Healing Wise

January 10, 2012 in Nourishing Herbal Infusions, Weeds | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 09, 2011

Shelf Life of Herbs

I have a question for Susun.

I bought a pound of stinging nettle and comfrey. What is the shelf life for these items stored in the plastic bag they came in. Do you recommend vacuum sealing them in a jar? I also, have dried chickweed. Can I do a tea with it or vinegar?

...Thank you.

Hello,

Once the bag is open, it would be best to simply put them in a brown paper bag, kept away from temperature fluctuations, light and heat. Dark and cool is best - back of cupboard, etc. Hard to say exactly how long they would last as for ones purchased, most likely, you will not know how old they were when packaged. I would just periodically check them, making sure that the smell is not off. Remember that a herb dried should be the same as what they looked like alive, so red clover should be pink, not dark brown and so forth.

I have certainly used ones that were stored for over a year and still were good.

Dried chickweed would be good for teas and infusions, saving fresh plant material for vinegars and tinctures, if possible.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

November 09, 2011 in Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 26, 2011

Poke Tincture

Hello,

First off thank you for making so much information readily available online for searchers like myself. This kind of information is a real asset in today's dying economical structure.

...I have some poke plants growing happily in my pasture and was wanting to harvest one or two for tincture. I am however having trouble finding an answer to two questions about this. Should I use fresh root or dried root for this tincture and when should the root be harvested. I have found many different websites saying different things however if you would give me your opinion I would be very (and by very Ireally mean immensely) grateful. Thank you in advance for your response.

Hello,

We use fresh poke root, at least three years old, tinctured in 100 proof vodka to help draw out all the constituents. Most feel that the time to dig up roots is after the first frost after all the energy is gone back down into the roots instead of being in the plant above ground.

You can read more about poke and its uses here: http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/May08/wisewoman.htm

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

September 26, 2011 in Tinctures, Weeds | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 19, 2011

Where to Find Nettle Seeds

Hi,

Thank you for your newsletter. The question about nettle plants raised this question for me....where can I buy nettle seeds. They are difficult to find.

Hello,

No nettle seeds are not easy to find and is one of those things you usually have to harvest on your own. I do know that Ryan Drum carries them. You may also want to check with Mountain Rose Herbs. Sometimes easier to find tincture...

Susun mentions a source in her book, New Menopausal Years: Carla Jo Laramore, Waldron Island WA 98297 (no telephone number) No idea if this is still current however.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

September 19, 2011 in Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 05, 2011

Uses for Burdock and Dandelion Tincture

My daughter bought me a bottle of Burdock root with dandelion root tincture...couldn’t find any info—what is it used for Thank you –I found your website very unusual and fascinating!!

Hello,

Both dandelion and burdock root have many uses - combining the two together, some things that come to mind would be helpful for skin conditions, strengthening immune system, nourishing and strengthening kidneys and liver, stabilize blood sugar ...

Here is an article that appeared in one of our newsletters: http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/april04/empower.htm

Also you can search our forum for further information if you want to do more investigating: www.healingwiseforum.com

Dandelion and burdock are both deeply nourishing and used as food, infused in vinegars and tinctures.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

September 05, 2011 in Tinctures, Weblogs, Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 25, 2011

Strengthening the Lungs the Wise Woman Way

Hi Susun,

I am breastfeeding my 15-month old and would like to take some herbs to help clean/heal my lungs.( I am an ex-smoker) Can you recommend what would be good for this and what i should stay away from. I amconsidering Dr. Christophers Lung formula that has comfrey,mullein, lobelia, marshmallow and chickweed in a glycerine base. What do you think?

Hi,

Overall the list of ingredients looks fine. Lobelia is considered a powerful herb and can produce side-effects in some such as nausea, stupor and a burning in the throat. Most likely there is not enough in the formula to worry about but that is what makes it more difficult with forumulas as opposed to a simple with one ingredient. If you do have a reaction, which herb is producing it? However if you feel comfortable with the tincture, I think it would be fine to use.

If you are hesitant, an easy and inexpensive way to start clearing your lungs would be drinking infusions of mullein. This is probably your biggest lung ally. From Susun: "To strengthen the lungs, or to restore health to lung tissues after "assaults" such as tobacco smoke or radiation: 1-2 cups of mullein infusion daily for six weeks is suggested." Drinking it by diluting it half with warm milk is ideal for optimum lung healing - and tastes great. Chickweed and comfrey can also be used simply as infusions. All easy to use and overall nourishing for you as you breastfeed. Just let us know if you need anything else.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Call our free herbal/health hot line (845-246-8081) Tuesday evenings, 7:30-9:30 pm EST, dates are April through October. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

August 25, 2011 in Healing Recipes, Health Concerns, Herbal Safety, Weblogs, Weeds | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 30, 2011

Golden Goldenseal?

A long time ago when I bought goldenseal it was actually yellow in color and worked very well-a couple of capsules was all that was needed to clear up a situation-I used it for yeast. Anyway, no matter which kind of goldenseal I buy now, none is yellow but brown and in my opinion is nothing like the old goldenseal I used to take.

Do you have any suggestions as to how I find "Golden" goldenseal. Do I have to get Indian Turmeric Or some other name it is sold under. I am very discouraged when shopping for this because it is so confusing.

Thanks...

Hello,

I have never heard of goldenseal sold under Indian Tumeric or any such similar name. Certainly it is possible that there could be something else in the capsules that you are purchasing - just one of the reasons that Susun does not recommend using herbs in that form. You really have no idea what you have or the true quality of the product.

Susun labels goldenseal under potentially poisoning herbs, very taxing on the liver, disruptive to gut flora and never uses it herself; preferring to use echinacea among others.

If you are not experiencing any relief, you are welcome to send in more detail as to what the issue is and perhaps we can assist. Susun doesn't come online, but you can speak with her directly as she holds a free health hotline on Tuesday evenings from 7:30pm-9:30pm EST at 845-246-8081. She also offers private phone consultations through our shop here: http://www.herbalmedicinehealing.com/store/store_results.asp?Category=3&SubCat=1034&Section=Consultations

Susun's brand new book Down There: Sexual and Reproductive Health the Wise Woman Way may interest you and we also have a very active free forum at www.healingwiseforum.com. Would be a good place to ask your question there and perhaps one of the other wise women there can help as well.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

July 30, 2011 in Weblogs, Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 18, 2011

When to Harvest Nettle

Hi,

I'm hoping someone can answer my question on harvesting my nettle.

I have one big beautiful nettle plant. Sadly, while I was away, most of the
plant has already started to seed. I think your not suppose to harvest from
the plant now. Is that correct? or can I still harvest from the sprouts with
out seed?

Thanks so much!

PS. I so enjoyed your tree talk at the symposium. I look forward to seeing
you again.

Hello,

Once the plant has flowered, you wouldn't harvest leaf but you can gather the seeds as they are good to use.

From Susun: "Nettle seeds nourish the endocrine glands, especially the thyroid. They are said to antidote poisons, but I love them most for their high-protein crunch. The daily dose of ¼ teaspoonful can be added to hot or cold cereals, baked into breads and cookies, sprinkled on salads, or cooked with any whole grain. Add a tablespoonful of nettle seed to a cup of uncooked brown rice and cook in two cups of water for 45 minutes or until done. Nettle seeds are easily harvested too. Cut the stalks down before wind and rain strip them off the stalks. Hang to dry."

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

http://nourishingherbalinfusions.com/

July 18, 2011 in Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 06, 2011

Growing Herbs in the City

Hi Wise Woman,

I just ordered two of your books (Healing Wise & the menopause book). Before starting, I want to make sure I’ll be able to do what the book says. If it involves growing your own weeds, is this possible to do in containers? I live in a very small condominium, with a small balcony...

hi….most herbs do well in small containers on balconies yes, and also you will also be able to buy herbs in bulk or from reputable purveyors, and you will also be able to find weeds in your area, even if you live in the city. We are always available by email to help.

Love,

Justine

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Join the health hotline teleseminar on Monday and Thursday evenings 8pm EST, through the winter months. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

June 06, 2011 in Weblogs, Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 10, 2011

Nourishing Nettle Infusions

I have been a fan of yours for a while and someday would love to take your green witch program.

Last year I meant to ask you and now that my happy organic nettles are emerging once again - how do I make nettle tea or infusion or whatever it is that I read once that you recommended we women sip daily?

I know you're busy and the recipe must be somewhere but could you please point me to how to make this please oh please ?

thank you so much... I want to be healthy this year and I think my nettles can help :)))

Hello,

How lovely that you now have your own nettle patch! Nettle infusions are made with dried nettles, not fresh. You steep an ounce of dried herb in 1 quart of boiling water for 4-8 hours. Most of us get it ready right before bed and let it steep overnight on the counter with the lid on (best to use canning jars as they have lids and are able to withstand boiling water better).

Here is a link to Susun's new website which goes into deeper detail on the herbs, how to make, etc.

Susun also has a free online class Nourishing Herbal Infusions. Lots of information all put together - it covers not only infusions but making herbal vinegars, tinctures, etc. and there is a class discussion forum as well to connect with others, ask questions...

http://wisewomanuniversity.ning.com/group/nourishingherbalinfusions

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

May 10, 2011 in Nourishing Herbal Infusions, Weblogs, Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 20, 2011

Finding and Using Herbs

I am so fascinated by the medicinal purposes in Violet learned from your website and wondered if you could supply us with this product and what your fee would be?

Look forward to hearing from you!

Hello,

We do not sell any herbs or herbal products, focusing instead on teaching others about herbs and how to make their own products. Violets grow wild all across the Northern Hemisphere and should be in your area and now we are getting to the time when they will begin to poke up. Being able to harvest local fresh plant material is what would be best for items such as infused oils, tinctures and vinegars. You may be able to find some products at these online sources that we recommend: Mountain Rose Herbs and Red Moon Herbs.

If you are able to locate them and are unsure of how to use them, you may want to also check out Susun's free online course: Nourishing Herbal Infusions. You will learn about various herbs, how to make tinctures, infusions, vinegars, etc. and be able to converse on discussion boards with a large group of women from around the globe. Again it is a free resource that is loaded with information.

You can click on this link, join the ning network for our University and join the group.

You can also read Susun's series on herbal medicine starting here: http://www.susunweed.com/An_Article_Weed_Self-help1.htm

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

April 20, 2011 in Nourishing Herbal Infusions, Weblogs, Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 16, 2011

Uses for Jewelweed

Hi Susun

In the context that many herbs seed themselves where they are "needed" by the people, what use might I have for Jewelweed? It grows rampant in my garden. My research has not turned up any obvious "use" for this other than for topical use as needed for poison ivy etc...Are there any other uses you are familiar with?

Many Thanks.

Greetings,

Susun recommends using Jewel weed to make a flower remedy when you are feeling irritable and impatient. Float the flowers in a bowl of spring or rain water for several hours in the sun - add vodka to preserve. Use 1-4 drops as needed. Works like Bach flower remedy Impatiens.

Yes, of course, great for poison ivy and used in folk remedies for other skin ailments such as eczema, insect bites, bruises and ringworm.

Blessings,

Wise Woman Team

April 16, 2011 in Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 07, 2011

Safe or Toxic Yarrow?

Hi there - love your Healing Wise book!

I have an abundance of yarrow achillea coronation gold in my garden this year. Can I use this in the same way as wild yarrow - i.e. as tea and medicinally please?

Greetings,

The only yarrow Susun uses is the wild species that has the white flowers - no medicinal uses for the colored yarrows and they can be toxic. Many thanks for writing. Just let us know if you need any further assistance.

Blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

March 07, 2011 in Weblogs, Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 01, 2011

Where to Purchase Herbs

Hi Susun,

I am a member of Herb Mentor and I was looking at cottonwood uses online and I ran across a site of your that said you sell the cottonwood buds and I was wondering if you were still selling them and if so how much would they be. Thank you for you help.

Love & God Bless...

Hello,

Many thanks for writing to us. Susun doesn't sell herbs, plants or preparations, so must be someone else. She prefers to concentrate her energies on empowerment through teaching others on how to harvest and make their own medicines. Very sorry we were unable to help you more. We do have a number of online sources we recommend and use, so maybe one of them sells cottonwood buds.

Mountain Rose Herbs

Red Moon Herbs

Frontier

Just let us know if you need any thing else.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/May04/healingwise.htm

February 01, 2011 in Weblogs, Weeds, Wise Woman Q&A | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 24, 2011

Using Privet

Hello,

First, I want to say thank you for all the valuable information on your website. I was referred to you a couple of weeks ago by a friend and your material includes more wisdom than I've found in a dozen other books. I'm very excited because I've hesitated to go too far with herbal medicine because I didn't trust the sources I'd found until now. I've already started making herbal infusions of both nettle and chickweed. Your book, Healing Wise, is on order and hopefully will arrive this week.

In the meantime,I have a question if you have time. I noticed while walking today that in my area (Atlanta, GA) there are a lot of common privet bushes with small black berries that have not yet been affected by the recent cold weather - the bushes are loaded. I searched for information about the plant to find out about it's medicinal value and found your article. I'm not sure how to harvest it (berries, leaves, bark?) and how to prepare an extract. The weather is beginning to get cold, so I don't believe the berries will be plump much longer. The other issue is that I'm not sure how to determine dosage. I didn't find preparation information, but if you have an article to share or if the information is another one of your books, I would appreciate any information before it gets too late this season. I'm wanting to use it to improve the immune system for cervical health.

Thank you again for so generously sharing your wisdom....

Hello,

We are so happy to hear that you are enjoying the information on Susun's website. You will find her books a wonderful resource for maintaining health and healing as well.

First off, if you have made an absolute positive ID on the plant, you can harvest the berries for tincturing. When using the fresh berries, you fill a jar to the top with the plant material and then cover completely with your menstruum, which is usually 100 proof vodka. I am including a few links to help with creating tinctures. For dosage, most often 1-3 dropperfuls a day is typical. If you are looking for daily allies in hopes of avoiding cancer, I would recommend red clover infusions. This plant is a tremendous help in that area and the infusions are nourishing and gentle enough to drink everyday. Just let us know if you need any additional assistance.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufEcKRG1ALU

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team