Man in the Moon Herbs

Lady's Mantle, also known as dew cup, is a tough perennial with an airy, delicate appearance. The proper name comes from the plant's healing reputation while "dew cup" refers to the plants habit of collecting dew. This dew was used by alchemists in their potions in days gone by. The name Lady's Mantle refers to its use for female ailments during the Middle Ages. To use topically, infuse the dried leaves in spring water and use as an astringent or facial steam. Use the infusion cold to decrease large pores and sooth acne. Dew cup is also used in creams to soften skin and decrease inflammation. Lady's Mantle Bath Place a small handful each of Lady's Mantle, comfrey and calendula in a muslin bag. Hang over the faucet as the tub is filling so the water flows through the herbs. At the end of your bath, gently rub the bag of herbs over your skin for added softness. As always, if you have sensitivities to herbs, do a patch test before using.

My Mom is the bravest person I know. She greeted every day with an attitude of acceptance and understanding without any of the martyrdom that can accompany that outlook. While she lived her life by her own rules, she always took into consideration how her actions and choices would affect those she loved. She never had a lot of material wealth, but was always willing to share what she had with anyone in need. She was always there for a shoulder to cry on. She was willing to listen without passing judgment or even offering advice unless asked for. Mom asked for so little and gave so much in return. In honor of my Mom, go visit that person you have been meaning to see. It really won't take that long and will mean SO much. Love you Mom!

I have started using hemp oil in many of my soaps and all of my lip balms. The oil contains high levels of essential fatty acids including linolenic acid which aids skin healing. It is quickly absorbed and highly moisturizing making it a good ingredient for all types of products for dry skin. There is still quite a bit of resistance from many about using a product containing hemp in spite of its long history of being a useful herb for textiles, skin preparations and food for livestock. If you would like more information about the history and uses for hemp visit the NORML at CCSU website. They will also be holding an informational gathering on April 20th at Central Connecticut State University.

This delicious chowder is quick and easy to make. The timing for the ingredients couldn't be easier. Simply chop the veggies one at a time and add them to the pot in the order listed. The onions cook while you chop the mushrooms which cook with the onions while you chop the celery, etc. Asparagus Chowder 2 tablespoons olive oil one medium onion 12 mushrooms 2 ribs of celery 12 baby carrots or one large carrot one sweet potato, peeled 2 white potatoes(no need to peel if the skin is thin) 1/4 pound of ham or turkey ham 12-14 fresh asparagus spears, tough end removed Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Chop and add veggies one at a time. After the addition of the asparagus, saute for 3-4 minutes or until the asparagus is bright green and everything is fragrant. Add one quart of good quality chicken or vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer 10-12 minutes or until the veggies are tender. While the veggies are simmering make the cheese sauce as foll...

This is an easy to make balm that is wonderful for healing and preventing dry, cracked skin. Lavender Balm 1/4 cup apricot kernel oil 1/4 beeswax 3 tablespoons cocoa butter 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E 1/2 teaspoon lavender essential oil one 4 ounce tub or jar Melt the beeswax and cocoa butter along with the apricot kernel oil in a double boiler stirring occasionally to thoroughly blend. Remove from heat and let cool until you can see your mixture just begin to harden on the sides of your pan. Keep a good eye on it so it doesn't get too far along. Stir in the vitamin E and lavender oil and pour into your pot. Let cool and harden with the lid off. You can substitute another light oil like jojoba or sweet almond oil for the apricot kernel oil if you like. Don't care for lavender? Use your favorite fragrance or essential oil instead. If you don't have access to bottled vitamin E add 3 vitamin E capsules by poking a hole in them and squeezing the liquid into the balm.

Make this fragrant blend of flowers as a substitute for rice for a wedding. In the Victorian language of flowers roses represent love, lavender is for devotion and chamomile means "may all your wishes come true" You will need about 1/4 cup per guest, which is a good handful. Simply mix equal pa rts of dried rose buds and/or petals, lavender buds and dried chamomile blossoms. Place 1/4 cup of your mix in the center of a tulle circle. (You can find the pre cut circles in the wedding section of most craft stores) Tie the top with a satin or organdy ribbon and you are d one! You can find the dried flowers here

I believe that no step towards lessening our footprint on the Earth is too small. We keep the thermostat set on 62 degrees in the winter, hang clothes outside to dry whenever possible, use washable, reusable items like shopping bags, un-paper towels and mesh produce bags. Composting and recycling are second nature and trips to town usually only happen when there is more than one reason to go there. All that being said, I do use the dryer when it's rained for days and in the winter. Sometimes I forget the shopping bags and I never think to put junk mail in the recycling. The important thing is to make an effort and to not beat yourself up when you forget. Every time we remember or take the time to do these things, the World is a little better off! What environmentally friendly things have become routine in your life?