Valerian Roots are in

Fresh Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) roots have arrived from Pacific Botanicals Farm in Grants Pass, OR. Valerian, in the Valerianacae family, is a perennial plant that reaches 4-5 feet tall with pinnate, toothed leaves growing in clumps of 7-10 pairs each with white to pink tubular cluster flowers. The roots and rhizomes are harvested after they are 3 years old or more. These beautiful milky white roots with their distinct floral or "stinky" aroma (well to some it is stinky, I find the odd smell attractive) saturate the apothecary with its presence. We took these fresh roots, chopped them up, and then made them into an herbal extract with organic sugar cane alcohol and purified water. In a few months, we will press this extract and then it's ready for use. Valerian is a slightly warming herb with a powerful sedative and antispasmodic effect. This works wonders for calming one’s insomnia, sleeplessness, exhaustion, irritability, muscular tension, and cramps. Please note that this extract can cause drowsiness, so it is best to not mix with sedatives or antidepressants. To use in tea put 2 teaspoons of dried root in a cup of water and steep for 10-15 minutes or longer. Because of its potent volatile oils, you do not make your regular decoction for roots that are simmered, but simply steep this one. For the herbal extract, take 10-60 drops 1-4 times a day. As always consult your health care practitioner before starting to take dietary supplements.

(These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drub Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.)

Elecampane

Elecampagne Inula helenium

Fall is the time to harvest Elecampagne roots. This regal summer delight is a member of the Asteraceae family, otherwise known as the Sunflower Family. Native to temperate Asia and Europe, this plant grows well in full sun and well-drained soil. This giant perennial grows to 5-6 feet tall with yellow inflorescence. The large leaves on the stalk are heart-shaped with its basal leaves more oblong in shape. In the fall when the flowers have waned, the seeds have set, and leaves die back; the energy of plants starts to move down into the roots in preparation of storage for winter. At this time, the inulin is at its height and these roots are packed with these oligosaccharides, or short chains of simple sugars. This milky-like substance suspended in solution is also noted in Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis), Chicory (Cirhorium intybus) and Burdock (Artica lappa) roots.

My favorite use of this herb is for the lungs, a gentle tonic and expectorant that strengthens and cleanses the respiratory tract mucous membranes. It is great for when one has a persistent irritable wet cough, chronic bronchitis or sinusitis. It is also effective for more long-term lung ailments such as asthma and emphysema. With Elecampagne's stimulating action, it has also been used traditionally in a wide assortment of ailments such as digestive tonics, diuretics, and emmenagogues (a stimulant to encourages the menses).

There are multiple ways to use these roots. For a decoction, gently simmer 1/2-1 tsp of the roots in water for 15-20 minutes, then drink one cup up to 3-4 times a day. For a tincture or alcohol extract one can take 10-40 drops 1-4 times a day as needed. A traditional favorite cough remedy for the roots is to candy the Elecampagne in honey.

The spiritual lore of the plant was related to this plant as a protector and garden teacher. When you see it in the garden with its powerful presence it definitely bestows a feeling of protection and wisdom. With it's strong, grounding roots and its sunny head that hangs high; this plant reminds us of what our body needs while the same time inspiring our vision to be creative. Without the dominance of the ego getting in the way, this plant surrounds us with an inner confidence and an appreciation of self and others.

Contraindications:

Do not use during pregnancy. In large doses it may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and gastric spasms and symptoms of paralysis.

Nettles and Allergies

"Stinging" Nettles Urtica dioica

In the Pacific Northwest, spring has fully emerged. With the colorful blossoms comes the anticipation of dreaded allergies. The first allergens to saturate the air in the spring are tree pollen, followed by grass and weed pollen at the height of summer. Then the fall brings out ragweed and airborne fungus before winter's relief. If you are one of the 50 million people in the US who suffers from allergies this year, you will find Nettles to be a simple yet powerful herb to support your health through this season.

Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is a type of disorder of the immune system in which simple foreign substances, such as pollen, can cause havoc. Unfortunately, the more that you are exposed to the allergens the worse your response gets. To protect the body, the bloodstream is flooded with powerful signaling molecules such as histamines and leukotrienes. These biogenic substances produce inflammation, which is the body's way of protecting it against these offending substances. As a result, those of us who suffer from allergies, develop watery eyes, running noses, and sneezing as the most common symptoms to difficulty of breathing, depleted energy and foggy head.

Nettles (Urtica dioica) are an excellent spring tonic in anticipation of the allergy season. Nettles have traditionally been used as a "pot herb", one that you stewed in a pot, to fortify you body after a long winter. Nettles belong to the genus Urtica, which is derived from the Latin "uro" meaning to burn. The burn from Nettles originates from its most notable feature, the stinging hairs that are located on its leaves and stems. If brushed, these hairs release a burst of formic acid, the same substance that comes from a sting or bite of an ant. Hot and throbbing pain from contact with Nettles can last up to 12-24 hours. Historically this throbbing sting has been used in the process of Urtication, or flogging with Nettles. Flogging increases the circulation to an area and thus alleviates symptoms of poor circulation associated with rheumatism.

Despite the burn of the Nettles' stinger its leaves have nutritive value. Nettles are best taken for 2-3 months before the peak of the allergy season, but it's never too late to start. What follows are some highlights as to why Nettles are important to introduce into your daily life, especially during this allergy season.

Nettles:

1. Nettles are a potent packed nutritive tonic. Nettles are rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, silicon, manganese, zinc, phosphate chromium, and Vitamin A, B, C, D, E, F and K
2. A preliminary human study of helping allergy sufferers with Nettles was conducted at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon. In this study there was evidence that Nettles significantly reduced symptoms of allergies, most notably sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose.
3. Nettles are thought to act by reducing the amount of histamine the body produces in response to the allergen, though more studies are needed to confirm this theory.
4. From a holistic viewpoint, allergies are associated with weak adrenals, immune and elimination function.
   1. Nettles are an excellent kidney tonic, and good kidney function is essential for vitality and energy. Through their homeostatic, balancing properties Nettles calibrate a more efficient urination while also alkalizing the urine.
   2. Nettles are supportive to overexerted adrenals, which are seated right on top of the kidneys. When you feed the adrenals, you feed the kidneys, and feed your health.
   3. Nettles activate the metabolism as it strengthens and tones the entire system thus increasing immunity response to fend off allergens.

Contraindications:

Nettles are generally safe, but if any reaction occurs, please discontinue use of this herb. Some people have experienced mild digestive upset. Also use caution when handling fresh plants because of its stinger. For leaves, use only young shoots before flowering of the plant. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your health care. Nettles may interact with certain medication, esp. anti-coagulants, anti-platelet, diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, blood pressure and/or diabetic medication.