BloomToScoop

HERBS Growing & Using the Plants of Romance

2012-01-28T16:16:00.000-08:00

ROSE FLOWER WATER POUND CAKE
http://www.urbanherbal.com/recipes/index-10.htm#rosewater_pound_cake

DEAR Friends & Family,

Almost 2,000 years ago Ovid lamented, “Alas, there are no herbs to cure love.” This may well have been true, but the addition of herbs certainly enhances many sweet pleasures that are important to a well-lived life.

On a personal level that I have reached an understanding of herbs that reflects my changing relationship with other people-in who we once were, who we are and who we will become. I call herbs the plants of romance. As I’ve come to know herbs, they have twined around my hearts’ qualities and preferences. Herbs grow up close and personal. They are not just flowers, but calendulas, nasturtiums and roses. They are not garnishes, but cinnamon and lemon basil, apple mint and chocolate mint, parsley, lavender and thyme. They are not bulbs, but garlic and chives, dill and fennel. That is why I encourage you to trying your hand at growing savory, reputed to have earned its name from satyrs who found it essential to their amorous activities. Consider too, the advice of Nicholas Culpeper, herbalist of the 17^th century, who suggested a garden of mustard, onion and prickly asparagus for sparking an enchanted evening. Even earlier, the Greek physician, Dioscorides in A.D. 40 counseled that a species of sage, Salvia-horminum, “doth revoke to conjunction.” Cumin retained love along with basil and vervain. Partial to roses? Their sweet breath and delicate petals have long been considered the essence of romantic encounters. And small wonder that a secret garden aids and abets our romantic impulses so effectively.

Growing the plants of romance will be different for every individual, a distinction that’s important to recognize. That’s because it’s easy to become limited in our thinking about what is romantic. Many people define romance as hearts and flowers, only pink satin and lace. Others may think only of physical love. A person who dares to try something new, who makes the choice to work at an herb garden that he or she loves, who makes time for little sprigs and blossoms of beauty and grace, I believe speaks my language. I hope that you will discover, as I have ways to use herbs to make your meals more flavorful, your work more enjoyable and your life more pleasurable.

In Hortulus,A.D. 840, Walafrid Strabo wrote, “ And I offer this, that as you read what I gladly dedicate to you, you may know of my labors. And, please, as you read, prune the faults and approve what is good.”

I encourage you to do the same.

William “Bill” Varney, URBANherbal

Did you know that the Rose is the herb of the year for 2012? Here is my link to growing and using Roses:http://www.urbanherbal.com/herb_gardening/rose.html

More Rose ideas: http://www.urbanherbal.com/recipes/index-16.htm#rosy_cooler

Rosey Wine Cooler

Alliums, Onions, Chives, Garlic, Leeks

2012-01-13T15:39:00.000-08:00

"He who bears chives on his breath is safe from being kissed to death." - Martise, Roman Poet

Like Garlic and Leeks, onions have been a staple of man's diet since prehistoric times.

Hello Friends,
It is the time of year that I always plant onions, and other alliums in my garden.

Allium Allium spp. Amaryllidaceae / Perennials Alliums: The Flavoring Herbs

Symbol – The Universe – Grow from seeds or plants, increase by division, bulbs multiply rapidly

Use in salads, omelettes, cheese spreads, soups, and potatoes, salads, butters and many other foods. Today onions unite all cooks!

Allium is the enormous onion genus, which includes onions, leeks, shallots and scallions, as well as the chives, garlic and garlic chives that we usually claim as herbs. All 400 or so alliums have the characteristically strong odor when plant parts are bruised. Most are rhizomatous or bulbous perennials. Hey are easy to grow.

The ancient Israelites had been shepherds and herdsmen with little opportunity to grow vegetables and herbs, so it was not until they were in Egypt that they learned to eat and savor leeks, onions and garlic, which had been cultivated there since 3000 B.C. They remembered the pungent alliums during their forty years of wandering in the desert when they tired of the manna God sent them: “There is nothing at all but this manna to look at “(Numbers 11:6): So, though the alliums are mentioned only once in the Bible, this reference emphasizes just how important this food was to the Israelites.

After they returned to Israel and settled in Canaan, farmers began to grow lentils, beans and other crops as well as the leeks, onions, garlic and cucumbers they had enjoyed in Egypt.

Alliums are valued for their savory, medicinal and aromatic values. They have many healing powers and add zest and lots of flavor to recipes. The Greeks thought they increased strength and bravery, the Romans relied on them as a cure for snakebite-a belief that remained until the middle ages when they applied onions to warts and aching ears! Did you know there is even songs about onions? The Onion Song One of our favorite recipes is French Onion Soup.

French Onion Soup with Rosemary & Thyme

Ingredients:

· 6 large onions-julienne

· 2 cloves of minced garlic

· 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

· 1 cup dry sherry

· 1/4 cup brandy

· 1 quart chicken stock

· 2 quarts beef stock

· 2 TBSP flour

· white pepper

· kosher salt

· 3 sprigs fresh rosemary(finely minced)

· 2 sprigs of thyme( with stems removed)

· 2 Bay Leaves

· 8 TBSP. unsalted butter

· 1 TBSP. Worcestershire sauce

· Swiss cheese or Dofina Fontina

· Crackers or bread slices

Melt butter in large soup pot and sauté onions and garlic until golden brown. Add white wine, flour, mustard and brandy. After it thickens add beef stock, chicken stock, rosemary, thyme and bay leaves. Add Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper.Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25 minutes. Then put in bowls, add a homemade toasted cracker or bread slice on top of the bowl of soup, and a slice of cheese, and broil in the oven for 2 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted over the toasted bread slice and serve.

I love onions, garlic, leeks, chives, shallots and other alliums. And they have so many health benefits, it is a good thing! Please let me know what are some of your favorite uses for onions and other alliums! I would love to hear from you.

Wishing you herbs, health and happiness on thsi cold winter day.

William "Bill" Varney

Gift Giving with Herbs & Your Garden's Harvest Merry Christmas!

2011-12-13T11:07:00.000-08:00

There is nothing comparable to receiving a gift that is handmade from the giver!

Sandy Bates making candles

In our very busy hectic, fast paced lives, it is so special when someone decides to take the time to make gifts to give to family and friends for Christmas.

I was amazed last weekend, when my gardening and herb friend, Sandy Bates decided to do just that. She brought a harvest from her own gardens in Austin, and we got to work!

Sandy reminds me of the song, "Love is all around" because she is an amazing successful business woman, gardens, cooks, has a family and has just authored, are you ready for this....... The Social Innovation Imperative, published by McGraw Hill. The kindle edition comes out this month and is available on amazon and the hardcover copy comes out January 2012. http://www.amazon.com/Social-Innovation-Imperative-Products-Challenges/dp/0071754997

In the song, if you are older and remember it goes this way:
Who can turn the world on with her smile?
Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile?
Well it's you girl, and you should know it....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkuEfGZffRY&noredirect=1
Over the afternoon, Sandy made candles, potpourri, scented pinecone fireplace starters, and herb vinegars!

Sandy Bates

Over the years Sandy has worked with over 50 companies spanning dozens of industries and more than 100 innovation initiatives, helping executive teams launch award winning products, services and programs. She has engaged and trained hundreds of executives in Outcome-Driven Innovation Methodology, allowing her to enjoy both consulting and teaching others.
I hope that all of you can see by now why I am so impressed that this very busy woman took "the time" to handmake her Christmas gifts with a harvest from her own gardens in Austin.

"The only gift is a portion of thyself." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

For recipes to make your own herb vinegars go to our blog from August 7, 2011
http://bloomtoscoop.blogspot.com/2011/08/making-your-own-herb-vinegars.html

Sandy making herb vinegars

Sandy making scented pinecone fireplace starters

For other homemade recipe ideas go to http://www.urbanherbal.com/recipes/index.htm

"God waits to win back his own flowers as gifts from man's hand." - Rabindranath Tagore, Stray Birds, 1916

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas!
Blessings,
Roy & Bill Varney

Bill in the garden during winter

Ribollita Soup

2011-11-13T14:56:00.000-08:00

http://www.urbanherbal.com/Ribollita Soup, as Luca told me to say it Ree BO Letta

Fresh Herbs of Bay, Rosemary, Sage and Garlic

Hi Family and Friends!

Wow what a roller coaster week....just last Saturday was my birthday. then Sunday was a Memorial for my brother, Michael. Monday was a good day I made the Ribollita Soup, and took a pot of it up to my parents house for their dinner the next night. Mom was upset because she has just gotten off the phone with my Uncle that my Aunt had a massive stroke. The next day I picked up my parents early and we went to be with my Uncle and Aunt and family at the hospital in Austin. She passed away later in the day and we spent the evening with family in Georgetown. Friday was the Funeral for Aunt Barbara....A beautiful day for an outdoor ceremony. During the day I talked with Aunt Barbara's son-in-law and ask him how to pronounce the soup I had made on Monday night (he is from Italy) and he said, "Ree BoLetta"!!! It is a great soup. Our week became more diiicult as I was driving my parents home Friday night and my Dad became very ill and ended up being taken by EMS from the car on the highway to the hospital! Late Friday night I finally got Mom to their house and had to go back to the hospital... I left the hospital Saturday at a liitle after 4 A.M. They transferred Dad to San Antonio where he is being given great care. In the 12th year of Parkinson's Disease is not easy, for him or family. Prayers are needed, a week of lots of tears, but I know God does not give us more than we can handle. It is hard to comprehend what life is all about sometimes.

Here is the recipe for the Ribollita soup, I was so excited to to learn how to pronounce it on Friday!

A Tuscan, Italian Soup called Ribolitta (which means reboiled cabbage soup)

Ingredients:
4 cloves of garlic, minced
5 sage leaves, minced
3 bay leaves
1 sprig of rosemary, minced
1 onion, peeled and chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
3 stalks of celery, chopped
1/2 head of cabbage, coarsley chopped
1 bunch of swiss chard, chopped
2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 bunch of kale, chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cups of dry cannellini beans ( you can use great northern beans )
4 cups of water
32 ounces of chicken broth (plus I cooked in 2 chicken breasts minced )
a pinch of salt
14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes
fresh ground black pepper to taste
10 - 15 slices of toasted Italian bread, cut up
1 cup of fresh grated Parmesan Cheese
Olive oil to drizzle

Preparation:
1. Rinse the beans and put them in a large pot with the water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let stand for 1 hour.Then drain the water off. Set the beans aside.
2. Put the chicken broth and minced chicken, garlic, sage, garlic, bay leaves and salt in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about an hour. Cool.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet and add the onions, cook until transparent. Combine the carrots, potatoes, cabbage, chard, and kale. Add the rosemary. Then add the tomatoes. Cook for until all the greens have wilted.
4. Then add the beans and the onion mixture in the large pot, and cook for about 45 minutes. Add a little more salt and pepper to taste. Add the toasted bread slices and cook for about 15 minutes.. Cool and refrigerate. It tastes better is you can refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours or overnight.
5. Reheat the soup for 25 minutes. Serve in bowls with the grated Parmesan Cheese and drizzled olive oil on top.

It tastes with a glass of Italian Chianti....

Ribollita Soup

Thanks be to God!
Enjoy this soup with family and friends.

Bill Varney

The Garden of Herbs (see a few spooky tips...) hahaha

2011-10-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hello and Happy Halloween from our herb garden and herb shop!

"Only a witch can grow parsley" - Finnish Saying

Does this sound like witchcraft?

A few great herbs to grow in the Fall in the South are Parsley Parsley, Petroselinum sativum

Rosemary...a different use!

and Rosemary Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis

PARSLEY & ROSEMARY ALL WINTER!

Autumn is the best season in which to sniff, and to sniff for pleasure, for this is the season of universal pungency. Pumkins, Apples, pies, pickling, fruits, and of course lots of herbs!

Test your herbal knowledge?
For thousands of years, herbalists have been extracting the essences of various herbs for medicinal, culinary, and other uses. WHat do you call the process that involves soaking or fermenting the herb in alcohol?
a. an infusion
b. a decoction
c. an extract
d. a distillation

The answer....go to URBANherbal's facebook page to see the answer Urban Herbal Facebook

Well, gardening is always a tough choice...I was discouraged again this weekend, when I was in the garden early yesterday morning to find out that we had a hard enough freeze to destroy most of by basils and hoja santos and other tenders about 2-3 weeks ahead of our normal first freeze.

Wishing everyone a great day.
Herbs, Health and Happiness,
Bill

Flowerpot Bread

2011-10-23T13:02:00.000-07:00

Baking Bread in Clay Flowerpots
For me it is not enough enjoy to gardening outside with clay pots, I like to use them inside for cooking and decorating. I hope you enjoy baking in clay flowerpots too. Please let me know your thoughts.

Flowerpot Bread in the oven

Why bake bread in a flowerpot? The baked clay that flowerpots are made of is a perfect mold for bread, ensuring a crust that metal pans never quite achieve. But you must season the pots so that the dough won't stick to them.

Treating the Flowerpots: Use very clean flowerpot and generously rub the insides all over with vegetable oil. Place the pots in a 450 degree F. oven and let them bake for one hour(do this, if possible, alongside something else that may be baking, so as not to waste fuel).

After this treatment the pots need simply to be washed in warm water after you've baked in them. (Avoid soap:it can absorb into the porous clay, leaving a soapy residue.) If you notice any sticking, repeat the treatment.

Recipe for Flowerpot Bread:

1 1/2 packages of dry active yeast
2 cups warm water(105 to 115 degrees)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
6 to 7 cups all purpose flour(I like to use King Arthur Flour)
1 cup of finely minced fresh herbs(I used a melange of these rosemary, thyme, basil, mexican mint marigold, chives, flat leafed Italian parsley), I also did another batch of edible flowers bread that I used the following (johnny-jump-up petals, snapdragons, rose petals, mexican mint marigold flowers and lavender, as well as the zest of 1 lemon)

In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water and add the salt and the sugar. Stir thoroughly. Set aside for 10 to 20 minutes until foamy.

Using a wooden spoon stir in the flour, one cup at a time, and add the finely minced herbs or edible flowers combination with the lemon zest, until a smooth dough forms. Flour a board or your counter and turn out the dough and let it rest a few minutes. Now knead until the dough is elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, and cover with a towel and let set in a warm draft free place for about an hour and thirty minutes.

Turn the dough onto the floured board or counter, punch it down and knead it again. Divide the dough into how many clay flower pots you have. (The recipe makes to regular size loaves) So it depends on the size of your pots.

Place each piece of dough into each oiled clay pot, making sure not to put dough more than halfway up, as it will rise. Clay pots dough expand more readily, so if they are more than half full, the bread with mushroom over the top so much that it will fall over to one side.Let the dough rise another 5 to 10 minutes.

Place a pan of boiling water in the bottom of a cold oven, turn the oven on to 400 degrees and bake the flowerpot bread for about 30 to 40 minutes, until browned. Place on a rack to cool. The bread will just slide out of the flowerpots.

The flowerpots make a great presentaion to gardening friends, or cooks or just for fun.

Flowerpot Herb Bread Cooling

Edible Flowers for Flowerpot Bread

Fresh Herbs For Bread

Hope you have a glorious day, gardening, baking and having a glass of wine.

Bill Varney

"A loaf a bread, a jug of wine, and thou." Omar Khayyam

Edible Flowers

2011-10-21T15:15:00.000-07:00

With the beautiful Fall weather, everything is starting to grow again! Even our roses are blooming again here in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Edible Flowers are far from being a new concept: traditions of flower cookery come to us from the Victorian era and go back as far as the Roman Empire.
We have been cooking and experimenting with edible flowers since 1987 and have been excited about their potential as seasonings and garnishes. We use them under butter pats, on top of cakes, and in salads, soups, ice cream, breads, and in cocktails. Like all herbs, and vegetables, flowers blossoms must be well washed and pesticide free. Make sure you onely use organically raised flowers.

To the left I have put a copy of our Edible Flower Chart to help Guide you with a few suggestions.

Here are a few other tips for using edible flowers:

* Use lavender or roses to flavor jams and jellies

* Decorate the top of an iced cake with mild-flavored fresh flowers like pansies, roses, dianthus or Johnny-jump-ups, or calenduls

*Freshen up your plain tossed green salad with rosemary blossoms, chives blossoms, borage blossoms, nasturtiums, Johnny-jump-ups, or calendulas.

*Freeze borage blossoms, dianthus, or Johnny-jump-ups into ice cubes for a beautiful accent to party punches or just plain ice water!

Johnny-jumps-ups

Mexican Mint Marigold

Here is a fun recipe for a
Rosy Cooler
www.urbanherbal.com/recipes/index-16.htm#rosey-cooler

We would love to hear from you with some of your favorite edible flower recipes.

Wishing you Herbs, Health and Happiness,

Bill & Roy Varney

Herbs to Compliment Foods

2011-10-14T15:05:00.000-07:00

No matter what you are preparing in your kitchen, herbs help to bring out the best flavor in the foods!
Yesterday evening I was happt to go the the San Antonio Herb Society Meeting to hear and meet Susan Belsinger. She is a noted culinary herbalist, food writer and photographer and has authored over 20 books.

Susan Belsinger & Bill Varney

Her lecture and demo was, "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Herbs" She told how to make a basic Herb Syrup, Herbal Pastes, Herb Sugar Scrubs for the body, Herbal Salves, and a homemade Ginger Ale, that you could also add rum and called it a Humdinger Rum Zinger.You can visit her website at http://www.susanbelsinger.com/ A few of the books I bought years ago by Susan are out print now, but she has new titles out and writes for various magazines and writes the Herb of the Year book for the International Herb Association each year. So nice to meet you in person Susan!

Here are some of my suggestions for herbs to pair with different foods:

Soups

Anise, Basil, Bay, Caraway, Chervil, Chives, Coriander, Dill Weed, Marjoram, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Summer Savory, Tarragon, Thyme

Breads

Anise, Basil, Caraway, Coriander, Dill Weed, Fennel,Lavender, Marjoram, Parsley, Poppy Seed, Summer Savory, Thyme

Fish

Basil, Bay, Dill Weed, Lavender, Marjoram, Rosemary, Sage, Summer Savory, Tarragon, Thyme

Eggs

Basil, Bay, Chervil, Chives, Dill Weed, Fennel, Garlic, Marjoram, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Summer Savory, Tarragon, Thyme

Poultry

Basil, Bay, Caraway, Dill Weed, Lavender, Marjoram, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Summer Savory, Tarragon, Thyme

Lamb

Basil, Bay, Dill Weed, Oregano, Mint, Rosemary, Sage, Summer Savory, Tarragon, Thyme

Pork

Basil, Caraway, Corriander, Dill Weed, Fennel, Marjoram, Rosemary, Sage, Tarragon, Thyme

Beef

Basil, Bay, Chervil, Dill Weed, Marjoram, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Summer Savory, Tarragon, Thyme

Vegetables

Anise, Basil, Bay, Chervil, Coriander, Dill Weed,Lavender, Marjoram, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Sage, Summer Savory, Tarragon, Thyme

Desserts

Anise, Bay, Cinnamon Basil, Lemon Basil, Caraway, Coriander,Lavender, Mint, Fennel,Rosemary, Thyme

For more recipe ideas go to www.urbanherbal.com/recipes/index.htm

Hoping everyone is enjoying the beautiful Fall weather. I wanted to share this quote from Bertha Reppert who founded The Rosemary House.
"To grow them is to know them,
To know them is to use them,
To use them is to love them,
And then-happily-Herbs
besome your Way of Life." Bertha Reppert
http://www.therosemaryhouse.com/

Here's to Herbs, Health and Happiness,

Bill Varney

Bill Varney & Rene Bajeux

A day in the life at URBANherbal

2011-10-10T21:21:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends and Family,
After the most difficult drought and heat we have ever experienced, I am leaning toward succulents, cactus and herbs! http://www.debraleebaldwin.com/
Here are a few offerings that I have at URBANherbal.

We have been given the gift of rain the past few days, and cooler weather. I have taken advantage it with lots of weeding in my gardens.

Cooler weather also means harvesting, and taking the time to enjoy friends at the table...

I am busy making a melange of herbal sachets, toilet waters, lotions and bath gels for the shop, so please be sure to stop by if you have the chance.

Wishing to herbs, health and happiness!

http://www.urbanherbal.com/herb_gardening/fall_herbs.html

Apple surprise!

2011-10-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends,
Now that October is here it is no doubt Fall and with the Fall season we think about Apples. I think about my Apple i-phone and Apple i-pad all the time, but the fresh fruit is in season now, so my thoughts are on fresh Apples.

An Apple & Apple i-pad

The old saying,"An apple a day keeps the doctor away," always come to mind, but I had never thought about why until I looked into it. Here are a few benefits to apples:

Weight Loss
Diabetes Management
Helps lower Cholesterol
Alzheimer's Prevention
Asthma Help
Bone Protection

I love the smell of fresh apples, and even more the smell of apples baking in the oven. I started my creative herbal juices and came out with an unusual recipe that I made and shared with friends, that I have have nice comments on so I will share it with everyone here.

An Apple, Apple i-pad and Cinnamon Basil

The recipe I came up with uses Granny Smith Apples, Figs, Hibicus Flowers and Cinnamon Basil.

Apple Fig Tart

For the tart crust blend the following:

4 cups of unbleached whole wheat flour(I prefer King Arthur), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons sugar, 2/3 cup softened unsalted butter, 4 teaspoons baking powder, 3/4 cups ice water.

Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Blend in the butter with large spoon or your hands until a dough consistency. Add the ice water and form the dough into a large ball. Divide into small balls and sprinkle some flour on your kitchen counter. Roll each small ball with a rolling pin to about 1/16 inch thick circles.

Set aside whole making the filling.

For the filling blend the following:

1 cup of figs, mashed, 1/2 stick of butter, 1 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 8 Granny Smith Apples, skinned and seeded, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/4 teaspon nutmeg, 2 drops of almond extract, 1/4 cup of Hibiscus Flower Syrup. Melt the butter in a large saucepan, add the figs and half of the apples, diced. Add the other ingredients and simmer for about 15- 20 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

For the Hibiscus Syrup

In a small saucepan, blend a cup of water, simmer, add 1/2 cup hibiscus flowers and 1 cup sugar. Continue to simmer until the sugar is dissolved and well blended. Use a strainer to strain out the hibicus flowers, and set aside in a bowl for the filling.

In eight small tart pans, lay the dough, and press down, with the pans well greased or buttered.

In a food processor, blend 1 cup fresh cinnamon basil leaves, rinsed and patted dry, with 1/2 cup of sugar. Then in a small saucepan use 1/2 stick of butter melted and add the basil sugar and simmer for a couple of minutes. Set aside.

Fill your tart pans with the apples that you have not used in the filling. Then add the filling on top. Now add another dough layer on top, and press around the edges. Using a pastry brush, brush the cinnamon basil butter blend on top of the top crust.

Lower the oven temperature to 375 degrees, and bake the tarts for about 45 minutes or until browned around the edges. Let cool for about 15 minutes, and take out of pans. Serve with a sprig of cinnamon basil. I hope everyone is off to a wonderful Fall. Herbs, Health and Happiness, Bill Varney

Apple Tart with Figs, Hibiscus Flower Syrup and Cinnamon Basil

BloomToScoop: Herbs & Yoga - Yoga & Herbs

2011-09-29T15:39:00.000-07:00

BloomToScoop: Herbs & Yoga - Yoga & Herbs: Herbology for Yogis Hello Herb & garden lovers! I am going to share a little yoga and herbs.... Bill with Herbs for the practice of...

Herbs & Yoga - Yoga & Herbs

2011-09-28T19:14:00.000-07:00

Herbology for Yogis

Hello Herb & garden lovers! I am going to share a little yoga and herbs....

Bill with Herbs for the practice of Yoga

Traditional Yoga has always hinged on a special yoga diet and yoga herbs to act with it.

Yoga postures are something we do and an expression of our energy...how we feed ourselves and our souls.

Herbs are a powerful aid in the practice of Yoga!

If you are involved in yoga you should consider taking helpful herbs to get the most out of yoga and our life.

Our daily herbs may be as important as our daily bread.

The benefit of herbs accrue over time, your lifestyle and diet.

After a yoga session, a warm cup of Chai Tea is soothing & aromatic for your body and soul.... This recipe uses:
a bag of black tea, cinnamon,ginger, cardamon,clove steeped with hot water and blended with milk and a little honey or sugar.

CHAI TEA

Oils blended with herbs for your body !

I came up with a blend called Yogassage oil. It uses sesame oil, sweet almond oil, coconut oil, safflower oil, eucalyptus oil, peppermint, oil, wintergreen oil and sage oil. They stimulate the mind and promote insight, as well as calming and opening the mind.
Please watch for more on Yoga & Herbs in BloomtoScoop

"Yoga is body gospel." - Reaven Fields

New Hope for Diabetes with Chaya Herb

2011-09-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

Chaya Chidoscolus chayaman, a tender perennial that requires part sun is a Mexican herb used for medicinal and culinary purposes.

Chaya Leaf

It has been used by local South Texans for years to control blood sugar. A recent study by Texas A&M University pointed out that an induced rabbit could be brought back from high levels of blood sugar within four hours. Some patients who drink Chaya tea have stopped taking their medications for diabetes. Some say that the Chaya plant could be the second wonder plant of the century.
Brought down from the Mayans to moedern Mexicans, South Texans are the only region that knows that Chaya exists. Researchers say that this plant contains powerful doses of vitamins, proteins and minerals. Other research shows that the Chaya plant provides mega amounts of vitamins! Other people that have used the plant have had good results in weight loss, depression, dry skin and circulation. While some even claim to have better sex when eating the leaves and making of tea of it's leaves.
The National Institute of Nutrition in Mexico City says that ingesting Chaya will:
Improve blood circulation
Help Digestion
Improve Vision
Improve memory and brain function
Calm stressed veins
Help lower cholesterol
Help reduce weight
Prevent coughs
Combats diabetes and arthritis

Chaya Plant

I always enjoy growing unusual plants that you don't see everywhere! The best part about growing it, is just how easy it is to grow. Mine has trippled in size in two months.It is also know as "Tree Spinach,"and is best to grow it in a pot, to protect it during the Winter months. It will grow to about 6 feet tall and cutting it, encourages new growth.
The are bland, so you will want to add them to soups, casseroles, spaghetti sauces, salads and salsas. It is richer in iron than spinach!

TO MAKE A SIMPLE CHAYA Tea, boil a gallon of water, and steep 4 or 5 Chaya leaves with a couple of bags of black tea in a glass pitcher or jar. Do not use aluminum containers, as it can cause a toxic reaction, causing diarrhea.

The leaves should be boiled for five minutes before consuming, because they contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause cyanide poisoning.

Plant Herbs for Fall

2011-09-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Now is the time to plant herbs!

Potting Bench in the greenhouse

Why is Fall a good time to plant herbs?
In the Texas Hill Country and South it is actually a better time to plant cold hardy herbs because we are in a cooler season before winter and your plants have time to get established before Winter. Then by Spring they will really be growing and in full swing.

Fall is a time for rejuvenation. After we have had the tough heat, and no rain, plants use this time to their advantage. For our area it has been the most difficult Summer I have ever seen, record heat and record drought and of fires! I was in Austin this week and on my drive back to Fredericksburg, it started raining! What a joy for us! I measured a little over an inch of rain in my garden. The cooler evenings and mornings have been a nice change.
Some of the herbs I would suggest for planting now are:
Rosemary
Thyme
Chives
Oregano
Sage
Mexican Mint Marigold
Curry
Parsley
Cilantro
Marjoram
Arugula
Borage
Fennel
Garlic
Here is a link to my Fall Planting Guide Herbs to Plant in The Fall
I love this quote from Thomas
Jefferson:
"I am still devoted to the garden. But although an old man I am but a young gardener."
Herb Seeds

Soil Bench in the greenhouse

Here are a few examples of some herbs for Fall to grow in pots for your patio or balcony

Enjoy your garden and let me know what ideas you have for herbs, gardening, cooking and aromatherapy.

Wishing to herbs, health and happiness,

William "Bill" Varney

"But now in September the garden has cooled, and with it my posessiveness. The sun warms my back instead of beating on my head. " - Robert Finch 1981 Common Ground

Making a Basil Flower Wreath and a cup of Basil Tea

2011-09-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

I love the clove scent of basil... http://www.urbanherbal.com/herb_gardening/basil_7_07.html

Basil allows enlightenment to be absorbed by the physical mind-body, acting as a conduit, grounding at the same time as balancing subconscious thought and conscious reaction, It is then a fragrance of reality--the reality of physical existance and the reality of spiritual existence. It soars through all the realms, holding them together, allowing integration. --From The Fragrant Heavvens by Valerie Ann Worwood
Valerie describes basil's scent as, warm, rich, fiery, sharp, peppery, aniseed-like.

To make a basil wreath: you will need, basil flowers, from the tops of the plant, florist wire, and some heavy wire to make your wreath base.
Simply cut little bundles of basil flowers, tie together with florist wire and start wiring to the base, continue around the base until you have come full circle. It will take 7 to 10 days to dry. It also makes a unique fragrant centerpiece on a table.

Basil is also a wonderful herb to use for tea. It is believed to relieve stomach cramps, constipation, and has a spicy, clove flavor. How to brew basil tea:
By infusion, use 1 teaspoon of dried basil leaves or 3 teaspoons of fresh leaves, brusied. Cover with a cup of boiling water, and let steep for about 5 minutes. You can flavor it with honey.

Dog / Cat Biscuits for your little friend

2011-09-17T14:23:00.000-07:00

"Observe your dog :if he's too fat you're not getting enough exercise." --Evan Esar

Esparanza (on 3 legs now)

As some of you may know this past week has been a rough one for my dog, Esparanza .....she got hurt late Saturday night and it has been lots of visits to the vet, and lots of TLC, and medicine, and homemade cooking to getting her on the road to recovery. She can only walk on 3 legs, but at least she is recovering!

I have been making homemade dog/cat biscuits for a long time and sell them on-line and in the herb shop, but thought I should get another fresh batch made today. Here is the recipe:

Dog & Cat Biscuits
2 tablespoons margarine, lard, or bacon fat
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1 egg slightly beaten
1/2 cup dry milk powder
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup wheat germ
                                                                       1/2 teaspoon salt
                                                                       1/2 cup catnip (for cat biscuits)
                                                                       8 cloves of garlic finely minced (for dog biscuits)
Cream the margarine or lard and brown sugar in mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, dry milk and broth. Add flours, wheat germ, salt and either the garlic or catnip. Mix well. Knead until soft dough forms. Roll on a floured surface. Cut with shaped cookie cutter. Place on lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake at 325 for 30 minutes or until browned and crisp. Cool on rack. Store in airtight containers until served.

Making Dog Biscuits

Here is a link to making them on youtube:
http://urbanherbal.com/bill_varney/index02_11.htm

Just going into the oven:

For many friends, an animal is the constant and comforting presence in their lives.
Make sure your pet gets an edible present early for special occasions - or for no-reason-at-all moments.
http://shop.urbanherbal.com/Pet-Care_c2.htm

SEX, Fertility and Plants

2011-09-16T15:09:00.000-07:00

Indulging in sexual intercourse among the crops was a custom which accurred frequently in many places throughout America and Europe. Ritualistic copulation was so performed to increase the fertility of plants.

A scene from The Herbal Bed in NYC

Sometimes pregnant women were employed to plant seed, the inference being that their own obvious bountifulness would transfer itself to the growing plant. Similarly, pregnant women hugged trees to induce healthy growth.
All of the above is part of folk and legend from A Miscellany of Garden Wisdom by Bernard Schofield.
In The Botany of Desire by Michael Pollan he says, " the gardeners and descendants of Johnny Appleseed who would try to make some of this wildness... All of them had ventured into the garden--into Darwin's Ever-Expanding Garden of Artificial Selection-for the purpose of marrying powerful human drives to the equally powerful drives of plants; all were practitioners of the botany of desire.
In many of the foods we eat aphrodisiac's are used from the garden....such as in the Fall: The crisp air and autumn colors of fall ask for cuisine that is hearty, rustic, and substantial.

Feeling Sexy Now in the garden?

Pollinating Tomatoes
Procure a cotton ball or some other similar light fluffy ball and tie it to a stick. At about midday, treat every tomato plant by lightly touching the front part of each flower with the fur. This will distribute the pollen, fertilizing the female organs of the flowers.

Here is a recipe link from Intercourses, sure to have you thinking about your garden in a different way! http://urbanherbal.com/recipes/index-11.htm#spicy_grilled_shrimp

The garden is a place of many sacraments.....
Herbs, grow up close and personal. They are not just flowers, but calendulas, nasturtiums and roses. They are not garnishes, but cinnamon and lemon basil, apple mint and chocolate mint, parsley, lavender and thyme. They are not bulbs, but garlic, chives, dill and fennel. That is why I encourage you to try your hand at growing savory, reputed to have earned it name from the satyrs who found it essential to their amorous activities. Consider, too, the advise of Nicholas Culpeper, herbalist of the 17th century, who suggested a garden of mustard, onion and prickly asparagus for sparking an enchanted evening. For more on Growing and Using the Plants of Romance read Herbs by Bill and Sylvia Varney http://shop.urbanherbal.com/HERBS-Growing-Using-the-Plants-of-Romance-0600.htm

Pomanders for an earlier, gentler time to fragrant your personal space

2011-09-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

Pomanders
They were originally small balls of gold, silver or ivory and contained rare spices that were fixed with ambergris. They were used to ward off objectionable smells. My favorite pomanders are made with apples, oranges, lemons or limes and studded with cloves and aged in a curing spice blend. They can then be placed in bowls around your home or hung with ribbons to scent the home. Because they look and smell so festive, pomanders have long been associated with Christmas and the holidays.
I love their scent year round and if you start early, you can have a number of them made up ahead of time to give as gifts.
To make a pomander you will need the following:
Oranges, apples, lemons or limes.
Whole large headed cloves
A curing spice mixture ( recipe below )
An ice pick or crochet hook for piercing the fruit. This makes it a lot easier to insert the cloves.
A large bowl to put the curing spices and cure the pomanders.
As you inset the cloves, hold the fruit firmly, but don’t squeeze it. The cloves can be place at random in the fruit. They should be close together, but not too crowded.
Place the studded fruit into a bowl with the curing spices and roll in the spices.
Each day roll the fruit in the spices and continue until the fruit has hardened. They are then done and ready to put in bowls or hand with ribbons.
Curing Spice Mixture
4 ounces powdered cinnamon
2 ounces powdered cloves
1 ounce powdered allspice
½ ounces powdered nutmeg
1 ounces powdered orris root.
This mixture can be used over and over and be stored in a sealed ziplock bag and put in a cool dark cabinet.

The finished pomander can give you a number of years of fragrant pleasure.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-09-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Chip Cookies just out of the oven

Nothing beats a homemade chocolate chip cookie! Especially when they are just out of the oven with a glass of milk....
Here is my slant on the good tried & true recipe with a hint of cinnamon basil.

Recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookies with Cinnamon Basil

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
1 cup of light brown sugar
4 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon cinnamon basil, finely minced
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

                                                                                        1 3/4 cup unbleached white whole wheat flour
                                                                                        (I prefer King Arthur Flour)
                                                                                        1/2 teaspoon baking powder
                                                                                       1/2 teaspoon baking soda
                                                                                        1/2 teaspoon salt
                                                                                        1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chip cookies
                                                                                        1/2 cup pecans, chopped
                                                                                        2 teaspoons coffee (a few hours old )

Presheat your oven to 310 degrees F.
Place the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium for about a minute. Then beat in the egg, vanilla, and cinnamon basil. In the bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder and soda, and mix for about 30 seconds. Then add the chocolate chips, pecans, and coffee and mix for about another 30 seconds.
Prepare a cookie sheet with shortening or I use a non stick spray (Vegalene). Using a scoop, measure about 2 tablespoons of the cookie dough small round dollops, and gently press down into small circles. Bake for about 20 minutes or until browned around the edges. Repeat until you have all the cookie dough used.

This recipe usually makes about 24 to 28 cookies.

Cookies & Milk

Cinnamon Basil in the garden

Cilantro Cucumber Gin Fizz

2011-09-10T16:13:00.000-07:00

Cool Refreshing Adult Beverage with a Kick
Here is a fun unusual cocktail with sweet heat!

Cilantro Cucumber Gin Fizz

Cilantro Cucumber Gin Fizz Recipe

Cilantro simple syrup (recipe to follow)
Gin
Cucumber
Chili Pepper. seeded
Lime
Club Soda
Tabasco Green Pepper Sauce

In a blender puree a third of a peeled cucumber, the juice of one lime, and one chili pepper minced. Fill a bar glass with ice, fill half way with club soda, pour the puree over and stir well, add 2 tablespoons of the cilantro simple syrup, a dash of Tabasco Green Pepper Sauce and 1 jigger of gin, stir again. Garnish with a fresh cucumber slice and a cilantro sprig. Enjoy the evening!

Happy Hour outside the shop

Cilantro Simple Syrup Recipe

1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup cilantro finely minced

Bring all ingredients to a boil, stir well. cool down. Can be stored in the refrigerator for a few weeks.

Hoja Santa (Holy Leaf)

2011-09-09T16:14:00.000-07:00

My tongue tells me it isn't only the staples, herbs and spices that make the flavor and style of food really "Mexican."

Hoja Santa

Equally important is the way those Mexican foodstuffs are ground, simmered, seared and sizzled. Without suggesting that you get down on your hands and knees and grind chilies and corn on the metate. I offer for your culinary exploration a traditional piece of Mexican cooking equipment: THE LEAF.

Along with banana, avocado and maguey (century plant) leaves the velvet valentine-leafed Hoja Santa, Hierba Santa, or "root beer plant," was one of the first cooking vessels available to the Native American chef.

For a complete story on growing and using this herb go to:Hoja Santa

Questions breed touching and sniffing. Once released, hoja santa's musky aroma hinting of anise, camphor, and sassafras, transports us back in time to the almost-now obscure pre-Hispanic cultures of Mexico--the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec Indians. Although their ceremonial and ritual life was either merged among themselves, lost, or took on new form with the Spanish conquest, age-old culinary traditions have lingered on.

For generations, Mexican cooks have wrapped foods in leaf packets and placed them over hot fire to cook. Many ingredients can lose their fresh, clean flavor if cooked directly over a too-hot fire, but wrapping with leaves protects and flavors dishes, creating a moist, savory solution. When heated, hoja santa leaves give off a musky anise steam that marries especially well with poultry, fish, fresh oysters, clams, mussels, pork, and I love to grill a cabrito(goat).

Hoja Santa Chicken

Here is a grilled chicken that I am making for this weekend!

Grilled Hoja Santa Chicken Recipe

6-8 Hoja Santa Leaves
1 whole organic free range chicken
seasoning (recipe to follow)
1/3 cup Olive Oil
1/4 cup tequila

Oil a large pan or clay dish. Lay enough hoja santa leaves to cover the bottom. Rinse off and dry the chicken. Lay the chicken on the leaves and season all over and drizzle with olive oil and tequila. Lay more hoja santa leaves all over the top of the chicken. Turn you grill on and have it on medium heat. Put the pan on the grill and slowly cook, turn the chicken and recover with leaves. Slowly grill for 45 minutes to an hour. I like to wet the leaves to bring out the most flavor! Tastes great with fresh veggies, garden fresh salad and tortillas with a little hoja santa cheese. Check out Paula Lambert's award winning one at http://www.mozzco.com/cgi/SoftCart.100.exe/scstore/p-cs17.html?L+scstore+ddrr7274+1315626267

Seasoning Recipe:
1 tablespoon dried cocoa
1 tablespoon dried garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon allspice
1 tablespoon ancho chile pepper
1 tablespoon sea salt
1 tablesppon fresh ground pepper
Mix all ingredients together. Use for seasoning chicken to taste.

Hoja Santas Leaves wrapped around the chicken on the grill

Wrapped Hoja Santa Chicken on The Grill

Glycerin Free Skin Care

2011-09-08T16:00:00.000-07:00

Skin Care without glycerine

Blending the lotion

Yesterday my Mom was taking tests
all day for allergies..... Wow over 70
years young, and to find out she has
allergies. There was young lady taking tests

all day was well and she had been in the
emergency room at the hospital numerous
times in really severe shape. One common
thing that many people have is an allergy to
glycerin.
So in the past 24 hours I have researched
an found out that gycerin is in almost
everything!
Here is a simple way to make a glycerin-free
lotion.

Recipe:
1 tablespoon cocoa butter
2 tablespoons beeswax
1/4 cup Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
1/2 cup Sweet Almond Oil

In a double boiler, melt all of the ingredients. The cocoa butter and beeswax will take the longest to melt.
When it has all melted, pour into a container, and let cool. Of course being an herb guy, I want to add essentail oil, which I will, but decided for omit for simplicity and allergies. Depending on your own preferences you can add 6-12 drops of your favorite essential oil.

Glycerin-Free Lotion

I have been making a glycerin-free massage oil for a number of years that works great as a skin moisterizer.
Herbal Massage Oil

Hope everyone enjoys this skin care tip today.

Caprese Salad

2011-09-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

If you love mozzarella cheese, tomatoes and basil, this is your salad!

Caprese Salad with bread & wine

Caprese Salad Recipe

2 - 3 ripe tomatoes

Fresh mozzarella medallions(I prefer Paula Lambert's Mozzarella)Paula Lambert Mozzarella Company

25 -30 Fresh Basil Leaves (I like to use sweet and purple basil)

EVOO (extra virgin olive oil)

coarse salt and fresh ground pepper

balsamic vinegar

Caprese Salad

On salad plates, layer your basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, then mozzarella slices, then layer again. Season with coarse salt and fresh ground pepper. Drizzle with EVOO, and balsamic vinegar.

Very Simple, quick, and easy! But the best part is how delicious this salad tastes.

Martini Fete with Herbs

2011-09-05T19:24:00.000-07:00

Lemon Herb Martini

A classy cocktail, evoking elegance, sophistication, and known as the "King of Cocktails" by many people.
Serve this lemony herb martini in the garden or share it with a friend for a fun eveningnof friendship.

2 ounces lemon flavored vodka(recipe follows)
Crushed ice
A sprig of lemon herb, such as lemon basil, lemon verbena, or lemon balm
1 green olive

Shake vodka with ice, and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a sprig of herb run thru the olive.
Serve and enjoy!

Lemon Infused Vodka

1. Choose your herbs. I suggest lemon basil sprigs, lemon verbena sprigs, lemon balm sprigs, and zest of 1 lemon.
2. Choose an airtight container or bottle.
3. Vodka to fill your container(since you are flavoring it, you do not have to an expensive vodka).
4. Loosely put herbs and lemon zest in container, pourq vodka over, and fill the bottle.
5. Store in a cool dark place for at least 3 to 5 days or longer. Shake a few times a day.

6. Strain with a funnel and filter and discard herbs and lemon zest for a pure clear vodka.

Making Yogurt Cheese with Herbs

2011-09-04T16:25:00.000-07:00

Old Fredericksburg Cheese Spread

Old Fredericksburg Cheese Spead Served in The Garden

To help you enjoy a wonderful
Labor Day weekend, I wanted to
share this recipe that we originally did
in the eighties, and I always forget
until I make it each time, just how
wonderful and easy it is to do.

"We may live without poetry, music and art;
We may live without conscience, and live without heart;
We may live without friends;
We may live without books;
But civilized man cannot live without cooks."
- Edward Robert Bulwer, Earl of Lytton 1860

Ingredients:
1 quart yogurt cheese (recipe follows)
1 8-ouce package cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon each; chopped fresh marjoram, thyme,
sage and parsley.
1 large clove of garlic, minced
1. Place all ingredients in your food processor, pulse well and chill
2. Serve as a dip with vegetables or with bread or crackers.

Herbs for Cheese Spread : Parsley, Marjoram, Thyme, Sage

Yogurt Cheese
1 quart yogurt (plain)

1. Place 1 quart yogurt on a piece of cheese cloth or loosely woven material.
2. Draw the four corners of the material up and tie securely to form a bag.
3. Hang this overnight from the kitchen faucet, or anywhere it can drip. The thick mass left in the bag is the yogurt cheese

Making Yogurt Cheese

Smell is the most powerful of our senses

2011-09-03T20:54:00.000-07:00

"Nothing awakens a reminiscence like an odor." - Victor Hugo

Various Scents

Smell is the most powerful of our senses,
and the fastest way to our emotions, and
yet we turn our noses up at it..

Smell can instantly trigger emotions, and
it roots us to experience. Without smell
we would be denied so much of our
intimate memory, because scent has a
fast route to the part of the brain that deals
with emotions and memory.

Here are a few a few suggested scents for
different rooms in your home:
Bedroom: lavender, rose, geranium, ylang-ylang
Living room: amber, pine or juniper
Kitchen: grapefruit
Bathroom: rose or marjoram
Scents Natural

Oils for different effects

For entertaining and for different effects essential oils can do it all!

Recent American research suggests that the divorce rate is higher
these days because we mask our natural smell, so that when we fall
out we don't even have the safety net of a familiar smell to catch.us.

Our homes are such a cacophony of different artificial smells, from
household cleansers to cosmetics, that we cannot tell what is natural
anymore! It is time for everyone to take back control of what is in
your home.

Herb Hors D' Oeuvres

2011-09-01T11:52:00.000-07:00

Friends Coming over or needing to bring a little something to a party?

Herb Crostini

These crostinis are quick, easy and don't last very long when put out for a snack.

Crostinis
Take a loaf of french, and thinly slice.
lay the slices on a cookie sheet, greased with olive oil
Drizzle olive oil on top of the bread slices.
Sprinkle slices of basil leaves on top.
Season with Herb Sea Salt
Set the oven on broil and put the crostinis in the oven for 3 to 4 minutes.
Plate and serve!

Tea Sandwiches

Another easy Hor D' Oeuvre are assorted tea sandwiches. I made two that are in the pictures

Caprese Tea Sandwiches
on a thin slice of french bread spread cream cheese
On top add a tomatoe slice, large leaf of basil or 2, a thin slice of fresh mozzarella cheese (my favorite is from Paula Lambert's Mozzarella CompanyMozzarella Company
on another slice of bread spread some homemade pesto and add to the top and your done!

Cucumber Carrot Tea Sanwiches
on thin sliced cocktail cocktail sourdough bread spread cream cheese
next lay a thin slice of cucumber , then sprinkle with
grated carrots, season with salt and pepper.
on another slice of bread add cream cheese and put on top
and those tea sandiches are done.

Tea Sandwiches

Herbal Cocktails

2011-08-31T21:20:00.000-07:00

"Come quickly, I am tasting stars!" - Dom Perignon

Any evening is a wonderful evening for champagne....

For a refreshing change of pace to a plain glass of champagne, pour a glass of champagne, then pour 1 tablespoon of Lemon Verbena Simple Syrup in the glass, stir and add a leaf of the herb.

Ahh....so... good, yet so simple!

Watch for more herbal cocktail recipes in future blogs.

To make the simple syrup:
Boil 1 cup of water with 1 cup of refined sugar and a handful of fresh bruised lemon verbena leaves. Cool. Refrigerate for future use or use at once.

Herbal Foot Care

2011-08-29T17:14:00.000-07:00

"To see a World in a Grain of Sand
And a Heaven in a Wild Flower,
Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand
And Eternity in an hour." - William Blake

"Plants are magnificent. There is not a tree or a flower
That does not radiate beauty. Fragrance from plants,
Has been said to alert the gods to our presence, and act as a
sign that the human mind is focused and receptive to spiritual
guidance. In many cultures sweet-smelling aromas were and still
are associated with divinity - with gods, heavens, angels, and saints
all being attributed with having a delightful fragrance." quoted from
The Fragrant Heavens by Valerie Ann Worwood

If you work in a garden, in an office, retail store, a warehouse or
Are just going about day to day, your feet take a beating, and one of
the best ways to take care of yourself with by taking care of your feet.
Here is an easy Herbal Foot Bath Recipe:
A small pan or tub that both of your feet can fit comfortably into.
2 Gallons of very warm water
A few good size sprigs of rosemary from the garden
6 drops of rosemary essential oil
6 drops of lavender essential oil
4 drops of junior essential oil
Marbles to roll your feet on in the water
A towel to dry your feet afterwards
Soak your feet for 10 to 15 minutes and towel dry.
Hot water foot baths have been for hndreds of years to treat feet problesms
as well as headaches, colds, abdomen problems, varicose veins, and exhaustion.
We make a wonderful Peppermeint Foot Lotion which we have sold over the years in fine stores around the U.S., and is great to use daily, but also right after drying your feet from the foot bath.Peppermint Foot Lotion

"I don't enjoy public performances and being up on stage. I don't enoy the glamour. Like tonight, I am up on stage and my feet hurt." - Barbara Steisand

Herbal Heat Relief with Lemon Verbena Fizz and Heat Exhaustion Bath

2011-08-28T16:02:00.000-07:00

"Humanity will be saved through the flower." - Huvenol, Mayan elder quoting a Mayan prophecy
Today it is over 105 degrees in Fredericksburg, Texas, so all I can try to think about is heat relief!
http://shop.urbanherbal.com/

Here is a quick refreshing cocktail recipe and a cooling bath recipe. Enjoy and try to stay cool.

Lemon Verbena Heat Escape Fizz
club soda
lemon verbena syrup
lemon slice
fresh lemon verbena sprigs
orange flower water
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar and a few lemon verbena sgrigs muddled with some of the sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over moderately high heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. About 3 to 5 minutes. Let cool, then transfer to the syrup to a jar and cover. Can refrigerate until ready to use. Will keep for about a month in the frig.
Fill a cocktail glass with ice, a sprig of lemon verbena, a slice of lemon, a tablespoon of orange flower water, 2 tablespoons of the lemon verbena simple syrup, club soda, about 3/4 of the glass and I like to add a shot of gin. Mix well. Now your ready to run a warm bath with a cool blend of essential oils to really cool you off!

Heat Exhaustion Bath Blend

6 drops of lavender essential oil
6 drops of eucalyptus essentail oil
6 drops of peppermint essentail oil
Add the oil to your warm bath water and relax with your lemon verbena fizz! You can take a shower instead, by blending the oils with two cups of warm water in a bowl and soaking a bath cloth in the mixture and using it in the shower.

Making Butter Better with Herbs or Edible Flowers

2011-08-27T15:22:00.000-07:00

Making Herb or Edible Flower Butters
www.urbanherbal.com/recipes
Butters are often an overlooked culinary touch; fresh herbs from the garden are unlimited in decadent flavor combinations, and can supply thousands of possible serving ideas! Since fat carries flavor better than any other medium, just a small pat of herb butter goes a long way toward enhancing not only bread, but also meat, fish, poultry, eggs, steam vegetables, and fresh pasta.
Herb butters can be made with little effort; most herbs are easily creamed into softened butter, while others may require a few minutes in the food processor. They freeze well, too, because the butterfat naturally coats and preserves the ingredients.
Start with unsalted butter to contraol the amount of salt in the finished spread and to retain a more delicate flavor.
As a general rule, use 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh herbs to 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter. After blending the herbs and butter thouroughly, lay a piece of parchment paper, or plastic wrap on the counter, spread the butter to make a log and roll up. Place in the freezer or the refrigerator. Let the flavors sit for at least 3 hours for all the flavors to blend. You can then slice off a section to use and put the remainder back to refrigearate, for later use. Today I made an Edible Flowers Honey Butter. It is great on little toasts, biscuits, waffles, or to use in cake icing.

Edible Flowers Honey Butter
1/2 cup organic rose petals and assorted edible flowers (minced)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1/3 cup honey
1 tablespoon natural rose flower water
Combine all of the above ingredients and mix well. Spread onto parchment paper or plastic wrap roll into a log and refrigerate

Here are a few other herb butter blends: Cilanto and toasted pine nuts, parsley, chives, chervil and tarragon, dill and lemon butter, rosemary olive butter. The combinations are endless.

Old Thyme Cook Cheese (Kock Kase) with rosemary, thyme & basil

2011-08-26T20:14:00.000-07:00

I always love recipes that have been given to me! Having lived in a german town in Texas for over 25 years, I have collected lots of hand me down recipes, and of course I figure out how to mingle fresh herbs into the mix.

This recipe is so easy to do, you could easily make it for yourself or friends and family on the spur of the moment or make it ahead, put it in the frig and set it out to get to room temperature for use a few days later. Here it is:

Old Thyme Cook Cheese (Kock Kase)

1 pound cottage cheese (large or small curd)
1 teaspoon soda
3 tablespoons flour
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh minced rosemary
1 tablespoon fresh minced basil
1 teaspoon fresh thyme

Mix all ingredients in a heavy saucepan, and place in a warm air tight area for one hour.

Cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Can be served at once, or cooled down and served later. Great with crackers or homemade bread.

Dog Care with Herbs

2011-08-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

Take good care of man's best friend!

"I've seen a look in dog's eyes, a quickly vanishing look of amazed contempt, and I am convinced that basically dogs think that humans are nuts." - John Steinbeck

My little "Esparanza" Hope is a lot of fun. Roy has said that we covered all the bases, "She's black, chinese, and has a spanish name." She is also a star! She was featured with me as Mr. March in 2007 in a calender, Hunks and their Huggables." That was when I decided to come out with an herbal dog shampoo and conditioner. They both work really good, and use aloe vera, nettle, pine, burdock, chamomile, rosemary, ivy, arnica, ylang ylang, lavender, eucalyptus, and cedarwood.

Today I have decided to share a simple recipe to use between your dogs baths.

Rosemary Oil Flea Spray

Mix 1 teaspoon rosemary essentail oil, with 1 cup of water, in a small spary bottle. Shake well and spray on your dog and rub in their coat, to help repel fleas.

Here is a link on how to make herbal dog biscuits.

Hope you all have a great day, and enjoy your "hope."

Making Lavender Window Cleaner

2011-08-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

Homemade Window Cleaner

This window cleaner is cheap to make and works great!

Ingedients:
16 ounces of water
1/2 cup of white or apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup (70 %) rubbing alcohol
2-4 drops of essential oil of lavender, or any other
essential oil that you would like to use. Suggestions would be orange oil, rosemary oil, lemon oil, or eucalyptus oil.

Blend the water, vinegar, and alcohol together in a spray bottle, add the essential oil, and your done. Ready to clean your windows!

Pickled Eggs with Fresh Herbs

2011-08-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

I love these pickled eggs with rosemary and cinnamon basil. They are wonderful to serve as a snack with cocktails.

Herb Pickled Eggs

6 cinnamon basil sgrigs
6 rosemary sprigs
2 cans sliced beets
1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar
1 cup of dark brown sugar
1 dozen hard boiled eggs peeled
1 medium red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons pickling spices

Drain the beets, and set beets aside. Pour beet juice into a large saucepan, and bring to a boil. Add the vinegar, and lower to a simmer. Then add the brown sugar, and stir until dissolved. Add the pickling spices.

Put the eggs, beets, and onion slices in a large wide-mouthed, heat proof glass jar or a few glass jars. Tuck rosemary and cinnamon basil sprigs to the jars. Layer the eggs, beats and onions, evenly. Pour the hot beet juice-vinegar mixture over the eggs, beets and onions. Make sure all ingedients are covered. Let cool. Cover the jar with a lid. Let stand in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days before serving. Enjoy with family and friends.

Making Hungary Toilet Water

2011-08-20T17:07:00.000-07:00

Today was another very Hot day .... over 100 degrees again and no rain!!!
So I worked inside most of the day,other than to cut the fresh herbs from the garden for this
simple toilet water, that is great for men and women. It is also refreshing on your skin
when it is so hot!

Here my version of the recipe:

Queen of Hungary Toilet Water

Fresh Rosemary sprigs
Fresh Thyme Sprigs
Fresh Sage Sprigs
Fresh Lavender Sprigs
1/4 cup rose flower water
1/4 cup everclear(95% alcohol)
1/4 cup witch hazel
1/2 cup distilled water
A few drops of essentail oil of the following: rosemary, thyme, lavender, mint and lemon

Mix all of the liquid ingredients together in a large container. Gather a few bottles or one large bottle, put the sprigs of the herbs in the bottle and pour the mixture over the sprigs in the bottles. Shake daily and store in a cool place for at least a week.
Use as a skin toner on the face and body.
Use as a cologne.
It is said that The Queen of Hungary took years off of her life by using this toilet water.

Enjoy!

Ginger Zingiber officinale

2011-08-18T19:22:00.000-07:00

Ginger is a native to the moist tropical forests of southeast Asia.
It grows as a potted plant here in Fredericksburg, because of our cold winters.
The portion used is the fat, knobby rhizome, a type of underground
stem. It is generally called ginger root, which is technically a misnomer.

Grated ginger baths can help ease pain and increase circulation. Just drop a few granules
of grated ginger in your tub of hot water. Don't use too much, as it can quickly bring your
blood to the surface. For pain, you can also soak cloths in ginger tea and apply them directly to the area of pain.It also sweetens the breath. It helps with loss of appetite and indigestion. It also helps with nausea, and relieves backache and headache.
In cooking, I love to use it in Asian dishes, meats, fish and rice. and of course cookies and bread!

Ginger also is great in a footbath and is a stimulant and an aphrodisiac.

I will post ginger recipes later..... Ginger Pear Tart and a refreshing Ginger Drink!

Herbal First Aid

2011-08-17T13:59:00.000-07:00

It's the natural way.....
Using herbs for your face, body, food, and home is simple, natural and inexpensive.
http://www.urbanherbal.com/herb_tips/index.html

Herbal First Aid

Reach for a remedy from your garden when outdoor activities result in bites, burns, bumps, or blisters. Many herbs, use fresh or in simple preparations, offer time-tested treatments for minor skin maladies.

Heat rash: Use sage, lavender, and lemon balm in a bath. After drying off use a dusting powder made with cornstarch.
Wasp or Bee sting or mosquito bite: Remove the stinger. Apply lavender essential oil.
Sunburn: Apply aloe vera (the gel in the leaves). Use lavender and mint oil in a bath.
Minor cut: Apply clean, fresh crushed plantain, mullein, or comfrey leaf.
Scrapes: Apply a mullein, or yarrow poultice or rose geranium essential oil. Use thyme, calendula and rosemary in a bath.

When treatment is needed, first use clean, cool water and a little soap to clean the affected area; apply ice to reduce swelling.

Seek medical advice for serious injuries or if you have allergic reactions.

Herb blend for vegetables

2011-08-16T21:32:00.000-07:00

For a homemade blend from the garden:

Cut fresh mint and sage from your garden, dry them in the oven at 225 with the door ajar for 15 to 20 minutes on a cookie sheet, mince, put them in a mortar and crush fine, along with celery seed and white pepper corn. Makes a great blend to season veggies .

2 tablespoons dried minced sage
2 tablespoons dried minced mint
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper.http://www.urbanherbal.com/recipes/index.htm

Garden Thoughts

2011-08-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

On this very hot August day I wanted to share some garden thoughts:

TIME OUT

“The garden is a place of many sacraments, an arena – at once as common as any room and as special as a church – where we can go not just to witness but to enact in a ritual way our abiding ties to the natural world.”

-Michael Pollan, The Botany of Desire

BLOSSOMS TO BEAT THE BLAAHS

Spring and summer, they’re not the only seasons for blooms. Unlike the tentative pastel petals of early summer, herbs grown in autumn burst with provocative blossoms. A bouquet of flowers saturated with months of full sun can cheer more than just your room. Rutgers University professor of psychology Jeannette Haviland-Jones says, “the presence of flowers triggers happy emotions and heightens feelings of satisfaction.”

Snip buds from your garden, make a run for the local nursery or florist; it’s easy to tap into the power of flowers. Mix a mass to lift your spirits, place a bunch on you’re your desk for a spark of inspiration, or hide a sprig under your pillow. It will either a)dispel melancholy or b)prevent nightmares –maybe both!

Strawberry - Chocolate Cinnamon Basil Cobbler

2011-08-15T13:58:00.000-07:00

Cinnamon Basil and Strawberries

Lemon Dill Savory Salts

As my abundance of basil continues, I have been drying various basils, and using them in everything! From savory herb salts to pestos to desserts.

I made this dessert for tonight and thought I would share the recipe:

Strawberry - Chocolate Cinnamon Basil Cobbler

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1/3 cup Valrhona unsweetened cocoa
1 cup sugar
2 cups pastry flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon basil, finely minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup of milk
1 pint of strawberries

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Place the butter, cocoa, and 1/4 cup of the sugar in a 3 quart glass baking dish. Place in the oven for 3-5 minutes to melt the butter. Remove from the oven and stir until well blended.

Meanwhile, in a medum bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon basil, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and the remaining 3/4 cup sugar. Add the milk and stir until the mixture is smooth. Spoon onto the melted butter cocoa mixture, but do not stir.

Sprinkle with the strawberries. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick comes out clean.

Let stand for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

It tastes great served with a dopple of Whipped Cream made with minced Cinnamon Basil.

Rosemary for Remembrance

2011-08-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

I love rosemary, whenever I brush up againist it's leaves the piney sent makes me feel good! So today in weeding in the garden I decided to write about rosemary and provide a great easy and popular way I have used this wonderful herb.

ROSEMARY

Rosmarinus officinalis

_____________________

“Grow young along with me! The best is yet to be. The last of life, for which the first was made.” -Browning

Robert Browning musing on the herb Rosemary? We suggest that the gloomiest, darkest days in winter are the best time to appreciate an herb that according to one herbal, “will keepe thee youngly.” Glorious rosemary! It looks likes a diminutive woody tree with pine-needle-like leaves, dark green above and white beneath. The leaves taste pine fresh, with a hint of pepper that leaves a warm feeling within. In the axils of the leaves pink, blue, or white flowers bloom – similar to tiny orchids.

Rosemary is a semihardy, woody perennial, low shrub and is used for culinary, medicinal and crafts as well as ornamentally. The generic and common names are derived from the Latin ros-marinus, ‘dew of the sea’, in reference to its favorite habitat near salty sea spray. Its specific name refers to its inclusion in the early pharmacopoeias because of its medicinal properties. It grows from 2 to 6 feet high and up to six feet wide. It will grow well in full sun to partial shade and will take almost any soil as long as it is well drained. Indoors, big pots of rosemary reach for filtered southern sun, a six hour sustenance. They prosper in a cool (45 to 55 degree) spot.

Rosemary is an herb of strong, diverse symbols. It has been considered the emblem of loyalty, friendship and remembrance. Where basil symbolized the quickening of love, rosemary was a token of its long-lasting qualities. Bridesmaids wove rosemary into the bridal wreath they presented to the bridegroom on the wedding day. It was also placed under nuptial mattresses to encourage faithfulness and discourage insects and mildew.

According to custom, rosemary twined in your hair stimulated the memory or helped prevent baldness, depending upon your need. Also connoting friendship, no more cherished party favor could be offered than a gilded rosemary twig.

Rosemary flourished through medieval and Renaissance periods. Every garden seemed to have a single bush or several, often pruned in fanciful or symmetrical shapes. The essential oil or the leaves and flowers were used as a bath freshener and mouthwash, in liniments and as a moth repellent.

Rosemary has been grown in gardens for so long that natural hybrids have occurred, resulting in forms suitable for many landscape situations. Rosmarinus officinalis has an upright, shrublike growth habit, reaching 3 to 6 feet high and as wide. Plants blend well with many gray- foliaged plants found in the herb garden.

R. officinalis ‘Prostratus’ is the ground-hugging form, more commonly grown in mild winter regions of the West. It performs well as a cascading ground cover draped over a wall, on slopes or in the foreground of a flowerbed. The gray-green leaves create a dense, 2-foot-high plant that can spread 4 to 6 feet in diameter.

ROSEMARY KNOW-HOW

Use two teaspoons of minced fresh leaf in a recipe to serve four.

If you only have dried rosemary, use a teaspoon in a recipe to serve four.(Dried leaves are tough little spikes! Finely mince for comfortable chewing.)

Tie a couple of sprigs of rosemary together with some string or raffia to make an herbal whisk. Send it along with a thank-you note for a recent dinner party because “Rosemary is for remembrance.”

Add one tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary to a favorite corn muffin or biscuit recipe.

Try a small amount of finely chopped rosemary in your cake mix, for an unusual taste. We make a wonderful cake with rum, orange-rind and rosemary.

Add a few drops of essential oil of rosemary to your own home-made hair tonic of ½ teaspoon sesame oil. Dip your fingers into the mixture and burrow your fingers into your hair and scalp massaging while deeply breathing to help cure a common headache.

Try growing a rosemary plant to help improve your life and those around you.

Urbanherbal’s

Rosemary Orange Rum Cake

1 2 layer package yellow cake mix

1 small package vanilla instant pudding mix

1 tablespoon finely minced fresh rosemary

Grated zest of one orange

½ cup water

½ cup canola oil

½ cup light rum

4 extra large eggs

1 cup of toasted chopped pecans

Glorious Glaze

Combine cake mix, pudding mix, rosemary, and orange zest in a food processor or blender. Process until well mixed. Add water, oil, and rum; mix well. Add eggs one at a time; mix well after each addition. Blend in pecans. Pour into Bundt pan sprayed with nonstick baking spray. Bake at 325 degrees for one hour or until wooden toothpick comes out clean. Pour Glorious Glaze over cake in pan. Allow glaze to soak in completely before removing cake from pan. Invert cake so that glazed top is facing up. Garnish with long rosemary sprigs.

Glorious Glaze

½ cup unsalted butter

1 cup of sugar

¼ cup water

¼ cup rum

½ tablespoon finely minced rosemary

Bring butter, sugar, water and rum to a boil in a saucepan. Boil until the mixture reaches soft-ball stage

or 235 degrees on a candy thermometer. Yields enough glaze for one cake.

From Along The Garden Path by Bill & Sylvia Varney

Good Thyme Sangria

2011-08-12T14:18:00.000-07:00

It is getting close to Happy Hour and it is Friday afternoon. Here is a quick easy recipe for Sangria, cool and refreshing on a hot summer evening! At least we had a little rain this morning and it has been cloudy all day, but still hot. We need a lot of rain and cooler weather.
CHEERS!

URBANherbal’s

Good Thyme Sangria Recipe

This is super simple and always a HUGE Hit whenever I serve it!

1 can frozen lemonade concentrate

1 can frozen limeade concentrate

1 can frozen orange juice concentrate

4 cans Sprite or 7Up

1 bottle of red wine

Rose’s Grenadine to taste (1/2 cup)

1 lemon sliced

1 orange sliced

6 sprigs of thyme

6 sprigs of lemon balm

In a large pitcher add all of the ingredients and stir. Serve in ice filled glasses with an accent sprig of orange and thyme sprig.

The Art of Designing an Herb Garden

2011-08-11T18:46:00.000-07:00

HERB What’s in a name we cherish? The plants we call “herbs” comes from the Latin word, herba, meaning “green crops.”

As gardeners, we have come to a different understanding of which plants are herbs based on our changing relationship with nature. Today, herb has an expanded definition that includes plants , generally aromatic or fragrant, whose parts, whether leaf, flower, seed or root, are useful to mankind for food, flavoring, medicine, household and cosmetics. Whew! By contrast, spices, with their many uses for flavoring and fragrance, primarily are harvested from the bark, root seed berry or pod of vines, shrubs, or trees grown mostly in tropical climates.

Planning Your Herb Garden

Transforming an empty or overgrown spot into an herb garden can be one of life’s most gratifying experiences. Time spent outdoors in your garden relaxes mind, body and spirit. However, facing a raw, undeveloped, what-did-I-get-myself-into site can be intimidating. Visions of a private herbal getaway do come true, but not before you make lots of choices and accept responsibility for a fair amount of planning, digging and planting.

1. The best way to get your herb garden off to a good start is to plan it out on paper. Measure the area, and scale it down to transfer it to graph paper (each square to equal one foot). Do start small, increase the size of your garden later.

2. Mark in the positions of your herb beds and borders with their dimensions. Locate the short, compact herbs in the front of your herb beds; the taller ones behind them. Be sure to determine their final size; you will avoid overcrowding come time to planting.

3. It’s best to make beds four feet wide if you can reach across it from both sides, three feet wide if you have access from one side only. Make it as long or short as your space permits.

4. Select your plants according to your needs (culinary, craft, cosmetic, medicinal, landscape, etc.), and dictates of the soil and site. Also consider whether they are evergreen, perennial, annual, flowering, non-flowering, as well as their different textures and colors.

5. Repeat herb varieties for symmetrical patterns, or plant to create a wild look. Remember, the more formal a garden, the more pruning and maintenance is required.

6. Assess your soil. Is it well drained (sandy, gravelly, chalky)? Does it hold water and feel sticky when wet, cracking badly when dry? Is it dark colored, spongy when wet and dusty when dry. Most herbs like a fertile, well-drained, sandy soil.

7. Assess your location. Which parts are sunny or shady? Does the area get wind, if it does, is it primarily from the north, south, east, or west? Is it likely to retain frost in the winter? Is it sheltered by walls, fences or shrubs? How much rain does it get? Select heartier herbs (rosemary, thymes, sages, mints, and parsley) for more vulnerable spots.

8. Decide on the number of plants your garden will require and purchase accordingly.

“He who sees things from the beginning will have the best view of them” -Aristotle

HERBS TO MATCH YOUR SOIL TYPE

Sandy Soil-
Borage, Chamomile, Coriander, Fennel, Lavender, Tarragon, Thyme, Marjoram and Winter Savory

Clay Soil-
Bee Balm, Comfrey, Mints, and Wormwood
Working compost into clay soil makes it more hospitable to herbs that prefer Loam and Moist soils.

Moist Loam Soil-
Bee Balm, French Sorrel, Lady’s Mantle, Lemon Balm, Mint, Parsley and Valerian

Loam Soil-
Basil, Bay, Caraway, Catnip, Chervil, Chives, Coriander, Dill, Fennel, Lady’s Mantle, Lovage, Rosemary, Rue, Sage and Thyme

COMPANION PLANTING

Even in the most ancient of times, gardeners have claimed that many herbs are of great benefit when planted next to certain vegetables and herbs. On the other hand some herbs are believed to hinder growth. Put into practice, the idea of companion planting may help in the garden by encouraging healthy growth, increasing flavor and fragrance, as well as repelling some pests and diseases. Listed below are, according to folklore, some helpful plantings, and some you may wish to avoid.

Plants that help each other

Anise-Coriander, Basil-Vegatables-Esp. Tomatoes, Chervil-Radishes, Borage-Strawberries, Chamomile-“Plants Physician”-Garden Health, Caraway-Peas, Chives-(Natural Pest Repellant)-Leek-Carrots, Chives-Apple Trees, Dill-Cabbage-Corn-Lettuce-Cucumber, Garlic-Chives- Pest Repellant for Roses, Horseradish-Potatoes-Fruit Trees, Hyssop-Grapes, Lavender-Thyme-Vegetables, Lovage-Potatoes-Root Vegetables, Mint-Rosemary-Sage, Nasturtium-Apples, Parsley-Tomatoes-Roses, Rosemary-Sage-Carrots, Sage-Cabbage, Salad Burnet-Thyme-Mint, Savory(Summer)-Onions, (Winter&Summer Savory)-Beans, Sorrel-Oregano, Southernwood-Cabbage, Thyme- Natural Pest Repellant, Yarrow- Increases fragrance of most herbs.

Plants that Supress each other

Basil-Rue, Chamomile-Peppermint, Caraway-Fennel, Coriander-Beans and Tomatoes, Dill-Carrots, Fennel-Beans and Tomatoes, Garlic-Chives-Leeks-Shallots-Inhibit Beans and Peas, Hyssop-Carrots-Radishes, Wormwood-Plant off in a corner

If you would be happy for a week, take a wife;
If you would be happy for a month, kill your pig;
But if you would be happy all your life, plant a garden.
---Chinese Proverb

Circulation for your Hands & Feet

2011-08-10T21:32:00.000-07:00

After a busy day of working, whether in your garden, kitchen, office or just a very hectic day, I hope this might give you some relaxation and relief.

For many people bad circulation can be a problem, especially in your hands and feet. Your ankles and feet can swell for many reasons. including arthritis, rheumatism, varicose veins, high blood pressure, fluid retention and even constipation. Resting your feet up is always an effective measure.

To help treat your feet and hands here is a very simple recipe:
Circulation Oil Blend
6 tablespoons sweet almond oil
2 tablespoons safflower oil
40 drops of geranium oil
20 drops of lavender oil
Blend the oils together and put in a small clean glass bottle. Rub a little of the blend on yourself from your hands to your elbows ad from your feet to your ankles.

Geranium (Pelargonium graveoloens)
The oil is distilled from the leaves of this herb (known as "rose geranium) and smells like a combination of rose, citrus and herb. A light adrenal-gland stimulant and hormonal noramlizer, geranium treats PMS, fluid retention, sterility, and helps to regulate blood pressure. It is a versatile skin treatment and reduces inflamation, infection, and can heal passive - agressive nature.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Distilled from the herb's flower buds, this sweetly floral aroma is also herbal, with balsamic undertones. Lavender treats lung, sinus, muscle pain, headaches, insect bites, inflammation. It also helps boost the immune system, relieve exhaustion, and insomnia.

Basil Good Food & Great Mood

2011-08-09T18:12:00.000-07:00

BASIL

The sun loving basil has been cultivated for at least 4,000 years and through the ages it has had a somewhat contradictory reputation. As John Gerard wrote in 1597, " The smell of basil is good for the heart and the head, that the seed cureth the infirmities of the heart, taketh away sorrowfulnesse which cometh of melancholy...maketh a man merry and glad."
It was named by the early Greeks. perhaps, even Aristotle. Basileus is the Greek word for "king," and basil came to Greece from India, where it was considered "the king of herbs." Even though India is considered basil's native country, some small leafed varieties can be found in South America, Mexico, The Caribbean Islands, and in Haiti. By the mid 16th century it had reached Europe and was used as a strewing herb and as a medicine.
I love all varieties of basil and with our driest, hottest summer I have ever experienced in the Texas Hill Country, it is doing very well. The varieties I have growing this year in abundance are Sweet Basil, Holy Basil, Lemon Basil, Cinnamon Basil, Licorice Basil , Purple Ruffles Basil and "Poppy Joe's Basil.
It's aroma and oils can help relieve headaches, sinus congestion, nausea, indigestion, sore muscles, and a broad range of other healing properties for our crazy lives.
In India, it is used in aromatherapy, as they say when it's leaves are rubbed to release the uplifting aroma, people are given sattva or enlightenment and harmony!
The essential oil of basil is tremendous for helping one concentrate and think straight. It reduces stress and rattled nerves, while increasing confidence and positive thoughts.
It does well grown in the ground or in pots. It is very sensitive to cold, so it is almost always the first to die when cold frosts first come. Not a worry with our 100 degree temperatures now.
It is impossible to grow basil and not think of cooking with it. It is one of the cooks and gardeners favorite herbs. The scent of basil is a cross between mint, cloves and thyme. It is a great addition to salads, pastas, soups, chicken, fish, beef, scallops, even desserts.

The EROTIC HERB

Here is one of my favorite recipe's for using Cinnamon Basil from our book Herbs, Growing and Using The Plants of Romance Ironwood Press

Chile Peach Pesto

2 cups fresh Cinnamon Basil

4 cloves Garlic, minced

1/4 cup minced sun dried peaches

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

2 teaspoons freshly minced rosemary

1/2 teaspoon crushed red chile pepper

3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted

In a food processor, grind the basil, peaches, garlic, cheese, rosemary and chile. While machine is running, slowly add the oil. Add the pecans and pulse briefly. It is great to serve as a snack with crackers, or stuff under the skin of chicken breasts. or in a cheese torta.
Watch the blog for more basil ideas along with what is going on in our garden and shop!

Making your own Herb Vinegars

2011-08-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

Vinegar Lesson

Vinegars have a reputation of being sour, cider-tasting plastic bottled liquids, to be sparingly sprinkled on salads as an after thought for the diet-conscious.

The first vinegar may well have been an accident-perhaps someone left the wine out in the hot sun. It "turned" and became vinegar. "Vinegar" comes from a medieval French term, "vinaigre," or sour wine. The first herb vinegar, too, may have been a mistake - a cook throwing a handful of herbs to cover up some wine - gone - sour, forgetfully putting it aside.

Since that time, herb vinegars have been put to culinary, medicinal, and even cosmetic use. Wine vinegars are made from all types of wine from many different countries. Balsamic vinegar is considered to be the ulimate. Made in Modena, Italy, since the sixteenth century, balsamic vinegar was said to be so valued that it was often included in a bride's dowry or in a family inheritance. Dark, rich, sweet and pungent, balsamic vinegar is the fermented juice of Trebbiano grapes. As with old Cognac, wooden vats of oak, walnut, or cherry store the vinegar until maturity -- traditionally ten years.

Making Your Own Herb Vinegars

Homemade vinegars make great gifts and are beautiful displayed in your own kitchen, as well. If made correctly, these vinegars will last for years. Give it a try!
Consider using any of the following herbs in your vinegars:
basils - lemon, cinnamon, sweet, lettuce leaf, purple ruffled, Italian; bay leaves, chervil, chives, cilantro, dill, fennel, French tarragon, garlic, lemon balm, lemongrass, lemon verbena, lovage marjoram, Mexican mint marigold, mints, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, savory, scented geraniums, thymes.
It is best to harvest in the morning when the herbs are freshest and have the most flavor. Clean them, making sure no bugs are hiding within.
Fill a clean, sterilized glass bottle with fresh herbs or a combination of herbs and spices or fruit.
I suggest using 2/3 white vinegar to 1/3 white or red wine or champagne to make your vinegar more mellow.; this takes the bite or sharpness out. Pour the vinegar/wine mixture over the herbs, into the bottle. Bruise the herbs slightly with a wooden spoon of skewer. Put the top on the bottle and store in a cool, dark place at room temperature. Stir the mixture about five days later with a wooden spoon or skewer, or shake the vinegar in the bottle. This allows the flavors to be released. Your vinegars will be ready in 3 to 6 weeks, depending on how strong you the flavor.
Here are a few combinations you can use to make an unusual bottle of herb vinegar. Be creative and have fun!

Purple Basil with Blueberry Vinegar

2-3 sprigs of purple basil
2-3 tablespoons of fresh blueberries
Follow the basic directions given above.

Peaches & Herbs Vinegar

1 peach thinly sliced and with skin removed
2-3 sprigs of cinnamon basil
1 cinnamon stick
Follow the basic directions given above

Edible Flowers Herb Vinegar

1-2 sprigs of rosemary
a few organically grown edible flowers
Follow the basic directions given above.

Basic Herb Vinegar

2-3 sprigs of sweet basil
1 fresh bay leaf
1 sprig of oregano
1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns
Follow the baic directions given above.

Here are a few tips for using herbal vinegars:

1. Add 1-2 tablespoons of herb vinegar to sauces and gravy.
2. After sauteing meat, pour a few tablespoons of herb vinegar with the browned particles in the pan to make a savory sauce.
3. Add a tablespoon of a peach or blueberry vinegar to a cake mix batter to bring a bold flavor note.
4. Add 2-3 tablespoons of herb vinegar to a soup or stew.

5. Add 1/3 cup edible flowers vinegar to 1/3 cup of honey, 1 cup canola oil, 1/2 teasoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 1/2 teaspoon lemon basil, finely minced. Puree in a blender and refrigerate for one hour before using for a great salad dressing.

Herbal Spray

2011-08-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

In this hot summer weather, cool down your personal space with a homemade Room Spray.

In lieu of commercial sprays, or "arosol deodorizers", use more ecologically pleasing pump sprays.

Here is a simple recipe:

1. Fill an 8oz. spray bottle (which you can purchase at almost any store) with 6 oz of distiller water.

2. Take 2 oz. of alcohol (use vodka or ever clear) and mix with 18 to 20 drops of essential oil.

3. Choose lavender, or eucalyptus, or mint or lemon verbena or whatever you are in the mood for. Shake well, and blend in with the water in the spray bottle.

Spraying the room freshened spray in the room actually helps lower the room temperature and puts you in a good mood with the scent.

Enjoy!

Fresh Rosemary Wreath

2011-08-03T11:38:00.000-07:00

To take advantage of an abundance of rosemary in your garden during the hot months, make this simple wreath.

Materials:
3 feet of garden wire
Wire cutters
Medium gage florists wire
12 long stems of fresh rosemary

This wreath is delightful, fragrant and extremely easy to make.
You can use similar herbs to make other herb wreaths.

1. Make a hook at each end of the garden wire. Bend the wire into a circle, and join the ends together and wire closed.
2. Start at the top of the wreath, use florist's wire to attach a stem of rosemary to one side so that it's leafy top points into the middle. Repeat on the other side. Wire stems of rosemary down both sides. Add extra pieces until the wreath is completely covered with the thickness you desire.

Pesto Vegetable Soup

2011-08-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

With a huge crop of basil in our garden, we have been adding basil to salads, chicken, making pesto, and then did pesto soup. Enjoy this recipe and we would love your comments!

6 Cups of chicken broth
2 New potatoes, precooked and diced
1 Medium onion, diced
4 Mushrooms, diced
1/2 Bell pepper, diced
2 Stalks of celery, sliced
1 Jalapeno, seeded and diced
1 Cup of sweet basil or spinach pesto (See our website for the recipe.)
1/4 Cup brandy
Salt and pepper to taste
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. Add the fresh vegetables and cook for 10 minutes.
3. Add the pesto and brandy and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes.
4. Serve alone or with a side salad ad bread.