Cayenne is famous as a hot spicy herb. It has many attributes as a culinary and medicinal herb. Remember, a little goes a long way! A dash is typically all you need. Here’s a sample of a few of its benefits: Cayenne is considered a tonic for the heart, kidneys, lungs,...

Scent of mint may do more than you think… One of mint’s key ingredients is menthol, a crystalline compound with a cooling, minty taste and odor. Menthol is one of the compounds that gives mint its superior aromatic qualities. Used in aromatherapy, the menthol found in...

From a TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) perspective, basil is well known for Lifting the Spirit, Tonifying Yang, and Supporting the Lungs. It has long been used in foods and as a medicine to clear infections, even from cuts and bruises, as well as treat colds and...

There are two types of Cornus (dogwood) that are commonly used. One is native to America, Cornus florida, and the other is native to China and Japan, Cornus officinalis. The bark, root bark, and berries can all be used medicinally. While the Western dogwood and...

Sure. Shiitake mushrooms are a famous culinary and medicinal mushroom. Studies have confirmed their immune and heart-supporting properties, their nutritional value, and their antimicrobial properties. With all these health benefits, here are a few tips for their use...

Mullein is famous for treating respiratory ailments, especially dry or phlegm coughs. It’s one of the particular qualities that it can be both astringent and moistening. Here are 3 facts about mullein you might not have known: It can be used to remove rough warts if...

Oats, Oat Groats, Steel-cut Oats, and Oat straw...what’s the difference? Oats are a whole-grain, gluten-free food. Oat groats are the most intact and whole form of oats and take the longest to cook. Most people prefer faster cooking rolled, crushed, or steel-cut oats...

Codonopsis is an herb famous for many medicinal attributes. It is popularly used as an effective adaptogenic herb that is gentle yet, powerfully able to Tonify Qi. Here are two aspects of this herb, one from the Western scientific perspective, and the other from the...

Here are three examples of how cedar can be used to treat a variety of infections. 1. Fungal Infections: Cedarwood essential oil can be used externally to help treat fungal infections, including athlete’s foot. 2. Lung Infections: Cedar has effective antimicrobial and...

Red jujubes (aka red dates) are famous in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) for building energy, stamina, and countering the effects of stress. They can be eaten raw, cooked in stews, or added to teas. Their medicinal and nutritive properties are best accessed when...

Aloe vera is best known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic properties. But, did you know… Aloe vera has been found to reduce the incidence of tumors in the liver, bones, and spleen by 90%? The unprocessed aloe contains aloin, a laxative, however,...

Turkey tail is best known for its immune-enhancing and powerful adaptogenic properties. Here are four insider tips you might not have known about turkey tail: Turkey tail helps to heal infections, including HPV (Human papillomavirus). Turkey tail contains a variety of...

All species of snowberry are native to Central and North America, except S. sinensis, which is native to western China. The Chinese variety has purplish berries, the North American variety has white to pale pink berries. Be aware you do not want to confuse snowberry...

Besides being a beautiful flower, chrysanthemums are also a culinary and medicinal herb. Here are a few facts about this flower that you might not have known about. Chrysanthemum is one of the 50 fundamental herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It has a long history...

Ginger is famous for easing nausea and vomiting. It is gentle but effective enough to treat even morning sickness, motion sickness, and even the upset stomach caused by food poisoning. But here are 3 things you might not know about ginger: Ginger is a sialogogue....

While chocolate can be full of sugar and creams that are calorie inhibiting or unhealthy for you, raw cacao, on the other hand, which is what chocolate is made from, is highly nutritive and contains important medicinal properties. Here are a five aspects of raw cacao...

Tis the Season to boost your immune system. Holiday gatherings, travel, partying, and changes in temperatures can collectively weaken your immune system. Prevent and fight cold and flu symptoms with elderberry! It tastes lovely and can be enjoyed in teas or as a...

A good, gentle, deep breath can: Stimulate brain function Counter the effects of stress Slow the heart rate Improve digestion Open the Mind for meditation and prayer Eucalyptus is used in inhalers, cough lozenges, chest balms, and massage oils to help open up the...