All posts by Hannah Banks

Every autumn, we carefully harvest all the seeds from the plants we nurtured during the spring. We collect seeds from most of our plants, including ornamental grasses, decorative plants, flowery plants, fruits, vegetables, and herbs. There is value in the seeds from the plants we grow, especially since it is vital to have your own seeds. When you collect seeds from your garden, you’ll have more for free rather than buying more each year for the same plants. Another reason why you should gather seeds from your garden is because they will be organic. Many commercial seeds are hybrids because they are artificially created by crossing two specific varieties. Not to mention, you might not get as many seeds in each pack as you want. Plants that thrive in your garden have adapted to specific soils, climates, and pests in your area. By saving seeds from the best-performing plants, you can select the qualities that suit your growing conditions, ultimately improving the value of your crops over time. When you save your own seeds, you can share them with others and trade some of yours for other varieties, resulting in an expansive seed collection. Harvesting and storing seeds requires attention and care, but it’s not too difficult. If any of your plants are beginning to produce seeds, it’s essential to start collecting and storing them immediately!

As the winter comes, the plants and grass die, leaving nothing for the goats and Harley, the donkey, to graze on. In the summer, after we picked all the ears of corn, we gathered the corn stalks to dry and provide food for the livestock in the winter. Then, when the fall came, we also chopped down all the banana plants to feed them. We ensure that our livestock never go hungry during the winter by keeping a sufficient food supply.

We had a goat before, he was a handful, and his name was Crocker. When we first bought the goat from a guy we met, we struggled to catch him and put him in the horse trailer. Back then, I knew we would have difficulties dealing with him when we got home. After a few weeks with Crocker, we noticed all the goats were following him, jumping over the fence and roaming around our property. Almost every day, they would come out and eat our plants and vegetables. He would fight some of the goats, and one of them was injured. The whole situation was becoming a disaster after a while. Unfortunately, we had to get rid of him and take him to the slaughterhouse for meat. Everyone was sad, but it had to come to pass. The goats still get out sometimes and eat our plants because Crocker taught them how to. But hopefully, one day, they forget the old habits they had learned from Crocker.

I remember when we first grew some Detroit Dark Red Beets in our garden, and we didn’t know what to do with them. The taste wasn’t that pleasing, whether we used them in a salad or prepared them in something else. It was hard to come up with a meal to make with them. After a while, I figured we should stop growing them. One day, my mom decided to juice a few and make a beverage. Surprisingly, it was very delicious, and we all enjoyed it. Sooner or later, we learned that beet juice is a good substitute for an organic plant-based food coloring. There are probably more ways to use beets that we still don’t know about, we just have to do some research about it. Now we know that beets are not useless. Every year, we love to grow beets and enjoy the juice as we produce it.

We love to plant and grow herbs, veggies, flowery plants, and other plants all year round. But when it’s time for the seed harvest, we start gathering instantly. Last fall, we collected seeds from cushaw squash and bell pepper to ornamental grasses, castor bean plants, and morning glory. Every year, we collect seeds from the numerous plants in our garden. But each year, the variety of seeds to collect increases because we plant new things frequently. Our experience in gathering and storing seeds has improved over the years. We have learned from mistakes in the past regarding seed storage. We try not to miss the opportunity to collect our seeds, so we created a habit of doing it. By doing so, we have a selection of seeds to plant in the spring once more.

The Soothing Herb

Chamomile is more than just a pleasant, fragrant herb—it’s a powerhouse of health benefits. Chamomile, revered for its healing properties for thousands of years, continues to be a favorite for promoting well-being.

A Brief History Chamomile has been used medicinally since ancient times, with Egyptians worshipping the plant and Romans using it to promote longevity. Today, it’s grown worldwide and remains a popular natural remedy.

Health Benefits

• Soothing Anxiety and Depression: Chamomile is well-known for its calming effects, which can help soothe anxiety and aid in depression treatment.
• Digestive Relief: It gives relief from various gastrointestinal issues, including indigestion, diarrhea, and nausea.
• Sleep Aid: Drinking chamomile tea is associated with improved sleep quality and can act as a mild tranquilizer.
• Skin Care: Applied topically, chamomile can fight skin irritations and promote wound healing.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Its anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for reducing muscle spasms and menstrual symptoms.

Nutritional Profile Chamomile is low in calories and contains no cholesterol, making it a healthy addition to any diet.

How to Use Chamomile You can enjoy chamomile in various forms—tea, essential oil, capsules, or creams. Chamomile tea is the most common way to consume this herb, often enjoyed before bed to promote a good night’s sleep.

Safety and Dosage Chamomile is generally safe for consumption, especially in amounts found in teas. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider or research regarding any potential side effects before starting any new supplement regimen.

In conclusion, chamomile is a versatile herb that offers a multitude of health benefits. Whether you’re looking to relax after a long day, improve your digestion, or get a better night’s sleep, chamomile might just be the herbal ally you need.

Garlic: A Clove a Day for Good Health

Garlic is a commonly used ingredient in kitchens worldwide, as it enhances the flavor of dishes and provides a plethora of health benefits. This Allium family member boasts medicinal properties that have been valued since ancient times.

Nutrient Powerhouse

Despite its small size, a single clove of garlic packs a punch with essential nutrients. It’s low in calories yet rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese, along with trace amounts of various other nutrients.

Immunity Booster Garlic is a natural ally in the fight against colds and infections. Studies suggest that its consumption can boost the immune system, potentially protecting against illness and reducing the severity of symptoms.

Heart Health Hero Garlic has beneficial effects on the heart. It’s known to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to cardiovascular health. The sulfur compounds in garlic, such as allicin, are believed to be responsible for these effects.

Anti-inflammatory AgentGarlic also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it beneficial to those with inflamed joints or muscles. Applying garlic oil can soothe soreness and may even help prevent cartilage damage from arthritis. 

Natural Detoxifier The compounds in garlic have been shown to assist in body detoxification, helping to cleanse the system of harmful substances.

Culinary Versatility Beyond its health benefits, garlic is incredibly versatile in cooking. Whether raw or cooked, it adds a depth of flavor that is hard to replicate with any other ingredient.

Daily Dose To harness the full potential of garlic’s health benefits, it’s recommended to consume 1 clove of raw garlic a day. For an extra boost, let minced or crushed garlic rest for 10 minutes before using it to increase the formation of beneficial compounds like allicin.

Conclusion Garlic is more than just a flavor enhancer; it’s a powerful food that can contribute significantly to your overall health. Next time you’re cooking, remember that a little garlic can go a long way in promoting a healthier you.

1. Spring Vegetable: Purple dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) may appear like a weed, but it’s a powerful medicinal plant and a delightful addition to spring recipes. Its leaves taste a bit like spinach with a slightly bitter, spicier flavor reminiscent of arugula. You can use it in frittatas, soups, or even create a wildflower pesto. Cooking or blending the leaves is recommended, as uncooked leaves can be too fuzzy to eat alone. 
2. Earthy Herb: Want that purple dead nettle flavor year-round? Dry your nettle! Lay out fresh purple dead nettle to air-dry for about a week or use a dehydrator for faster results. Once dried, grind it up and use it as a sprinkling herb. While milder than traditional herbs like basil or oregano, it adds an earthy spice to salads, soups, and even bread.
3. Antioxidant Tea: Purple dead nettle, like other mint family members, boasts powerful antioxidant properties. Steep fresh or dried nettle in hot water for a few minutes (or cold water for several hours) to create a great-tasting medicinal tea. Enhance the mixture with honey, mint, or other herbs for added potency and flavor.
4. Oil Infusion: Create a fragrant infusion by steeping purple dead nettle in oil. This versatile oil can be used therapeutically, medicinally, or in cooking. Use it as a base for more complex creations like salves and skin-care products.
5. Wound Poultice: Purple dead nettle is an astringent and antimicrobial agent with impressive antibacterial, antibiotic, and antifungal effects. In the field, crush the leaves to release their juices and apply them to open wounds to stop bleeding and prevent infection.
6. Antibiotic Salve: Even after leaving the field, purple dead nettle remains useful. Its antibacterial properties make it a potent bush medicine. Use it to create an antibiotic salve for various purposes.

Remember, while purple dead nettle is a valuable herb, always consult with a healthcare professional or do research about its side effects before using it for any specific health concerns. Enjoy the benefits of this deep purple herb! 🌿🍃

Sources:  

1. Primal Survivor
2. Healthy Green Kitchen
3. Bynyk
4. Grow Forage Cook Ferment

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is often dismissed as a pesky weed, but it’s a versatile herb with numerous health benefits. From its leaves to its roots and flowers, dandelion offers a wealth of nutrients and potential therapeutic properties.

1. Highly Nutritious

• Dandelion greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate, and other B vitamins. These greens provide essential minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
• Dandelion root contains inulin, a soluble fiber that supports healthy gut bacteria. You can enjoy it as tea or incorporate it into your meals.

1. Potent Antioxidants

• Dandelion is packed with antioxidants, including beta-carotene and polyphenols. These compounds help neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting your cells from damage.
• Beta-carotene supports skin health, while polyphenols contribute to overall well-being.

1. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

• Chronic inflammation can harm tissues and DNA. Dandelion’s polyphenols may help reduce inflammation.
• Studies suggest that dandelion extracts can lower markers of inflammation and even have cardioprotective effects.

1. Liver Health and Digestion

• Dandelion has been used traditionally to support liver health. It aids bile production and reduces stress on the liver.
• The root can help with stomach and liver issues, including heartburn and gastrointestinal disorders.

1. Blood Sugar Management

• Dandelion is a natural remedy for blood sugar control. It’s often found in herbal teas and supplements.
• Regular consumption may help regulate blood sugar levels.

1. Immunity and More

• Dandelion’s nutritional density makes it a powerful addition to your diet.
• Some studies even suggest potential anticancer effects.

Common Risks and Side Effects

• If you’re allergic to plants related to dandelion (like ragweed or marigolds), be cautious, as you may be allergic to dandelion too.

Incorporate dandelion into your meals, salads, or herbal teas to reap its health benefits. As always, consult a healthcare professional or do further research about the side effects it may contain before making significant dietary changes.

Ginkgo biloba is a unique tree species that people often say is a living fossil due to its ancient lineage. Ginkgo tea, known in both traditional and modern science is a popular choice for individuals seeking cognitive clarity and vascular health.

Antioxidant Abundance Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, ginkgo tea offers a potent antioxidant punch. These compounds neutralize free radicals, protecting the body from oxidative stress and contributing to overall well-being.

Inflammation Inhibitor Chronic inflammation can lead to various diseases, but ginkgo’s anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe these internal fires. Whether it’s arthritis or heart disease, ginkgo tea may offer a comforting cup of relief.

Circulatory Catalyst By improving blood flow and reducing platelet stickiness, ginkgo tea promotes better circulation, enhancing brain function and heart health while potentially preventing strokes and heart-related issues.

Cognitive Companion Ginkgo tea is often associated with improved memory and concentration, especially concerning cognitive decline. While more research is needed, sipping on ginkgo could be a simple way to support your mental acuity.

Safety Sip Although ginkgo tea is generally safe, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider or conduct research on its side effects before incorporating it into your routine, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or using medication. Moderation is the key, as is awareness of any potential side effects.

In conclusion, ginkgo tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a blend of history, health, and hope for a better balance in body and mind.