Don’t Forget the Fringe!

Though life is always slow-paced here in Mississippi, my head has been whirling the past few days with question, doubts, hopes, and realizations about the next phase of my journey. It’s almost too much for me to write creatively, but I can’t help making a quick post about more lovely medicinal fauna =)

Meet the Fringe tree, aka Chionanthus virginicus. The roots of this delicate-looking tree have been used for centuries to cure diseases of the liver. In addition, they have properties that help stabilize blood sugar. The thin, vine-like roots are easily dug up by hand with a shovel, and are best prepared in a tincture. Blue Boy Herbs uses Fringe root in multiple formulas, including the Bugleweed Fringe (used for diabetes) and Liver tonics. Click the pic above for an informational website!

Don’t you worry – I’ll be posting some pretty exciting information within the next few days =) be blessed, and enjoy this bountiful spring!

<3 Sug’

 

Tincture-a-day

Today’s herb: Plaintain!

Don’t be fooled, we’re not talking about the fruit here (though I thought so at first too!). The plaintain herb is considered a weed by many, but is a wonderful healing agent. The tincture is used most commonly for toothaches, and is also good for keeping the urinary tract in line. The leaves are also edible, and can be eaten raw or cooked. click the pic for more info!

Down With The Sickness

Oh No! The “common cold” has struck again! I don’t get sick often, but when I do I’m almost always caught with a nasty lingering cough that lasts for a couple of weeks. But this time, I’m prepared! Living and working at Blue Boy Herbs certainly has its perks, one of which is full access to their wonderfully healing tinctures. The taste may be bitter, but the effects are extraordinary – so I’m going all in! 5x a day, baby!

Left: Immunex, combination of Boneset Pivet, Blue Vervain and Elder Flower
Right: Lung Tonic, combination of Boneset flowering tops, Fireweed, Bugleweed, Button Snake Root, Mullein, Wild Cherry, Sundew, and Agrimony.

To Health!

Oily!

Today, my boyfriend and I are learning how to make essential oils! We harvested leaves from the sweet gum tree, and are using a still to draw out the oil. It’s a fascinating ancient art – though definitely not one for those who seek instant gratification – and I’ll be posting more pics and such soon! Unfortunately my lil ol’ flip phone makes the whole photo uploading process waaaay too complicated, but I’ll get there!