Editor's Note
I hope that you enjoy the first edition of Barefoot Herbs. Each month we will be bringing you info on herbs and their uses and update you on courses that we will be running. Let me have your comments or queries.
Yours in health and herbs,
Sharon
Basil
Ocimum basilicum
The spicy smell of this popular herb brings summer into any kitchen. It is used in many dishes, and the classic ingredient of pesto. Originating in India, it has been used for centuries both for cooking and in the medicine chest. To the ancient Greeks and Romans the herb was a symbol of hostility and insanity. The Italians, however, associated basil with love. When a woman was ready to receive her lover, she would place a basil plant on her doorstep.
In France it was only for the use of the monarchy and had to be cut with a pair of
gold scissors held by the monarch. In India, the herb was considered sacred to the
gods Krishna and Vishnu. In Haiti it was used for protection against evil spirits
and to bring prosperity. In England it was also considered a herb of love and to
test faithfulness. A sprig of fresh basil placed in the hand of an unfaithful partner
would wither and die -
Peppermint Tea
A lovely refreshing tea for these hot days. The added benefit is that it aids digestion, eases flatulence, gives relief from colds, helps clear sinuses and gives energy.
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1/4 cup fresh herb. Leave for 5 minutes and strain. Sweeten with honey if required
A herb is a friend of physicians and the pride of cooks
-
Basil is an annual that grows easily. It likes a lot of sun and well drained soil and lots of water when it is hot. Remove the flowers as they appear and it will bush out and last longer. Basil grows really well in pots. It is a good companion plant as it is an insect repellent. Do not plant it close to Rue (Ruta graveolens) as they are bad companions and one of them will suffer
Culinary: Add fresh to salads, pasta, pizzas and other Mediterranean dishes. Goes well with tomatoes, lamb, fish and chicken Use in oils and vinegars. It does not freeze well so use dried when out of season.
Household: An insect repellent, so try placing a pot in the kitchen, or next to the braai area. remember to bruise the leaves to release the oils.
Medicinal: Contains Vitamins A and C and anti oxidants. Infuse as a tea to aid digestion. A strong infusion used as a mouthwash is also effective against mouth ulcers. Rub a fresh leaf onto insect bites to relieve the itch. The essential oil is used to treat nervous exhaustion, mental fatigue and depression.
Cosmetic: Add a bunch of basil to your bath for an instant ‘lift’. Make an infusion and apply to a clean face to help clear up acne
From the Barefoot Kitchen
Oil of Italy
A tasty oil to use for salads, on pasta or for cooking
6 fresh sage leaves
6 sprigs fresh basil
12 black peppercorns
300 ml olive oil
Lightly bruise the herbs and crush the peppercorns.
Place in a clean, sterilized jar
and pour the oil over.
Shake well.
Store in a cool dark place for two weeks.
Strain into a clean, sterilized bottle.
You can add a new sprig of sage for decoration.
Editor's Note
At this time of the year the herbs are all growing so well, you should be harvesting as much as you can. Remember to take them in the early morning for the best flavour. As Lemon Grass is really good now I have given you two recipes. If you haven't got any in your garden, most greengrocers keep it, so try and get some, especially if you have never tried it before!
Yours in health and herbs,
Sharon
Herb of The Month
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis
This well loved herb has been used for generations in cooking, healing and spell weaving. Native to the Mediterranean coastal areas, it obtained its name from the Latin ros and maris meaning Dew from the Sea. Rosemary has always been associated with memory. In Ancient Greece students wore sprigs of Rosemary in their hair to strengthen their memories and aid concentration. European brides wore it to show that they would not forget their families once they left with their husbands. It is still planted around graves in memory of loved ones. Culpeper wrote 'It helps a weak memory and quickens the senses' and in Shakespeare's Hamlet, Ophelia said 'There's rosemary, that's for remembrance'
The other universal use for Rosemary is for protection, against both thieves and
disease. Hang a piece above your door and no thief will cross it. Wash a thief's
feet with a lotion made from Rosemary root and he will have no strength left to steal.
Wash your horse and carriage with Rosemary tonic and they will be safe from highwaymen
-
Rosemary is a hardy perennial that will thrive with very little care. Common Rosemary
has blue flowers and grows
into an untidy bush, of about 1m high. It needs full sun and well drained, sandy soil. It is also available in shades of white, pink and lavender. The Tuscan Rosemary is an upright bush with long branches which is ideal for growing in a pot or a smaller garden.
Culinary -
Use fresh or dried leaf with many meat dishes, renowned for its use with lamb and Greek meals. Add to roast potatoes or other vegetables. Use stems as kebab sticks.
Cosmetic: Use as a rinse for dark hair and to encourage new growth
Household: Place cut branches in a vase for a fresh aroma.
Place in linen cupboard to repel insects
Boil 1 cup of leaves in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes. When cool use as an antiseptic wash for kitchens and bathrooms
Burn the dried branches on the braai or fire for a lovely aroma and insect repellent
Medicinal: A circulation stimulant. For aching joints and rheumatic pain. Antiseptic gargle and mouthwash. For poor digestion, gall bladder inflammation, gall stones. Improves blood circulation to the brain. Uplifting for depression and nervous exhaustion. For low blood pressure.
Caution: Do not use in medicinal doses if you suffer from High Blood Pressure or if you are pregnant.
'Let food be your medicine and medicine your food'
Hippocrates
Lemon Grass
Cymbopogon citratus
A light, lemony tea that aids all of those digestive problems. Indigestion, cramps, flatulence, billiousness and colic will all be relieved with this herb. You can also add Lemon Balm and Lemon Thyme for a real lemony treat that will chase away the blues as well as any colds, coughs and sore throats.
Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1/4 cup fresh herb. Leave for 5 minutes and strain. Sweeten with honey if required
Ginger & Lemongrass Marinade
Wonderful for chicken, fish or pork. You can also use it for stir-
125ml Peanut Oil
125ml Olive Oil.
2 tsp. Brandy or cane
20-
2 tsp. grated fresh ginger
Handful chopped basil
Place everything in a glass bottle, shake well to combine. Marinate for at least 2 hours before cooking
Editor’s Note
In this glorious weather what herb could be more ideal as the Herb of the Month than the sunflower? Other herbs that are at their best are the basils, sages and rosemary. Now is the time to start harvesting them. Freeze the basil in tin foil for best results – it doesn’t go black – Basil looses a lot of flavour if it is dried, but Sage and Rosemary are perfect for drying. Enjoy the heat while we have it!
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Sunflower
Helianthus annuus
So aptly named, the Sunflower could be the symbol of summer. In fact in Ancient Peru it was the emblem of the Sun God and was also dedicated to the Greek Sun God, Helios
Such a cheerful flower could surely bring brightness into the gloomiest of persons!
It was first cultivated over 3000 years ago by the American Indians, and introduced to Europe in the sixteenth century by Spanish explorers. The first people to cultivate it in vast quantities were the Russians.
All parts of the plant can be used, and for a variety of different things. Because of its ability to absorb water, the plant has been used to reclaim marshy land in the Netherlands. It can be used in homes for exactly the same reason and it is perfect if you have a problem with damp, just plant it close to the walls which are affected.
We all know the sunflower oil obtained from the seeds, and used in everyday cooking, but here are a few more things that the sunflower can be used for.
House & Garden: An ideal windbreak for tender flowers or vegetables. Use the dried plants for fire kindling. The ash is a good potash fertilizer. Use the fibrous pith for textiles and paper making. It is also used for making lifebelts because it is so light. Boil the flowers for a yellow dye. Give the seed to chickens to increase egg laying.
Sunflower (cont)
Culinary: Rich in protein, Vit B, D and E, potassium, iron and magnesium. Eat the shelled kernel raw or roasted. Sprout the seeds, eat them when they are ½ cm long or they become bitter.
Eat the flower buds raw in salads or steam and eat like artichokes.
Cosmetic: Use as a cleanser for dry skins.
Medicinal: Used for coughs, and bronchitis, inflammation of the kidneys and dysentery.
Go Indigenous
Wild Garlic
Tulbaghia violacea
This pretty bulb with its violet flowers is a worthwhile addition to your indigenous herb garden. If you touch the plant you will release the familiar garlic smell. It is this that makes it a wonderful insect repellent, especially against aphids, so plant it in your vegetable garden or with your roses. It also deters moles, so use it if they are a problem. The leaves can be used in the same way as chives, and the small bulbs can replace spring onions. Medicinally it is used for coughs, colds and fever.
Sunflower Cough Syrup
Put ½ Cup Sunflower seeds into a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to the boil and
simmer for 30 minutes, or until reduced to half. Strain and add 4 Tablespoon of
brown sugar. Stir until dissolved. Bring to the boil and boil fast for 2 minutes.
Allow to cool, and then pour into a glass bottle. Label and store in a cool place.
Take 1-
Healthy Seed Bread
This healthy bread is so easy to make and it is better than any you would buy. Try adding different seeds, nuts and dried fruit for a change of taste.
2 cups Natural Yoghurt or buttermilk
2 Tblsp Honey or Molasses
3 cups Nutty Wheat flour
2 tsp Bicarbonate of Soda
1 tsp salt
½ cup Sunflower seeds
½ cup other seeds, raisins, or nuts
Preheat oven to 180 C and grease a loaf tin.
Mix Yoghurt, honey and bicarb together
Mix remaining ingredients together.
Add yoghurt mixture and stir well -
Put into the loaf tin, smooth the top and sprinkle with seeds.
Bake for about 1 hour, or until a knife inserted into the loaf comes out clean.
Cool for 20 minutes before removing from the tin.
Magical Uses for Sunflowers
Sunflowers growing in the garden guard it against pests and grant good luck to the gardener.
Sunflower seeds should be eaten by women who wish to conceive
If you cut a sunflower at sunset while making a wish, the wish will come true before another sunset – as long as the wish is not too grand
Sleep with a sunflower under the bed if you wish to know the truth in any matter
Sunflower Cough Syrup
Put ½ Cup Sunflower seeds into a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to the boil and
simmer for 30 minutes, or until reduced to half. Strain and add 4 Tablespoon of
brown sugar. Stir until dissolved. Bring to the boil and boil fast for 2 minutes.
Allow to cool, and then pour into a glass bottle. Label and store in a cool place.
Take 1-
Mint Tea
A refreshing tea for this time of year can be made with any of the mints. Take a handful of fresh mint and pour boiling water over it. Leave for 5 minutes and then drink. You could also leave this to cool and then add ice and lemon. Add a sprig of mint a glass of water or juice as a change to a lemon slice. An added bonus is that mint aids the digestion and relieves blocked noses.
Editor’s Note
Autumn is here so it time to start collecting your seeds for next spring. Store them in labelled brown paper bags. (You won’t remember them all next spring!)
Remember to cut off any seed heads that you won’t be using. Being hardy, most herbs will grow anywhere, and will fast become invader plants if we are not careful. St John’s Wort and Evening Primrose are on the invader list already, so please garden responsibly.
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Cooks all know this lovely herb for the fantastic flavour
it gives to food, but did you know that is a powerful antiseptic and preservative? It was used as a meat preservative in ancient times. The Egyptians used it for embalming, and is still one of the ingredients of embalming fluid used today.
If you put sprigs between damp papers it will prevent them from going moldy.
It has been used as an antiseptic for generations and in the 17th century thyme oil was sold in apothecary shops as a topical antiseptic. Most of the supply came from Germany, and so when World War 1 broke out there was a terrible shortage on the battle fields for the English and French.
The name Thymus is derived from the Greek word Thymon, meaning courage. Roman soldiers bathed in thyme water before going off to battle, during the middle ages the knights going off on the crusades wore a sprig for valour and the Scottish drank the tea for strength and courage.
There are lots of different thymes, Common and Lemon being the best for cooking.
The creeping thymes make lovely ground-
Growing: Thyme loves full sun, and well drained soil. It is very easy to grown from cuttings or root division.
Medicinal: Digestive tonic, coughs, sore throats, headaches, antiseptic.
Household: Make a strong decoction for a household disinfectant.
Place fresh sprigs between leaves of books to prevent mould.
Cosmetic: Add to baths to stimulate circulation. Use in facial steams for acne. Make a strong tea with Rosemary for dandruff. Use as a rinse.
Culinary: One of three herbs to make a Bouquet-
Go Indigenous
Wild Rosemary
Eriocephalus africanus
This pretty shrub grows to approximately 1m in height. Its flowers are white and in clusters at the end of branches of small, silvery leaves. Its main medicinal use is as a diuretic, and early records show that it was used for dropsy, stomach ache and heart disease by the Khoi and Cape Settlers.
Thyme Footbath for Smelly Feet
This also works for tired feet and can help relieve athlete’s foot.
2 cups water
½ cup apple cider vinegar
2 Tbsp Thyme
2 Tbsp Mint
(This is for dried herb, if you use fresh use double)
Combine all ingredients in a pot, bring to the boil and them simmer for 5 minutes. Strain into a bowl, and leave until the water temperature is bearable. Soak your feet in it until cool.
Dry feet well
Thyme for Tea
Thyme tea is great to drink for digestive problems. It also helps for sore throats and coughs.
To make, pour a cup of boiling water over 1 Tbsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried. Leave to stand for 5 minutes and then drink. For coughs add 1 tsp honey.
Strong Decoction
Use this for a disinfectant or to add to the bath.
Boil 2 cups water with 1 cup thyme for 5 minutes. Strain and use within 2 days
Thyme Fritters
These can be made for breakfast, lunch, as snack or to go with a main meal. Really easy and delicious!
2 cups flour
4 beaten eggs
2 tsp baking powder
1 cup milk
4 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
Salt & black pepper
Mix everything together and leave to stand for at least one hour.
Fry in a hot frying pan, a tablespoon per fritter, turn over when golden to cook the other side.
Serve hot.
.
Magical Uses
It is worn to attract good health, to give courage and energy.
Place a sprig under the pillow for restful sleep and lack of nightmares.
A man wearing a sprig on his coat will be full of courage.
A woman wearing a sprig in her hair makes herself irresistible!
A Short History of Medicine
2000 BC
Here, eat this root
1000 AD
That root is heathen, here, say this Prayer
1850 AD
That prayer is superstition, here, drink this potion
1940 AD
That potion is snake oil, here, swallow this pill
1965 AD
That pill is ineffective, here, take this Antibiotic
2000 A.D.
That antibiotic doesn’t work any more.
Here, eat this root!
Editor’s Note
With these cool, dark mornings to remind us that winter is on its way, its time to plant your winter seeds. Don’t forget to plant Calendula so that you can make lots of healing creams and tinctures to use during the year. Keep collecting your seeds from this season, and dry any excess herb that you have. You can always give it to friends who would appreciate some home grown herbs.
Collect the last of your basil before the frost comes and you lose it all – it happens before you know it!
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Lemon Balm
Melissa officinalis
This sweet smelling herb is loved by bees, hence its botanical name ‘Melissa’ -
The 11th century Arab physician, Avicenna wrote ‘Balm causeth the mind and heart to become merry’, and to this day its main use is for anxiety and nervous depression.
It has been called ‘elixir of life’ and two British gentleman, John Hussey and Llewellyn, Prince of Glamorgan attributed their long lives, of over 100 years each, to drinking Lemon Balm tea every morning.
It is an antiseptic and can be used for treating open wounds. Tests have also shown that it has anti viral properties, making it useful for treating cold sores and other viral infections. It is widely used as a mild sedative and relaxant, and it also relaxes the smooth muscle tissue of the digestive tract, making it a helpful digestive aid.
With its lovely lemony fragrance, it makes a refreshing drink, which can be taken hot, or cold with ice, adding honey if necessary.
For cooking it can be added to salads, omelettes, fish, rice, soups and sauces, and is also good in custards and jellies
Growing: Very easy to grow. It prefers semi shade, or morning sun, although it will happily grow in full sun with enough water. Propagate by dividing the clump in autumn, taking stem cuttings or sow seed in spring.
Medicinal: Depression, stress, anxiety, tension, wound healing, insect bites, indigestion,
menstrual cramps Household: Plant around bee-
Cosmetic: Add to bathwater to soften skin. Use as a facial steam for greasy skin.
Culinary: Salads, sauces, fish, custards and jellies
Quote of the Month
What is a weed?
A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered.
Ralph W Emerson
(1803-
Go Indigenous
Vrouebossie
Geranium incanum
A pretty, sprawling ground cover with violet or magenta flowers, which happily grows throughout South Africa. It is
used to treat most menstruation related ailments, hence its common name. It is also a useful treatment for bladder infections and venereal diseases. The easiest way to take it is as a tea up to three times a day.
Lemon Balm Sorbet
1 egg white
Juice of 1 lemon
¼ cup lemon balm
275ml water
75g castor sugar
Extra leaves to decorate
Bring sugar and water to boil, stirring until sugar has dissolved, remove from heat
Add chopped lemon balm, cover and leave to stand for 30 minutes. Test for flavour,
if it needs to be stronger, bring back to the boil and add another ¼ cup lemon balm,
leave for 30 minutes. Add lemon juice and strain into a shallow container. Freeze
for 1-
Whisk egg whites until stiff and fold into sorbet. Freeze for another 3-
Note: You could replace the lemon balm with mint
Courgette Bread
200ml chopped onions
50ml Butter or margarine
2 Tbsp chopped Lemon Balm or marjoram
625ml Flour
2 Tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
600ml grated courgettes
200 ml grated cheddar cheese
3 eggs
100ml buttermilk
Sauté the onion in the butter and cool.
Sift the dry ingredients together.
Mix all other ingredients, including onions and add to dry ingredients.
Pour into a greased loaf tin and bake at 180 C for 50 minutes or until a knife comes out clean.
Serve when still warm with butter or crème fraische
Tip
Make a strong herb tea and use it to make a packet jelly – replacing the water with the tea. It gives the jelly a lovely flavour
Magical Uses
Carry with you to find love
Attach it to your sword to staunch blood
Rub into hives to attract new bees and keep the old ones there.
Editor’s Note
There are more than 700 different Salvia species of which Common Sage is the mostly widely used for medicinal and culinary purposes. However, many of the others are used for medicine, food and aroma, and make a welcome addition in the herb garden. Some examples are Pineapple Sage, Clary Sage, Red Sage, Mexican sage, Jerusalem Sage, and our indigenous Wild Sage which are all available at nurseries. Have fun collecting them!
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Common Sage
Salvia officinalis
The name salvia comes from the latin salvere -
Today it is widely used to prevent sweating -
In cooking it is well known as a flavouring, especially as sage and onion stuffing.
It also contains powerful anti-
Growing: Sage needs full sun and a sandy, well drained soil. It grows easily from seed or cuttings. Cut back after flowering to keep the plant bushy. The plants need to be replaced every 4 – 5 years.
Medicinal: Tea taken at night reduces night sweats. Sage tea after meals aids digestion. Chewing a sage leaf helps mouth ulcers. Sage gargle is useful for sore throats and tonsillitis. Rub a leaf into insect bites, and make a wash to clean wounds.
Household: Use dried leaves as an insect repellent. Boil leaves in water to make a disinfectant. Sage smoke deodorizes animal and cooking smells.
Cosmetic: Use as a hair rinse to darken grey hair. Use as a mouthwash. Use as a facial steam for oily skin and to close large pores.
Culinary: Cook with rich, fatty meats and liver. Use in sausages and stuffing. Mix with strong cheeses, make sage butter, add to pasta dishes.
Garden: Deters cabbage moths and root maggots. Good companion plant to cabbage, carrots, strawberry, marjoram and tomato. Poor companion plant for cucumber and rue.
Cautions: Sage contains thujone which can trigger fits in epileptics.
Avoid therapeutic doses in pregnancy and if breastfeeding.
If sage causes lip and mouth inflammation, use less or stop using it.
Sage Quotes
‘How can a man grow old when he has Sage in his garden?’
Arabian proverb
‘He who would live for aye, must eat Sage in May’
Old English Proverb
‘If the sage tree thrives and grows, the master’s not master and this he knows’
Old English Saying
Go Indigenous
Plumbago
Plumbago auriculata
This pretty, scrambling shrub with sky blue or white flowers is a common sight in most gardens. The flowers are used to make a soothing skin wash for burns and rashes and to clean away grime and perspiration. The root is used as a snuff to relieve headaches
Parsnip & Sage Bread
175 g Parsnips, peeled & grated
50 g Parmesan cheese, cut into 5mm cubes
225 g flour
1 Tbs Baking powder
3 Tbs fresh sage, chopped
1 tsp salt
2 eggs, beaten
1 Tbs milk
Extra parmesan shavings
Whole sage leaves
Olive Oil
Sieve flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl.
Add the grated parsnips, sage, cheese, eggs and milk.
Mix well -
Brush with olive oil and bake at 190 C for 50 minutes, or until a knife comes out clean.
Serve warm.
Sage Gargle
This gargle is an effective remedy for a sore and inflamed throat, tonsillitis and laryngitis
Mix ½ cup malt vinegar, ½ cup water and a handful of sage leaves and two teaspoon of honey in a pot. Bring slowly to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain into a jug. Gargle with the mixture 3 times a day.
Sage Oat Cakes
25g butter
6 Tbsp boiling water
225g oatmeal
1 tsp dried sage
¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda
Pinch of salt
Put the butter into the water to melt.
Mix the other ingredients together and then add the water and butter.
Pat into a round of about 20cm and place on baking tray.
Bake for about 40 minutes at 180 C.
Cut into 8 wedges
Magical Uses
Sage is used to ensure long life, promote wisdom, for protection and for wishes.
To make a wish comes true, write it on a sage leaf and hide it beneath your pillow for three nights. If you dream of what you have wished then your wish will materialise. If not bury the sage leaf in the garden to prevent bad luck.
Sage Myths
Its bad luck to plant your own sage bush, get a stranger to do it.
A full bed of sage brings bad luck, so make sure you have another plant in with it
Editor’s Note
It is that lovely time of year when we are happy to be in Gauteng rather than the Cape. Even though the mornings and nights are cold, the days are wonderful.
Now is the time to get the last of those herbs harvested before the frost gets them. Also cover up or take inside any tender herbs that you don’t want to lose. Tree tomatoes, ginger bushes, perennial basils and pelargonium are some to watch out for. Calendulas are starting to flower already, so pick them often to increase the flowers. It will be the herb of the month in July, so you’ll get some ideas of what to do with them.
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Field Poppy
Papaver rhoeas
This bright red flower grows through out the world and for thousands of years has been used for food and medicine. It is related to the Opium Poppy, but does not have the same narcotic effects. In the Victorian Language of Flowers, it stood for ‘consolation’. It is also the flower of remembrance – this goes back to World War 1, where the fields of red poppies symbolized the blood shed at Flanders.
The Victorians used the crushed petals to give colour to their lips and nails and it is still used to add a pink colour to vinegars, wines and teas. The nut like taste of the seeds makes it a lovely addition to breads and other baked goods. However, only a little is needed – too much makes the food bitter.
Cultivation: Full sun and in well drained soil. They need a cold spell before they germinate. Plant in early autumn and water daily until the plants are established.
Medicinal: For irritable coughs and respiratory catarrh. A mild sedative.
Cosmetic: Apply the wet, crushed petal to pimples to reduce inflammation
Culinary: Add the seed to breads, cakes and biscuits. It also makes an interesting addition to curries.
Household: The petals add colour to teas, vinegars, medicines and wines
Go Indigenous
Cancer Bush
Sutherlandia frutescens
This attractive bush grows up to 1 metre in height and has grey-
It is used, as the name indicates, to treat cancer, and also to improve the immune system. Other reported uses are for a variety of ailments including colds, flu, chicken pox, asthma, diabetes, varicose veins, piles, liver and kidney problems, stress, back ache and rheumatism.
Research has shown that it contains active compounds including canavanine, pinitol
and amino acid, GATO. Canavanine has documented anti cancer and antiviral activity,
pinitol is a known anti-
(Peoples Plants – BE van Wyk and N Gerike
Poppy Seed and Lemon Muffins
300 g Cake flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 Tbs castor sugar
1 Tbs poppy seeds
2 Tbs Lemon peel, finely grated
100 g Butter
100 g Smooth apricot jam
2 eggs
80 ml Buttermilk
Sift together all of the dry ingredients. Add the lemon peel.
Melt the butter and jam in a small pot or the microwave. Stir so it is smooth. Add buttermilk and eggs and stir well.
Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not over mix, it should be lumpy.
Spoon mixture into muffin pans and bake at 200 C for 12-
Poppy Brandy
½ cup seedless raisins
1 Tbsp Fennel seed
1 Tbsp coriander seed
1 Tbsp aniseed
2 Tbsp sliced fresh ginger
1 cup treacle sugar
1 bottle brandy
1 cup poppy petals
Put everything into a glass or earthenware jar. Seal and shake well. Store in a dark cupboard for
1 month and shake daily.
Strain and discard seeds.
Decant into a nice bottle. Serve in liqueur glasses
Winter Lip Protector
Protect your lips this winter – make some for the whole family to keep away cold sores and chapped lips.
2 Tbs Vaseline
2 tsp sweet almond oil
½ tsp lavender essential oil
½ tsp tea tree oil
Melt the Vaseline and oil together in a double boiler (or a glass bowl over a pot of boiling water)
Remove from heat and when cooled add the essential oils.
Pour into small pots
Use as often as required
Magical Uses
Poppy seeds and flowers are eaten to promote fertility and wealth.
The seeds are added to foods to induce love.
To get the answer to a question, write it on blue ink on white paper. Fold the paper into a poppy seed pod and place it under your pillow. Your answer will appear in a dream.
Editor’s Note
Firstly an apology to the Capetonians who were offended by last month’s comment on their lousy weather! I’m sure you re just jealous of the glorious weather we are having!
This month’s herb is the Marigold, Calendula officinalis, also known as the Pot Marigold or English Marigold. Do not confuse it with the African or French Marigold, Tagetes patula, which is toxic if taken internally.
They are really easy to grow from seed, but you can also find them as seedlings in most nurseries.
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Pot Marigold
Calendula officinalis
This bright and cheerful herb is found in many winter gardens and has many uses as a healing, cosmetic and culinary herb.
It was used by the Ancient Egyptians as a rejuvenating herb, and in the American Civil War it was used on the battlefields to treat open wounds. In addition to the medicinal properties, Hindus, Persians, Greeks and English all used it to flavour and add colour to soups, stews, rice dishes, cheese and butter.
Nowadays it is seldom used as a culinary herb, but it is prized for its healing properties for the skin and for bile production in the liver.
Cultivation: Very easy to grow from seed, which can be sown directly into the ground or in seed trays. It needs a sunny position, and is happy in most soils as long as it is not too wet.
Keep removing the dead flowers to encourage continuous flowering.
Medicinal: Soothing, healing and antiseptic. Use on most skin conditions including acne, eczema, leg ulcers, varicose veins, rashes, bruises, chilblains, cracked nipples from breastfeeding and bed sores. Use as a mouthwash for gum problems. Drink as a tea to help digestion and to promote bile production in the liver.
Household: Makes a pale yellow dye.
Culinary: Add petals to foods to give a lovely yellow colour and a tangy flavour. Especially good with soups, stews, yoghurt, soft cheeses, cakes, breads and milk dishes.
Add fresh petals and young leaves to salads and stir-
Cosmetic: Make a cream with the petals or add the petals to baths and facial steams for cleansing, healing and softening the skin
Go Indigenous
Wild Mint
Mentha longifolia
This indigenous mint is a lovely addition to any herb garden. Just remember that mints are invasive, so it is best contained in a pot if you don’t have lots of space. It has the same uses as Peppermint and Spearmint, although the flavour is milder if used in cooking. It makes a delicious tea. As a medicine it is used to treat headaches, coughs, colds, asthma, fevers, indigestion, flatulence, painful menstruation and urinary tract infections.
For cooking you would use it in the same ways as other mints.
Cheese & Herb Bread
Try using other herbs for a different taste.
1 ½ cups White flour
½ cup Nutty Wheat flour
1 Tbsp Baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 Tbsp brown sugar
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup fresh chives, chopped
2 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 ½ cups Cheddar cheese, grated
1 egg
¾ cup milk
Sift the dry ingredients into a large bowl.
Add herbs and cheese.
Mix egg and milk together, add to dry ingredients. The mixture will be stiff.
Place in a greased loaf tin and bake at 190 C for 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Marigold Oil
Use this oil for sore chapped hands, rough skin, acne, eczema, chilblains, cracked nipples, cuts and abrasions.
Fill a small glass jar with Marigold (Calendula officinalis) petals.
Cover the petals with sweet almond oil.
Cover the top of jar with a piece of muslin and leave on a windowsill for 3-
Strain the oil and pour into a clean bottle.
To use, smooth the oil into the affected areas.
Calendula Chicken Fillets
4 chicken breast fillets
1 carton natural yogurt
1 tsp curry powder
½ cup calendula petals
2 Tbs boiling water
Pour the boiling water over the petals and leave to stand for 10 minutes.
Mix the yoghurt and curry powder with the calendula petals and water.
Marinate the chicken in the yoghurt for 3-
Grill, bake or fry the chicken and serve with salad, rice or vegetables.
Magical Uses
Garlands of Marigolds over the doorposts stops evil from entering the house.
Scatter petals under the bed to make your dreams come true.
Carry the flowers in your pocket when in court, and justice will smile favourably on you.
Add flowers to your bath and win the respect of all of those you meet
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Editor’s Note
Well, here we are, more than half way through winter and it hasn’t really been cold yet! No doubt we will still get some cold weather before spring gets here. In the meantime the winter herbs are flowering and can be harvested, and you can also start planting spring herbs in trays.
This month is another wonderful herb – Ginger. It is a herb we should always have available and use often.
Enjoy,
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Ginger
Zingiber officinale
Ginger is known in Ayurvedic medicine as the universal remedy; and an old Indian Proverb says ‘Every good quality is contained in ginger’
It appeared prominently in China’s first great herbal, the Pen Tsao Ching, which was written around about 3000 B.C. It was used for nausea, colds, fever, body odour, arthritis, kidney problems, menstrual cramps, morning sickness, tetanus and leprosy and for putting one in touch with the spiritual realm. In due course, Chinese Sailors began chewing on pieces of Ginger to prevent sea sickness and today it is still used for motion sickness with great success. In the East ginger was also used as an antidote to shellfish poisoning, which is why is it is still used in Chinese fish dishes and served with sushi.
Ancient Greeks used Ginger mainly as a digestive aid. After a meal they ate it wrapped in bread. After a while it was incorporated into the bread, and finally evolved into Gingerbread. In due time, this evolved into the sweet gingerbread as we know it. Ginger Beer also started off as a medicinal remedy. It was used for all manner of stomach ailments and used extensively in England and then taken to the colonies, where it is still popular as a beverage.
Propagation: Plant a piece of fresh ginger in a pot or in the ground about 10 cm deep. It needs frequent watering and protection from cold. Harvest after one year.
Medicinal: For nausea, flatulence, indigestion, digestive cramps, menstrual cramps,
colds, fever, circulatory problems. Make a tea with 1-
Culinary: Can be added to fish and shellfish dishes, with chicken, fruit and salads. Also used in breads, cakes and biscuits and candied or preserved in a syrup.
Cosmetic: add to the bath to increase circulation.
Go Indigenous
Wild Ginger
Siphonochilus aethiopicus
This is a beautiful herb to have, although it must be protected from frost. It has large leaves developing from a small rhizome. In summer it bears stunning pink flowers at the base of the plant. It is used for colds, cough, flu and menstrual problems. The rhizomes are chewed fresh.
Gingerbread
2/3 cup Butter
1 cup soft brown sugar
2 Tbsp Molasses
2 cups flour
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
2 tsp ground ginger
2/3 cup milk
1 egg, beaten
2 apples, peeled and chopped
Melt butter, sugar and molasses together
Sieve flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and ginger into a bowl.
Mix the egg and milk, butter mixture and the apples to the flour mixture and stir until mixed.
Pour batter into a greased 23cm square cake tin.
Bake in a preheated oven 170 C for 35 minutes or until a knife inserted into it comes out clean.
Leave to cool in the pan. Cut into bars.
Revitalizing Bath Mix
This mix will revitalize tired skin. The ginger increases circulation, the parsley tones, the lemon cleanses and the oats soften the water.
Combine 1 tsp grated fresh ginger root, 3 tsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tsp grated lemon peel and 2 Tbsp rolled oats. Tie into a piece of muslin and add to a warm bath.
Ginger Beer
225g sugar
50g fresh ginger
15ml cream of tartar
Grated rind and juice of 1 lemon
2.75 l boiling water
7 g fresh yeast
Mix together everything except the yeast and lemon juice, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Allow to cool
Crumble in the yeast and stir well
Leave in a warm place for 2 days or until the mixture stops frothing.
Add the lemon juice and strain into sterilised bottles. Seal and store in a dark place. It can be drunk immediately.
Makes 2.75 l
Magical Uses
Plant ginger or sprinkle ginger powder into your purse to attract money.
Ginger ‘heats up’ the action of spells, especially love and success spells
The Dobu islanders of the Pacific chew ginger and spit it at oncoming storms to halt them.
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Editor’s Note
Oregano is one of those herbs that you must have in your garden if you enjoy cooking. There are not many recipes that call for it alone, but it is usually included with thyme, sage, basil and parsley. You can make your own Italian Herb mix by putting equal quantities of these herbs together in a spice jar. Experiment with different quantities and other herbs.
The next one year herb course is starting soon so phone if you are interested
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Oregano
Origanum vulgare
This popular herb is well known as a pizza topping and for its use in Italian and Greek foods. Its use as a medicine goes back to Ancient Egypt, where it was used it to heal, disinfect and preserve. In Ancient Greece it was use as a digestive aid, an expectorant and to treat arthritis. American and Chinese doctors used it for fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, itching skin and to promote menstruation. The name comes from the Greek oros and ganos meaning Joy of the Mountain, and it was used by bridal couples to ensure lasting peace and happiness, and placed on graves to keep the spirits happy.
Marjoram, Origanum marjorana is closely related to Oregano, and the two are often confused. Marjoram is not as robust as oregano and the flavour is milder, making it more suitable for chicken and fish dishes.
Cultivation: Oregano grows very easily and can easily become invasive. It needs full sun and a well drained soil. It grows happily in a pot.
Propagation: The simplest way is to take a root cutting from an existing plant. It also grows well from seed.
Medicinal: Take as a tea for digestive problems, coughs, nervous headaches, irritability, general exhaustion and period pains. Use externally as a
poultice for swellings, sore
joints, arthritic pain and infected wounds. Chew a leaf for temporary relief of toothache
Culinary: Add to most Italian and Greek dishes. It is excellent with tomatoes, cheese, vegetables and to add to meat marinades. Put the dried stems in to the braai coals for additional flavour.
Cosmetic: For a relaxing bath add the leaves to the water. The essential oil is reputed to prevent wrinkles. Make a strong tea and use as a hair conditioner.
Go Indigenous
Bulbine
Bulbine frutescens
Many people have this aloe like plant growing in their gardens and know how useful
it is for treating stings and insect bites. Acting in much the same way as Aloe
Vera, it is useful for many skin wounds, burns, rashes, itchy skin, cracked lips
and cold sores. Used frequently (every 1-
Tomato Bruchetta with Cannelli Beans
8 slices ciabatta bread, toasted and rubbed with garlic
4 large tomatoes, sliced
4 teaspoons fresh oregano
2 small chillies, finely chopped
Extra virgin olive oil
1 tin cannelli beans
2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 large tomatoes, chopped
Fresh ground black pepper and salt
Fry the garlic in a little olive oil, for 2-
Place the tomato slices onto the ciabatta slices and sprinkle with the oregano and chillies. Drizzle with olive oil and then add a tablespoon of the hot bean mixture. Season with salt and black pepper and serve immediately with a glass of red wine
Olive and Oregano Marinade
A marinade that’s perfect for fish, chicken, lamb and steaks
1 small clove garlic
1 handful fresh oregano leaves
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
Juice of ½ lemon
10-
Mash the garlic in a pestle and mortar.
Add the oregano and olives and mash again. Then add the lemon juice and olive oil. Mix well.
Rub the marinade into the meat or fish and leave for at least 1 hour.
Grill, basting well with the marinade.
Cheese Muffins
1 cup flour
1 Tbsp baking powder
1 cup grated cheese
1 egg beaten and made up to 1 cup with milk
1 Tbsp fresh oregano, parsley or thyme
Mix everything together until a lumpy batter. Do not over mix.
Put into greased muffins tins and bake at 200 C for 15 minutes
Magical Uses
It is used in love spells and added to food to strengthen love.
Carry some for protection and place a piece in each room of the house to protect the inhabitants.
Grow in the garden to protect against evil.
Take daily during the winter to protect the body against colds
Editor’s Note
This month’s herb is the chilli, and unless you really dislike spicy food, chillis are easy to incorporate into your diet and give great flavour.
The next 1 year herb course starts on 8 October 2005 and there is still space if you would like to attend. Also on
20 October 2005 is the AGM of The Herb Association of
South Africa. Please attend if you can, details attached
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Chilli/Red Pepper
Capsicum frutescens
This herb is well known for its use in cooking and the fiery taste it gives to foods, but it also has an important place in the herbal medicine chest. It is a stimulant for the whole body, increases blood flow, improves circulation, relieves indigestion, encourages sweating, is antibacterial and is good for colds, sore throats and tonsillitis. It is also helpful for muscle aches, bruising and arthritic pains.
There are many different varieties of chilli, some mild, like the Banana chilli and others, such as the Habanero, so extremely hot only chilli fanatics will attempt to eat them!
When you cook with dried chilli, remember that it must be heated in hot oil to release the flavour. Sprinkling some over a dish that has finished cooking may improve the appearance, but will do little for the taste. The fiery taste is in the seeds and the white ridges inside the chilli. For the taste without the burn, remove all seeds and white ridges before using.
Cultivation: Plant the seeds in trays or directly into the ground. They need full sun and frequent watering and a well composted soil, but are easy to grow.
To dry, lay them out on newspaper and leave in the sun, or thread on to strings which you can hang in the sun. When they are dry pack into jars or tie the strings up in the kitchen. They keep their flavour for about a year.
Culinary: many dishes use chilli or chilli powder in varying amounts. They are also made into sauces and pickles.
Medicinal: Make the hot oil rub for aches and pains. For colds, shock or depression make a tea with ¼ tsp powder in 1 cup boiling water. Use 1 Tablespoon of this in another cup of boiling water twice a day. You can also use this as a gargle.
It is rich in Vitamin C but such small quantities are usually taken that it has little effect
Go Indigenous
African Potato
Hypoxis hemerocallidea
This is a herb that has had lots of publicity recently because of its use for AIDS patients. In clinical trials it has been found to be successful to boost the immune system and to treat cancer, especially prostate cancer. Traditionally it has been used to treat bladder disorders, prostate cancer, dizziness and insanity. It is also given to invalids and children as a tonic.
It is a small plant with a tuberous rootstock, hairy, straplike leaves and bright yellow star shaped flowers which are borne on slender stalks. It grows wild in the veldt and is in danger of being over harvested. It does not like too much water and needs a sandy soil. It also does not like to be disturbed once it is growing. It will grow in the garden, but has to be neglected!
Chilli Corn Bread
½ cup Flour
½ cup Polenta or Mielie Meal
1 Tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 or 2 green chillies, finely chopped
5 spring onions, finely chopped
2 eggs
½ cup sour cream or buttermilk
½ cup oil
Mix the dry ingredients together.
Add chilli and onion
Mix the eggs, sour cream and oil together and mix this with the dry ingredients.
Put the mixture into a greased 20cm baking tin
Bake in a preheated oven of 200 C for 20-
Cut into squares and leave to cool slightly before turning out.
Best served warm.
Hot Oil Rub
This oil is ideal for muscle aches and cramps, cold joints and poor circulation. Rub the oil into the affected area when needed. Test a small area first to ensure you are not sensitive to it. Don’t use on broken skin as it will sting. Wash hands after applying so that you don’t rub any oil into your eyes.
2 Tbsp Chilli powder
2 Tbsp mustard powder
3cm piece of ginger, sliced
1 cup vegetable oil
Combine all ingredients in a double boiler.(You can use a glass bowl in a saucepan of water) Heat slowly for 2 hours. Strain through a muslin cloth into a glass bottle.
Warm Chilli Dressing
This dressing is delicious over salads, vegetables, chicken or fish
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
3 Jalepenos seeded and finely chopped
1 tsp sugar
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Heat the olive oil in a pan. Add the garlic and chilli, cook over a low heat until soft. Add the sugar and lemon juice and stir for 2 minutes. Add parsley and black pepper and pour over the food while still hot.
Magical Uses
Used for fidelity, love and to break a hex.
If you think your partner is looking for greener pastures, tie two chillies together with a red ribbon and place this beneath your pillow.
If you have been cursed sprinkle chilli powder around the house to break the spell
Editor’s Note
Basil is one of my favourite herbs and it’s such a great herb to cook with, especially fresh.
Try the recipes; don’t be put off by the thought of the beetroot pesto. It tastes nothing like the dreadful beetroot that comes in bottles with vinegar. Plus the colour is so good it would cheer anyone up!
Enjoy it,
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Sweet Basil
Ocimum basilicum
The spicy smell of this popular herb brings summer into any kitchen. It is used in many dishes, and is the main ingredient of pesto. Originating in India, it has been used for centuries both for cooking and in the medicine chest. To the Ancient Greeks and Romans the herb was a symbol of hostility and insanity. The Italians, however, associated basil with love. When a woman was ready to receive her lover, she would place a basil plant on her doorstep.
In France it was only for the use of the monarchy and had to be cut with a pair of gold scissors held by the monarch. In India, the herb was considered sacred to the gods Krishna and Vishnu. In Haiti it was used for protection against evil spirits and to bring prosperity. In England it was also considered a herb of love and for testing faithfulness. A sprig of fresh basil placed in the hand of an unfaithful partner would wither and die!
Cultivation: Basil is an annual that grows easily. It likes a lot of sun and well drained soil and lots of water when it is hot. Remove the flowers as they appear and it will bush out and last longer. Basil grows really well in pots. It is a good companion plant as it is an insect repellent. Do not plant it close to Rue (Ruta graveolens) as they are bad companions and one of them will suffer
Household: It is an insect repellent, so try placing a pot in the kitchen, or next to the braai area to deter flies. Remember to bruise the leaves occasionally to release the oils.
Culinary: Add fresh to salads, pasta, pizzas and other Mediterranean dishes. It goes well with tomatoes, lamb, fish and chicken. Use in oils and vinegars. Make pesto and serve with pasta It does not freeze well so use dried when out of season.
Medicinal: Contains vitamins A and C and anti oxidants. Infuse as a tea to aid digestion. A strong infusion used as a mouthwash is also effective against mouth ulcers. Rub a fresh leaf onto insect bites to relieve the itch. The essential oil is used to treat nervous exhaustion, mental fatigue and depression.
Cosmetic: Add a bunch of basil to your bath for an instant ‘lift’. Make an infusion and apply to a clean face to help clear up acne
Go Indigenous
Ginger Bush
Tetradenia riparia
This bush is used for most respiratory ailments, mouth ulcers, stomach ailments, malaria and swollen legs. An infusion of the leaves can be drunk once a day
It is an untidy bush which can grow up to 3m high. The flowers are in dense spikes and white to mauve in colour. The whole plant has a gingery smell when crushed. It grows easily and needs little water and full sun. It will have to be pruned regularly to prevent it becoming straggly. It must be protected from frost, especially while young.
Il Pesto
There are hundreds of variations of the classic pesto sauce, but this is a good one. Use it over pasta, vegetables, meat, as a spread, as a dip, add to soups – the list is endless!
4 handfuls fresh basil leaves, washed but not bruised
Large pinch salt
2 cloves garlic, peeled and cut in half
1 handful pine kernels
2 Tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
½ wine-
Salt and black pepper
Use a pestle and mortar or food processor to reduce the basil, garlic and salt to a smooth puree.
Add the pine kernels and cheese and blend.
Then add the oil, a little at a time, until you have a smooth and creamy sauce.
Season with salt and pepper
Beetroot Pesto
This has the most amazing colour and a great taste too
250g boiled beetroot
100g pesto (can be home made or ready made)
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
Salt & Pepper
Pasta for four
Sour cream and Parmesan to serve
Liquidize the beetroot, pesto and olive oil together.
Cook the pasta as per instructions on packet. Drain
Combine the sauce and pasta
Serve with sour cream and parmesan
Basil Foot Bath
Perfect for tired, aching feet!
½ cup dried basil
½ cup dried mint
2 Tbsp chilli powder
1 cup Epsom salts
½ cup salt
Mix all of the above together.
Add a handful to a bowl of warm water and soak your feet in it for 15 minutes.
Magical Uses
Soothes lover’s quarrels
For testing a lover’s fidelity
Brings wealth to those who keep it in their pockets
Keeps goats away from your property
Attracts scorpions
It is used for protection
Witches should drink ½ cup of juice before flying
It should be given to new home owners for luck
It is used to prevent inebriation
Editor’s Note
This is a very late and very short December issue as my computer has been out of action until this week.
There are recipes for two punches – the well known Mint Julep and a really good mint punch. Try them both. There are also few hangover cures which may come in useful!
Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year and drive carefully
Sharon
Hangover Cures
There are hundreds of ‘cures’ for hangovers but unfortunately none seem to cure it completely! Here are a few things that may help with some of the symptoms
As alcohol is a diuretic the body has to be re-
Water: Probably the most important – drink lots of it during the evening and especially before going to bed.
Milk Thistle: Aids the liver Available in most chemists and health shops. Take the capsules during the whole party season
Honey: For energy
Ginger: settles stomach
Willow Bark: for headaches
Chamomile Tea: Calming and settles stomach
Banana: to replace lost potassium
Vit B complex and Vit C to replace lost vitamins
Mint Punch
A delicious punch for summer!
1 cup Bacardi
3 stems Lemon Grass
1 bottle ginger ale
2 bottles champagne
2 large bunches indigenous mint
Ice
Roughly chop the lemon grass and leave in the Bacardi for 2 hours
Pour all ingredients into a punch bowl, tearing up the mint.
Float some pansies on the top for decoration.
The Bacardi can be replaced with cane if
you wish
Mint Julep
150ml water
5 Tbsp Chopped Mint 2 Tbsp sugar
Juice of 1 lemon
500ml soda water
150ml whiskey
Sprigs of mint to decorate
Crushed ice
Boil the water and pour over the mint.
Add the sugar and stir until it dissolves. Cool.
Add the lemon juice and strain.
Combine mint juice, whiskey, soda water and ice.
Decorate with mint leaves and serve.
Editor’s Note
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year and you are refreshed and looking forward to the year ahead.
This year I will be doing more one day courses, which are great for people who want a day out and to learn something new. They also give a good introduction to other aspects of herb usage. You will get more details in future newsletters.
Enjoy the month
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Parsley
Petroselinum crispum
Parsley is a herb which needs no introduction as it is commonly used as a flavouring and a garnish. The origins of its use as a garnish go back to the Romans who believed it guarded the food from contamination. In ancient Greece it was primarily used a horse fodder and was associated with both death and strength.
It was the Romans who began eating parsley to counter bad odours and they also considered it a useful tonic. Now, of course, we know that they were right as parsley is rich in Vitamins A, B, C, iron and other minerals.
The three main varieties of parsley are curly leaved (or moss), flat leaf (or Italian) and Hamburg parsley, which is grown for its root. Both the curly leaved and the flat leaved have the same properties. The active ingredients in parsley are apiol and myristicin and these are contained in the whole plant, with the seeds being the most concentrated.
Cultivation: Parsley grows easily from seed, either in trays or sown directly into
the ground. It can take 6-
Culinary: The leaves are best in the first year of growth and should be added at the end of cooking to preserve the flavour. It can be added to most savoury dishes, sauces and butters
Medicinal: Parsley is used as a tonic, digestive aid, breath freshener, a diuretic and mild laxative, for kidney and liver problems, painful menstruation, PMT, indigestion and colic, rheumatism, inflammation of the prostate gland, as an antiseptic dressing for wounds and to strengthen hair and nails
Cosmetic: Make a strong tea for a hair tonic and conditioner. Use for a facial steam for dry skin.
Home & Garden Grow with roses to improve their scent
Go Indigenous
Pineapple Flower
Eucomis autumnalis
This bulbous plant is looking lovely at the moment with the pineapple-
It grows very easily and is propagated by splitting the bulbs when it dies down for winter.
The bulb is used medicinally and it is commonly used for lower back ache. Other uses include urinary ailments, fevers, colic, hangovers, facilitating childbirth and syphilis.
Parsley Soup
This is an old fashioned soup which is delicious and excellent for kidney and bladder ailments, convalescents and people suffering from rheumatism
2 l boiling water
2 cups chopped spring onions, including green tops
2 cups grated carrots
2 Tbsp carrot leaves, chopped
½ cup celery leaves
2 cups chopped parsley
¼ cup lemon juice
Salt & pepper
Oil for frying
2 tsp marmite
Fry the onions and celery in a little oil until they start to brown. Add the carrots and fry for another 2 minutes, stirring.
Add all of the other ingredients and simmer for 15 minutes with a lid on.
Serve with brown bread
How to Use Parsley
Parsley can be added to all savoury breads and muffins for a delicate flavour. You could also make either Parsley butter or Parsley spread to go with them. These also go well with grilled fish, any grilled meat or chicken and vegetables
Parsley Butter
Mix together 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley, ½ cup butter, a squeeze of lemon juice and salt and pepper. .
Parsley Face Pack
Use this face pack for dry, sensitive skin
2 large handfuls parsley
1 cup boiling water
1 cup yoghurt
Infuse the parsley in the water, with a lid on, for 10 minutes. Strain
Add the infusion to the yoghurt and mix well.
Smooth over the face, neck and hands and leave on for 15 minutes.
Rinse off with warm water
Magical Uses
Provokes lust
Promotes fertility
Not to be cut if you are in love as
your love will be cut with it
It can attract death if eaten before a war.
Place in your clothes for protection and
to prevent misfortune
It is used for purification rituals
Wear a wreath of parsley on your heard to prevent inebriation
Parsley Spread
2 cups parsley, chopped
2 spring onions, chopped
½ cup cream
1 cup cream cheese
2 Tbsp lemon juice
Salt & pepper
Mix everything together and season
Editor’s Note
Although we all love this rain that we are having you must remember to watch your herbs for mildew and fungal diseases. Lemon Balm is especially prone to mildew and the best thing to do is cut it right down to about 20 cm high. You can do the same with any herbs that have fallen over. Mullein is another herb that hates the heavy rain on its leaves. Try and make a shelter so that the rain doesn’t smother it, or put it into a pot and move it out of the way of the downpour.
Remember that the next 1 year practical herbal applications course starts at the end of this month, so contact me if you are interested.
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Nasturium
Tropaeolum majus
This cheerful little plant is found in many gardens where it is usually grown for ornamental purposes.
The name originates in an ancient custom of setting up a trophy pole, known as the tropaeum, which was draped with the armour of the conquered army as a sign of victory. When Linnaeus discovered nasturtiums he named them tropaeolum as the round leaves with the stem at the back looked like a shield and the red flowers looked like blood stained helmets.
Originating in Peru it was known as the ‘Flower of Love’ as it was said to be an aphrodisiac with powers of rejuvenation. These powers have not been confirmed, but it is very rich in Vitamin C, sulphur and phosphorus, is an antibiotic, anti fungal and antiseptic. It is an effective remedy against the common cold and flu and catarrhal problems. The juice from the leaf or stem is a good remedy for itching and insect bites and a poultice of seeds is used for drawing boils and abscesses. Because of the high sulphur content, nasturtiums are good for the hair and scalp. They secrete an essence which repels white fly and they are a good companion plant for roses as they attract aphids with little harm to themselves, which keeps the aphids off the roses.
Cultivation: They grow easily from seed in most types of soil and in sun or semi shade.
Culinary: Add the leaves and flowers to salads or cheese dishes for a peppery flavour. Pickle the seeds as a substitute for capers.
Medicinal: Chew 1-
Cosmetic: Use as a tonic for hair and scalp
Home & Garden: A good companion plant
An Indigenous Herb
Fever tea
Lippia javanica
This pleasant, lemony tasting herb is usually taken as an infusion, and is especially useful for chest ailments, including colds and flu. Other uses are for malaria, stomach problems, headaches and eczema. Weak infusions are taken daily as a general tonic and it is available in most health shops
Although it grows easily it is frost tender and so must be protected during winter for the first 2 years, until it is established
Pumpkin and Nasturtium Bake
A very tasty dish which can be eaten with a green salad as a main meal or as a side dish with fish or chicken.
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
450g pumpkin or butternut, peeled and sliced
2 onions, finely chopped
1 tsp fresh garlic, finely chopped
2 large tomatoes, skinned and sliced
3 Tbsp nasturtium flowers
Salt and pepper
Large pinch of allspice or cinnamon
Heat the oil in a pan, add the pumpkin and fry gently for 3-
Transfer the pumpkin slices to a greased, shallow ovenproof dish. Leaving no spaces between them
Fry the onions and garlic for 2-
Place the onion mixture on top of the pumpkin slices and sprinkle with salt, pepper and allspice.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180 C for 30 minutes.
Decorate with fresh nasturtium flowers and serve hot
Herbal insect repellents
Eucalyptus – for cockroaches
Basil – for flies, ants & white fly
Coriander – ants, aphids & cockroaches
Khakibos – fleas
Garlic – most insects
Lavender – deters many insects
Mints – ants
Bay – fish moths, weevils
Parsley – aphids, snails & slugs
Rosemary – mosquitoes and some beetles
Rue – Moths
Lemon Verbena – fish moths, moths, fleas
Sage – Moths, snails and cabbage moth
Thyme – cabbage moths & flies
Pickled Nasturtium Seeds
These make a good substitute for capers.
300ml white vinegar
15ml salt
3 peppercorns
1 bay leaf
225g nasturtium seeds
Put the vinegar, salt, peppercorns and salt in a pan. Bring to the boil and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the nasturtium seeds.
When cool bottle in sterile jars.
Nastutium Hair Tonic
This is a refreshing hair tonic that can be massaged into the scalp and hair with the fingertips.
Pack a small glass jar with
Nasturtium leaves and flowers.
Cover with vodka or cane and shake well.
Leave in a sunny spot for two weeks, shaking daily.
Strain through a muslin cloth into a clean bottle.
Apply 2 Tablespoons of the tonic to the hair twice a week.
Quote
A herb is a friend of physicians and
the pride of cooks
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Editor’s Note
This month’s herb is fennel which is one of the herbs that is not used enough in kitchens; mainly because people do not know what to do with it. I hope you get some ideas here and include it in your herb and spice collection.
If you enjoy the rubs look out for the one day workshop ‘Herbs and Spices for Cooking’ which is coming up later in the year.
Now is the time to start harvesting your herbs, but make sure they are dry or you will end up with a mouldy mess!
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Fennel
Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel is one the oldest cultivated herbs and prized by the Romans. The men ate it to keep in good health and the women to control weight. It was also included in 22 of Pliny’s (the Roman naturalist) herbal remedies. Hippocrates prescribed fennel for babies colic and to increase the mother’s milk flow. The Emperor Charlemagne was so fond of fennel he ordered to be grown in all imperial gardens. King Edward 1 of England did exactly the same as his household was consuming more than 4 kg per month.
During the 17th century it was used extensively in herbal healing and was also included in laxative remedies as it counteracted the cramps caused by strong purgatives.
It is an antispasmodic and relaxes the smooth muscle lining of the digestive tract and is an excellent remedy for wind, indigestion and colic. It is commonly used to stimulate menstruation and increase milk flow.
Research has also shown that fennel reduces the toxic effects of alcohol on the body
Caution: Do not use if pregnant
Cultivation: Sow seed into well drained soil. Thin out to 20 cm apart. Water well until the plants are established.
It grows in full sun. Do not plant near dill or coriander
Culinary: Use seed with meats, fish and breads. Sprout for salads. Use leaves & stems in salads, soups and with oily fish. Chop or slice the raw bulb of Florence Fennel for a salad or steam as a vegetable.
Medicinal: Seeds – use in a tea for indigestion. Chew seeds to allay hunger. Breast feeding mothers drink fennel tea to relieve colic in babies and increase milk flow. Drink tea to combat water retention. Chew seeds to freshen breath.
Cosmetic: Use a decoction as an eye compress for inflamed eyes. Use in facial steams for deep cleansing
Above the lowly plants it towers
The fennel with its yellow flowers
And in an earlier age than ours
Was gifted with the wondrous powers,
Lost vision to restore.
It gave new strength and fearless mood,
And gladiators, fierce and rude,
Mingled it in their daily food:
And he who battled and subdued
A wreath of fennel wore
From ‘The Goblet of Life’
Henry Wordsworth Longfellow (1846)
An Indigenous Herb
Wild Dagga
Leonotis Leonurus
This attractive bush grows to 2-
It is an effective remedy for bronchial complaints, especially asthma and bronchitis. Recorded uses are for snake bite, skin diseases, high blood pressure, flu, epilepsy and viral hepatitis.
It is usually taken as a tea.
Fennel as a Spice
Fennel is included in many spice mixes and rubs.
Here are two to try. These can be used either as a rub, i.e. rubbed into the meat or fish or vegetables prior to cooking, or as a flavouring by adding to the cooking liquids of vegetables, meat, fish or rice, or added to oil to make a marinade. Use 1 – 2 Tbsp per ½ kg of food to be flavoured
Hot & Fragrant Mix
2Tbsp Fennel seed 2 Tbsp cumin seed
2 Tbsp Coriander seed 1 clove
½ Tbsp black peppercorns ¼ tsp salt
½ cinnamon stick 2 cardamom pods
½ tsp chilli powder (1 tsp if you would like it spicier)
Crush everything together in a pestle & mortar. Store in an airtight container.
Seed Bread
This healthy bread is so easy to make and it is better than any you would buy. Try adding different seeds, nuts and dried fruit for a change of taste.
2 cups Natural Yogurt or buttermilk
2 Tbsp Honey or Molasses
3 cups Nutty Wheat flour
2 tsp Bicarbonate of Soda
1 tsp salt
½ cup Sunflower or Pumpkin seeds
½ cup other seeds, raisins, or nuts
Preheat oven to 180 C and grease a loaf tin.
Mix yogurt, honey and bicarb together
Mix remaining ingredients together.
Add yogurt mixture to dry ingredients and stir well -
Put into the loaf tin, smooth the top and sprinkle with seeds.
Bake for about 1 hour, or until a knife inserted into the loaf comes out clean.
Cool for 20 minutes before removing from the tin. Back to Top
Fennel face pack
Use this for dull skin or wrinkles
2 Tbsp fennel seed
1 cup boiling water
2 Tbsp honey
½ cup oatmeal
Pour the boiling water over the seed and stand for 10 minutes.
Mix the honey and oatmeal with the seed and water to make a thick paste.
Smooth over a clean skin, avoiding the eye area
Relax for 15-
Remove with warm water, and then splash the skin with cold water to close the pores.
Provencal Mix
2 tsp lavender flowers 2 tsp thyme
2 tsp rosemary 1 tsp fennel seed
1 tsp ground black pepper 2 tsp marjoram
3 tsp basil 1 tsp garlic
Mix together and store in an airtight container
How to Use Fennel Seed
Soups: Add ½ tsp ground seed to 2 cups potato, fish or cabbage soup
Fish: Sprinkle onto fish before grilling or baking
Cheese: Add ¼ tsp ground seed to cottage cheese
Meat: Mix with a little oil and rub into roasting meat.
Add 1 tsp to ½ kg hamburger mince. Add 1 tsp to ½ kg meat in stews.
Vegetables: Add 2 tsp to 2 cups cabbage, spinach or gem-
Editor’s Note
Autumn is here and you should be harvesting as much as possible. Now you should also take up any roots that you need to dry. Just remember when your herbs are dry you must check them at least once a month for bugs!
I have been asked to include an advertising page for herb related goods and services
plus alternative remedies. If anybody wishes to advertise please contact me .Only
short 3-
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Garlic
Allium sativum
Garlic is the world’s second oldest medicine (the oldest is Ephreda) and is often
regarded as one of the best. During the Middle Ages it was known as ‘poor man’s
treacle’, treacle coming from the Latin word ‘theriaca’ meaning cure-
It has always been attributed with protective properties. We still hang garlic braids in the kitchen and this tradition comes from the braids that were hung at the door to chase away evil spirits.
As well as being a powerful antibiotic, garlic lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure,
reduces blood sugar levels, is an expectorant, so is helpful for all bronchial ailments,
coughs and colds, it helps to eliminate lead and toxic heavy metals form the body.
It also has antibacterial and anti fungal properties making it useful for treating
acne, cold-
The drawback of such a wonder drug is, of course, its smell. Breath fresheners such as parsley, fennel and fenugreek are not totally effective, so the only solution is to make sure everybody eats it; or you take the capsules.
It is an indispensable culinary herb and can be included in most savoury dishes. More and more people appreciate the pungent taste, so don’t be afraid to use it!
Cultivation: Grows easily from seed or bulb. It prefers a rich, moist soil. Harvest in late summer.
Culinary: Can be added to most savoury dishes. The leaves can also be used and have a milder flavour than the bulb.
Medicinal: Antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral. Reduces cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar. Boosts immune system.
Cosmetic: A fresh garlic clove or garlic vinegar is helpful for acne.
Home & Garden: Garlic is an excellent insect repellent. Plant among flowers or vegetables. Make a garlic spray.
An Indigenous Herb
Pig’s Ear
Cotyledon orbiculata
This is a common garden succulent which is one of the best remedies for warts.
Simply slice one of the fleshy leaves and rub onto the wart three times a day. The leaf can be kept for a few days, slicing off a piece as needed. The wart should disappear within two weeks.
It is also helpful for earache, warm a leaf and place over the ear. Keep in place for at least 15 minutes. Repeat every hour if necessary.
Garlicky Traditions
For the plague, rub a garlic clove over the whole body and then throw the clove into running water.
For hepatitis wear 13 cloves around the neck for 13 days. At midnight on the final day walk to an intersection and throw it away.
Mountaineers should wear it around the neck to repel bad weather.
Rub a cut clove around a new pot to rid it of negative vibrations.
Hang braids in the house to chase away evil spirits.
Wear around the neck to keep vampires at bay.
Feed a watch dog as much garlic that he can eat on New Year’s Eve and it will make his bite more vicious for the rest of the year.
Young maidens in Mexico eat lots of garlic to repel unwanted suitors.
Spaghetti with Garlic and Herbs
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp fresh garlic, finely chopped
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
½ tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 Tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
2 Tbsp dried breadcrumbs
Salt and black pepper
½ kg pasta
Cook the pasta as per instructions
Put the olive oil and garlic in a pan and sauté until garlic starts to change colour.
Add the herbs and quickly stir. Remove from heat.
Strain the pasta and add the herb sauce, breadcrumbs, pepper and salt. Mix well and serve immediately.
Garlic Oil
This can be used for cooking, as a salad dressing or for rubbing onto the chest for catarrh, asthma and coughs as it is a decongestant.
Fill a glass jar with crushed whole garlic cloves. Pour olive oil over the garlic, making sure there are no air bubbles. Cover with a muslin cloth or loosely with foil. Leave for 2 days in a warm place. Strain the oil into clean sterilised bottles and label.
This oil can also be thickened with beeswax to make an ointment for arthritic pain.
Garlic Spray for the Garden
Garlic is an effective insect repellent, spray onto the leaves of the plants and repeat once a week or if it rains.
Adding one of the Artemisias (Wild Als, Mugwort, Wormwood, Southernwood etc) makes it even more effective. This can also be substituted with Rue or Tansy
250g fresh garlic cloves, chopped (not peeled)
4 large handfuls of any Artemisia or Rue
6 Tbsp cooking oil
½ cup Dishwashing soap
1 litre of water
Put the garlic, herb and oil into a bowl and leave for 24 hours.
Strain and discard the garlic and herb.
Add the other ingredients and shake well.
To use add 1 cup of this liquid to 5 litres of water and spray onto the plants.
The liquid must be stored in dark place.
Garlic Vinegar
This can be used in the kitchen, but it is also very good for acne. Apply to clean skin, preferably at night because of the smell.
Fill a glass jar with crushed whole garlic cloves. Bring apple cider vinegar to the boil and pour over the garlic. Seal the jar with the lid.
Leave for 1 week in a warm place. Strain and discard the garlic. Repeat the process with fresh garlic.
Strain through muslin cloth to make sure the vinegar is clear.
Pour into sterilised bottles and label
Editor’s Note
With winter due any day now I thought Horseradish would be a useful herb for all of those sniffles that are bound to arrive with the cold weather.
This month we also have 4 one day workshops which are great fun, you have a lovely day, meet new friends, and learn a new craft – what more could you ask for?
Have a wonderful month
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Horseradish
Armoracia rusticana
Most people know Horseradish as an accompaniment for roast beef, a tradition started
by the by the British around 1640 when the Germans and Danes introduced their version
of this fiery sauce to them. Of course the Germans and Danes still prefer it with
herring -
Anyone who has ever grated horseradish can attest to its reputation for clearing the sinuses. The root is also a good digestive stimulant and should be included in the diet of anyone suffering from griping pains and wind. The root can also be used as a poultice for stiff muscles and joints: put a cloth between the grated root and the skin to prevent skin irritation. The leaves can be chopped and added to animal’s food to dispel worms and improve body tone.
And finally, if you suspect that evil spells have been set against you, sprinkle grated horseradish around the house, in the corners, outside steps and doorway. This will make all evil powers clear out and will diffuse any spells that may have been sent against you.
Cultivation: Grows easily in most soils and conditions, but thrives if given frequent watering. A new plant will grow from the tiniest piece of root so plant it where you intend it to stay.
Culinary: Grated with vinegar is the most common way to serve it, but the root can be added to most savoury dishes. Young leaves are good in salads.
Medicinal: Inhale the oils from freshly grated root for sinus problems. Eat with foods to aid digestion of rich or fatty foods. Use as a poultice for aches and pains.
Cosmetic: It has been used to get rid of brown marks and freckles on the skin. Grate fresh root and add a little lemon juice. Paint onto the skin and leave to dry. Wash off with warm water. (If it starts to burn wash it off immediately)
Home & Garden: Good companion to potatoes and an infusion sprayed on apple trees helps with brown rot
An Indigenous Herb
Sour Fig
Carpobrotus edulis
Most South Africans who have been to the coast during ‘Blue bottle’ season already know about the healing properties of Sour Fig for stings and bites. But that is not the only thing it is used for. The fresh juice is used as a gargle for sore throats and mouth infections; it is taken orally for digestive problems, rubbed onto a sore tooth to relieve pain and used for vaginal thrush.
The fruit is edible and can be made into jam
Tomato and Horseradish Soup
This is delicious and makes a change from traditional tomato soup.
2 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 red chilli, finely chopped
2 Red or green peppers, chopped
1 tin of whole tomatoes
1 cup water
2 tsp lime (or lime) juice
1 tin kidney beans (optional)
2 tsp freshly grated horseradish
Sour cream or yoghurt
Fresh chives (to serve)
Fry the onions in the oil until soft and just starting to turn brown. Add the garlic, chilli and peppers and fry for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the tomatoes, beans and water and simmer for 20 minutes.
Stir in the horseradish, lime juice and salt and pepper and serve each portion with a spoon of sour cream and chopped chives
Red Horseradish Relish
This is far more versatile than the usual horseradish sauce. Mix it with oil for a salad dressing, toss steamed vegetables in it or just use it as a sauce
2 cups grated horseradish root
1 cup grated raw beetroot
2 cups vinegar
3 Tbsp brown sugar
1 stick cinnamon
2 tsp black mustard seeds
1 tsp cloves
Stir together the horseradish and beetroot and pack into sterilised glass jars.
Boil all other ingredients together stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Boil for 5 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick and pout the liquid over the horseradish mix in the jars.
Seal and label.
Store in a dark place for 4 weeks before using.
Sour Fig Jam
500g dried sour figs
500g white sugar
1 litre water
2 Tbsp lemon juice
2cm piece of fresh ginger
1 tsp cloves
Soak the figs in water for 12 hours. Remove the hard part at the bottom.
Cover the fruit with water and boil until tender then drain.
Boil the sugar and water and stir until the sugar dissolves.
Add the fruit, lemon juice, ginger and cloves. Boil until the syrup becomes thick. Pour into sterilised jars. Seal and label.
Horseradish Ointment
Rub this into painful joints, muscles
and chilblains
1 cup Vaseline
¼ cup fresh horseradish, grated
Combine the two in a double boiler and heat for 20 minutes after the Vaseline has melted.
Strain and pour into a glass jar.
Seal and label
Editor’s Note
Elderberries are wonderful for the winter colds and flu and if you are lucky you may still be able to find some that the birds haven’t eaten yet – if not you can buy then at most health shops. The May workshops great fun and enjoyed by all that attended. Details of June and July workshops will be out soon.
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Elder
Sambucus nigra
The Elder has a long tradition of superstitions and beliefs surrounding it. In the past villagers would doff their hats to the tree as they walked past as a sign of respect, and even now some people refuse to burn the wood as it will bring bad luck.
Many spirits were thought to make their homes in Elder trees and unexplained deaths of babies were often blamed on the guardian spirit of the tree, whose permission had not been asked before making the tree into cradles.
Despite the superstitions the tree is a very useful one. The wood is good for burning and for making furniture, the leaves make an efficient insecticide and the berries and flowers have medicinal and culinary uses.
Cultivation: It prefers damps soils and is often found next to rivers and in vlei areas, but it will tolerate drier conditions. Propagate from seed or stem cuttings. In some areas it has become a weed.
Culinary: The flowers are made into fritters and elderflower champagne and can be added to stewed fruits for a Muscadel flavour
The berries are used in elderberry wine, stewed with other fruits and used to make jams.
Home & Garden: The leaves can be made into an insecticide for aphids. You must pour boiling water over half a bucketful of leaves and leave overnight. Top the bucket up with cold water. Spray directly onto the leaves of the affected plants.
Three different colours of dye are produced from the plant – black from the bark and roots, purple from the berries and dark green from the leaves.
Cosmetic: The flowers have a soothing, cleansing and healing effect on the skin. Flowers are skin lightening and have been used to remove freckles and liver spots. A lotion made with the flowers is used for sensitive or sun burned skin. Elder flowers are also used for a cleansing face pack.
Medicinal The flowers are used for hay-
The berries are used for coughs, colds, reduces fever and for headaches.
Caution: The berries and leaves must not be eaten raw as they can cause diarrhoea.
An Indigenous Herb
Bitter Aloe, Cape Aloe
Aloe ferox
This is a robust aloe with large spiny leaves and bright red flowers in the candle like clusters typical of aloes. It is a large aloe and is generally unsuitable for smaller gardens, although it will grow easily.
The main use of Aloe ferox is as a laxative. The bitter juice from just below the leaf surface is dried to form a dark brown solid resin known as Aloe lump which is used locally and exported. The leaves and roots are also boiled to make a decoction which is taken as a laxative for humans and animals.
Aloe ferox is one of the ingredients in ‘Lewensessens’ and ‘Schweden Bitters’ two popular herbal tonics.
The inner gel is used for skin complaints, including rashes, fungal diseases, burns and bruises.
Caution: Excessive doses can have a serious purgative effect. Aloe ferox should not be taken by pregnant women as it is an abortifacient.
Moroccan Vegetable soup
2 cups chopped onions
2 Tbsp oil
4 garlic cloves, chopped
2 Tbsp cumin seeds
2 Tbsp coriander seeds
3 Tbsp fennel seeds
1 Tbsp black mustard seed
2 tsp fresh chilli chopped
2 bay leaves
6-
6 cups vegetables (potato, sweet potato, carrot, squash etc)
2 cups cooked beans (any type)
Salt & pepper to taste
Fry onions until soft, Add garlic and cook for 2 minutes
Add all other spices and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes
Add all other ingredients and stir. Add water until all vegetables are covered
Cook until soft.
Serve with a spoon of natural yogurt per portion
Elderflower Face Pack
This will clear and tone the skin
Mix a handful of crushed elderflowers with a small tub of natural yogurt. Spread the face pack over the skin and leave for 20 minutes. Wash off with warm water.
Elderflower Hand Lotion
This works well for rough chapped hands
Make a strong infusion with 1cup water and 1 cup elderflowers. Strain and add 1/3 cup of glycerine. Shake well. Use regularly for smooth and supple skin
Elderflower Hand Lotion
This works well for rough chapped hands
Make a strong infusion with 1cup water and 1 cup elderflowers. Strain and add 1/3 cup of glycerine. Shake well. Use regularly for smooth and supple skin
Elderberry Cordial
You can use fresh or dried berries for this recipe
Wash elderberries and place in a saucepan. Cover with water and stew until soft.
Strain the fruit, squeezing out all of the juice.
For each 600ml juice add 450g white sugar. Stir until dissolved.
Pour into sterilised bottles and cool.
Serve diluted with water or soda water to taste as a beverage or take
1 Tbsp 3 times daily for coughs, colds and flu.
Store in the fridge for up to 6 weeks
or freeze for up to 1 year.
Elder
“The decoction of the root…….cureth the biting of an adder”
“The juice of the leaves stuffed up the nostrils purges the tunicles of the brain”
Nicholas Culpeper, 1653
Editor’s Note
This month the focus is on feet -
Now is the time to start taking care of them so by spring they will be looking great.
Lavender is an excellent remedy for all skin complaints so make the hand and foot cream and try it for yourselves. Just remember lavender cream does not come out with the pretty mauve colour that you find in shop bought creams and soaps – for that you will have to add colouring.
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Lavender
Lavandula angustifolia
There is not enough space here to write about all of the benefits of lavender. It is a herb that is almost a first aid box on its own!
It has been used since ancient times to beautify and heal skin, and also for its aroma. The Romans added it to their baths for its perfume, and it has been used as a strewing herb by many different civilisations, and in the 19th century it was noted that lions and tigers in zoos became docile with the scent of lavender.
There are many different varieties and cultivars of lavender, with flowers ranging in colour from pale mauves to deep purples, and white, green and red. The plant size also varies from small shrubs not more than 40 cm high to the larger English lavenders which grow to 1m. The English Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) is the largest growing and has long spikes of small flowers, this is the variety that is used medicinally.
French Lavender (Lavendula dentata) has larger, attractive flowers with more colour. It flowers for most of the year making it a popular garden plant. Spanish Lavender (Lavendula stoechas) also has large attractive flowers with two distinctive flower bracts at the top of each one.
Cultivation: Lavender originates from the Mediterranean and likes full sun and sandy, well drained soils. It must be pruned at least twice a year to keep it in shape and prevent it becoming leggy. The best way to propagate it is from stem cutting which can be taken at any time of the year. Lavenders generally do not like to be moved once planted. If you do have to transplant one, be careful not to disturb the roots. This also applies when transplanting from a pot.
Medicinal: Lavender is used for nervous tension, insomnia, skin ailments, digestive problems, muscular aches and pains, and as a cough suppressant.
Culinary: Well known as flavouring for biscuits and cakes, but it is also a good meat tenderiser. Add a few sprigs to a casserole or to a marinade.
Cosmetic: Used in many creams, soaps and perfumes. It has antiseptic properties which makes it effective for treating acne.
Home & Garden: Lavender is an insect repellent so makes a good companion plant. It is also used in small bags, either alone or with other herbs to scent and repel insect from clothing and bedding.
An Indigenous Herb
Dog Gone
Plectranthus ornatus
I have never found a herb that totally repels dogs, but this does work for some of them. Even if it doesn’t keep the dogs away, it looks very pretty in the garden with its mauve upright spikes and grey green leaves. The leaves have a pungent smell when crushed.
It is an excellent ground cover and is drought resistant so is well worth planting.
Focus on Feet
Feet work just as hard as hands, but get far less attention. Just think how often you wash your hands and possibly put cream on during the course of a day – and compare that to the care that you give to your feet, which are also exposed to dust and dirt, especially during summer! Feet need a good scrubbing every day, which is something they do not usually get, especially from those people who shower – how easy is it to stand on one leg and scrub the other foot at the same time!
However, if you take the time to scrub and put cream on your feet every single day they will soon start to look and feel much better.
If you have cracked heels you can also try taking Tissue Salts No 1, which restores elasticity to the skin and is a great help to dry skin in general.
Lavender Marinade
This marinade is excellent with chicken or pork, but can also be used with lamb or beef.
6 lavender flower stems (English)
2 tsp grated orange peel
2 crushed garlic cloves
2 tsp honey
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 tsp fresh thyme
Mix everything together and marinate meat for at least one hour before cooking.
Lavender Hand and Foot Cream
Use daily on hands and feet
1 cup lavender flowers and leaves (English Lavender)
1 cup good quality aqueous cream
1 Tbsp Avocado oil
1 Tbsp Wheat germ oil or Honey
Or 1tsp Benzoic acid (preservatives)
Optional: Lavender food colouring
Put the lavender and the aqueous cream in a double boiler over a low heat. When the aqueous cream has melted simmer for 20 minutes.
Strain and add the Avocado oil plus the preservative that you are using. Colour with the food colouring if you wish.
Note: You can replace the avocado oil with Wheat germ oil if you wish.
Some Uses for Lavender
A handful of lavender flowers added to the bath is a wonderful relaxant
For headaches, rub a little lavender oil onto the temples and behind the ears.
Lavender tea is used for tension and insomnia. If you don’t like lavender tea, try adding some lavender to a cup of Rooibos for the same effect.
Put dried lavender flowers into small sachets to keep among your clothes or bedding to repel moths and for the scent.
Put 2 Tbsp dried lavender flowers in 1 cup of castor sugar. Leave for 1 month. Use for baking.
Lavender Water
Lavender water is refreshing and cooling. Splashing it onto the face will help to relieve fatigue
and exhaustion. It is also antiseptic and can be used as a skin toner for greasy or pimply skin.
Place 1 ½ cups dried lavender flowers in a screw top jar. Add 1 cup white wine vinegar and ½ cup rose water. Shake well and leave in a dark place for 3 weeks, shaking daily.
Strain into a clean bottle.
From Sharon’s Garden
Lots of exciting things are happening at Barefoot Herbs! Letitia has opened a branch in the South, we have lots of new courses and workshops coming up, plus our gardens and shops are just about ready for you to visit. Of course, you are welcome now if you need anything. Just give either of us a ring to arrange it.
The shops are going to stock all types of herbal products plus we keep dried and fresh home grown, organic herbs. Second hand herb books are also available – but they sell out quickly!
We hope you enjoy the extra info
Sharon
From Letitia’s Garden
“Barefoot Herbs” is nou ook in die Vaaldriehoek. Noord-
Ons beplan om die eendag werkswinkels en kursusse na julle toe te bring, kontak ons
vir inligting.
Kry gerus die Augustus uitgawe van SA Gardening (bevat HAoSA se Joernaal – baie interessant)
Ek sal verantwoordelik wees vir die artikels oor inheemse plante
As julle enige boererate, resepte en kruie stories het, stuur dit asb sodat ons dit met ander kan deel.
Letitia
Dill
Anethum graveolens
Family: Umbelliferae
Dill has been used for thousands of years. Records found in Egyptian tombs, 3000 years ago show that they used it as a digestive remedy. The Ancients Greeks wrote that ‘Dill stayeth the hickets’(hiccups). The Romans had so much faith in the herb that they even hung garlands of dill in their dining room as they believed just the smell would help digestion.
The word Dill comes from the Viking word dilla which means ‘to soothe or lull’ as it was used to soothe babies and young children suffering from colic. Today it is still used for colic in babies, children and adults.
Cultivation: Dill is an annual that grows easily from seed and should be sown where it is to grow as it does not transplant well. It needs a rich, well drained soil and full sun
Harvesting: Collect the flowering heads when the seeds have turned brown. Put them
into brown paper bags and hang upside down. They should dry in 1-
Culinary: Dill is a preservative and the seeds are often used in pickled vegetables. They can also be added to breads, biscuits and main meals. The fresh leaves are added to vegetables and salads, and are especially good with new potatoes.
Dill vinegar makes a good salad dressing.
Bath and cosmetic: Chew the seeds for fresh breath. Use the seeds in a strong infusion for a soak to strengthen nails.
Medicinal: Chew the seeds as a digestive aid. Use the seeds or flowering tops to make an infusion. Drink before or after meals to get rid of flatulence, indigestion and colic. The infusion can also be taken by nursing mothers to increase the milk flow and to prevent colic in babies. 1 tsp of the infusion can be given to babies twice a day.
Carpobrotus spp
Sour fig, Hottentot’s Fig, ghaukum, suurvy, ‘chips’
Family: Mesembryanthemaceae
In 1649 fifteen sick sailors were cured by Cape Hottentots of wounds and ulcers on their legs, and ghaukum was probably one of the plants they used. The Hottentots were the first to make use of the plant, hence one of its names. Two species are commonly found:
C. acinaciformis has deep purple flowers;
C. edulis has yellow flowers. Both have the same medicinal uses
Cultivation: Grow by dividing clumps or planting stem cuttings into sand. Cuttings can be taken at any time during the growing season. It needs very little water and good drainage. It prefers light (sandy) soil and can tolerate brackish water and salt spray.
Culinary: Sour fig leaves and fruit can be eaten raw, cooked, pickled or dried. The fruit must be fully ripe otherwise it is very astringent.
A popular snack amongst Cape children is to pick a ripe sour fig, bite off the bottom and suck out the slimy contents.
The leaves can be used as a substitute for pickled cucumber.
The dried fruit is an important ingredient in oriental cooking, mostly in curries. It is also very popular as sour fig jam and sour fig preserve.
Medicinal: Sap of the leaves is one of the best first aid treatments for bluebottle stings. The protein poison of the bluebottle is probably neutralized by the astringent tannins.
Leaf juice traditionally gargled to treat infections of the mouth and throat. For sore throats a leaf can simply be chewed – effective but not very pleasant.
The juice is also used internally for tuberculosis, digestive problems, acute diarrhoea, giardiasis, dysentery and as a diuretic. It is applied externally to treat eczema, wounds, burns, ringworm and mosquito/spider/tick bites
It is also effective against toothache, earache and oral and vaginal thrush in babies and adults Mix the leaf sap with the juice of bulbine for instant relief of herpes blisters.
The leaf juice, diluted in water, has also been used for eye infections.
It is a styptic which means it stops bleeding, it closes blood vessels and so prevents fluid loss from wounds.
Small amounts of fresh leaf juice are used to rinse a baby’s mouth 3 times a day for oral thrush.
Mixed with baby oils, the leaf juice is also a popular application for nappy rash in the Cape.
The Khoi women use a fruit infusion during pregnancy to ensure an easy birth. The
leaf sap is smeared over the head of a new-
Home & Garden: Loved by bees, producing honey with a wonderfully unique taste. It is used as ground cover which prevents soil erosion. As it has a high water content it can be planted as firebreaks to prevent the spread of fire.
Sour Fig Remedies
To Ease TB
Use equal parts Ghaukum juice, honey and olive oil mixed together. This is diluted in water and 2 tbsp (30 ml) is taken 3 times a day
From Food and Medicine Gardens
Vaginal Thrush
Let half a cup mashed leaves stand in half a cup of apple cider or brown grape vinegar for 2 hours. Then mix with 2 litres warm water. Make this fresh and use every morning for 5 to 7 days. If thrush is still there after a break of 1 week, use douche for another week From Food and Medicine Gardens
For burns and sunburn
Strain juice from leaves, add to ‘haarlemmerolie’, caster oil and lard
Apply directly or use as a poultice.
– Uit die Veld-
For Bites and Stings
Squeeze the fresh juice directly onto the affected area
Sour Fig Conserve
1 kg ripened sour figs
1 kg brown sugar
500 g raisins
2 oranges, peeled
juice of 2 lemons
Chop the orange peel, discarding the pulp. Cover peel, raisins and sour figs with 1 litre water for 2 hours. Boil in the water in which they were soaked. Add sugar and lemon juice and simmer until transparent and thick. This takes approximately 1 hour. A cup of chopped pecan nuts or walnuts can be added 5 minutes before the conserve is ready.
Bottle in hot, sterilized bottles, seal with wax paper soaked in brandy and screw the lids on firmly.
Dill Pickles
These are truly delicious! I had to use about 20 gherkins as they were very small. They can be served with cold meats and cheese. You can eat the leaves too.
10 fresh pickling cucumbers (gherkins)
60g dill stalks
7 fresh dill crowns
125g blackcurrant, oak or cherry leaves ( I used loganberry)
1 Tbsp fresh horseradish
1 tsp dill seeds
1 l water
125ml white vinegar
75g coarse salt
1 tsp white peppercorns (I used black which seemed fine)
1 fresh garlic clove
Wrap each cucumber in a blackcurrant leaf. Fit them into a 2 litre jar, putting horseradish, dill stalks and dill crowns or seeds in between.
Combine the water, vinegar, salt, peppercorns, garlic and 1 tsp dill seeds in a saucepan and bring to the boil.
Simmer for 5 minutes and cool.
Pour the liquid over the cucumbers, they should be totally covered.
Store the bottle in a cool, dark place for 3 weeks before using.
They must be kept in the refrigerator after opening.
From Natural Cooking the Finnish Way
Ulla Kakonen (1974)
Broad Bean and Dill Hummus
Broad beans in their pods – 1.6kg
Olive oil – 4 Tbsp
Juice of a small lemon
Salt & pepper
Large handful of fresh dill
Pod the beans and drop into a pot of boiling water, cook for 7-
Drain and blitz to a coarse puree in a food processor. Pour in olive oil, dill and lemon juice plus salt and pepper. Continue to blitz until the mixture is bright green and smooth.
Pour over a little olive oil and serve with hot pitta or crusty bread.
From The Kitchen Diaries
Nigel Slater
How to Use Dill in the Kitchen
Using dill as a herb makes a nice change. Just remember it does not combine well with most other herbs. You can use parsley, chives, chervil and garlic with it but not much else.
Soup: Add 1-
Fish: Sprinkle1 tsp fresh chopped dill on grilled white fish just before serving.
Add dill seed to fish pie or fish cakes.
Eggs: Add chopped fresh dill to scrambled eggs, omelettes or egg mayonnaise.
Red Meat: Add dill seed to marinades or casseroles
Chicken: Add to marinades or roasts
Vegetables: It goes well with beans, peas, potatoes and carrots
Breads: Add to stronger breads such as rye.
‘What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered’
Ralph W Emerson
(1803-
From Sharon’s Garden
Just as we start to think spring is on its way, we get another gust of wind and more cold weather, so if you have started to plant your spring seeds, make sure they are well protected.
Lots of renovations are currently under way in my herb gardens in Muldersdrift, which is very exciting. This does, however, mean that there will not be any workshops during September, but they will resume in October. I can still do private workshops at your homes though, so contact me if you would like to book.
We should also have our website up and running this month, so watch this space!
Sharon
From Letitia’s Garden
Net toe ons dink die lente is hier, kry ons weer ‘n kouefront! Hou maar die kombersies om die plante en berei eerder die grond voor vir al julle wonderlike kruie. My saailinge is besig om op te kom – om veilig te wees sal ek dit eers die middel van die maand uitplant.
Ons is dringend opsoek na saad van inheemse plante -
Letitia
Cumin
Cuminum cyminum
It is the seeds of cumin that are used and the flavour is common to Indian curries, European breads and cheeses and is included in certain alcoholic beverages.
Cumin was used in Ancient Greece and Egypt more than 3000 years ago both as a medicinal and culinary herb and it is also mentioned in the Bible.
Traditionally cumin seed was added to baked goods in Germany to prevent the wood spirits from stealing them, but nowadays the flavour is common to strong breads, such as rye or sour dough.
In Ayurvedic medicine it is used as a blood cleanser, a carminative, to increase milk flow and as a physical and sexual stimulant.
It has a bitter, pungent taste, so it should be used sparingly in food.
It is not related to black cumin (Nigella sativa), although both are ingredients of curry powder.
Cultivation: Cumin grows easily from seed, either sown directly into the ground or in seed trays. It likes a sandy well drained soil and full sun. Harvest when the seed begins to ripen. Place the whole seed head into a paper bad and hang upside down. The seed will fall into the bag as it ripens.
Medicinal use: An infusion or decoction is taken for indigestion, diarrhoea and for fevers. A poultice of the seeds is used for piles, boils and insect bites. It also has a reputation for increasing breast milk.
Culinary use: Cumin is an important ingredient of curry powder and is also used to spice soups, meat dishes, cheese, chutneys and pickles. In Europe it is used to flavour breads and biscuits.
Cosmetic use: The essential oil is an important ingredient of many perfumes
Agathosma betulina (syn. Barosma betulina)
Round Leaf Buchu, Buchu (Khoi, Eng.), Boegoe (Afr.), Ibuchu (Xhosa)
Family: Rutaceae
Agathosma is derived from the Greek agathos, meaning pleasant and osme, smell. The word Buchu is from the Hottentot word for the plant, bookoo
The Khoi and San people used the powdered, dried leaves, mixed with sheep fat to anoint their bodies, both for cosmetic purposes and antibiotic protection.
Buchu was first introduced to the British in 1790 and in 1821 was included in the British Pharmacopoeia (BP); later it was included in the British Pharmaceutical Codex (BPC) where it was described as a weak diuretic and urinary tract antiseptic for the treatment of cystitis, prostitis and urethritis. It remained an official remedy until 1963.
Cultivation: Well-
Cumin Poultice
This can be used to relieve abdominal pains and cramps
Soak 2 Tablespoons of cumin seed in a cup of boiling water for 2 hours.
Strain and crush the seeds.
Add 5 drops of peppermint essential oil, 4 tablespoons of flour and enough water to make a paste.
Smooth onto a piece of muslin cloth and apply to the abdomen.
Leave in place for 20 minutes. This treatment can be repeated 3 times a day
Rye Bread
(makes two large loaves)
6 cups rye flour
6 cups plain flour
2 cups whole-
1 tsp salt
2 tsp cumin seeds
1 Tbsp butter
1 tsp sugar
30g yeast
1½ cups warm milk
Extra milk or egg for glazing
Extra cumin seed for the top
Mix the yeast and sugar with ¼ cup of milk. Stand for 10 minutes
Mix the flours, salt and cumin seeds together and rub in the butter with your fingertips.
Add the rest of the milk to the yeast mixture and pour it all into the flours.
Mix well to form a stiff dough and then knead for 5 minutes or until smooth.
Cover with a damp cloth and stand in a warm place to rise for 1 ½ hours.
Knead again for 5 minutes and divide into two.
Shape each loaf into an oval and place on a floured baking tray for 20 minutes.
Bake at 200 C for 30 minutes.
Remove from the oven and glaze with the milk or egg and sprinkle a little cumin seed on top. Return to the oven and bake for a further 20 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped underneath.
How to Use Cumin in the Kitchen
Cumin has a pungent, bitter taste, and can either be used alone or combined with other curry herbs
Soup: Add ½ tsp to 3 cups split pea or dried bean soup
Fish and chicken: It is too bitter for most fish and chicken dishes, unless it is part of a curry powder
Red Meat: It goes well with most meats, but only use ½ tsp to 500g meat
Vegetables: It can be added to curried vegetable dishes, fennel, cabbage and aubergines.
¼ tsp cumin combined with 1 tsp fennel and ½ tsp coriander seeds can be sprinkled over roast vegetables
Rice: Add ½ tsp cumin to 2 cups rice
Breads: Cumin seed can be added to strong breads and savoury biscuits
Buchu (cont)
Culinary: It is a popular flavouring agent to impart a peppermint-
The essential oils and extracts of the leaves are used as flavouring for teas, candy and a liquor known as buchu brandy
The extract is said to taste like blackcurrant
In Tunisia, Buchu brandy is served as a cocktail
Medicinal: Combinations of buchu with wilde als (Artemisia afra) or wilde knoffel (Tulbaghia spp) are commonly taken for colds and influenza or as a general tonic.
Internally it is taken for stomach problems, gout, rheumatism, and to reduce inflammation of the colon, gums, mucous membranes, prostate, sinuses and vagina Buchu leaves steeped in vinegar, “boegoeasyn” are used as a lotion for sprains and bruises
The vinegar can also be used as an antiseptic to wash and to clean wounds
Buchu is described as one of the best remedies for the urinary organs. It is useful for treating pain while urinating, stoppage of the urine, inflammation of the bladder, or dropsy. It helps incontinence associated with prostate problems
Has also been used for bedwetting
Reported to help to normalize blood sugar levels (primarily it helps to prevent rapid falls in blood sugar levels (Hypoglycemia)) or to enhance the effects of insulin
For a relaxing in the bath, make a buchu bathbag and drop it under the hot tap when you fill your bath. This will help to ease backache and rheumatism
DO NOT BOIL BUCHU LEAVES
Home & Garden: Intensely, aromatic, attractive shrub. Used as an ingredient in incense
and pot-
The entire shrub is covered in flowers attracting bees and butterflies.
Other: Gender: Feminine
Planet: Moon
Element: Water
Power: Psychic powers, prophetic dreams
Cautions: Contra-
Buchu Syrup
Uit die Veldapteek – Betsie Rood
This is used for all stomach problems
Boil 250 ml buchu in 2 litres water and strain. Add 1 kg brown sugar and two lengths drop (liquorice).
Melt the liquorice first in hot water.
Add 500 ml vinegar and boil until syrup.
Add 2 bottles Turlington and 1 bottle Paragoric and boil for a short time
Vinegar and brown paper poultice
Adapted from Herbal Remedies (Christopher Hedley / Non Shaw)
Vinegar brings bruises to the surface, cooling and reducing swelling. Buchu and vinegar are both traditional ingredients in compresses. Used together, they are unsurpassed for easing sprains
Buchu vinegar:
Put the buchu leaves in a pan and just cover with vinegar
Simmer gently for 5 min over a very low heat. The vinegar should not boil but should steam so that the buchu leaves soften and blanch. Put 5 or 6 sheets of strong brown paper in a pan and cover with buchu vinegar. Take out the paper and wrap it in overlapping layers around the affected part
Use it as hot as possible and build up several layers. Cover with plastic wrap and bandages
Leave on for 4 hours. Vinegar poultices feel very supportive and strengthening. Re-
Uit Letitia se tuin
Die reën was wonderlik en my tuin is ewe skielik oorgroei. Gelukkig is
dit die regte “maan-
Ons kruie verkope by die “Petal Faire” was ‘n groot sukses. Die verskeidenheid plante wat daar
te koop was, was ongelooflik, en ons het soveel interessante mense ontmoet. Dankie Leone !!
Hou haar webbladsy dop vir die volgende funksie, dis regtig die moeite werd www.petalfaire.co.za
Die HAoSA naweek is die 10de tot die 12de November. Dit beloof of ‘n onvergeetbare
kruie naweek te wees. Louis se “spiral garden” is ‘n inspirasie vir enige tuinier.
Inligting en aanwysings is op hulle webbladsy – www.healthyliving-
Letitia
p.s. nog steed op soek na enige inligting oor inheemse kruie, resepte, boererate en kruie stories. Sal enige tweedehandse boeke koop.
Herb of the Month
Coriander
Coriandrum sativum
In South Africa the smell of coriander is associated with biltong as it is one of the main spices used for preserving the meat. Records show that the spice has been used for more than 3000 years and has been used for preserving as well as flavouring by many civilisations.
It is mentioned in Sanskrit, ancient Egyptian, Greek, Latin texts and all medieval herbals.
Coriandrum comes from the Greek koriannon, which is a type of bedbug that smells like coriander leaves
In the Middle Ages it was put in all love potions as an aphrodisiac.
All parts of the plant are used, with the leaves giving a different taste to the seeds, and the roots similar to the leaves. The leaves have a strong taste, which can be overpowering if too much is used. The roots are used in Thai cooking.
Cultivation: Coriander grows very easily from seed, although the seeds can take a while to germinate. Soaking them overnight in water can speed things up. It is a short lived annual, and it is the first roundish leaves that are edible. Once the taller feathery leaves appear, the plant becomes very bitter. It is better to plant a few seeds every week and have a continuous supply, than to plant lots at once. Coriander self seeds readily, so once the first plants flower, you will have a regular supply. The plant produces better tasting leaves if it is planted in semi shade. If it gets too dry or crowded the plants will bolt.
Home and garden: Planting with fennel reduces seed yield. Plant with aniseed to improve germination. Plant with carrots to repel carrot rust fly. It also repels aphids.
Body and bath: It is reported to have aphrodisiac properties.
Culinary: The leaves are used in Indian, Middle East, Asian, Mexican and Spanish American dishes. The seeds are used in curries, pickles, biscuits, cakes, to flavour gins and liqueurs, chewed to freshen the breath.
Used as a spice in biltong making. Roots are used in Thai cuisine
Medicinal: It is a digestive herb, easing flatulence and colic and stimulating gastric juices. Externally it is used for painful joints.
Crinum bulbispermum
Vaal/Oranje rivierlelie, River lily, Wild amaryllis, umduze, umduzi (Zulu)
Family: Amaryllidaceae
The name Crinum comes from the Greek Krinon, meaning white lily and most species have white or whitish flowers. Crinum bulbispermum is the provincial flower of the Free State
Cultivation: It can tolerate most soils and some species can go without water for some time. The seed of the C.bulbispermum propagates easily and should be sown immediately when they ripen. I just leave the “dead” flower heads in the bed and let nature takes it’s course. The high water content of the seed enables it to germinate after a week or two, even in dry conditions. The C.macowanii variety seems a bit more difficult to cultivate. First flowering can be expected after three (C. macowanii) to eight years (C. graminicola). Plants should be left undisturbed for the first couple of years.
Medicinal uses: A Zulu remedy for scrofula (tuberculosis of the lymph nodes in the neck, which form sores and scars after healing), micturition (the discharge of urine from the body via the urethra) and rheumatic fever. It has also been used for blood cleansing, kidney and bladder diseases, glandular swelling, fever and skin problems such as sores, boils and acne. The leaves were used to bind dressings in place and the flowers were bound over swollen joints and sprains to reduce swelling. Chopped leaf decoctions were taken for rheumatic fever.
Leaf sap was used for earache.
Unspecified parts are sometimes ingredients in infusions known as inembe and were taken regularly during pregnancy to ensure an easy delivery.
Roasted bulbs are used as rubefacients (causes irritation of the skin/capillary dilation) for rheumatism and applied to sores, haemorrhoids and abscesses in India
Research has found that the leaf extract of C.bulbispermum has antinociceptive (anti-
Home and Garden use: Crinums are amazing landscape plants in or near water features and the smaller species can be successfully cultivated in a small garden.
Mythology: It was planted as protective charms by the Sotho.
Caution
Bulbs are reported to be toxic if used without caution. All members of the genus are considered capable of causing dermatitis.
Please note: Please be VERY careful in using most of the indigenous herbs internally. Available research in their toxicity and actions is limited. My research is based on the historical use of the plants and should be treated as such.
Remedies using Crinum
Indigenous Healing Plants – Margaret Roberts
Rheumatic fever -
Zulu Medicinal Plants – Anne Hutchings
Rheumatic fever & Urinary complaints – decoctions made from a chopped bulb with a handful of the pounded roots of Gennera perpensa in 300 ml of water
Banana and Ginger Muffins
75ml oil
2 Tbsp brown sugar
1 egg
1 cup mashed ripe banana
1 cup cake flour
1 tsp ground ginger
2 Tbsp golden syrup
1 tsp baking powder
1/3 cup milk
Combine flour, ginger and baking powder in a bowl.
Lightly beat oil, egg, syrup and sugar together and then add the banana.
Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not over mix.
Spoon into greased muffin pans and bake at 200 C for 15-
Thai Green Curry Paste
1 Tbsp coriander seed
2 tsp cumin seed
2 tsp dried shrimp paste
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 tsp ground nutmeg
12 large green chillies
1 cup garlic chives 2 Tbsp sesame oil
4 stems lemon grass
10 cloves garlic
2 Tbsp coriander roots
2 tbsp coriander leaves
6 Kaffir lime leaves
2 tsp grated lime rind
2 tsp salt
Dry fry coriander and cumin seed for 2-
Wrap the shrimp paste in foil and grill for 3 minutes.
Place everything into a food processor and finely chop.
Keeps in the fridge for 3 weeks or can be frozen
Roast Root Vegetables
This is a delicious way to cook roast vegetables. They come out sweet and caramelised with a hint of spice.
1kg mixed root vegetables, such as potatoes, butternut, turnip, carrots
2 oranges, sliced
5-
1 tsp coriander seeds
2 tsp fennel seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp paprika
1 stick cinnamon, broken
Olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper
Salt
Wash the vegetables and chop into chunks. (I do not peel them, but you can if you wish.)
Place them in a deep baking pan.
Sprinkle the spices over the top and add 3-
Place the orange slices, garlic cloves and cinnamon stick pieces between the vegetables.
Season with salt and pepper.
Bake at 180 C for 1-
Serve with a roast, grilled meat, fish or with freshly baked bread.
How to Use Coriander
Leaves:
Salads: Use sparingly in green salads. Add finely chopped leaves to potato salad.
Eggs: add a little to omelettes, scrambled eggs or egg mayonnaise.
Cheese: It goes well with ricotta or cream cheese, but not with other cheeses.
Curries – especially Thai: Add chopped leaves to curries just before serving.
Seeds:
Soups: Add ½ tsp ground coriander to 4 cups vegetable, onion, lentil or celery soup.
Curries: Coriander seed is an ingredient of most curry powders
Vegetables: The seed can be used with strong flavoured vegetables and combines particularly well with the squash family. Use ½ tsp per 500g vegetable.
Meat & fish: It can be added to most fish and meat dishes, but is usually combined with other spices. To use alone, sprinkle a little on chops or steak before frying, or rub a roast with crushed seed before cooking.
Fruit: Add ¼ tsp to ½ kg stewed apples.
Biscuits: Add ¼ tsp to ½ kg biscuit dough.
Coriander cream
Use this as a dip, over baked potatoes, burgers, salads or baked fish
Combine ½ cup sour cream with ½ cup cream. Add 1 crushed garlic clove,
2 Tbsp finely chopped coriander leaf and 2 Tbsp finely chopped parsley. Chill for at least one hour before using.
For less calories use 1 cup low fat yogurt instead of the sour cream and cream. Back to Top
From Sharon’s Garden
My herb gardens are suddenly very lush and green thanks to the wonderful rain that we had. It doesn’t matter how much water we give from the garden hose or watering can, our plants only really start to grow well after the rain
Our website is up and running, and by the end of the week there will be photos of our gardens, interesting herb news, workshops and past newsletters,
so have a look at www.barefootherbs.co.za
Hope to see you at the HOASA weekend,
Sharon
From Sharon’s Garden
It’s official!
2nd October 2006 is when Barefoot Herbs starts and with branches in Muldersdrift and Meyerton, we can only go from strength to strength.
Both branches are open and trading, even though we are still renovating. Our website will be up and running this month and you will be able to see photos of the progress in the gardens. And what about the new look newsletter?
Let us know what you think – we’d love to hear from you,
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Catnip
a.k.a. Catnep, Field Balm, Cat’s Wort,
Nepeta cataria
Apart from being loved by cats, catnip is a useful medicinal herb. Nepeta is derived from the Roman town Nepeti, where it was used extensively as a medicinal herb. In England, before Chinese tea was introduced, catnip was the most popular beverage tea. Catnip was introduced to America by colonists and the early Americans believed that consuming the roots made even the kindest person mean – it was for this reason that hangman ate the roots before executions. It was originally smoked for sore throats, but this practice was given up as it made the throat worse.
It is a relatively mild sedative and a weak tea can be used for children. It is also used for any type of digestive upsets, irritability, tension and insomnia.
Cultivation: It likes a sandy, well drained soil and full sun. It is propagated from root or stem cuttings. Prune back in spring to encourage new growth. If you have cats, you will have to protect the young plant as they will probably destroy it.
The smaller, more attractive catnip, Nepeta mussinii, has masses of lilac flowers and has a more compact growth, making it suitable as an edging plant.
Home and garden:
Put some dried herb into toys for cats. It attracts bees, deters flea beetles and repels rats.
Body and bath:
Make a strong infusion to use as a final rinse on hair if you suffer with an itchy scalp.
Culinary:
Young shoots and flowers can be eaten as a salad herb.
Rub into meats to add flavour before cooking.
Add to marinades to add flavour.
Drink as a pleasant tea
Medicinal:
Take an infusion for indigestion, colic and flatulence. A strong infusion can be useful for insomnia, colds, flu and irritability. Infusions can also be used as a wash for cuts, bruises
and eye inflammations. Use as a poultice for itchy skin
Uit Letitia se tuin:
Die meeste van my plante het die winter oorleef! Ek is nog net bekommerd oor die
“Curry Leave Tree” en “Tea Tree”. Die boma is offisieel ingewy en ons sal volgende
maand die fotos op die web-
Letitia
Bulbine spp
Bulbinella, Snake flower, Cat’s tail, Burn jelly plant (Eng.) Balsem kopieva, Geel
stert, Rooi wortel (Afr.) Intelezi, Ingelwane (Xhosa), Ibhucu (Zulu), Khoma-
Family: Asphodelaceae
Bulbine comes from the Latin word bulbus meaning an onion or a bulb. As the plants
do not have a bulbous root this is misleading. Its specific Latin latifolia, refers
to its broad leaves. It was first named Anthericum latifolium by Linnaeus in 1781.
It is not known who first introduced it to Europe, but Jacquin illustrated the plant
in his Icon Plantarum Rariorum (1781-
The genus Bulbine consist of about 90 species from South Africa and Australia but
mainly from the southern and western parts of South Africa. Perhaps the best known
of these are: B. frutescens which is popular as a ground cover. B. latifolia is
one of the largest species in the genus with dark-
Cultivation: They prefer well-
Bulbine looks good with the minimum of care all year round
Medicinal uses: The leaf-
Fresh sap is used to remove pus from a septic wound.
It is used as an antidote to poisoning.
Medicines made from tubers are taken for syphilis and are also sometimes administered in large doses as enemas (Gerstner, 1938)
Tuber decoctions are used by the Xhosa for urinary complaints, dysentery and diarrhoea, and possibly also for convulsion in children.
Smith (1985) cites reports of efficacious use of the tubers for lumbago by the Xhosa and Dutch settlers, who also used tubers for rheumatism and as blood purifiers.
Cautions: Small doses tend to cause constipation but large doses produce diarrhoea
Mythology: B.frutescens -
B.latifolia – Tubers are sometimes rubbed on the limbs of children who are late in walking in the belief that this will strengthen the muscles (Mr E. Buckas, pers. Comm..)
Unspecific plant parts are used as ingredients in infusions taken by young men to harm the rival lovers of their unfaithful girlfriends (Bryant, 1966)
Decoctions are taken as emetics by groups of men and adolescent boys in purification rites aimed at the prevention of antisocial behaviour (Hutchings 3050 ZULU)
Bulbine Gel
Liquidize or squash through a sieve 1 cup of fresh bulbine leaves.
Strain into a container.
Add 1 cup of gel and mix well.
Apply either before going into the sun or after, particularly if sun burnt.
Bulbine can be used in exactly the same way as Aloe vera, so be proudly South African and use an indigenous plant!
Grapefruit and Catnip Cooler
A refreshing summer drink
2 grapefruit
½ cup castor sugar
2 tsp fresh catnip, finely chopped
3 cups water
Crushed ice
Carefully peel the grapefruit, avoiding the bitter white pith.
Put the peel into a blender.
Roughly chop the grapefruit flesh and add to the blender with the catnip and sugar and water.
Blend until the mixture is light green.
Strain into glasses and add crushed ice.
Serve with a sprig of catnip flowers
Egg & Bulbine Shampoo
1 egg white
2 egg yolks
1 teaspoon honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed bulbine juice
Beat the egg white and fold in the yolks.
Stir in the honey, olive oil, and lemon and bulbinella juice.
Massage the shampoo into your scalp, covering your hair.
Leave for a few minutes and rinse well.
Lemon Pepper Bread
2 cups flour
2 Tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp fresh lemon rind
2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
3 Tbsp butter
1 Tbsp fresh chives, chopped
¾ cup cheddar cheese
2 tsp vinegar
¾ cup milk
Sieve the flour, baking powder and salt into a bowl.
Add the lemon rind and pepper.
Rub the butter in with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
Add the cheese and chives.
Combine the vinegar and milk and add to the flour mixture.
Knead until smooth.
Shape the dough into a round or long loaf, about 3cm thick.
Bake at 210 C for 30 minutes, or until it sounds hollow if tapped on the base.
From Sharon’s Garden
Can you believe that the year is over? They say that the older you get, the faster time flies, which doesn’t bode well for the future!
My garden is hardly recognisable from what is was at the beginning of the year The herbs are flourishing!
In February 2007, we will start with new workshops and of course, the next one year practical herb course will start then too.
Have a wonderful Festive season and drive carefully
Sharon
Herb of the Month
Cinnamon
Cinnamon zeylanicum
Cinnamon is a spice that is associated with Christmas in colder climates. It is added to cakes , biscuits, breads and in some countries to the turkey. Drinks, such as Gluwein, mulled ale and spiced tea all have this warming spice as an ingredient.
The bark of the tree is what is used as a spice. The trees can grow up to 15m high, but for commercial purposes they are kept at 2.5m and forced to form bushes rather than trees. The bark is harvested, during the rainy season, from trees older than 5 years. The bark is loosened and left to rot for a day.
The outer layer is then scraped off and the softer, inner layer is dried. This is rolled into one metre lengths to be sold.
Cassia is a related tree that gives a thicker bark and a stronger flavour.
Like many spices, cinnamon has a long history of myths, trading and struggles for ownership. To prevent others harvesting the spice, Greek and Arab traders concocted stories of huge birds building their nests with the bark and guarding it fiercely. To get the bark required skill, bravery and trickery.
As early as 2800BC it was used by the Chinese as a medicine and food spice. It was also used by the Egyptians and traces found in the temple of Edfu, dated 1500BC. The Egyptians used it as an incense and food spice, but records do not show it used as a medicine.
Home and garden: Cinnamon is used to repel insects that attack clothing and bedding. It is also a preservative but gives a very strong taste as you would have to use more than the usual amount required for cooking
Body and bath: It is used as a flavouring for mouthwashes, toothpaste and chewing gum. It is used in men’s colognes and aftershaves
Culinary: Commonly used to flavour breads, biscuits and cakes. It goes well with winter vegetables, especially pumpkin, carrots and sweet potato.
Cinnamon is an important
part of Indian and Asian cuisine, where it is combined with other spices. In some Northern European countries it is added to soups, casseroles and stews
Medicinal: Cinnamon has a calming effect on the stomach and helps prevent nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. It is also a stimulating herb. It is used extensively in Chinese medicine for low vitality, arthritis, kidney problems and for the digestive system. Tests have shown that as little as ½ tsp per day has a significant effect on blood sugar levels, making it a useful medicine for diabetics.
Uit Letitia se tuin:
Wat ‘n maand! Die HAoSA se “Herb Happening” was ‘n reuse sukses! Ons lokale koerant “Vaal Weekblad” het ‘n artikel oor my tuin gedoen, die webbladsy begin vorm aanneem, en my plante groei vir ‘n vale. Die meeste van die saad en stiggies het goed gevat ons het nou ‘n verskeidenheid kruie plante beskikbaar. Daar is heelwat Withania, Horseradish, Burdock en Tree Tomato plantjies te koop. Wens julle almal ‘n wonderlike geseënde Kersfees toe.
Letitia
Ps Die volgende Praktiese Kursus begin die 3de Feb 2007, kontak my vir meer inligting
Withania somnifera
Winter cherry, Indian ginseng, Geneesblaarbossie (Afrikaans), Ashwaganda (India), Ubuvinbha (Zulu), Ubuvuma (Xhosa), Bofepha (Sotho)
Family: Solanaceae
This is also called the nightshade family, which tomatoes and potatoes belong to.
Ashwagandha in Sanskrit means “horse’s smell”, probably due to the odour of its root
which resembles that of a sweaty horse or because the herb is reported to give the
strength of a stallion. It is called by another name Varaha karni because its leaves
resemble pig's ear. Somnifera means “sleep-
History & Mythology: It is said that Withania was called apollinaris and also glofwyrt in The Old English Herbarium due to the legend that Apollo found it first and gave it to the healer Aesculapius.
Cultivation: Once established it grows to a fairly hardy shrub of about 1 m. If damaged by frost, it will start growing new shouts in spring. Propagated by division, cuttings or seed. Seed is the best way to propagate, but in my garden the birds beat me to the fruit. Need full sun to partial shade.
Medicinal uses: It is an important herb used in Ayurveda and prescribed for the following conditions:
· Improved libido in both men and woman
· Respiratory conditions including asthma and bronchitis
· Chronic fatigue syndrome
· Flu symptoms
· Depression
· Certain cancers and tumors
· High blood pressure
· Arthritis and other conditions were an inflammation occurs
Traditional Ayurvedic physicians prescribe the root as an all purpose tonic, in the treatment of tumours, inflammation, arthritis and a variety of infectious diseases.
Ashwagandha is used as an adaptogen (as it enhances endurance), rejuvenating tonic and sedative. Hence many herbalists refer to this herb as Indian ginseng
The Zulu made enemas from the decorticated roots for infants to treat fever. They used the leaves to heal sores. Powdered roots, mixed with the fat of a python or crocodile, are also used as ointments for infected sores and abscesses.
The Xhosa used it to treat syphilis, root bark was taken internally and leaf paste applied externally. They used bruised green fruit to apply to ringworm and applied ground leaves to rashes on the face.
Withania is widely used in many parts of Africa for diarrhoea, chest complaints, fevers, black gall sickness, nausea, rheumatism, skin complaints, sores and wounds.
In Israel leaves and fruits are externally applied to open sores and leaves are also used in poultices or emollients with olive oil for rheumatism, pain, inflammation and swellings.
Culinary use: Seeds are used to curdle milk. Seeds are a coffee substitute in the Indian drink ‘Rajas Cup”
Cautions: Very large doses induce abortions in animals, there are no reports of this in humans, but it is best not to be taken during pregnancy. Do not take if suffering from peptic ulcers.
Cinnamon and Sunflower Squares
1 cup butter, softened
1 ¼ cups castor sugar
3 eggs, beaten
2 cups self raising flour
½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 tsp cinnamon
2/3 cup sour cream
½ cup sunflower seeds
Cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, mixing well.
Fold in the flour, cinnamon and bicarb, taking care not to over mix.
Gently add the sour cream and sunflower seeds
Spoon into a greased 23cm square cake tin and bake at
180 C for 45 minutes until a knife inserted into the cake comes out clean.
Turn out and cut into 12 squares.
These can be served on their own as a cake, or warm with fresh berries and cream as a special pudding.
They will keep for 2-
Ashwagandha Heart Tonic
2 gm root powder in 1 cup of milk and 4 cups of water and reduced to one-
Strain and sweeten with sugar or honey
How to Use Cinnamon
Beverages: Use a whole stick to stir coffee, hot chocolate or milk for a delicate flavour.
It is included in warm alcoholic drinks such as Gluwein and mulled ale
Soups: Add ½ tsp cinnamon powder to soups such as potato, pumpkin, parsnip or carrot.
Fish: It is not recommend to add to fish
Meat: Add a stick to a gammon whilst it is boiling.
Add a stick to curries during cooking.
Rice: Put a stick of cinnamon, two cloves and a chilli into rice whilst it is cooking.
Vegetables: Add ½ tsp to 2 cups pumpkin, butternut or sweet potato.
Toss root vegetables in butter, sprinkle with a little cinnamon and roast.
Fruit: You can add cinnamon to nearly all fruits. The only ones it does not go with are berries and cherries.
Cakes, Biscuits, Bread: Add to most types.
Pancakes: Combine a pinch of cinnamon with castor sugar to sprinkle over pancakes.
Apple & Cinnamon Drink
10cm fresh ginger root, sliced
4 star anise
10cm cinnamon stick
2 cups apple juice
60ml honey
60ml lemon juice
Place everything into a pan and simmer for 30 minutes.
Strain and either serve as a warm tea or add ice cubes and lemon slices for a cold, refreshing drink
2004 -
Parsley
Red Sage
Common Sage
Brown Sage
Clary Sage
Brown Sage
(Indigenous)
Common Thyme
Barefoot Herbs
White rosemary
Pink Rosemary
Wild Rosemary
G. incanum
Painted Sage
Calendula
T. violacea
T. violacea
T. fragrans
O. vulgare
O. marjorana
C. annum
C. frutscens
Eucomis autumnalis
Tropaeolum majus
Carpobrotus acinaciformis
N. cataria
Nepeta mussinii
B. frutescens
March 2006 -
April 2006 -
May 2006 -
June 2006 -
July 2006 -
August 2006 -
September 2006 -
October 2006 -
November 2006-
December 2006 -
April 2005 -
Poppy
