How to make candied violets
Candied violets are one of my favorite spring traditions. They make beautiful decorations for baked goods like cookies or cupcakes; or use them to elevate a fruit salad or strawberry...
Blue vervain uses for home herbalists
Blue vervain (Verbena hastata) is a nervine herb native to eastern North America. It is related to European vervain (V. officinalis), which shares many of the same uses. A common...
Harvesting elecampane for high-quality roots
Every herb has a different timeline for harvest, and harvesting elecampane (Inula helenium) is no different. Here's what I've learned about timing for roots that are the best quality. I...
How to plant milkweed seeds
In today's article, let's talk about how to plant milkweed seeds. There are a few species of milkweed that are often grown in home gardens, but these directions especially apply...
Discovering the herbal history of pleurisy root
Pleurisy root, Asclepias tuberosa, is a milkweed with a storied herbal history. It was influential in the Eclectic tradition in the United States in the late 1800s, which drew on...
Elderberry Winter Punch recipe with warming spices
I was recently exploring on Pinterest and came across a recipe for Uzvar, a Ukrainian drink recipe made with dried fruit and spices. It sounded delicious, but of course, I...
3 Ways to have a cozy herbal winter
Let's face it. The holidays can be less than festive for many of us. If you are like me and don't particularly enjoy the holidays, it's nice to know that...
Dried berries for herbal winter wellness
Dried berries are a staple ingredient in the winter herbal cupboard. They add flavor and bountiful benefits for cold-weather wellness. These three, especially, are good to keep on hand. Learn...
A guide to making herbal tea for new herbalists
Herbal tea is one of the most accessible ways to use plants to support wellness. It's easy to make and endlessly customizable. Here's my complete guide on herbal teas, including...
How to grow calendula at home
If you've ever wondered how to grow calendula, you'll be happy to know that it's easy. Some herb seeds are picky about their growing conditions. Calendula, on the other hand,...