January February 2019 Essential Herbal (digital)

Field Notes from the Editor, Tina Sams
My usual rambling thoughts on a handful of things.

About the Cover
Jenel Schaffer provided a dreamy watercolor, featuring the herb of the year – Anise Hyssop.  We include a recipe for shortbread and tea!

Facing Senior Challenges, Naturally, Sandy Michelsen
Lots of different ways to keep the old bones from creaking, and help us stay active and vital as we age.

Witch Hazel - Medicine Cupboard Necessity, Barbara Steele
Learn about this winter beauty, and how to make Witch Hazel Water.                              

Turkey Tail, Kristine Brown
TONS of info on this lovely medicinally active mushroom.  How to’s for many preparations and how to use it as a dye. 

Five Fun Herbs & Their Uses, Marcy Lautanen-Raleigh
Lavender, Peppermint, Borage, German Chamomile, and Lemon Balm are discussed, and loads of recipes, like aioli, lip balm, dressing, and more!                                                                                                                   

Planning Your Herb Garden, Jenel Schaffer
What do you want to plant?  Where will you put it?  What will you use them for?  So many things to think about.  There’s a sweet illustration included to inspire you.                                                                                               

The Scone Debate, Rebekah Bailey
Did you know the difference between an American scone and a British scone?  You will!  And you’ll have several delicious sweet and savory recipes to try.                                                                                                   

Agastache, Kathy Musser
Herb of the Year for 2019 is Anise Hyssop, of the Agastache genus. Read about some history and information about Anise Hyssop and move on to several other agastaches that are briefly covered.                                       

The Herbal World of Adaptogens, Cathy Calfchild
What are adaptogens?  How and why should we include them in our foods, teas, and supplements?       

Conifers - Our Winter Healers, Janet Gutierrez
There are so many ways that the conifers come to our assistance in the winter time.  We can also make salves and various preparations to take us through the year.                                                                                             

Experimenting with Vegan Waxes, Marci Tsohonis
If you don’t know your carnauba from your candelilla, this is for you!                             

A World of Spices, Jackie Johnson
Mmmm… warming spices.  After we read about them, we can go on to make several fabulous blends.    

Recycle a Shutter, Rita Richardson
A very cute decorating idea.                                                                                        

Endocannabinoid System, Pt 1, Marita Orr
“The endocannabinoid system is made up of neurons, endocannabiniods, and cannabinoid receptors.”  Lots and lots of information