Spirit Herbs Realm

Time for Spring Cleaning. Ultimate Cleanse Detox tea

2012-02-12T07:23:00.000-08:00

Cherri's "Ultimate Cleanse" Detox tea was created to help you achieve that full body clean-up and once we over we all need from time-to-time. It has been declared that this powerful formula has reduced the incidence and even eliminated all sorts of skin ailments, such as; Psoriasis, acne, rashes, and eczema.

The brew offers antiviral properties and immune support. It can also be a valuable aid for clearing up infections of all sorts, including the respiratory and urinary tracts as it also rids the entire system of parasites. It also a valuable aid to fight candida, liver ailments, and IBS. There is also reason to believe that those who suffer from depression, PMS, or chronic fatigue can benefit from this tea as well.

Caution: It is not recommended to use this tea during pregnancy.

NOTE: Watch for Cherri's complete detox program. The detoxification program was created for those individuals new to the practice of total wellness by means of whole food consumption. The program is a realistic easy to follow step-by-step layout of how a basic detoxification fast is performed, along with easy sensible guidelines to assist you in continuing to maintain your health through diet, and grow your own vitamin and mineral packed fresh, organic foods.

Red Clover Tops - 4 ounce Trifolium pratense

2012-02-02T10:11:00.000-08:00

RED CLOVER
Red Clover is widely used as a fine herb to remove metabolic waste; Drunk regularly to reduce and even remove cysts and tumors. Red Clover traditionally has been used to treat symptoms of menopause.

Best uses for Red Clover:
Blood thinner
Elimination of metabolic waste
Cancer prevention
Regulating estrogen during menopause
Regulating blood pressure
Regulating cholesterol
Eczema

Ashwaganda, a Powerful Herbal Tonic

2012-02-02T08:28:00.000-08:00

ASHWAGANDA
Ashwaganda is a potent tonic used for centuries to treat all kinds of ailments, and only recently has Ashwaganda begun to find its way into western herbalism. Because it works as a powerful immune system booster it is a must have for every home herbal medicine chest.

Best uses for Ashwaganda:
Sexual Tonic
Aphrodisiac
Impotence
Infertility
Sedtive for nerves
Lack of concentration
Drug burnout
Headache
Boosts immune system
Muscle endurance
Improved circulation
Lower blood pressure
Improves sperm count

Herbs Best Used as a Cold Infusion

2012-02-01T12:07:00.000-08:00

COLD  INFUSION
After pre-moistening a bit, wrap one part herb (dry weight) in cloth and
suspend it in 32 parts of water (by volume) at room temperature, overnight.
Squeeze out the herb into the tea in the morning, and add enough water to
bring it back to 32 parts.

This is a list of plants that are BEST prepared as a Cold Infusion:

Couchgrass, Tree of Heaven, Marshmallow,Hollyhock, Peach Tree, Angelica,

Roman Chamomile, American Sarsaparilla, Burdock, Prickly Poppy, Wormwood,

Sagebrush, Mugwort, Pleurisy Root, Buchu, Spanish Needles, Coffee,

Trumpet Creeper, Chaparro Amargosa, Red Root, Desert Willow, Fringetree,

Feverfew,Peruvian Bark, Blessed Thistle, Dogwood, Turkey Corn,

Cal. Slippery Elm, Ash, Bladderwrack, Cleavers, Gentian, Pomegranate,

Logwood, Witch Hazel, Seven Barks, Hyssop, Sangre de Drago, Twin Leaf,

Horehound, Chamomile, Peppermint, Picrasma, Wild/Choke Cherry, Cal. Buckthorn,

Buckthorn, Cascara Sagrada, Sweet Sumach, Senna, Sarsaparilla,

American Colombo, Comfrey, Pau D'Arco, Slippery Elm, Nettles, Cramp Bark,

Black Haw.

Michael Moore

Herbs Best Used for Cold Infusion

Fact Sheet

White Sage - Salvia apiana Smudge Stick 7" Bundle

2012-01-31T11:17:00.000-08:00

Just in time for Spring Equinox
Now Available at
Spirit Herbs Realm
True California White Sage
7" Smudge Stick
$7.00

Amazon Herbs: Cacao, Sangre de Drago, Una de Gato/Cat's Claw, Chanca Piedra

2012-01-29T08:39:00.001-08:00

Upcycled Mocah Java Rasta Tam Featured

2012-01-25T07:39:00.000-08:00

This "one size fits most" hand made Rasta Tam was lovingly created by Cherri using mainly thrift store scrap yarn. The tam features a combination rich chocolate brown contrasted with an earthy mocha, and is only one example of the many upcycled creations offered by Spirit Herbs Realm.

To order your very own custom made rasta tam in the colors of your choosing, visit our new blog "Spirit Wear"

Custom Rasta Tam - $20.50

Announcement

2012-01-21T02:14:00.000-08:00

In 2011 my computer, which held all the stored data for my Detox program was stolen. Two years of research and writing have been lost. I will be starting again from scratch summer 2012, and I am currently creating a new master intake questionnaire.

Now that I am back online, I have resumed work on this site and anticipate construction of the Detox Page will begin by spring.

A customized Detox Plan can be designed just for you. If you are in need of immediate assistance, please email.

Namaste

Spirit Herbs Featured on Etsy

2012-01-16T11:53:00.000-08:00

If you're not familiar with Etsy, you're in for a treat. Etsy vendors are a genuine, supportive group of crafters and the like who have come together to buy, sell, and trade goods and services. If you are a collector or vendor of handmades, supplies, or vintage goods check-it-out
http://www.etsy.com/

10 Surprising Health Benefits of Cinnamon

2012-01-14T12:45:00.001-08:00

Who doesn’t love a sprinkling of cinnamon on fresh apple pie or atop a chai latte? It’s just one of those spices that tastes fantastic. But taste is not the only reason to love cinnamon. Here are 10 health reasons (plus an extra reason) to love this super spice:

Beautiful Inspiring Canvas Prints by Isabel Ivy

2012-01-11T07:48:00.000-08:00

Decorate your home with some healing vibes... Adorn your environment with the energies you want to bring in to your life.

Postage is FREE, delivery is worldwide, artworks are safely delivered to your door 2-3 weeks after you make your order.

Ready-to-hang Canvas Prints,
Moisture, UV and dust resistant.
Designs extend to the sides of the canvas. 2-3cm depth.

Created in a wide range of sizes to work with your intended sacred space...

To view more of Isebel's work, follow link below:

Isabel Ivy
Art for the Soul

Love Frequency 528hz (Inviting Divine Love Energy)

2012-01-09T06:42:00.000-08:00

Click Link Below to Experience...
Love Frequency 528hz (Inviting Divine Love Energy)

Shopping for Herbs Direct from the Source?

2012-01-08T15:06:00.000-08:00

Herbal Green Pages is a great way to buy, sell, or trade herbs with other herbalists. Chock full of information, this is a full library all in one site. The Herbal Green Pages offers business start-up advice, free listing space for you to sell your own, seeds, plants, body care products, and more. I LOVE this site!
http://www.herbalgreenpages.com/

A Very Humbling Film - Great Food for Thought

2011-12-26T10:23:00.001-08:00

Now Available by Spirit Herbs

2011-12-20T09:57:00.001-08:00

Asthma Dry Cough Tea - 3oz $5.50

Pleasant mild licorice taste; Our Asthma & Dry Cough Tea clears mucous and excess fluid from the air passages as it soothes and heals the mucous membranes. Asthma Dry Cough Tea clears the lungs as it works to expel excess fluid and mucous.

INGREDIENTS: Fennel, Anise, Marshmallow, Thyme.

Obsidian

2011-12-19T10:25:00.000-08:00

Obsidian
Energy: Projective
Planet: Saturn
Element: Fire
Deity: Tezcatlipoca (Aztec, "Smoking Mirror" or "Shining Mirror")
Powers: Protection, Grounding, Divination, Peace
Magical/Ritual Lore: Obsidian is simply lava that cooled so fast that the minerals contained within didn't have time to form. It is naturally occuring glass.

The ancient Aztecs fashioned flat, square mirrors of this black glass for use in divination. According to legend the famous Dr. Dee, a magician-alchemist hired by England's Queen Elizabeth I, may have used one of these mirrors in his scrying sessions.

It was popular material for fashioning stone knives, spear points and arrowheads, and when used for these purposes, it it often known as "flint." Such arrowheads have magical properties.

Magical Uses: Obsidian is a grounding, centering stone. Hold it in your hands or place your bare feet on two small, polished pieces when you're flighty or can't seem to get your physical life in order. Remember the physical is the path to the spiritual. Each is a reflection of the other.

Obsidian is effective when carried or used in protective rituals. One involves surrounding a white candle with four obsidian arrow-heads that each point to one of the directions. This sets up aggressive energies which guard the place in which it is set up.

Spheres of obsidian, still fashioned in Mexico, are fine scrying tools. If you don't have good results scrying with quartz crystal, try a piece or sphere of obsidian. For some, the blackness of the stone allows easier access to the subconscious mind.
~Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic

A limited supply of obsidian chips for crafting at our Etsy store "Spirit Herbs Realm"

Ten Indian Commandments

2011-12-15T10:53:00.001-08:00

Garnet

2011-12-08T08:28:00.000-08:00

Energy: Projective
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Powers: Healing, Protection, Strength
Magical/Ritual Lore: In the 13th century garnets were worn to repel insects.
Magical Uses: The garnet, a fiery red stone, is worn to enhance bodily strength, endurance and vigor. It is worn or used in magic to tap extra energy for ritual purposes. Wear or carry one when exerting yourself (hiking a mountain, studying until dawn, heavy ritual workings, and so on).

Because it is a projective stone, the garnet is worn for protective purposes. Five hundred years ago it was thought to drive off demons and night phantoms. Today the garnet, in common with many other protective stones, is seen to strengthen the aura and to create a shield of highly charged positive vibrations which repels negative energies upon contact. Say you're wearing a garnet at night and have visualized it protecting you. A would-be mugger, for example, might suddenly decide to let you pass by, "spooked" by the "bad vibes" you are releasing. Garnets are particularly prescribed as protection against thieves.

In the Middle Ages a figure of a lion was carved onto a garnet and carried to guard the health, especially while traveling.

A healing stone, garnet is used to relieve skin conditions, especially inflammations. It also regulates the heart and blood.

In the past garnets were exchanged between parting friends to symbolize their affection and to magically ensure that they met again.
~Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic

A limited supply of garnet chips for crafting at our Etsy store "Spirit Herbs Realm"

Autumn Already, Really?

2011-09-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

This is my first experience with season change in coastal Oregon, so not real clear if the September Autumn chill is a typical weather pattern, but typical or not, it is here. The air just has that feel about it. Chilly in the morning, hot in the afternoon, and chilly again in the late afternoon and evening...Ah yes, the days of really BIG laundry loads have returned.

In Septembers past I would recommend perhaps doing an all over body cleanse to release any nasty baggage, while strengthening the immune system with a fresh new start. I suppose if you are in a part of the country where you are not yet feeling fall in the air it is still a very good idea, but I am just not feeling it here. It is already just too darn chilly!

So, I have chosen not to do a detox, for now. I am moving right into my winter routine of increasing my hot tea intake, and consuming a diet of raw miso with veggies. Miso is healing, warming, and pro-biotic. Raw miso is simple to prepare, and is very versatile.

Start with raw organic miso obtained from most any health food store, and place about a tablespoon into your favorite oversized soup cup along with any raw veggies you choose, (julienne carrots, chives, shiitake, etc...). Pour very warm, (not boiling) water over your beautiful concoction, stir, eat and enjoy.

Oh, Sun Loving Calendula!

2011-07-30T20:14:00.001-07:00

Calendula! Our beautiful little rays of sunshine are blooming in glorious shades of yellow and orange all over the garden. Calendula is typically used for topically for abrasions and burns. But, did you know that Calendula is reputed to heal slow-healing gastric ulcers?

New! from Spirit Herbs

2011-07-30T19:48:00.000-07:00

Dandelion Root Tincture - 2 ounce Liver Detox, Diuretic

This very potent Dandelion Tincture is crafted by Cherri with only Organic, wild-harvested Dandelion Root. Dandelion Root Tincture is frequently used for its diuretic properties and for kidney, liver, and gallbladder detoxification. It is also used by many as a skin detox aid.

NOTE: Tinctures (may) take up to two weeks to ship, and can be made to order according to your specifications.

New Anxiety Formula by Spirit Herbs

2011-07-16T20:44:00.000-07:00

California Poppy Tincture with Hawthorn - 2 ounce Anxiety Formula

Cherri's own unique blend of Wildharvested Organic California Poppy Herb tinctured with Hawthorn berry, crafted to ease minor anxiety.

Ingredients: Wildharvested California Poppy, Hawthorn Berry, and Grain Alcohol
2 ounce tincture
$18.50

New! From Spirit Herbs

2011-06-14T08:08:00.000-07:00

Wheatgrass Powder - 12 gram Organically Grown, Smoothie Ready

You will receive12 full grams of freshly powdered Wheatgrass for all your detoxification needs. This is 100% pure, and grown with love by herbalist Cherri.

Ann Wigmore, and the hippocrates institute for health have successfully treated every disease imaginable with wheatgrass therapy for decades. Although wheatgrass therapy has not been substantiated by health authorities, it's use as a powerful medicine warrants serious attention. A few of the claims of healing with the help of wheatgrass therapy include:

Improved Liver Function
Strengthened Immune System
Detoxification
Increased Energy

A long time health advocate Cherri believes that the best medicine is preventive medicine, and provides for her clients health aids based on her belief in whole food nutrition. Cherri looks to the masters Moore, Kloss, etc... rather than relying upon "new and improved" health fads.

In her own practice she is a strong advocate of detoxification, and offers many of her best formulas right here on Etsy. Please watch for Cherri's full detox program to be offered by 2012.

12 grams
$5.50
Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to insure that the information contained on the website is complete and accurate. However, neither the publisher nor the author is engaged in rendering professional advice or services to the individual reader. The ideas, procedures, and suggestions contained on this website are not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician. All matters regarding health require medical supervision. Neither the author nor the publisher shall be liable for any loss, injury, or damage allegedly arising from any information or suggestion on this website.

Notice to our Customers

2011-06-07T05:50:00.001-07:00

It has come to my attention that our shipping calculators were off, and the fees imposed rather unrealistic. I have made some adjustments, and it appears that all is good now. We do appreciate our customers and thank you.

Here's to your good health,
Cherri

Drumming Therapy Healing Through Rhythm and Sound

2011-05-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

Drumming Therapy taps into layers of the mind and body that other modalities cannot. Studies have shown that repetitive drumming changes brain wave activity, inducing a state of calm and focused awareness.

Rhythm is the soul of life.

The whole universe revolves in rhythm.
Everything and every human action revolves in rhythm.
- Babatunde Olatunji

The first sound we ever heard while still in our mother's womb, was the beating of her heart, and the rhythm of her breath. No matter our race, gender, age, religion or belief system, this common experience exists for all human beings.

When newcomers are first introduced to drumming as adults, they often say "oh, I don't have any rhythm," in an attempt to excuse themselves for their imagined inadequacy.

The truth is: We All have Rhythm!

Rhythm is our natural inheritance. It exists in our bodies, our hearts, our breath. It exists in the vibration of atoms, the cycles of the seasons, the ticking of clocks, the orbit of the earth. There is no part of creation that is without rhythm!

Drumming is a practice that spans the globe and has a presence in every culture. It has been used for centuries in rituals, ceremonies, communication, rites of passage, music and dance, celebration, healing, community building, and cultural events.

Drumming Therapy is a method of utilizing the natural power of rhythm and music and applying it to an individual or group for the purpose of healing. A truly holistic healing approach, group drumming breaks down social barriers, promotes freedom of expression, non-verbal communication, unity and cooperation. Drumming awakens dormant emotions and unexplainable feelings of excitement, peace, and ecstacy. It decreases depression, anxiety, and stress, boosts immune system functioning and benefits physical health.

There is a growing body of research on the therapeutic effects of group drumming. Barry B. Bittman, MD has published some ground-breaking studies showing the benefits to the immune system, stress levels and mood.
http://www.alternativedepressiontherapy.com

Custom Made Rasta Tam's Now Available from Spirit Herbs

2011-03-02T11:54:00.000-08:00

That's right Cherri is crocheting up a storm and ready to begin taking orders. We haven't created a limited color list as of yet, but that doesn't mean you cannot place your order now.

Simply state what color you would like your custom tam (Let's be reasonable here, ok) and if you would like a complementary color for a stripe or two.

All rasta's are "one size fits most", and made from 100% acrylic Red Heart yarn, and can be machine washed on a cool, gentle cycle.

When placing your order, please mention color of choice as well as a second choice if this is not available.Please allow up to two weeks for shipment of your custom Rasta.

Custom Rasta Tam - $20.50

Spring Equinox Smudge Special

2011-02-07T12:44:00.000-08:00

Just in time for "Spring Cleaning" Spirit Herbs is offering a trio of sacred smudges.

From now until March 20, 2010 we are offering one ounce of our own unique loose Ceremonial Smudge Blend, (Mugwort, Yarrow, Bergamot), one half ounce of White Sage Leaf, and one of Cherri's own hand rolled Cedar (Juniper) smudge stick together for one very special price of $5.75 plus $7.50 shipping.

Don't miss out, this offer is only good while our current supply lasts

Namaste

Passion Flower; By Jewels Julianne Carson

2011-01-20T09:11:00.000-08:00

The herb, passion flower, is one of nature's best sleep aids. Passion Flower is thought to relieve muscle tension and other manifestations of extreme anxiety. It is also believed to be especially good for nervous insomnia.

Passion Flower is used as a sedative in nervous disorders including gastrointestinal complaints of nervous origin, IBS, difficulties in sleeping, and anxiety or restlessness, especially in children. Also, it is used to treat female anxiety during menses, childbirth and menopause. Research shows that Passion Flower reduces spasms and depresses the central nervous system.

Passion Flower contains flavonoids such as isovitexin, vitexin, saponarin, orientin, glycosides, gynocardin, and alkaloids.

Common uses of passion flower: Antispasmodic, spinal - Nervine, insomnia, shingles, headaches.
The deep blue, violet and purple colored flowers are effective in burning fats from belly and waist line. Dr. Oz who is a renowned specialist in this very matter is of the opinion that stress is one of the main culprits of gaining weight. It gives rise to Cortisol which makes us fatigued and does what is not required. Some people eat junk food, spicy things and some lack sleep during night. It disturbs metabolism and digestion process. Hence, fat is accumulated, especially in belly and waist line. Passion flower supplements reduce Cortisol level from the blood and soothe the brain cell. It gives sound sleep and takes away all stress.

Uses Of Passion Flower Extract has a wide range. From keeping the nerves and muscles (anti-spasmodic quality) cool and relaxing, this herb has been an active source since antiquity. The varied resources in passiflora include flavonoids, cyanogenic glycosides, alkaloids and saparin, amino acid, sterol etc that burns calories and encourage the brain cell to have a siesta. It also boosts metabolism and speed up the circulation having a check on the blood pressure.

The deep blue, violet and purple colored flowers are effective in burning fats from belly and waist line. Dr. Oz who is a renowned specialist in this very matter is of the opinion that stress is one of the main culprits of gaining weight. It gives rise to Cortisol which makes us fatigued and does what is not required. Some people eat junk food, spicy things and some lack sleep during night. It disturbs metabolism and digestion process. Hence, fat is accumulated, especially in belly and waist line. Passion flower supplements reduce Cortisol level from the blood and soothe the brain cell. It gives sound sleep and takes away all stress.

Passionflower In Insomnia:
Insomnia is relieved with slightly higher doses taken at bed time. Sleeplessness caused by neurasthenic, hysteric patients and that found in Nervous exhaustion was successfully relieved by its use. Insomnia felt during convalescence of flu also responded well to this herb. The more effective sedative property was found in combination of both flavonoids and alkaloids i.e. whole herb extract. Muscle cramps at night also reduced.

Passionflower In Seizures:
It diminishes the mild seizure activity and helpful in tics, muscle spasm from fright, anger. Passiflora coerulea has Chrysin, a flavonoid. It showed promising results in animal tests and it acted similar to Benzodiazepines in preventing induced seizures. Further reduction of stress and insomnia might add its value in seizures.

Passionflower's Help To Addicts:
One of the best herbs in curbing the craving of anxiety in substance withdrawal. Helpful in quitting alcohol, opiates, cannabis and nicotine habits. The tremors of alcohol withdrawal are greatly helped. Being Nervine and mildly sedative, it helps in reducing the craving.

In a clinical study, it was found promising with clonidine for opiate detoxication. Clonidine helps better for the physical symptoms like elevated blood pressure and Passiflora incarnata works better for the psychological symptoms like craving, anxiety, irritation and depressed feelings.

Passionflower & Our Heart & Blood Vessels:
Use Passiflora incarnata to normalize high blood pressure and for tachycardia. It can even abort the tachycardia. It works well in persons with this kind of pulse - bounding pulse with excessive cardiac force - and hypertension and noticeable surface vasodilatation - prominent and full veins with flush on face (as after alcohol consumption).

Passionflower In Congestive Cardiac Failure:
A combined extract of hawthorn and Passiflora incarnata was used in a study of CHF patients for shortness of breath and difficulty in exercising. The combination worked well. Some critics later questioned the role of Passiflora incarnata when hawthorn worked well in itself.

Passionflower In Asthma & Cough:
Irritative, spastic, repetitive and 'difficult to stop' Cough respond well with this herb. Its spasmolytic nature make it useful in bronchial constriction and dyspnea when the aggravating factor had been the mental anxiety.

Passionflower Helping IBS:
In IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome and in griping and spasmodic diarrhea from food reactions, its use can surely relieve. Commission E(1985) in Germany approved it for nervous stomach like other useful herbs for the same - lemon balm or melissa, chamomile, valerian. Some researchers have found that one component of Passiflora incarnata, Passicol has antimicrobial and anitfungal activity. In European countries, it is used with valerian and hawthorn for gastritis and colitis.

Adverse Effects Of Passionflower:
It is safe and without side effects and is non addictive. Some persons reported slight dizziness, impaired cognitive functions and sedation. All such effects disappeared on discontinuation of the herb. Very rarely nausea, vomiting and tachycardia(1 person) is reported.

The Side Effects Of Passion Flower or passiflora are not so major. Though this herb is used for trouble sleeping and restlessness a frequent feed may turn out harmful. Basically, the interaction with other drugs (if you are taking) can cause allergy, swelling, problem breathing, rapid heart beat, itching, nausea and vomiting. Always consult a doctor prior taking this herb though it has least chance of side effects. Overdose of passiflora can give you severe headache. So, don’t drive when you are under its medication.

Interactions:
The alkaloids found in passionflower, especially harman and harmaline, may increase the effects of a class of prescription antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These drugs are most often prescribed for depression, panic attacks, and eating disorders. Passionflower may also increase the effects of over-the-counter sedatives as well as prescription sedatives.

Caution: This herb may cause sleepiness in some people and should not be used before driving or operating machinery. Do not take during pregnancy.

Recommended adult doses of passionflower are as follows:
• Infusion: 2–5 g of dried herb, up to three times daily
• Fluid extract (1:1 ratio in a solution of 25% alcohol):0.5–1.0 mL up to three times daily
• Tincture (1:5 ratio in a solution of 45% alcohol):0.5–2.0 mL up to three times daily.

This essay submitted by "jewels" Julianne Carson, creator of the Facebook page:
Artisans & Business Owners
Please let Julianne know how much you like her article by posting your comments here, or on Facebook!

Free Organic Aloe Vera Healing Plant

2011-01-15T10:34:00.000-08:00

In an effort to raise awareness about how valuable folk medicine truly is Spirit Herbs is giving away one of our own Aloe Vera "Mother" plants. No, not a pup; This is one of our own thick, healthy, reproducing mother plants.

The contest is easy. Simply write an essay (500) words or less telling about your favorite herb, blend, tincture, or salve. Tell us how it is made, how it works and why it is so beneficial.
Submit your essay using the "contact us" link. Be sure to include your full name, contact info, and city where you reside.
All essay's will be posted on the Spirit Herbs blog, Facebook, and Twitter. Tell everyone you know to like, tweet, and comment about your essay. The entry which receives the most tweets, likes, etc...wins!

The contest starts today 01/15/2011 and ends midnight February 28, 2011. The winner will be announced within 10 days of contest close. The winner receives one healthy organic Aloe Vera Plant.

Good Luck!
Cherri

Herb or Weed?

2011-01-05T11:35:00.001-08:00

"What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered."
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Our New Petrified Wood Site Has Launched

2010-12-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

I have just completed launching the Arizona Raw Minerals Blog and will be posting pics of wood we currently have available for sale. We will also be adding a few pieces here as well.

http://painteddesertminerals.blogspot.com/

Cedar (Juniper) 3 - Handmade Smudge Sticks

2010-11-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

You will receive Three authentic 6" Juniperus monosperma Smudging Wands; Also referred to as Cedar (by local Native Americans), Cedron, and Sabina is used for all types of cleansing spiritual and physical.

Wonderfully aromatic and of the finest quality for home incense crafting; The Juniper has been traditionally used by most cultures in this fashion to ward off "bad vibes" and black magic.

Burning herbs is a sacred practice used for prayer and purification that is respected in most American Indian traditions. It is called smudging or smoking, although the intent is not to inhale the smoke or burn up the herbs. Instead you bathe in the smoke and pray with it.

Once ignited, the herbs are not supposed to flame; they should slowly smoke. The aromatic fumes from their volatile oils enhance the smudge. Because smudging involves heat and burning, a fireproof clay pot or lare shell, such as that of abalone or sea clam, is a good accoutrement to use as a protective vessel.

To smudge, light your smudge blend and gently blow on it to extinguish the flame and enhance the smoking.

Available Now!
3-6" Wands $7.50

Rocks & Herbs Spice Up Your Herb Garden Border

2010-08-10T06:22:00.000-07:00

Herbs make a wonderful addition to any garden, and do not require much space

For an eye appealing border place boulders randomly along pathways and garden boundaries. Use herbs such as thyme, parsley, and marjoram in the nooks and crannies you have created. Gradually add taller plants as you progress further away from your path, reserving the tallest such as angelica or fennel for the for the final plants furthest away from your border. Your Rock Herb Garden will bring you great pleasure for many years to come.

Make Your Own Sachet - Prevent Moths

2010-08-06T06:21:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:

1/2 ounce whole cloves
10 cardamom pods
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 ounce pepperment
1/2 ounce rosemary
dried peel of one lemon

Method:

Crush the cloves, cardamom, and salt into a fine powder.
Blend with the herbs and put into muslin tea bags, a hankercheif, or bandanna and tie with a piece of string or ribbon.
Place your sachet in a closet, dresser drawer, or wherever you need moth protection

Alkalizing Tea - 1 ounce Loose Leaf Herbal Blend

2010-08-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

A special blend of Nettle Leaf, Red Clover Tops, and Alfalfa Leaf

INSTRUCTIONS: Drink the hot or cold tea freely. If under metablic stress you might even use the tea as your main liquid. Good for acid urine, uric acid kidney stones, post-op recovery, PMSI acidity and as part of an osteoporosis regimen.

Now available in the "Tea Blends" section of our Etsy store

Liver Cleanse Tonic

2010-08-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

Juice of 1/2 lemon, freshly squeezed
Juice of 1/2 grapefruit, freshly squeezed
2 tablespoons virgin olive oil

Mix together and drink each morning for 5 days. This is an excellent flush and will eliminate gallstones (with professional supervision)

Lemon Skin Balm Recipe

2010-08-04T18:15:00.000-07:00

4 teaspoons lemon juice
8 teaspoons almond, wheatgerm, or peach kernal oil
1.5-2 teaspoons clear raw honey

Mix all ingredients thoroughly
Pour into a glass jar, cover and shake well

Hint: One drop of essential oil may be added if fragrance is desired

African Dream Root, Silene capensis (Ubulawu)

2010-05-29T06:24:00.000-07:00

Possibly more effective than the better know "Dream herb" Calea zacatechichi, this is the first time that this unique and rare ethnobotanical is offered for sale and made available outside of Africa. Normally only the seeds are available but we have finally managed to locate a supply of the actual root which is used by African shamans for accessing the dream state.

This sacred plant which shamans of the verdant river valleys of the eastern cape province of South Africa has the ability to induce remarkably vivid dreams. A web site describes this plant:
"This obscure flowering species is regarded by shamans of the South African region as a type of "Ubulawu" or medicinal root that they call "Undela Ziimhlophe," which translates literally as "white paths" or white ways." It is suspected that this sacred plant's oneirongenic, or dream-inducing activity is likely due to triterpenoid saponins contained within its roots. Relatively small amounts of root (250 mg range) are reported to be active. The plant exerts only minimal alterations in waking consciousness, yet the effects upon the dream state can be profound.

How to prepare Silene capensis (Ubulawu)

Method 1 :
Half a teaspoon is mixed with half a cup of water. This is drunk early in the morning upon waking, while the stomach is empty. When you feel hungry it is safe to have breakfast.

Method 2 :
A heaped tablespoon is mixed with half a liter of water, and the water blended until a froth is formed. Keep sucking the froth off the container until you feel `bloated' with froth, and then go to bed.

Expected Results :
While sleeping, your dreams will be exceptionally colorful, and will be remembered upon awakening. (A good idea is to keep a notebook handy for writing down the results.) Ubulawu is traditionally used to access dream-time and to communicate with one's ancestors.

Precautions :
Use the recommended amounts only; the actives are active in these doses. Larger amounts will have a purgative action, however there are no fatalities or harmful side effects reported, only a good vomiting and cleansing out of the stomach. Small doses over several days will affect even the most insensitive person, so there is no need to take a large amount.

Drink it on an empty stomach, and then when you feel hungry, you can eat. This will give the alkaloids time to travel through your system. The effects will be felt that night. The alkaloids travel quite slowly through the blood system, so it won't get excreted out during the day. Before going to sleep, focus on a question you want answered by the ancestors.

One of the ancestors will appear in your dream with the answer. This plant is not just used for vivid dreams, but as a divination tool. For more insensitive persons, or for people who use other alkaloids or have other alkaloids in their system. A more `clean' person would be more sensitive. The alkaloids from using some over a few days would build up in your system.

A personal report from someone who was initiated as a sangoma (traditional healer) says the group he was with used 1/5tsp. (powdered) over the course of a week. He felt effects from day 3, and everyone in the group felt effects during the course of this week.

Egyptian Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea)

2010-05-23T12:45:00.000-07:00

Distribution
Its original habitat may have been along the Nile and other locations in East Africa. It spread to other locations, however, already in ancient times, like the Indian Subcontinent and Thailand.

Description
The leaves are broadly rounded, 25–40 cm across, with a notch at the leaf stem. The flowers are 10–15 cm diameter. Reports in the literature by persons unfamiliar with its actual growth and blooming cycle have suggested that the flowers open in the morning, rising to the surface of the water, then close and sink at dusk.[citation needed] In fact, the flower buds rise to the surface over a period of two to three days, and when ready, open at approximately 9-9:30am and close about 3pm. The flowers and buds do not rise above the water in the morning, nor do they submerge at night. The flowers have pale bluish-white to sky-blue or mauve petals, smoothly changing to a pale yellow in the centre of the flower.

It was considered extremely significant in Egyptian mythology, since it was said to rise and fall with the sun. Consequently, due to its colourings, it was identified, in some beliefs, as having been the original container, in a similar manner to an egg, of Atum, and in similar beliefs Ra, both solar deities. As such, its properties form the origin of the lotus variant of the Ogdoad cosmogeny. It was the symbol of the Egyptian deity Nefertem.

Properties and uses
Ancient Egyptian funerary stele showing a dead man, named Ba, seated in the center, sniffing a sacred lily.This lotus is used to produce perfumes since ancient times; it is also used in aromatherapy.

Recent studies have shown Nymphaea caerulea to have mild psycho-active properties. It may have been used as a sacrament in ancient Egypt and certain ancient South American cultures. Eating Blue Lotus can act as a mild sedative. Nymphaea caerulea is distantly related to, and possesses similar activity as Nelumbo nucifera, the Sacred Lotus. Both Nymphaea caerulea and Nelumbo nucifera contain the alkaloids nuciferine and aporphine.

The mildly sedating effects of Nymphaea caerulea makes it a likely candidate (among several) for the lotus plant eaten by the mythical Lotophagi in Homer's Odyssey.

Used in aromatherapy, Nymphaea caerulea is purported to have a "divine" essence, bringing heightened awareness and tranquility.

Some sources site it as an antispasmodic similar to copal resin.

In modern culture, blue lotus flowers are used to make various concoctions including blue lotus tea, wine and martinis. Recipes for such drinks involve steeping or soaking the petals for up to 3 weeks. Blue lotus tea is prepared by boiling the entire flowers for 10–20 minutes
http://en.wikipedia.org/

Damiana

2010-04-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

Damiana Facts
Damiana is found in hot and humid climates including parts of Texas and Mexico. Damiana is one of the most popular and safest herbs to restore natural sexual capacities and functions and has been used as an aphrodisiac, going back to ancient Mayan times. This potent aphrodisiac is a wonderful sexual rejuvenator and stimulator known for its help with impotence and as a general tonic to improve all body functions.

How Damiana Works
Damiana contains substances called terpenes, beta-sitoserol, arbutin, alkaloids and various aromatic oils that have a stimulant effect on the sexual apparatus and help to build sexual health and reproductivity. These nutrients work to restore and enhance sexual functions by increasing blood flow to the organs and for overall health of the sexual reproductive system. Damiana also works as a tonic for nervous or sexual debility.

Possible Benefits
•Potent aphrodisiac and sexual stimulant

•Improves sexual desire and sexual performance

•Increases blood circulation to the organs

•Increases sperm count in males and strengthens eggs in females

•Alleviates anxiety and promotes sense of well-being

•Promotes energy and helps with weakness and exhaustion

•Helps balance female hormones and alleviate menopause symptoms

•Helps relieve constipation

•Helps with bronchitis and asthma

Usage Guidelines
Damiana is most effective when combined with similar herbs to complement its activity, especially saw palmetto berry. High dosages may induce a mild sense of euphoria.
http://www.nutriherb.net/damiana.html

Datura

2010-03-17T14:50:00.000-07:00

Varieties of this genus were taken for their narcotic effect by tribes in California and the souwestern United States, Mexico, and Central and South America. In general, the leaves, stems, and roots were gathered, pounded, and allowed to soak in water for several hours, after which the solution was strained and drunk. Its uses varied between tribes but commonly attracted the interest of users for purposes of divination.

Harold E. Driver, a lifetime student of the ways of the Indians of North America, outlines some of the uses of this plant:

In California the drug was usually taken at the age of puberty or later by a group of young people under the supervision of elders…Where definite male puberty initiations existed, the drinking of Datura was a part of these rites…A considerable number of California tribes used it as an anesthetic for setting broken bones or otherwise treating the injured. Medicine men also took the drug in order to “see sickness,”… In the Oasis it was most often taken…to bring success on a deer hunt, to alleviate vomiting and dizziness, to induce the drinker to utter prophecies, or simply for the pleasure derived from the accompanying dreams and visions. At Zuni, Datura was believed to be one of the medicines derived from the gods, and its use was limited to rain priests and directors of the Little Fire and Cimex fraternities… If a man had been robbed and wished to discover the thief, the priests gave him a dose of Datura. Here also it was used as an anesthetic to set fractured bones or perform surgery on a patient. (Driver, Indians of North America, pp. 103-104)

The Mohaves and Paiutes employed the plant for similar purposes, while the Mariposa gave the liquid to the young women of their tribe when the reputed aphrodisiac properties were desired.

The origin of the name jimson weed comes to us from Robert Beverly’s early history of the state of Virginia. Some of the soldiers sent to Jamestown in 1676 to put down Bacon’s Rebellion gathered the young shoots of jimson weed and cooked them as a vegetable.

The Effect of which was a very pleasant comedy; for they turn’d natural fools upon it for several days: One would blow up a feather in the air; another woul’d dart straws at it with much fury; and another stark naked was sitting up in a corner, like a monkey, grinning and making mows at them; a fourth would fondly kiss and paw his companions, and snear in their faces, with a countenance more antick, than any in a Dutch Droll. In this frantic condition they were confined, lest they should in their folly destroy themselves; though it was observed, that all their actions were full of innocence and good nature. Indeed, they were not cleanly; for they would have wallow’d in their own excrements, if they had not been prevented. A thousand such simple tricks they play’d and after eleven days, return’d themselves again, not remembering any thing that had pass’d (Beverly, History of Virginia p. 121)

But this was not the first time a group of soldiers had ingested jimson weed. In 37 and 38 B.C. , during a retreat, Anthony’s legion consumed the plant with equally comic results.

The medical history of this drug plant is described by Dr. Millspaugh, who concluded by suggesting that it was a valuable treatment for rabies!

From the symptoms caused by this drug, its homeopathic adaptability to hydrophobia will be at once evident. There is no drug so far proven that deserves as thorough and careful a trial in this dread disease as stramonium. The following from a letter written by the Catholic Bishop of Singapore to the Straits Times, has just come to my notice. This Bishop says he thinks it is his duty to publish the remedies used in the missions in Tonquin for the cure of hydrophobia. These, he says, consist first, in giving as much star-aniseed as may be contained on a cent piece; and, secondly, in making the patient take some water in which a handful of the leaves of stramony or thorn-apple, or pear-apple, is infused. These will cause an access of the convulsions or delirium, during which the patient must be tied; but on its abatement he will be cured. If the remedy act too violently, either by too much being administered, or on account of there being no virus of real hydrophobia, the consequences may be ameliorated by making the patient drink an infusion of licorice root, a most precious antidote against poisoning by stramony. In 1869 the Bishop relates, a very honorable member of the clergy of Paris was bitten by a pet dog which died thirty hours afterwards with the most characterized convulsions of rabies. The following day he felt the first symptoms of the dreadful disease, and these augmented in intensity every day. The priest, however, applied at once all sorts of known remedies, ancient and modern, and even employed a very small dose of stramony. Each time he used the latter the progress of the disease ceased for some hours, even days and then continued its ravages with greater intensity than before. When the fatal issue was at hand, just at the crisis of the disease, when the paroxysms had attained the greatest violence, the patient, with almost super-human energy, began chewing a pinch of dried stramony leaves, swallowing the juice. The effect was not long in making itself felt. In half an hour the disease had attained its height, the patient being delirious during the convulsions; but on the following day he was perfectly cured. “The same remedy,” concludes the Bishop, “is used in India, and is always successful.” (Millspaugh, Medicinal Plants, 1887, pp. 127-5 to 127-6)

From the same author we learn the origin of the word thug,, “a society of stealthy fanatic murderers of India” who employed varieties of jimson weed to “render their intended victims unconscious.”

At that time in America, jimson weed leaves were smoked to alleviate asthmatic attacks, and as an ointment they were applied to burns and scalds. At the beginning of this century the leaves were known for their narcotic, diuretic, antispasmodic, and pain-relieving properties.

The mains constituents of stramonium leaves are similar to belladonna leaves, namely, hyoscyamine and atropine. There are also traces of scolamine, a potent cholinergic-blocking hallucinogen that has been used in medicine to calm excited schizoid patients and in childbirth to induce sleep with amnesia. Surprisingly, this powerful drug is available on a nonprescription basis in a sleeping compound called Sominex. How is it that so much is said about marijuana, a relatively mild drug-one that carries with it all the threats of illegality-when scopolamine, a much stronger psychotominetic, is available over the counter?

*Hyoscyamine and atropine act to inhibit the parasympathetic nervous system, which characteristically results in drying of the mucous membranes of the mouth, bronchial tree, and stomach, and relaxation of smooth muscle of the alimentary and bronchial tracts. The Dispensatory of the United States for 1942 states that the leaves are used in the treatment of asthma and “the beneficial effect is doubtless due to the presence of atropine which paralyzes the endings of the pulmonary branch of the vagus, thus relieving the bronchial spasm…”

The leaves and flowering tops of jimson weed were official in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia from 1820 to 1950 and in the National Formulary from 1950 to 1965. They were primarily used for asthmatic complaints.

Before leaving this narcotic species, I would like once again to turn to an observer of the past in an attempt to encourage our present pharmacologists and psychologists to search the plant world for a drug capable of restoring sanity to a mad person.

Baron Storck, of Vienna, introduced jimson weed to the medical profession in 1762. He used the drug in epilepsy and insanity and questioned:

If Stramonium produces symptoms of madness in a healthy person, would it not be desirable to make experiments in order to discover whether this plant…would not restore to a healthy state those who are suffering from alienation of mind?

Jimson weed is thought to be indigenous to Europe, possibly to the borders of the Caspian Sea, but another school of botanists believes the plant may be indigenous to several countries. It grows as an uncultivated weed in South America, southern Russia, and Asia, while in the United States it grows near waste heaps where the soil is rich and loose. The Indians originally named it the white man’s plant, referring to its habitat-garbage dumps.

This member of the nightshade family has stout yellowish green stems about two to five feet high and large leaves from three to eight inches long, that are wavy-toothed, dark green above and lighter green on the lower surface. The large, white, trumpet shaped flowers appear from May to September. These are followed by seed pods which burst open, expressing black poisonous seeds. When used for the constituents, the leaves and tops are collected when the plant is in flower and carefully dried.

It should be remembered that any plant may be “safe” for one person and poisonous, even fatal, to another.

Earth Medicine-Earth Foods
Michael A. Weiner
c:1972

Make Your Own Smudge Stick

2010-03-05T18:16:00.000-08:00

2 fresh stalks mugwort, with leaves and blossoms
2 fresh stalks yarrow, with leaves and blossoms
2 fresh stalks bergamot, with leaves and blossoms
1 large sheet newspaper
2 rubber bands, or long pieces of string

Gather several fresh stalks of your favorite herbs. Some of the most common herbs yield the best fragrances. Mugwort makes a fine smudge on its own. You may also want to try cedars, junipers, sumac, osier, mesquite, tansy, and pinon. Each of these botanicals has its own savory aroma. Experiment with different combinations to suit your various needs. This recipe makes an aromatic smudge that is wonderful for meditation. It also makes a fine insect repellent and helps to banish mildew.

Lay the sheet of newspaper open. Gather the selected herb stalks together and hold them tightly in one hand. Bend them gently back over onto themselves 6 to 7 inches from one end. Quickly bend the remaining lengths back on themselves again in this same 6- to 7- inch long wand. Holding this all together well, place it on the newspaper at an angle. Roll it up tightly, like a big cigar, and secure it snugly with the rubber bands or string.

Place the stick in a warm place, out of direct sun, to dry for at least several days and preferably a week. You may unwrap it in a day or two to check it, then wrap it again more snugly. Let it dry out thoroughly for a few more days. If it is very humid, it may take a couple of weeks to dry.

Unwrap the stick, discard the paper, and tie the herb bundle securely with fine cotton cord or thread. When ready to use, ignite one end and get it smoking. You can use this as a ceremonial smudge. To make a mosquito repellent, perch it upright in a clay pot or coffee can filled with an inch of two of sand. If you want to burn the smudge for only several minutes, you can snuff out the smoking end by rubbing it inside the pot or shell, or pressing it inot the sand. Don't use water to extinguish it.

Caution: Do not use this in a closed, confined area. Before use make sure that no one has allergies or asthma, which could be aggravated by the smoke. This is not advised for pregnant women, babies, or young children, who might develop respiratory difficulties.