Top 10 Products We Love For June

June 25, 2019

1. Gaston Luga Backpack

Our favorite backpack is stylish and functional! Whether you’re jumping in the car for a day hike or headed to the airport for a weeklong excursion, Gaston Luga has created a bag that holds every essential pocket and zipper without overdoing it (hello minimalism!) or sacrificing style.

2. Iggys Honey Brew Kombucha

Say goodbye to cane sugar-fed kombucha cultures and say hello to a new, innovative way to drink those frizzy tangy drinks we’ve all come to love. Iggy’s uses 100% honey-fed kombucha cultures resulting in a a sparkling probiotic drink that is much less vinegary than kombuchas made with cane sugar. They ferment for 6 weeks giving their brew a mature and refined quality that leads to a smooth, “ambrosial product akin to a fine mead or champagne.” Each flavor also includes herbs formulated for a particular desired feeling, from relieving emotional tension to invigorating the body.

3. Rumi Oracle Cards

The beloved mystic and poet, Rumi has captured our hearts through a sacred language that resonates on the deepest levels of heartbreak, sorrow, love, and ecstatic joy. Now you can find these same heart-felt messages from a beautifully illustrated by Rassouli and compiled oracle deck from Alana Fairchild. Each of these 44 cards offer a new day of thoughtful intention and to accept the mysteries of life.

4. Erewhon Keto Muffins

If you’re on the Keto train chances are you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth and love of carbs. Erewhon’s Keto muffins are out-of-this-world delicious while keeping it keto.

5. Glutathione

Your supplements are only as good as its ability to absorb. And many supplements break down in the stomach before ever reaching our cells! That’s why we love this liposomal glutathione spray which uses an advanced phospholipid delivery system to deliver core ingredients faster & more efficiently. Glutathione is a master detoxifier and the body’s main endogenous antioxidant. It can bind toxins and may help remove them from the body which protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals, peroxides, and can improve metabolic energy.

6. Healthy “Crunch” Factor

We love a crunchy addition to anything from our morning oats to our delicious salads. But let’s skip the unhealthy croutons and sugary granola and pick a delicious option that actually provides loads of nutrition as well. We absolutely love adding roasted fava and chickpeas to our salads. You can easily find these on the shelves of many major grocery stores and we keep them around when we want a savory crunch without the added guilt.

7. Rowe of Venice Bread

We all love bread and when we decide to change up our diets to include cleaner, simpler ingredients, bread is typically the first thing we have to let go of. But one of the newest breads on the market is giving us relief to our bread-blues. Rowe of Venice bread has 3 different options for vegan, paleo, and keto. These breads are all organic, dairy-free, flourless, non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, made with superfood ingredients, high in protein, low in sugar content, and most importantly absolutely delicious.

8. Radiant: The Cookbook by Mafalda Pinto Leite

Radiant: The Cookbook highlights the world’s most nutrient-dense foods and coming up with creative recipes that re-infuses our love of plant-based eating. The (mostly) raw, vegan recipes highlight these powerhouse foods in unexpected ways, such as with the Rose Quartz Latte, Zen Chia Pudding with Matcha Whip, Moroccan Spiced Salad with Chickpea Popcorn, Into the Sea Salad Bowl, and Chocolate Maca Doughnuts.

9. Xlear Nasal Spray

Allergies got you down? Xlear is our go-to nasal spray for instant relief without inhaling a long-list of chemicals. Xlear uses xylitol as its powerful oral and upper respiratory health benefits come from its unique five-carbon structure. Xylitol helps to reduce swelling and allergy symptoms by reducing bacterial adhesion on you nasal tissue. This all-natural nasal cleaner is safe for kids, non-addictive and Non GMO Project. Unlike other normal saline nasal sprays Xlear also acts as a nasal decongestant by targeting the primary causes of nasal congestion.

10. Happy Gum Drops

We’re happy to try anything from Living Libations’ kitchen and this month we’re geeking out over their Happy Gum Drops tooth serum. This essential oil adds another level of cleaning for your oral hygiene routine. Place a drop on your floss, add to mouth wash, or simply gently scrub your gums with your toothbrush to kill bacteria and revive your cells for ultimate gum happiness.

Julie Magnussen Photography Los Angeles LA CA Venice Lifestyle Portraits

Julie Magnussen is a photographer and content creator for health and wellness businesses. She has spent the last 15 years studying and practicing holistic health modalities as a nutritionist for Whole Foods Market, a Plant-Based Private Chef, and the owner of Healthy Julie. Julie now finds herself expressing her passion for everything health through her words and camera lens. She earned her Bachelors Degree in Science in Health Psychology and is a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner.

Heirloom Tomato & Feta Salad

June 11, 2019

Recipe & Photos by Rocio Graves of Let it Be Cosy and Sima Morrison

Written by Julie Magnussen

June not only signifies the beginning of summer but also the beginning of tomato season! We’re absolutely in love with heirloom varieties as they are juicier, tastier, and much more aesthetically pleasing than their modern, conventional counterparts. We partnered with one of our favorite chefs, Rocio Graves of Let It Be Cosy, to create a delicious salad to highlight the incredible taste and beauty of these beloved plants.

Heirloom tomatoes are incredibly special because their seeds have been passed down from generation to generation - i.e. no genetic modifications. They’re bred for their flavor rather than shelf-life and each variety offers a slightly different taste profile. Red heirlooms are tart and sharp, greens have a light, zesty bite, darker varieties develop a savory quality, and yellow heirlooms offer a mild taste which is a perfect complement to some of the more flavorful options. Because they offer such a variety of flavor, you can easily pair them together to create a dish that inspires and delights even the most discerning palate!

When working with simple ingredients, every item shines. Therefore, you want to ask yourself what flavor/texture profile each component brings to the table and how that component enhances the qualities of the other ingredients to elevate the entire dish. Because tomatoes take on an acidic taste with a soft texture, we love pairing them with tangy plant-based feta and crunchy greens to balance out the flavor and textural profiles. Nowadays, you can find practically any “cheese” recreated from various nuts and seeds that are quite exquisite (say goodbye to rubbery, dull imitations). We choose an almond feta for it’s melt-in-your-mouth succulence and tangy bite.

We paired this dish with a delightful greens dressing made with one of of favorite herbs, cilantro. Countless studies have proven this special herb’s ability to fight deeply embedded toxins while also flooding the body with nutrients, particularly vitamins A and C and a myriad of minerals and antioxidants. Cilantro is also proven to have antiseptic, anti-fungal, and antibacterial properties. And don’t forget the cilantro stems! The stems have shown to be as much as a nutritional powerhouse as the leaves. If cilantro is not your cup-of-tea, simply substitute with your favorite leafy herb like basil or a spinach/mint mixture.

This delicious Heirloom Tomato & Feta salad is the perfect refreshingly nutritious dish for your next get-together on a warm summer’s evening.

Heirloom Tomato & Feta Salad

2-3 big ripe heirloom tomatoes
3-4 endive leaves, whole or chopped
50g (1/2 cup) crumbled almond feta
a handful or your favorite sprouts

Dressing:

1 small bunch of cilantro (stems included)
100ml (1/3 cup) cold-pressed olive oil
1 Tbl fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
cracked black pepper
1 clove garlic (optional)

In a salad bowl, assemble to sliced tomatoes, endives, almond feta, and sprouts. Next, process all the dressing ingredients in a powerful blender until smooth (add a little water if needed for blending). Pour over salad, toss, and enjoy!

Detox Soup

May 14, 2019

Recipe & Photos by Rocio Graves of Let it Be Cosy and Sima Morrison

Written by Julie Magnussen

In the last 15 years of researching and practicing every nutritional theory under the sun, the most important thing I’ve learned about maintaining a healthy mind and body is balance. Not only balance itself, but balance without shame. In Taoism, the core philosophy is rooted in living in balance. However, it’s not so known that Taoism also teaches the importance of feeling-out extremes in order to understand what balance looks and feels like. When we indulge in that pink strawberry cupcake, it’s important to be present, feeling happy, and loving every little morsel of that fluffy treat knowing that we are helping our body understand what that indulgence feels like. And when we have indulged, it’s just as important to give the same loving energy into our next healthy meal that floods our cells with nutrients we need to come back to homeostasis. We partnered with one of our favorite chefs, Rocio Graves of Let It Be Cosy, to create and an incredibly delicious yet oh-so-simple detox soup to offset any imbalance so we can show up as our natural thriving selves!

When we think detox, our mind goes straight to cilantro. Cilantro is not only packed with vitamins and minerals (hello superfood!) but it is also a chelator. This means it has an incredible ability to scavenge our fat cells for deeply embedded heavy metals, particularly mercury and aluminum, and flush them out of our system. Evidence also suggests that cilantro’s rich phytochemical content actually offsets oxidative stress and elevated glucose levels, giving the body the extra help it needs to scrub away any damage from food stressors like sugar and processed chemicals.

We added dates for a hint of sweetness and also to include a rich source of magnesium. Magnesium is a macro-mineral (meaning we need it in large amounts) that serves as an important co-factor in hundreds of chemical reactions in the human body. See it as the electricity that turns the lightbulb on. Consuming magnesium is basically giving your body the power it needs to carry out all the thousands of functions that go into nurturing our cells, ridding the body of toxins, and digesting food.

We absolutely LOVE this simple soup, blended into creamy perfection. Blending your food actually jump-starts the digestive process, giving the body one less chore to assimilate nutrients efficiently bringing it back to balance. To add a bit of crunch and and extra boost of nutrients, we topped our Detox Soup with sprouts (any variety works great) and chlorophyll-rich pistachios. Try this nutrient-dense detox soup the next time your body needs some extra lovin’ post indulgence!

Detox Soup

1 big head of broccoli
1 medium bunch of cilantro
2 Tbl hemp seeds
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 medjool date, pitted
1/2 - 1 tsp sea salt
cracked black pepper
150ml (about 2/3 cup) water to blend (or more depending on how thin you like your soup)

Garnish:

a handful of pistachios
a handful of sprouts
a drizzle of cold-pressed olive oil

Start by steaming the broccoli in small pieces until tender but still vibrant green

Throw in a blender the steamed broccoli, cilantro, hemp seeds, lemon juice, medjool date, salt, pepper, and hot water. Blend until smooth, taste, and season accordingly. Add a little more water if needed for desired thickness/consistency.

Serve in a bowl garnished with sprouts, chopped pistachios, and a drizzle of cold-pressed olive oil.

Breakfast Rhubarb Yogurt

April 12, 2019

Recipe & Photos by Rocio Graves of Let it Be Cosy and Sima Morrison

Written by Julie Magnussen

Nowadays the old adage “breakfast is the most important meal of the day” can be refuted by a plethora of varied eating philosophies and experts. From intermittent fasting gurus to conscious eating leaders, breakfast can has been given a cautious name. But let’s look at that name for a second. Breakfast is “breaking a fast.” We typically fast overnight because we’re sleeping 8 hours and it’s time to refuel our bodies with nourishing foods and wake our system back up. However, no matter what time of day, whether it’s first thing in the morning or settling down for the evening, there are a few key nutrients to think about when introducing our gut to foods again. We partnered with one of our favorite chefs, Rocio Graves of Let It Be Cosy, to create a delicious “Break-Fast” to flood our bodies with nutrients in the most effective way.

When breaking a fast you want to think about your microbiome. Your digestive tract has emptied and is ready to be primed for ultimate digestion. Getting your probiotics in your system first thing will help your body most effectively absorb the pre- and probiotics and prime your system for tackling the foods you consume throughout the rest of your eating schedule.

In the widely popular book, The China Study, T. Colin Campbell exposes the danger of dairy in our modern food system and thus started a mainstream movement to incorporate more plant-based creamy options into our diet. Campbell particularly focuses on whey and casein (proteins in dairy that most people are allergic to) as the main culprits of the proliferation of maligned cellular activity. But you don’t have to give up that creamy decadence! From coconut, almond, cashew and more, we love trying out various plant-based yogurts on the markets these days. They’re rich in probiotics along with protein for solid satiation. However, some yogurt can contain up to 20-25 grams of sugar per 5 oz. container. If you see sugar or other forms of sugar among the top four ingredients in the ingredients list, consider using plain yogurt with your own addition of fresh or stewed produce (like our rhubarb compote!) or a drizzle of honey.

We absolutely love jazzing up our yogurt with this simple rhubarb compote (recipe below). Rhubarb is incredibly rich in fiber and full of prebiotics. Prebiotics provide the nourishment for our probiotics to thrive in our microbiome. It’s the perfect complement to our probiotic plant-based yogurt. Rhubarb is packed with vitamin K along with an ample spectrum of many essential vitamins and minerals. In fact, while we have been led to believe milk is the best calcium source, one cup of cooked rhubarb contains just as much, and doesn’t include the top allergens dairy typically contains. Rhubarb is even on the short list with salmon and spinach for the highest amount of calcium.

Granola is a great way to add that extra indulgent ingredient that makes you savor every last bite. The crunchy texture pairs gloriously with the velvet creaminess of rhubarb and yogurt and, depending on which brand or recipe you use, can act as an extra boost of superfood nutrients.

Try this delicious Rhubarb Yogurt the next time your body is craving some nutrient-dense probiotic love with a dash of decadence!

Breakfast Rhubarb Yogurt

2-3 stalks fresh rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tsp raw honey
1 Tbl lemon juice (or the juice of 1/2 a lemon)
2 cups hot water
1 cup plant-based yogurt
1 handful favorite granola

Throw all ingredients into a pan, bring them to a simmer and allow to cook for 5-10 minutes on low heat stirring every few minutes. Serve with your favorite plant-based yogurt and granola.

Vibrant Salad

April 4, 2019

Recipe & Photos by Rocio Graves of Let it Be Cosy and Sima Morrison

Written by Julie Magnussen

There’s nothing that says ‘Spring’ more than a vibrant salad filled with the season’s freshest ingredients. After a long winter of heavy, grounding foods, our bodies naturally swing the pendulum back to lighter fare as the weather begins to warm and sprouts begin to pop up. We partnered with one of our favorite chefs, Rocio Graves of Let It Be Cosy, to create the perfect salad mixing light elements and grounding elements to nurture our transition from winter to spring.

April marks the beginning of watercress season and we couldn’t be happier! Adding watercress to your salad repertoire is one of the best things you can do for your body. This light leafy green is easily looked-over but it’s packed with a spicy, peppery flavor and has been rated by the C DC in a study as the most nutrient-dense of 50 fruits and vegetables studied.

Because April is infamous for its variable temperatures and weather patterns, we love making dishes that satisfy both the winter and spring temperatures. We’ve included the grounding nature of sweet golden beets and the earthy heartiness of portobello mushrooms to satisfy the body’s need for dense foods on cooler days. You can also mix-up the ingredients to use red/chioggia beets or some oyster mushrooms to lighten the density of the dish while still keeping that oh-so-satisfying umami bite. Because we love feeding our bodies with the nutrients it needs while keeping it easy in the kitchen, we found some delicious almond yogurt to keep our creamy dressing free of dairy but not free of decadence. Try this dressing with your favorite yogurt!

Vibrant Salad

2 big handfuls of fresh watercress
1 medium golden beet, thinly sliced
2-3 radishes, roughly chopped
200-250 grams (about 2 cups) sliced portobello mushrooms
1 Tbl coconut oil
1/2 sliced avocado
a handful of walnuts
100 grams (about 4oz) pan-seared wild salmon

Dressing:

200 ml (about 1 cup) almond or coconut yogurt
1-2 Tbl fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp sea salt
a drizzle of cold-pressed olive oil

Start by heating up the tablespoon of coconut oil in a frying pan on medium heat. Throw in the sliced mushrooms and leave them to brown on each side without stirring around too much. When brown and crispy on both sides, remove from heat and sprinkle with sea salt.

Assemble the watercress, sliced beet, chopped radishes, sliced avocado, sautéed mushrooms, and walnuts in a serving dish. Set aside.

For the dressing, in a small bowl, whisk the lemon juice, sea salt, and olive oil into the almond yogurt with a spoon. When completely combined, spoon over the salad and enjoy!

* If adding salmon, cook the salmon the same way you cooked the mushrooms. You want it to be golden crispy on the outside and pink on the inside. When ready, leave to cool, then pull apart into small pieces with your fingers or a fork

Liver Detox Tea

September 18, 2018

By: Molly Helfend

We all are guilty of misusing our bodies. With daily stressors and environmental pollutants, living perfectly is sadly impractical and our liver is what truly gets the brunt of these lifestyle choices. The liver is one of the largest and most vital organs of the body, which acts as a filter, eliminating environmental toxins, synthesizing hormones, aiding in the absorption of vitamins, creating bile to digest fats and carbohydrates, cleansing impurities from blood and modulating inflammation. Quite a mouthful. Simply put, it is the ultimate detoxifying machine!

When we add impurities to the body such as a poor diet of processed and fatty foods, alcohol and drug consumption and a cocktail of toxins already present in our environment, we adversely affect the liver’s ability to properly modulate and optimize its functions. The liver is one of the hardest working organs. “The tremendous amount of blood that floods into the liver not only contains oxygen and nutrients, but also has toxins that the liver must filter out…[and] once the liver cleanses and processes the blood, it then sends that blood to various areas of the body” (Anthony William, 2018). So, when the liver is burdened and sluggish, we see symptoms in the form of allergies, headaches, autoimmune disorders, neurological issues, constipation, muscle tension, fatigue and much more. In women alone, PMS, fibroid tumors, and endometriosis can be signs of an unhealthy liver. Surprisingly, not many people are aware that even skin issues such as acne, dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis are actually due to an overburdened liver.

It’s important to remember that “the more toxic your liver is, the more likely you are to develop wrinkles and other skin problems that are typically associated with aging…[and] cleaning out the toxins from your toxin-saturated liver is an essential part of addressing” not only skin issues, but overall physical and mental wellness (Anthony William, 2018). A great way to reboot your liver and provide a healthy detox is through the use of herbs. Bitter herbs are wonderful for stimulating and re-grounding the digestion, acting as an aid for digestive enzyme production.

This tea recipe is evenly distributed between each liver decongesting herb. Honeysuckle, represented with the earth element, cools the heart with remnants of pastel hues and elegant fragrances. It has a subtle vanilla flavor and is known for cooling inflamed conditions by clearing heat and removing toxicity from the body. Honeysuckle contains inositol, luteolin, tannins, volatile oils, and salicylic acid. It is also special for its renowned spiritual remedies, which have been useful for inducing dreams of passion and helping those who suffer from nostalgic dwelling. Honeysuckle is astringent, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, anti-bacterial and anti-viral. Artichokes are more than a delicious vegetable treat to be dipped in butter. The entire plant happens to be medicinal. Used in this tea recipe and represented with the water elements, artichoke leaves are very high in antioxidants, which aid and protect the liver and gallbladder. They are rich in inulin, lutolin and cynarin, making them great for sluggish digestion and poor absorption. In addition, the bitter leaves alleviate mild indigestion and detoxify and protect the digestive tract. Its herbal actions include chalagogue, depurative, hepatic, diuretic, hepatoprotective, choleretic, and antiemetic. Dandelion, represented with the air elements, is a wild, free and abundant herb, rich in vitamin A, C and D, as well as, iron, potassium, calcium, and inulin. This bitter herb is a diuretic, alterative, urinary tonic and liver and kidney decongestant.

Burdock is the quite a strong bitter herb. Represented with the water elements, burdock’s clearing energy removes digestive congestion. It is also great for skin conditions like acne, eczema and psoriasis. Its herbal actions include alterative and cholagogue. Tangy licorice root has multifaceted medicinal benefits. Represented with water elements, it is fantastic for adrenal depletion, ulcer removal, heartburn and acid reflux and chronic viral infections. The root is expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral. Milk thistle is quintessential herb for stimulating the digestion. Represented with the fire elements, it is rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals, stimulate liver function and rebuild cells, as well as, improve gallbladder and kidney health. After a night out of drinking alcohol, I usually recommend my friends reach for milk thistle to detoxify. Its herbal actions include cholagogic, choleretic, tonic, galactagogue, hepatoprotective, and alterative. Lastly, I would recommend reading Anthony William’s Medical Medium and order his new book Liver Rescue for more information about life changing food tips to implement into your diet to detoxify your liver.

Liver Detox Tea

(yields about 10 cups)

1 tablespoon of dried honeysuckle flowers
1 tablespoon of dried artichoke leaf
1 teaspoon of dried dandelion root
1 teaspoon of dried burdock root
1 teaspoon of dried licorice root
1 teaspoon dried milk thistle seeds

Because this is a complex multi-part tea, it is recommended you make both a decoction with the roots and seeds and infusion with the flowers and leaves. To do this, add about 4 cups of cold water to a pot then add the licorice, burdock, dandelion and milk thistle. Gently simmer the herbs for at least 10 minutes.

Once ready, strain the tea into a large glass jar and let them settle. Next, boil 6 cups of cold water in your pot of choice. To make the infusion of honeysuckle and artichoke, pour the boiling water over the herbs and allow the tea to steep covered for 5-10 minutes. Make sure to cover the tea to keep the heat from dissipating. Once ready, strain into the glass jar with the root and seed decocted liquid. Squeeze some fresh lemon and be sure to sweeten the mixture with raw honey. Enjoy this tea up to 3 times a day for a gentle cleansing detox.

Tonic - strengthens specific organ or whole body
Anti-inflammatory - helps combat inflammation
Astringent - reduces flux of moisture and removes toxins
Diuretic - increases the elimination of urine
Cholagogue - stimulates bile release
Demulcent - soothes and shields irritated internal tissue
Expectorant - removes excess mucus from lungs
Depurative - cleanses waste toxins from body
Hepatoprotective - provides protection for liver
Alterative - restores health and vitality; blood cleanser
Anti-viral - destroys viral pathogens
Anti-bacterial - reduces and expels bacteria
Choleretic - increases volume of secretion of bile from liver
Galactagogue - increases breast milk production
Hepatic - aids, tones and strengthens the liver
Antiemetic - reduces nausea and prevents vomiting

This information is not a replacement for a medical professional, so please consult before treating yourself or others with this or any other herbal remedy

Molly Helfend is part of the HOC team and is a writer, ethnobotanist, herbalist and environmental activist. She graduated from University of Vermont in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and a concentration in Holistic Health and recently from University of Kent in 2018 in Canterbury, England with a Masters of Science Degree in Ethnobotany. She has worked for Urban Moonshine, Greenpeace and received her herbalism training with Spoonful Herbals. Her goal is to travel the world, researching plant-human interconnected relationships while continuing to educate about the transformational energy of life. Molly resides in Raglan, New Zealand, working as an herbalist at the Herbal Dispensary.

Herb of the Week: California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)

April 3, 2018

While running through the California wildflower fields, a vibrant golden blanket appears along the hillside. With further glances, these satiny flora would remind one of a chalice used to drink the sweet nectar of grapes. They also bring ones mind to an enchanted wonderland, where the Mad Hatter and March Hare could be found amongst the meadows, drinking tea out of these deep orange cups and the Dormouse would be nuzzling and napping into the blossoms of lively pollen. The irony, however, is that these sun worshipping flowers are illustrious for their calming and tranquilizing qualities, supporting the soul’s reception to consciousness and light.

The state flower of California, perennial in warm climates and represented with the element of Fire, the California Poppy is a member of the Papaveraceae family. It ranges in color from bright yellow to deep orange, creating a spectrum of sunsets. It is also the cousin of the notorious Opium Poppy, but before you get nervous, note that the California Poppy is a perfectly safe, non-addictive plant that contains no opiates, and is even suitable and highly recommended for children with sleep issues or temperamental tendencies. It is similar to the Opium Poppy, but has an array of alkaloids that provide much milder sedative properties, by gently establishing equilibrium in the nervous system. The California Poppy is tremendous for stress and anxiety and is widely used for mental health problems in western herbalism. It can be primarily found growing wild in its native habitats across the western states, including the Sonoran Desert and up the coastline from Baja California into Canada. The California Poppy also has extensive cultural significance to many indigenous tribes. To name a few, the Chumash, Pomo, Cahuilla, and Costanoan people traditionally ate the leaves as greens, would crush the plant into vulnerary compresses and even used the root for other topical and internal pains. The Luiseno Indians would munch on the flowers to create chewing gum and the Kitanemuk people traditionally rolled the roots directly onto their gums for toothaches.

The California poppy is an essential plant to have stored in your herbal armamentarium. Its radiance of light helps relieve and lose interest in your stress, bringing a sense of tranquility to the heart as it counteracts nervous system imbalances. It is also fantastic for those with insomnia and repetitive worrisome thoughts. Antithetically, those mad Wonderland tea partiers would actually benefit from the harmonizing and sedating effect of the California Poppy that situates around the heart.

Phytochemistry: flavone glycosides, berberine, sanguinarine, protopine, and allocryptine

Herbal Actions: nervine, hypnotic, anti-spasmodic, anodyne, analgesic, sedative, anxiolytic

How to Prepare: tea, tincture, poultice, compress, cook into olive oil for hair tonic, boil or roast leaves as vegetative meal, pollen for cosmetics, smoke, diffuse

What to Use For: nerve stress and excitability, anxiety and panic attacks, insomnia, pain relief, headache, sores, ulcers, toothache, colic, sciatica, shingles, menstrual cramping, intestinal spasm, relaxes blood vessels, nervous palpitations, hypertension, suppress lactation, bedwetting, restless leg syndrome, ADD/ADHD, memory concentration

Growing Conditions: Extremely hardy and drought tolerant, they thrive in nutrient deficient, dry soil and require very high sun. They grow in zones 6-10, so if feasible, simply throw seed around your yard in the fall, and the plants will bloom after winter rains. It is that simple. The summer heat will kill them, but they will propagate and eventually germinate on their own.

Harvesting Methods: They bloom most heavily from March to May, however, between June and September are the months to collect the aerial parts of the plant for medicinal use.

Parts of Plant Used: whole plant, flowers, leaves, pollen, seeds

*Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding*

Soothing Sleep Tincture

1 part dried valerian root
1 part dried california poppy
1 part dried chamomile
1/2 part dried blue vervain
1/2 part dried wild lettuce
few tbs of raw honey (for taste)
Raw organic Apple Cider Vinegar**
Glass canning jar with airtight lid (I like Mason Jars best)

Add about 7 oz (1 tbs to .05 oz) of dried herb to 33.8 oz (1 liter) of apple cider vinegar (make sure to warm the vinegar first). The liquid should rise about 2 or 3 inches above herbs almost to the rim of the jar. Stir the mixture together and subdue the herbs. Make sure the lid if firming set when finished. Label the jar with the ingredients and start date. Place in a dark, warm location like a cupboard for 4 to 6 weeks (the longer the better). Try your best to the shake bottle daily during this maceration period. The brilliant Rosemary Gladstar has said that shaking the bottle brings old magic into your medicine making. With shaking, she believes that you should connect with your herbs by singing, stirring them in the moon or sunlight, wave feathers at them, or really do whatever your heart and imagination calls to.

When ready, strain the herbs with stainless steel strainer lined with cheesecloth and reserve the liquid into small tincture bottles. Use between 1-3 droppers full of this tincture, as needed, about an hour before bed.

Here is a great reference for tincture making

This information is not a replacement for a medical professional, so please consult before treating yourself or others with this or any other herbal remedy

Molly Helfend is part of the HOC team and is a writer, ethnobotanist and environmental activist. She graduated from University of Vermont in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and a concentration in Holistic Health and recently from University of Kent in 2018 in Canterbury, England with a Masters of Science Degree in Ethnobotany. She has worked for Urban Moonshine, Greenpeace and received her herbalism training with Spoonful Herbals. Her goal is to travel the world, researching plant-human interconnected relationships while continuing to educate about the transformational energy of life. Molly resides in Raglan, New Zealand and Santa Cruz, California.

Honey: Our Bridge to Nature

March 27, 2018

By: Dawn Musil

Many of us know that pollinators play a critical role in more than a third of our food supply. They are essential to the continuation of our species and the millions of plants that surround us, but we can’t neglect the fact that these tiny creatures also play a critical role in our connection with mother nature. Consider that in order to create a single pound of honey, these bees must visit 2 million flowers. That means that for each teaspoon of honey that you consume (and I don’t know about you, but I eat at least a tablespoon of honey per sitting!), that’s over 30,000 flowers that were visited! This connection with hundreds of flowers results in a golden ambrosia that is filled with enzymes, vitamins, and minerals that these flowers have in their nectar and pollen.

Why Raw Matters

However, only raw honey can carry these valuable enzymes and nutrients. When honey is “pasteurized”, or heated to 150 degrees for at least 30 minutes, it is no longer raw and no longer carries these properties. When the microorganisms are killed in the pasteurization process, so are the valuable nutrients and enzymes. The honey then simply becomes a sweet mixture of syrup composed of golden glucose and fructose molecules. Interestingly enough, honey is antimicrobial—so, while many have claimed pasteurizing it as a “food standard”, it does not host any bacteria—making it safe (and far healthier) to eat raw. This raw honey has been prized for centuries and carries incredible value for your body, both inside and out!

History of Honey

Ancient Egyptians knew of this incredible value and used it in food only for royals. They then buried it in tombs, where it lasted for thousands of years due to its antimicrobial properties!

Ayurvedic medicine believed that honey was one of the finest gifts that nature bestowed upon humans and have incorporated it into many Ayurvedic therapies. Additionally, current research shows that honey has incredible humectant properties—meaning it holds moisture—which is why it is used in many soaps, lotions and face masks!!

Allergies Bee Gone!

It gets even sweeter! Local honey can cure your allergies! While the bees are visiting the flowers, they gather nectar and pollen and their tiny enzymes turn what would otherwise be a common allergen into glucose in the form of deliciously sweet honey! So, eating a tablespoon of raw, local honey per day can cure those seasonal allergies by providing a sort of allergen-inoculum in the form of honey!

Herbalism and Honey

In Western herbalism, infusing honey with medicinal herbs makes these potent plants into a sweet form! Honey is a great way to extract those precious nutrients and phytochemicals from herbs and makes it easy to ingest even the most bitter of herbs! Herbal infusions focused around lavender and chamomile are my favorite addition to my evening tea to help relax in the sweetest way possible. But the beauty of honey is how creative you can bee! Lemon and ginger-infused , as well as cinnamon and turmeric infused are a few other favorites. Use the recipe as a base for creating your own!

Simple at home infusions: Relaxing, herbal honey

Materials:

8 oz mason jar
1/8 cup dried chamomile flowers
1/8 cup dried lavender flowers
8oz. honey (1 cup)

Get some quality, local honey. It doesn’t really matter what flavor you choose. The lighter the flavor (orange blossom or clover), the easier and faster the infusion!

Pour the dried herbs into the jar. You want the jar to be no more than a quarter full, so you leave room for the herbs expand. You may have some herbs left over.

Fill the jar to the top with honey and screw on the lid. You may be left with some additional honey for you to enjoy in your tea.
Let the mixture sit for 1-2 weeks in a cool dark place.
Strain out the herbs and enjoy.

Alternative hot infusion:

This can be done for quicker, intense flavors: simply heat the honey until it’s very viscous and place cheesecloth over the mouth of the jar with a band. Then, place the herbs on top and pour honey slowly through the sieve. Allow the herbs to sit in the jar for up to 12 hours, then remove the cheese cloth and herbs.

Honey for the Sweeter Good!

Perhaps the most exciting and sweetest (pardon the pun!) part about honey is how beekeeping and honey are being used for social and environmental good!

What’s incredible is the benefit to our natural world and the environment. Without bees, we wouldn’t have 1/3 of our food supply; but, to break that down, that isn’t just fruits and vegetables. Bees are critical to the alfalfa and clover that feeds cows. This means your milk, yogurt and cheese options would vanish along with your favorite strawberries, apples and eggplants! Many organizations are taking the lead on reversing these losses from colony collapse disorder.

Beekeepers in Los Angeles worked to successful make urban beekeeping legal in 2016! Detroit Hives is using beekeeping to revive the urban areas by taking vacant lots and turning them into community apiaries for education. HiveLend is connecting the community with rooftop and community hives in Baltimore. Even Morgan Freeman is doing his part to support the bees by taking up apiculture and supporting the bees with hives of his own.

And you can help, too! Find local beekeepers to buy your honey from, plant pollinator friendly flowers, and begin to bee the change in your community to save these incredible bees and keep this treasure we’ve had around for centuries more to come!

Dawn is a Biochemist and Ecologist with a passion for sustainable agriculture development and bees! She's been a beekeeper since she was fourteen and is working to develop sustainable apicultural and agriculture practices through technology via her work at PathSensors and her project, HiveLend. Her heart lies in entheogenic plant medicines and she is building skills to bring conservation through technology to this world of ethnobotany in her graduate studies

Valentine's Day Sex Elixir

February 14, 2018

Valentine's Day: A day of love which is celebrated solo, with the gals, or with your main squeeze. Why not enjoy a smooth beverage - with or without the alchy? This concoction will make you feel pretty relaxed and a little more sexy. Mixed in with herbs and a tummy digestive aid. ENJOY!

Valentine's Day Sex Elixir

Mix together and enjoy!

Sima Morrison, founder of House of Citrine, is a vibrant soul with a potent zest for life and the beauty in its simple pleasures. As a holistic nutritionist, Sima has made it her life's journey to experience, to empower, and to explore the synergy between the mind and the body. She manifests her vision through her online journal, designing recipes and cultivating conversation in the sharing of health, wellness, and inspiration. Sima lives with an open heart and views being in service to others as her most important calling, practicing compassion and helping people to heal past trauma. She is a certified Kundalini yoga instructor and meditation facilitator.

Respiratory Rescue Tea: dedicated to all victims of the Southern California fires

January 5, 2018

Growing up immersed in the wild brush woodlands of the Santa Monica Mountains, the loom of fire threats is not something new to me. My childhood consisted of emergency evacuations and glowing hazy, orange borders billowing across the chaparral sierras. Whenever the words “Santa Ana winds” were mentioned, I knew the devilish red flames would rear their fuming heads again. As a young adventurous and aspiring Eliza Thornberry, one of the worst parts for a outdoor explorer, was always the smoke pollution. With air pollution already a huge problem in Southern California, acrid smoke just adds fuel to the fire. Now, imagine dry climate air, limitless smoke and car exhaust fumes filling the skies…its like residents are bathing in brown soot. Its painful to breathe in, feeling like you are filling your lungs with deep pressure rather than clean air. This smoke pollution can cause a host of health issues “[ranging] from eye and respiratory tract irritation to more serious disorders, including reduced lung function, bronchitis, exacerbation of asthma and heart failure, and premature death” and, in addition, “exposures to high concentrations can cause persistent cough, phlegm, wheezing, and difficulty breathing” (EPA, 2016).

And this year alone, we had a particularly gnarly fire season, with multiple fires breaking out across Southern California in a short, severe period. There was LITERALLY smoke on the water and a fire in the sky. One fire in particular, the Thomas Fire, is still currently burning through Ventura and Santa Barbara County like an angry rush of swarming bees, and has officially become the second largest wildfire in California’s history. Thousands of acres, homes and lives have been destroyed. And with climate change creating harsher drought and further desertification, this is only the beginning. There is only so much we can do right now, but helping our communities by donating, opening our homes, volunteering and pushing for stricter legislation towards climate justice issues is a step in the right direction. While I am currently living in England and watching from afar as these ravaging fires destroy so much of my homeland, it makes my heart hurt, to see the people and land that I love so much in pain. For now, how I chose to help is by creating an herbal tea recipe specifically for respiratory cleansing, assisting victims afflicted by smoke pollution. I am handing this article over to all community members of California, hoping that the those who can help, will give back. If you are a budding herbalist, tea enthusiast or just interested in getting involved and have the means, please make bulk infusions and give to those in need. I hope I can transfer some light and love to my community of California. I want to end with these poetic lyrics I symbolically feel the Grateful Dead wrote for California, helping us remember it's:

Just a box of rain,

Wind and water,

Believe it if you need it,

If you don't just pass it on

Sun and shower,

Wind and rain,

In and out the window

Like a moth before a flame

Represented with the fire elements, Mullein Leaves feel like fuzzy fluff balls. They are fantastic for chest congestion and respiratory conditions, boasting expectorant, demulcent and antiseptic actions.

Licorice Root, represented with the water elements, does not taste like a sweet flavored black candy. In fact, this herb is quite bitter, making it excellent for heartburn, acid reflux, ulcers and other digestive conditions. It is also wonderful for adrenal depletion, chronic vital infections and lower respiratory infections for its expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-ulcer, and adrenal supporting actions.

Represented with the fire elements, Hawthorn Leaf warms the heart and promotes gentle equilibrium throughout the body. It is renowned for its astringent and circulatory properties.

Mullein Leaves

Licorice Root

Hawthorn Leaf

Marshmallow Root, represented with the water elements, is best prepared as a cold infusion. It is demulcent and mucilaginous, which breaks up mucus and coats and soothes respiratory inflammation.

Elecampane Root, represented with the air elements, with its showy yellow-rayed flowers, is a stimulating tonic herb. Its expectorant nature makes it wonderful for respiratory ailments and bronchial infections.

Represented with the fire elements, Hyssop, packs a minty fresh zeal that is wonderful for healing chronic congestion, catarrh and other conditions. It is expectorant and diaphoretic and also an excellent nervine tonic.

Marshmallow Root

Elecampane Root

Hyssop

Respiratory Rescue Tea (yields about 8 cups)

1 tablespoon of dried mullein leaves
1 teaspoon of dried licorice root
1 teaspoon of dried hyssop
1 teaspoon dried marshmallow leaf
1/2 teaspoon of dried hawthorn leaf
1/2 teaspoon of dried elecampane root

Typically, aerial parts of plants like leaves are infused, while hardier parts like roots are decocted, however this tea allows for a potent infusion blend with longer steeping time. Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs to 1 cup of boiling water. To infuse the tea, put the herbs in a teapot or cup, using an infuser for easy removal. Pour boiling water over the herbs and allow the tea to steep covered for 10-15 minutes. Make sure to cover the teapot to keep the heat from dissipating. Strain, serve and sweeten with a teaspoon of Manuka Honey or soak a few dried mulberries for extra Vitamin C.

Thank you to infinity and beyond to the firefighters and generous community members for fighting these fires, donating and getting involved. So much love and gratitude resonates from the House of Citrine to you. You can read more about how to get involved and help or donate to the Southern California wildfire victims here.

This information is not a replacement for a medical professional, so please consult before treating yourself or others with this or any other herbal remedy

The Plant Collective : Plant-based Holiday E-Cookbook

December 23, 2017

We are honored to have Emily Rose Shaw share one of her phenomenal plant-based recipes with us just in time for the holiday crunch. Emily is a chef, holistic health coach and instructor at PLANTLAB. She demonstrates passion and drive in all her empowering endeavors. We are pleased to be a part of her new project, THE PLANT COLLECTIVE. This project is a plant-based holiday e-cookbook featuring 50+ recipes from 32 leaders in food and wellness.

Emily's mission is to give back, and is contributing 60% of sales to EDIBLE SCHOOLYARD PROJECT, founded by world-renowned chef and activist Alice Waters. EDIBLE SCHOOLYARD PROJECT teaches children about healthy food, growing fruits and vegetables in school gardens, and being hands on with creating recipes with local foods. It's no surprise Emily has been a huge supporter of this project. Emily stands for community and education and really understands the power of healing with earth's resources. We're truly inspired by this radiant beauty.

To learn more about this project and order her book for a great cause visit plantcollective.com.

Here is a sneak peak at one of the recipes in the book.

LEMON BRAISED LEEKS / BRAZIL NUT CREAM

By PLANTLAB Culinary

INGREDIENTS

3 leeks, tough outer pieces of the stalk removed, halved lengthwise (or cut into 1 inch pieces)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp shallot, finely chopped
½ tsp cracked pink peppercorns
½ tsp coriander seeds
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup vegetable stock
1 tsp lemon zest
1 cup brazil nut cream
1 tbsp parsley, minced
½ cup brazil nut cream

BRAZIL NUT CREAM

1 cup brazil nuts, soaked 8 hours and rinsed
2 cups filtered water
pinch salt
1 tsp sumac powder (optional)
1 tbsp grapeseed oil

METHOD

Preheat oven to 350 °F.

Blend the brazil nuts and water on high until broken down, about one minute. Strain through a nut milk bag or chinois. Return brazil nut cream to the blender and blend in the salt (and sumac powder if used). Gradually stream in the oil on low to emulsify. Reserve for use in lemon braised leek preparation.

In a medium bowl soak and clean the leeks in cold water, for 5 minutes, cleaning away any dirt between the layers. Gently shake dry or let sit in a colander to drain away excess moisture.

In a heavy skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add leeks, open side face down against the skillet. Move them around periodically to keep them from sticking. Cook until the open side begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Gently remove from the skillet and place to the side, open side facing up.

Add the shallot, peppercorn, and coriander seeds to the skillet and sauté until the shallot becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. (You may also toast the spices ahead of time if you wish).

Next add the salt, lemon juice, vegetable stock and zest then bring to a boil. Add the brazil nut cream, return to a boil while stirring frequently, then reduce heat to a simmer and return the leeks to the skillet, open side facing up. Cover the skillet with a tight fitting lid, and place in the oven to braise the leeks for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, or until very tender when pierced with a fork.

Remove the skillet from the oven and gently remove the leeks. Place them on a cutting board and carefully cut the leek halves into 3 inch sections. Continue to simmer the liquid in the skillet until the brazil nut cream begins to thicken, stirring frequently. Once desired consistency has been achieved, remove from heat, and stir in minced parsley.

ASSEMBLY

Spoon 1 to 2 large spoonfuls of the sauce onto a small plate. Place 3 to 5 sections of leeks over the sauce, lightly season with salt, and drizzle 1 large spoonful of sauce over the leeks before serving.

About The Plant Collective e-cookbook:

The Plant Collective: Holiday 2017 is an e-cookbook featuring more than 50 plant-based recipes from 32 leaders in food + wellness. 60% of all sales are donated to Alice Water’s Edible Schoolyard Project; building school gardens, teaching sustainable, healthy food practices. It makes the perfect holiday gift! Join the movement supporting healthy food for all!

THE MISSION OF THE PLANT COLLECTIVE

WE STAND FOR THE EDIBLE SCHOOLYARD PROJECT, founded by Alice Waters, who “envisions gardens and kitchens as interactive classrooms and a sustainable, delicious, and free lunch for every student.” Children are much more likely to enjoy fruits and vegetables if they are involved in the process of growing and preparing them. Today, one in three children are overweight or obese, setting them up for a lifetime of health problems. We truly believe there is a solution in food education. What if all children, regardless of race, economic status and background had a chance to eat healthy food from the beginning? Won’t that set the foundation for a better chance of a lifetime of healthy eating?

WE STAND FOR COMMUNITY, uniting leaders in food and wellness who believe food is medicine, creatively demonstrating how delicious, pleasurable and beautiful healthy foods really are.

WE STAND FOR DISCOVERING NEW CREATIVE WAYS TO USE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, finding healthier versions of holiday recipe favorites that are equally as tasty, and creating new holiday traditions.

Photo Credit: Lama Riachi

Lear more and purchase the book at plantcollective.com and follow Emily on Instagram

Emily Rose Shaw is a plant-based chef, holistic health coach and instructor at PLANTLAB Culinary. Growing up with Transcendental Meditation and Ayurveda, she weaves together ancient practices with modern technique. She is also the founder of The Plant Collective, a digital publication uniting plant-based food, conscious business and art + design to benefit food-related causes worldwide. Her background spans from working as a fashion stylist to cleanse specialist. Emily has designed recipes for Australia-based Oliver’s Real Foods, the world’s first certified organic 'fast-food' chain and Sherpa Power, an Ayurvedic tea company.

Conscious Cheese Platter

November 21, 2017

When House of Citrine hosts events and has friends over, we never skimp on the essentials. We go all out with the cleanest, most nutrient dense products and foods so the people we love can all have an elegant night with the health benefits and without the guilt. Recently, we enjoyed a night with some of our favorite people mixed with some of our favorite companies. We were blessed to share love and laughter while sipping on homemade elixirs and tonics created with Revel Kombucha and Oregon’s Wild Harvest herbal tinctures. We focused on the most nutrient dense biodynamic wines and created stunning cheese platters with grain-free crackers, fresh seasonal organic fruits and salads, vegan chocolates and cheeses, sprouted and activated nuts and lots of love. This platter is great for the holidays or any get together with loved ones!

For those of you who are not familiar with biodynamic farming, it focuses on Rudolph Steiner’s principles that “strive to create a diversified, balanced farm ecosystem that generates health and fertility as much as possible from within the farm itself” (Biodynamic Association, 17). Some of our favorite biodynamic wineries include:

Frey Vineyards
Benzinger Family Winery
DeLoach Vineyards (We adore the Boisset Collection)

We also chose grain-free crackers because grains have enzyme inhibitors that impair our digestion, causing inflammation. So, we like to stay away from grains whenever possible and lean towards nutritious options that pair nicely with various flavors. Some of our favorite grain-free crackers companies include:

Vegan cheese was essential to our plates, as many of our guests choose to stay away from dairy. However, if you are looking to add milk-based cheeses to your own plates, we recommend using raw sheep or goat milk. Luckily, at our soiree, even the pickiest palate could not resist our vegan cheeses drizzled with local raw honey. Here is a list of our favorite companies:

As for nuts, we choose to sprout them ourselves. We go to our local farmers market or health food stores and really focus on searching for not only organically and ethically grown nuts, but also choose nuts that actually emit love and positive energy. We scattered our plates with delicious almonds, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, brazil nuts, pecans, and Santa Barbara Pistachios. And of course, Phi Kind Chocolate and Hu Chocolate paired perfectly with our activated nuts of choice.

We were also blessed to have Erewhon Market donate a few light gorgeous seasonal salads of apple, fennel and greens. They were divine and refreshing. Our conscious cheese plates were truly next level with the fruits we added. Slicing obscure shapes and placing each fruit delicately to create palpable hues and tones of sweetness, we rounded off the night with vivid color and a middle eastern style. We used the works: figs, dates, apples, apricots, pears, red grapes, Sun Potion Mulberries, and Imlak’esh Organics Golden Berries .

Check out Jeff Sheirik’s (Rawtographer) photos of this magical night and we would like to thank all the incredible companies that donated to our event. So much love and gratitude resonates from the House of Citrine staff to our friends, family and readers.

Photo credit: Jeff Sheirik

Fesenjoon : Plant-based Walnut Pomegranate Stew

October 17, 2017

Recipe by: Sima Morrison

If you ask any Iranian, they will let you know their mom’s Persian food is the best. It actually is probably true according to them. Persian food is made with so much love and time. The best Persian food usually comes from a home kitchen rather than a restaurant experience. These traditional dishes focus on fresh vegetables, herbs and spices.

The delicious stews can be made sans meat and still keep the intention of the dish. This dish in particular is a very traditional dish, which dates back to 3300 BC. This dish can be the main course or a sauce you can add to a protein. This tangy-sweet pomegranate-molasses dish has a vibrant amount of fresh spices that will make your mouth water. Every single ingredient used is very authentic to the Iranian culture and diet. Make sure all ingredients you purchase are organic and not genetically modified.

Fesenjoon

2 cups of sprouted walnuts shredded in blender.
1 large yellow onion, peeled and chopped.
1 cup pomegranate molasses (recipe below)
¼ coconut sugar or ½ cup honey
1 teaspoon of turmeric
Pinch of cinnamon
2 tablespoon of coconut oil
Pinch of cardamom
2 tablespoon of Sunpotion Yin Formula
Add the desired amount of sea salt you enjoy to taste
2 cups of water

1. Add coconut oil to a saucepan and add the shredded walnuts on a low heat.

2. Add the pomegranate molasses with the cardamom and 2 cups of fresh spring water. Let simmer for 30 minutes. Stir frequently.

3. In a medium pot add the oil with the onion and sauté. After stirring a few minutes add the turmeric to the mixture.

4. Add the pomegranate molasses to the medium sized pot.

5. Cover pot and make sure to have on low heat. Simmer for 2 hours and add water if the consistency is too thick.

6. Add the Yin Formula to the sauce and stir for a few minutes.

7. Serve on top of wild salmon or with basmati rice for a plant-based option.

Zereshk Polow : Basmati Rice with Barberries

2 cups of sprouted basmati rice
½ cup of barberries
1 teaspoon of saffron mixed with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
2 tablespoons of coconut sugar or 3 tablespoons of honey
3 tablespoons of coconut oil or grass fed butter
Big pinch of salt
5 cups of water

1. Add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to a medium sized saucepan. Add the barberries to the pan along with the saffron that has been liquefied with the coconut oil. Stir on low heat.

2. Add the coconut sugar to the pan and have a nice balance with the sweet and sour taste of the barberries.

3. In a large pot add the sprouted soaked rice and 5 cups of water to a boil for 12 minutes.

4. Once rice is cooked, drain rice in a colander and rinse with cool water a few times.

5. Rinse same pot and add 2-3 tablespoons of coconut oil.

6. Empty rice into the pot and make a cone shape to let the steam of the rice out properly. Made a few holes in the rice so it can release the steam.

7. Cook for 10 minutes on medium-high heat until it starts steaming. Add 3 tablespoons of water and coconut oil or grass-fed butter on top of the rice. Lower the heat and cover for 45 minutes.

8. Serve rice on platter and add the barberries and saffron from the saucepan on top of the rice.

9. Enjoy with love.

Pomegranate Molasses

4 cups of pomegranate juice
½ cup of sugar or ½ cup of honey
1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice

1. Add all ingredients in a medium sized saucepan.

2. Stir frequently until sugar has dissolved on medium heat.

3. Once the sauce has dissolved to 1 cup bring heat to a low.

4. Let the sauce simmer for 60 minutes.

5. Let it cool in saucepan until you need to add to the Fesenjoon recipe.

Photo Credit: Nitsa Citrine and Tasya van Ree - womenwithsuperpowers.com

Sima Morrison, founder of House of Citrine, is a vibrant soul with a potent zest for life and the beauty in its simple pleasures. As a holistic nutritionist and herbalism student, Sima has made it her life's journey to experience, to empower, and to explore the synergy between the mind and the body, embracing the liberty and power of mindful living. She earned her Bachelors Degree in Science in Public Health Education from California State University Northridge and studied Holistic Nutrition at The Natural Healing Institute.

Herb of the Week: Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa)

September 12, 2017

By: Molly Helfend

Sacred herb of the Rain Forest. Life-giving vine of Peru. Uña de gato. These are all names used to describe the medicinal tropical vine known in western cultures as Cat's Claw. A member of the Rubiaceae family, Cat's Claw is a sacred plant traditionally used in Peruvian cultural medicine and more recently introduced into western herbalists’ armamentarium. Not much research has been done on this herb, but what has been found is astronomical. “Research has shown the plant contains immune stimulating alkaloids, which also enhance the parasympathetic nervous system” (Horne, 2010).

In simpler terms, it is an immune stimulating powerhouse that been proven to help eliminate free radicals that cause cellular damage. It curatively inhibits cancer growth and improves DNA repair. Some say, it works better than medicinal mushrooms! It is also used to relieve chronic pain and fantastic for curing intestinal inflammation and disorders. Because of its immunity enhancing properties, it is one of the “most sacred [herbs] among the Ashaninkas, Campo and other Amazonian tribes. According to indigenous Shamans, uña de gato serves as a bridge and balancer between the physical and spiritual worlds, which is helpful to health problems since they believe in spiritual causes of bad health” (Draxe, 2016). There is a certain supernatural ability and consciousness when ingesting this herb. What is also interesting, is that Cat's Claw looses its medicinal potency when absorbed directly through the tongue. Washing a tincture down with water or any other preparation with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar is key to allowing the magic to permeate into the jungle of your soma and soul.

Phytochemistry: Alkaloids, glycosides, procyanidins, saponins.

Herbal Actions: Adaptogenic, anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antimutagenic immunostimulant,

How to Prepare: Tincture, tea, capsule, liquid extract, cream

What to Use For: Rheumatism, arthritis, inflammatory problems. cancerous cell formation, gastric ulcers, stomach and bowel disorders, colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut and bowel syndrome, gastritis, viral and fungal infections, Herpes, Candida.

Growing Conditions: Cultivated in Brazil, Peru and other Amazonian regions of South America, it requires more shade, which is why it is primarily managed in tropical rainforests. The trees themselves are typically 100 feet or higher.

Harvesting Methods: Because of the destructiveness to the tree organism, the root is not as commonly harvested. However, the inner bark is inexpensive and common amongst trade producers. Please leave the harvesting to the local indigenous farmers of South America. It is best to buy Cat's Claw from a local apothecary or sustainable and trusted fair-trade supplier.

Parts of Plant Used: Inner bark and root

Precautions: Very few side effects, but some people reported dizziness, nausea and diarrhea when taken in large amounts.

This information is not a replacement for a medical professional, so please consult before treating yourself or others with this or any other herbal remedy

A personal reinvention of Sunfood’s Superherb Bomb, this is my potent, immune stimulating and awakening “super herb” hot chocolate creation. The ingredients synergistically create a non-guilty dessert-like treat to savor, heal and nourish the body.

Molly’s “Superherb" Savory Chocolate Delight

1 cup Yerba Mate
2 tbs Cacao Powder
1 tbs Tocos
1 tbs Cat’s Claw
1 tbs Tigernuts
1 tbs Maca
1 tsp Chrawnaprash
1 tsp Vanilla Powder
Splash of Raw Coconut Milk

*Optional* - Dash of Peppermint Essential Oil

Steep 1 cup of Yerba Mate in boiling water for suggested time. If Cat's Claw is in dried bulk form, steep in 1 cup of boiling water for about 10 to 15 minutes. (If it is in tincture or liquid extract, please put suggested amount directly into the blender). Once ready, pour both steeped teas into the blender with the cacao powder, tocos, tigernuts, maca, chrawnaprash and vanilla powder. Blend until smooth. Pour into mug or glass jar and add a splash of coconut milk. Enjoy!

Guilt-Free Cake Recipe!

August 17, 2017

By: Sima Morrison

Dreaming of a delicate summer dessert without the guilt of feeling too bloated to fit into your dresses or swimsuits? Then try our sugar, gluten, grain, dairy and unwholesome-free cake recipe to satisfy all your dessert cravings. We chose to use only the finest and gentlest ingredients to create this light and flavorful cake that tastes as elegantly beautiful as it looks. Our secret is: simplicity. From raw vanilla bean to coconut oil, the ingredients are clean and easy to throw together. We specifically use grain-free flours, such as coconut, to combat inflammation. Grains contain lectins, which bind the walls of our intestines and weaken our immune systems, which creates gut imbalances and digestive disorders. So in order to enjoy, we make our cakes with easily digestible grain-free flours, which are the perfect choice for any dietary restriction.

This cake recipe is also the perfect option for both vegans and omnivores alike. We chose to use both pasture raised eggs, as well as Neat Eggs which are an essential vegan alternative made out of chia seeds and garbanzo beans. Lakanto is a sugar-free monk fruit sweetener that adds that extra zest of flavor, while Vital Proteins ensures extra digestive support. Although we have chosen to use these simple whole food ingredients in our cake recipe, please be intuitive with what you want to put into yours. Mix around flours, sweeteners and adaptogenic herbs. Follow your own inner voice! One important tip is that if you are topping your cake with fruit, make sure you always choose seasonally available fruits. For example, summer figs, peaches, and berries and autumn apple and pears (try boiling these delicious earthly delights and drizzling your cake with honey and cinnamon).

Gentle Grain and Sugar Free Vanilla Cake

1/2 cup Let’s Do Organic Coconut Flour
1/4 cup Wildly Organic Almond Flour
1/2 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 tsp Celtic Sea Salt
1 tbs Ojio Raw Natural Ground Vanilla Bean
1 tsp 365 Everyday Value Organic Almond Extract
1/2 cup Organic Full Fat Coconut Milk
1/4 cup Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
1 Vital Farms Pasture Raised Egg
2 Neat Eggs
1 tbs Lakanto Maple Flavored Syrup
1 scoop of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease your cake tin with coconut oil. Mix all ingredients together in a mixing bowl. Once combined, pour into pan and flatten the mixture. Bake for 25 - 28 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool for at least 20 minutes. Once cool, add the frosting of choice. Cover with fresh, organic figs and drizzle with honey, bee pollen Sun Potion Tocos and Sun Potion Pine Pollen.

Creamy Vegan Frosting

Put two cans of Organic Full Fat Coconut Milk in the fridge overnight. In the morning, take off the top layer of coconut milk and put it into a mixing bowl. Add 1 tsp Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract and 1/4 cup of your choice of sugar free sweetener such as raw honey, maple syrup, stevia or Lakanto. If you do not enjoy the taste of coconut, add cut up strawberries and blueberries to the frosting and put it in the fridge for six hours or overnight.

or use Simple Mills Vanilla Frosting

4 Smoothies that Nourish the Body

August 3, 2017

By: Sima Morrison

Back in December, as I flew into Aspen, Colorado, light snowflakes fluttered against the airplane like white dove feathers. No matter how majestic the snow-capped cliff tops were shuffling past my window, I was more engrossed in the life-changing book that I had stumbled upon called Medical Medium: Secrets Behind Chronic and Mystery Illness and How to Finally Heal. Within the first few pages, author Anthony William speaks of his ability to converse with high-level spirits, which communicate accurate and futuristic health diagnostics. On most occasions, I would be turned off by an impassioned author speaking about spirits so directly, however, William’s words resonated with me almost immediately.

His articulation about ailments and how you can actually heal your body are astounding. He has healed tens of thousands of people with his intuition, healing such issues as Epstein-Barr virus, lyme disease, fibromyalgia, chronic inflammation, adrenal fatigue and many more. A main concern and topic in the book focuses on our accumulation of heavy metals in the body. Exposure to heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic, lead, etc. are detrimental to our health by acting as free radicals that oxidize in the body and deplete our antioxidant reserves. This causes numerous toxicological health effects, including cancer and nervous system damage. Unfortunately, we are all in contact with toxic heavy metals every day, and even if you live a perfectly clean life, it is almost impossible to completely avoid exposure. From occupational hazards, food and water, or even passed down from our parents through the bloodstream, we are all exposed to toxins.

However, William gives readers the power of knowledge to actually detox and remove these heavy metals with nutritious recipes. These recipes not only clear and rid the body of toxins, but actually taste fantastic. I was particularly drawn to his heavy metal detox smoothie recipe that utilizes such ingredients as cilantro, which reaches into the deepest crevices of the body and draws out mercury; Atlantic dulse, a vital seaweed that binds to serious metals in the digestive tract, primarily the colon; Hawaiian spirulina, a blue-green algae that extracts toxins from your central nervous system and liver; barley grass juice extract powder, a beneficial green that pulls heavy metals from your spleen, intestinal tract, pancreas, thyroid, and reproductive system; and most importantly, wild Maine blueberries, which have some of the highest antioxidant properties of any other food on earth, repairing any gaps in the brain created by oxidation with phytonutrients and detoxification proficiency.

You can enjoy this smoothie for breakfast, lunch, as a snack, or really whenever your body desires it. The recipes listed are House of Citrine’s take on Anthony William’s detox smoothie, plus some great nutritious drinks that are sure to improve your health and wellness.

Heavy Detox Smoothie

1 large handful Cilantro
2 oz. Atlantic Dulse
1 tablespoon Hawaiian Spirulina
1 teaspoon Barley Grass juice extract powder
1.5 cups of Wild Maine blueberries
1 cup Fresh squeezed orange juice
1 Banana

Gut Balancing Smoothie

1 cup fresh coconut water
¼ cup of fresh coconut meat
4 dried figs
2 oz. fresh aloe vera
1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Powder
Pinch of Celtic sea salt
1 scoop NeoCell Super Powder Collagen

Organic Greens Smoothie

1 cup Milkadamia Unsweetened Macadamia Nut Milk
1 tsp Moondeli Blue Green Protein
1/2 avocado
1 inch of ginger
1 handful of cilantro
1 handful of Mint
1 oz. parsley
2 oz. Fennel
1 handful spinach
¼ cup of celery
1 Persian cucumber
1/2 green apple

Energy Boosting Smoothie

1/2 cup Milkadamia Unsweetened Macadamia Nut Milk
4 - 6 oz Tieman’s Medium Ground Fusion Coffee
1 tsp maca powder
1 tsp raw cacao powder
1 tsp Root and Bones Cordyceps
1/2 tbs Hanah Vechur Ghee
1 scoop NeoCell Super Powder Collagen
pinch of Celtic sea salt

Summer Solstice Solar Infusion

June 22, 2017

By: Molly Helfend

In the Northern Hemisphere, on Wednesday June 21, a celestial, almost astral experience will coexist between the sun and the earth, transforming mother Gaia from a spring to summer season. This event is called the Summer Solstice, known as the day with the most hours of sunlight, when the sun is at the Tropic of Cancer, its most northern point in the sky. This celebrated midsummer occurrence has been honored for thousands of years, with cultural rituals dating back to 3000-1500 BC by ancient Romans and Celtic tribal societies. The Stonehenge is renowned as a solstice ritual site. As earth’s gradual movement around the sun allows us to postulate the complexities of time, “people attune themselves to the rhythms of the natural world and invite the seasons of waxing and waning, of birth, growth, death and renewal to reverberate more consciously in their lives” (Harris, 2010).

The Summer Solstice presents us with gratitude for the consciousness and habitat that earth provides for us, as we appreciate the interconnected web of beauty around us. We may use this time to heal, re-align and redress environmental and social transgressions that have occurred, or perhaps participate in a religious ceremony to honor sacred higher powers. Many herbalists use this time to reconnect with the seasonal flora and fauna. This is done by creating a tonic medicinal herb infusion. Whatever you chose, this metaphysical and atmospheric phenomenon signifies turning the page to a new chapter of the calendar year.

The various herbs chosen in this recipe have spirited yang energies. As stated in my Full Moon Lunar Infusion article,

“just like the yin and yang rhythms of life, plants also as have yin-yang qualities. The leaves, flowers and aerial parts are considered to have yin tendencies, while the sturdier parts like seeds, roots and barks, have yang tendencies.”

Yang represents the masculine, active, independent, direct, separation, intellectual, logical, information seeking, autonomy and individuality. They tend to have a sweet or pungent taste and are essential for warming up the internal body, expelling coldness and promoting physiological positivity. A yang infusion is beneficial for those who are overly nervous, agitated and angry. Yang herbs will pacify overactive nervine stresses, promoting a healthy physical and emotional response to the bumps and bruises of life. These plants are also heavier summer herbs that will taste great iced or warm!

Represented with the fire elements, Anise Hyssop, packs a minty fresh zeal that is wonderful for healing chronic respiratory congestion and conditions. It is expectorant and diaphoretic and also an excellent nervine tonic.

Lovely, aromatic rose hips, represented with the water elements, are high in vitamin c and antioxidants, which support the heart, both physically and emotionally.

Hawthorn berry, represented with the fire elements, is a classic remedy that promotes gentle circulation throughout the body. Cardio-tonic and hypotensive, it should be used with tenderness for blood pressure disorders, poor circulation, heart issues and even for mild depression.

One of the most widely used and oldest folklore herbs, Chamomile, is a very gentle tonic herb that abates stomach aches and promotes relaxation. Represented with the water elements, it is also achic, anodyne and antispasmodic.

Beyond being utilized in our toothpastes and gum, just a few fragrant sprigs of Mint are highly medicinal. Represented with the air elements, Mint grows with rapid force and is superb for treating conditions of digestion, weight loss, relief from nausea, depression, fatigue, headache, asthma, memory loss, and skin care problems.

Lastly, Lemon Balm is a happy-go-lucky leaf with light and gladdening properties. Represented with the water elements, it is supportive for anxiety, nervous tension, and stress, as well as digestive upset and gassiness. Some of its herbal actions include carminative, anti-spasmodic, and anti-viral as well.

Summer Solstice Solar Infusion

1 part Anise Hyssop
1/2 part Rose Hips
1/2 part Hawthorn Berry
1/2 part Chamomile
1/4 part Mint
1/4 part Lemon Balm

Fill a large glass jar about halfway full of herbs. Fill the jar to the top with fresh spring water. Leave out in full sun from sunrise to sundown. Once dark, strain and enjoy whenever you wish to consume the solar magic. This tastes great iced with raw honey!

IMPORTANT: This infusion works best on the warmest and/or sunniest day of the year, where the weather must be over 75 degrees.

Molly Helfend is part of the HOC team and is an herbalist and environmental activist. She graduated from University of Vermont in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and a concentration in Holistic Health. She will be attending University of Kent in Canterbury, England to receive her Masters Degree in Ethnobotany in 2017. She has worked for Urban Moonshine, Greenpeace and received her training with Spoonful Herbals. Her goal is to receive her PHD and become a professor at University of California Santa Cruz. Molly resides in Monte Nido, California.

Full Moon Lunar Infusion

June 8, 2017

By: Molly Helfend

There is a time every month where people have trouble getting to sleep, car accidents become more common and feelings of sensitivity and emotional instability become common. Well, you can blame the full moon next time you get into trouble. The full moon happens when the earth lies between the sun and the moon, so the complete surface of the moon is visible. This is when the world can become chaotic from the powerful lunar energy the moon emits. Just as the tides flow with moon cycles, so do our emotions. The full moon tends to awaken the darkness inside and promote introspection, which many confront with violence and anger. However, if you give in to its illuminating spirit, you can lighten much of your shadow darkness, helping you remember that we are all part of one universal entity.

There are 12 full moons that correspond to each month over the course of the year. Dating back to early Native American tribes, each full moon has a name and a meaning.

According to the Farmer’s Almanac:

Full Moon names date back to Native Americans, of what is now the northern and eastern United States. The tribes kept track of the seasons by giving distinctive names to each recurring full Moon. Their names were applied to the entire month in which each occurred. There was some variation in the Moon names, but in general, the same ones were current throughout the Algonquin tribes from New England to Lake Superior. European settlers followed that custom and created some of their own names. Since the lunar month is only 29 days long on the average, the full Moon dates shift from year to year.

The infusion recipe below is ideal for the upcoming Strawberry Moon on June 9. The Algonquin Tribe called it the Strawberry Moon because of the short harvest season for strawberries during the month of June. It is called the Rose Moon in Europe. However, if you are not inclined to create an infusion, there are other ways to celebrate the powerful lunar energy. First, you can bath in the full moon. Similar to forest bathing, you bask in the light and let the vibrations soak into your bones. Set intentions, perform a guided mediation or simply purge unwanted burdens and release into the luminosity. Second, you can charge your crystals. Clear quartz, moonstone, and celestite respond very well to the enchanting magic. Third, you can make moon water by letting fresh spring water absorb the lunar energy.

YIN AND YANG

Yin and yang are opposing, yet amalgamated. They are dissimilar, yet interdependent. They interact to maintain equilibrium, yet never actually exist in absolute homeostasis. Merely, everything in the universe exists with both yin and yang components. As the gravitational force of black holes push and pull, as our lungs inhale and exhale, as the earth’s seasons awaken and sleep, this is the rhythm of yin-yang. This philosophical Chinese concept was developed thousands of years ago, and is applied to the basis of all existence and change. A friend of mine read and relayed to me that yin-yang are not a substance or force, but rather a way of describing the dynamic interactions and interrelations of the natural forces that do occur in the world. We live in a world of seeming dualities, however, it is the yin and yang that help us continue moving forward. They are innately opposing forces of harmony.

LUNAR YIN HERBALISM

Just like the yin and yang rhythms of life, plants also as have yin-yang qualities. The leaves, flowers and aerial parts are considered to have yin tendencies, while the sturdier parts like seeds, roots and barks, have yang tendencies. Yin represents the feminine, receptive, open, yielding, connected, introspective, intuitive, feeling, deep wisdom, and harmony. This corresponds with the moon and its lunar patterns. Lunar teas are most powerful during full moons, as this is a time of duality between the light and darkness within us. By absorbing the essence of yin in these plants, we seek balance and introspection. Each of the aerial yin-balancing herbs in this recipe are deeply nourishing, promoting longevity and endocrine hormone stability. These herbs emphasize yin properties of cooling, moistening and relaxing, promoting revitalizing energetic shifts. Yin herbs are known to represent the fountain of youth, by having anti-aging reversal properties.

Lavender, represented with the air elements, is a well-known aromatic herb known for its sedative and relaxing nervine qualities. It is also known to protect us from wandering spirits, and often used in psychic vision pillows for the promotion of wishes and dreams. Lavender is also antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, cholagogue, diuretic and tonic.

Lovely, aromatic rose petals, represented with the water elements, are high in vitamin c and antioxidants, which support the heart, both physically and emotionally. Rose petals are astringent and tonic, easing PMS and uterine congestion.

Red clover, represented with the air elements, is a sweet-tempered vitamin-rich herb. A graceful flower, it is alterative, lymphatic, expectorant, demulcent and anti-catarrhal, while promoting nourishing re-growth within various systems in the body.

Catnip, represented with the water elements, is a charming plant, quite literally. It is used with trance work and journeying, and living up to its name, even induces a hypnotic effect of cats. In addition, its herbal actions include anti-catarrhal, diaphoretic, and antiviral, working well for upper respiratory infections and nervousness.

Skullcap, represented with the fire elements, has a deeper action on the nervous system, profoundly routed in its sedative properties and ability to soothe exhaustion, excitability, anxiety, PMS, and insomnia. Its cooling nature is acutely anti-inflammatory and mildly bitter, while stimulating bile flow with antispasmodic, antibacterial, antiallergenic and diuretic emphasis.

Violet leaves, represented with the water elements, are not only aesthetically bewitching, but are quite medicinal. Expectorant, stypic and anti-inflammatory, they can be used internally to soothe bronchial congestion and similar to plantain, externally to help stop bleeding on wounds.

Chrysanthemum flowers, represented with the air elements, are notable in Chinese medicine for their cheerfulness and protective nature. Elegant and beguiling, they are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, aromatic, demulcent, febrifuge, hepatic, hypotensive, and refrigerant.

Why should we drink this infusion?

This infusion is useful in balancing individuals with depleted yin reserves or those with overly yang symptoms. As we age, our yin drains, especially from chronic stress, dehydration, childbearing, drugs and alcohol, and disease. Simply put, life depletes yin. Symptoms of yin deficiency can include exhaustion, dry throat and skin which manifests in wrinkles, digestive issues, low kidney and immune function, declining muscle mass, lower backaches, heat sensations, dark urine and rings under eyes. This infusion can invigorate the cells and augment healing. Although this is a wonderfully medicinal infusion, it is very tonic with gentle floral tones that can simply be consumed to celebrate the mystery of the full moon.

Full Moon Lunar Infusion Recipe

1 part Chrysanthemum flowers
1 part Rose Petals
1 part Violet leaves
1 part Skullcap
1/2 part Red Clover
1/4 part Catnip
1/4 part Lavender

*sprinkle with fresh pansies once ready

Instructions: Loosely pack fresh or dried herbs into a large glass mason or crystal jar. Pour cold spring water over the herbs until they are completely immersed and not overflowing. Cover the container and leave it outside right after sundown. Place it somewhere it is in full view of the moon and can completely absorb the moon’s magic and energy. In the morning, strain and enjoy.

REMEMBER: This infusion can be made on any full moon night as the temperature is not going to fall below 40 degrees at night. The sky may be cloudy or clear.

This information is not a replacement for a medical professional, so please consult before treating yourself or others with this or any other herbal remedy

Calming Elixir

May 25, 2017

By: Sima Morrison

Are you ever craving a cocktail after a long day of work, but don't want the side effects of drinking alcohol? Instead, how about a happy hour with a Jun-based mind elixir. This concoction is the perfect alternative to ease those racing thoughts and brush away stress sitting atop your shoulders. Whether you are anxious after a presentation, wound up after sitting in traffic, or simply looking for a positive mood boost, this gentle mocktail will calm down your inner fire. It is lovely for bringing down Chi and assisting your body in transitioning through your daily circadian rhythms.

The Peaceful Easy Feeling Tincture aids digestive upset and insomnia, making it an essential ingredient for this unwinding potion. Inside, Lemon Balm assists as a gladdening herb, which helps with nervous tension, anxiety and stress. Skullcap, Lavender and Chamomile have mild sedative and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe exhaustion, excitability and anxiety. Lemon grass has similar tonic medicinal qualities as well. Ginkgo is an ancient herb that oxygenates the brain, improving memory and concentration. Similarly, Rhodiola strengthens the nervous system and enhances memory, while also fighting depression, improving energy and aiding in weight reduction. Gotu Kola rejuvenates the immune system and strengthens the adrenals.

Relaxing Mind Mocktail Elixir

4 oz Jun Kombucha
10 drops Poppy and Someday Peaceful Easy Feeling Tincture
10 drops Herb Pharm Ginkgo Tincture
5 drop Herb Pharm Gotu Kola Tincture
5 drops Mountain Maus Remedies Lemon Grass Tincture
5 drop Herb Pharm Rhodiola Tincture

Nettle (Urtica dioica)

May 11, 2017

By: Molly Helfend

When in doubt, use nettle. This phrase is what you could call the manual for herbalists, as we all bless the earth for allowing this tonic green goddess to thrive. Perennial and represented with the element of Fire, and known as one of the Chinese “long life” herbs, nettle is a member of its own family, the Urticaceae. Its infamous sting is the juxtaposition of medicinal healing and unfriendly irritation. Nettle is a favorite for all around remedies and is an excellent safe tonic herb that is effective and reliable for almost anyone. It's also highly nutritious and can also be eaten raw or cooked, adding a mild unique tang (similar to spinach) to almost any meal. Nettles grow throughout the United States and Canada, preferring temperate climate and semi-shaded, moist environments such as around stream and river banks. They also flourish around distressed land with high nitrogen levels left in the soil, such as along rail road tracks, at the edge of woods, or in abandoned farm fields. If you wish to grow them yourself, try to mimic these conditions in the garden. Nettles are hardy growers that should be glorified for their apt abilities to adapt to landscapes and provide salubrious nutrition to us.

Phytochemistry: Organic acids, vitamin A, C and K, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, protein, formic acid, beta-carotene, chlorophyll

Herbal Actions: Anti-inflammatory, tonic, diuretic, astringent

How to Prepare: Tea, tincture, poultice/compress, capsule, urtication*, eaten fresh, dried or infused in vinegar, olive oil and honey, brewed in beer, fabric (finer than cotton or linen)

What to Use For: anemia, debility, arthritis, allergies, eczema/psoriasis, chemical sensitivities, hair and scalp, growing pains, depleted constitutions, kidney and liver function, metabolism, reproduction

Growing Conditions: Semi-shaded with fertile moist and rich soil. Easily propagates in Spring or Autumn.

Harvesting Methods: Leaves are best harvested in Spring - if harvesting for medicine, it is preferred to harvest before the flowers open. Flowers are best harvested in early July (depending on growing conditions). Be cautious when harvesting, as the sting can be painful if you are not used to it. Chose to wear gloves or approach the plant with strength and affirm your purpose. Find mutual respect and it should leave you be. However, the sting will disappear once it is cooked, chopped or after a few hours of drying.

Parts of Plant Used: Leaves, seeds, roots

This information is not a replacement for a medical professional, so please consult before treating yourself or others with this or any other herbal remedy.

Recipes featuring Nettle

Nutritious Herbal Seasoning

1/2 cup of dulse flakes or powder
1/2 cup of dried nettle leaves
1/4 cup of dried oregano
1/8 cup of garlic granules
3 tablespoons of Himalayan salt
2 tablespoon of lemon peel

Toss all ingredients into a bowl and mix well together. Once finished, grind in a food processor or mortar until it resembles a fine salt blend. Use in place of table salt to season any dish such as popcorn, rice, salad, vegetables or on my favorite, homemade soup! Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors or nutritive combinations with the base of dried nettle leaf and ground seaweed.

Wild Greens Spring Pesto

1 handful of nettle
1 handful of lambs quarter
1 handful of chickweed or miners lettuce
1 handful of arugula or spinach
1/2 handful of basil
1 or 2 cloves of garlic
1/4 cup of olive oil
1 whole lemon
1/2 cup of sprouted sunflower or pumpkin seeds
about 6 sprigs of sage

Throw all of these ingredients in a food processor or blender. My absolute favorite over zucchini noodles or smashed and served over a baked sweet potato.