Spring is finally here again, and we are seeing green plants start to reappear. One of the first herbs we find sprouting is Urtica, AKA Stinging Nettle. The bright green shoots will push through the layer of brown leaves as soon as days being to lengthen and the crisp

Qualities: Sweet, bitter, slightly warming, astringent, alterative, anti-viral, anti-depressant, sedative, nervine. Uses: Hypericum may be most known for it’s antidepressant effects. There is a significant evidence base for this use, and a recent metanalysis reported it is as effective as SSRI medications such as Zoloft or Prozac for mild

Lemon balm has a nickname: “the Gladdening herb.” When you crush the soft leaves in your fingers, a wonderful lemon odor is released – the smell brings a smile and lightens your mood immediately! When you learn to recognize this wonderful plant, you can pick a piece and smell

Capsicum frutensis, aka Cayenne pepper, is one of my favorite spices in food and it is also a powerful herbal ally. Not only does it add pleasant heat to a meal or beverage, it is also a potent medicine. I use it is herbal formulas to help potentize the

I wanted to share this herb since we are now in winter: the time of viruses and upper respiratory infections, and flu. I use it myself when I will be exposed to viruses, and frequently recommend it to people who get sick after plane rides, and to teachers and