motion sickness, nausea, migraines, fevers, digestive disorders, and menstrual cramps. Antihistamine, anti-viral, anti- fungal, anti-bacterial and has been used for malaria, syphilis, allergies, respiratory infections, and blood clots. Consult with a physician prior to taking if you are on anti-platelet medications or are pregnant as this herb is not usually used with these conditions as being to stimulating.
Ginger Root (Zingiber officinale) & Galangal Ginger (Alpinia galanga) sweet ginger
A flowering tree belonging to the Adoxaceae family growing as tall as 20 feet and producing dark red to black berries. The most common type is Sambucus nigra, also known as the European elderberry or black elder. This tree is native to Europe, though it is widely grown in many other parts of the world as well. It often grows in a shrub-like cluster of stems although some varieties are smaller and singlestemmed. The serrated leaves of the elderberry grow along the twigs in groups of 3 to 9 leaves. The Elder tree has been used medicinally for hundreds of years using the dried berries and flowers. Commonly used as an immune stimulator and strengthening herb that helps against flus and colds. A tonic for the lungs and sinuses aiding in clearing mucous and infections. Elder has anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and immune regulating properties. Also helpful in blood and fluid cleansing within the body. The berries must be dried to use medicinally or to cook with first and should not be eaten or used raw. The bark or stems of the elder plant should not be used either.
Elderberry
(Sambucus nigra)
Native to Asia and known as one of the oldest medicinal herbs used by the Chinese and Egyptians over 4,000 years ago. A warming herb that is widely cultivated and used as a culinary and medicinal herb around the world for thousands of years to build vitality and passion. This herb is a bark, of the cinnamon tree a smaller, semi-tropical tree that can be easily grown as a wonderful indoor container plant or outdoors as a large spice tree that will just keep giving. Reaching 4-5 feet indoors and up to 20- 30 feet outdoors, with thick oval leaves that turn deep green with age. Known for its aromatic sweet smell promoting spirituality, warmth, and healing when burned as an incense or as an oil. It’s stimulating and warming to the body when used to cook with having savory, sweet, and warming culinary flavors. Commonly used as a flavoring in a variety of herbal remedies and culinary dishes. A stimulating carminative herb that aids in increasing circulation, clearing mucus, stimulating digestion, and supporting the heart. Antimicrobial, antiseptic, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti- inflammatory easing menstrual cramps, and arthritis. Blood purifying and helps to balance the body’s blood sugar levels which is helpful for diabetes and the body’s metabolism processes. A aphrodisiac, increasing blood flow to reproductive organs and the digestive system increasing libido and digestion.
Cinnamon
(Cinnamomum verum)
Mango is a tree that produces sweet red to yellow fruits. The mango leaves are reddish or purplish when tender and new and grow into a dark green color with pale undersides. Mango is a juicy stone fruit belonging to the family of Anacardiaceae and is grown in many parts of the world, particularly in tropical countries. It is the national fruit of India and the Philippines and the national tree of Bangladesh. Over 1000 mango varieties are available worldwide and the various parts of mango have been used for more than a thousand years as a wide variety of ethnomedicinal uses. It is commonly known for its fruit cultivation all over the world, but also for its nutrient rich herbal benefits. The roots and bark are astringent and useful in various conditions of pitta reducing inflammation, constipation, ulcers, diarrhea, vomiting, and dysentery. The juice of fresh bark and leaves has a marked action on mucous membranes aiding as a vulnerary for burns and scalds. The smoke from burning leaves is inhaled for relief of throat diseases and conditions of cough or hiccup. Leaves are rich in vitamin C, B and A and other various nutrients. The mango leaves have powerful antioxidant properties as they have a high content of flavonoids and phenols aiding the skin, lungs, intestines, and the digestive and endocrine systems with reducing inflammation and immunity as a immunomodulator in the body.