Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Chanchal Cabrera – Msc., FNIMH, RH (AHG), RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://www.chanchalcabrera.com/bee-pollen/

 

Bee pollen is described by researchers as one of the very few “complete foods” available naturally and cannot be duplicated by man. Bee pollen is collected by honey bees and is carried by the forked hairs on the bees legs from the pistils of the stems of flowers. Pollen is the male sex cell of the flower which is heavy and sticky and is not the same as the airborne pollen that is a common allergen.

Bee pollen is a good source of protein, particularly for vegetarians and is said to contain up to five times the protein found in beef of equal weight.

Bee pollen contains: up to 35% protein, 22 amino acids (few products naturally contain all 22), 27 minerals, many enzymes, co-enzymes, vitamins A, C, D, E, B complex & B12, amines, growth factors, guanine, hydrocarbons, lecithin, nuclein, sterols, xanthine, pantothenic acid, rutin, potassium, 14 fatty acids and folic acid. No chemicals or pesticides are used in the harvesting of our pollen.

The bee pollen sold at Gaia Garden is collected in the Kilisilah hills behind Shawnigan Lake, Vancouver Island away from city and industry. The main wildflowers include Fireweed (purple), Dandelion (orange) and Canadian Thistle (creme colour). After collection, the pollen is dried for your convenience of easy storage and to prevent possible spoilage, then is cleaned and frozen for optimum freshness.

The usual serving is one to teaspoonfuls daily, starting with approximately one-quarter teaspoonful and gradually increasing. It may be mixed with honey, jam or yogurt or swallowed with a preferred liquid. If chewed it is suggested to rinse or brush following. For optimal freshness keep in a closed container out of direct sunlight and in a cool dry place.

 

About the Author:

Chanchal lives with her husband Thierry Vrain in Courtenay on Vancouver Island in BC where they cultivate vegetables and herbs on 7 acres and are building a healing garden retreat center. Visit Innisfreefarm.ca to read more about this.

Chanchal has been a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists since 1987 and obtained her MSc in herbal medicine at the University of Wales in 2003. She has an extensive background in orthomolecular nutrition and allergy therapy as well as clinical aromatherapy.

Chanchal has held the faculty chair in Botanical Medicine at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in New Westminster since 2004 and she serves on the board of advisors of Dominion Herbal College in Burnaby. She publishes widely in professional journals and lectures internationally on medical herbalism, nutrition and health.

www.chanchalcabrera.com

Dandelion Monograph

Article courtesy of BCHA Corporate Sponsor, Emery Herbals.

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: https://emeryherbals.com/herb-of-the-month-dandelion/

 

Dandelion Taraxacum officinale

I have a deeply committed, long-term relationship with Dandelion, it being the first herb ever that I feel in love with. I have so many fond memories of this herb ranging from sweet childhood times of sitting in the dandelion field stringing the bright yellow flowers together for my version of a daisy chain to rubbing the sticky flowers on my skin as a temporary tattoo of sorts to blowing the star like seeds to the sky and squeezing the white milk from its hollow stems. Seeing the sea of yellow would bring a sense of relief knowing that summer was on its way and warmer days were ahead. Lying back in the grass, gazing at the blue cloudless sky with the flowers all around, the buzz of the bee ringing in my ears was the soundtrack of my summer days in Southern Alberta.

Dandelion flowers provide some of the most important early foods for waking pollinating insects. Without these flowers these insects go without nourishment in the cold and barren early days of spring. As time passed and I grew up I realized that not all folk loved this herb as I did and even made great efforts to rid their green space of this important early pollinator, purchasing chemical sprays and treatments that would kill the Dandelion and render their lawn sterile and incapable of growing this herb let alone any other herb that would be beneficial to our natural environments.

Sad but true, in the later days of living in the city, it got to the point that the smell of pesticides became synonymous with early spring and dandelion blooms. I would spend a lot of time trying to educate my neighbours on the dangers of pesticide use and encourage them to allow for herbs to comingle in their grass, that a mono-cropped lawn was not nearly as healthy as one with dandelion, plantain, clover and more. Little did they know that the damage they caused by ridding their lawn of dandelion could actually been remedied by the dandelion itself.

COMMON NAME Dandelion (aka Lion’s Tooth)

BOTANICAL NAME Taraxacum officinale

PLANT FAMILY Asteraceae

PARTS USED Flower, Leaf and root

OVERVIEW Dandelion is a sunny, subtle, yet incredibly healing plant used for thousands of years in China and mentioned in traditional Arabian medicine in the tenth century. It has been used for centuries, in traditional medicine practices all over the world, as a restorative tonic, edible food, and in herbal wines and beers. The root is a favourite amongst traditional herbalists as it supports the healthy functioning of the liver, kidneys, spleen, and gallbladder and is considered to be a reliable detoxifying agent. The powdered and roasted root has been enjoyed as a coffee substitute and the roots and leaves are both used in brewing dandelion wines, beer, and in digestive bitter cordials and liqueurs. The flowers can be used to make wine, beer and lemonade.

BOTANY Dandelion bears a yellow flower head typical that closes in the evening or during cloudy weather and opens back up in the morning, much like its cousin calendula (Calendula officinale). It is a perennial herb with deeply cut leaves that form a basal rosette somewhat similar to another family member, the wild lettuce (Lactuca sp.), and has a thick tap root which is dark brown on the outside and white on the inside. It is native to most of Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, naturalized all over the world, and commonly found growing alongside roads and in lawns.

Taraxacum is derived from the Greek words ‘taraxos’ meaning disorder and ‘akos’ meaning remedy, the name referring to dandelion’s many healing properties. The word ‘dandelion’ originated from the Greek genus name ‘leontodon’ or ‘lion’s teeth’ which is thought to be related to the tooth-like shape of the leaves.

 

CULTIVATION AND HARVESTING Dandelion grows practically everywhere, and is collected in a variety of climates, even in the Himalayas up to about 12,000 feet, where it is often gathered for use in Ayurvedic medicine. Dandelion will grow anywhere, but will produce more substantial roots in moist, rich, deep soil.

Medicine of Dandelion is richest at certain times of harvest: Leaves collected before the flowers arrive, roots collected in early spring before flowering for culinary application and in the fall after the aerial parts have died back for medicinal application.

 

HISTORY AND FOLKLORE Medicinal use of dandelion was first recorded in writing in the Tang Materia Medica (659 B.C.E.), and then later noted by Arab physicians in the 10th century. In the 13th century, it was mentioned in Welsh medicine, and has been used all over the world since. The root was enjoyed by pharmacists in Europe as a fresh juice (said to be less bitter tasting) and referred to by its pharmaceutical name Succus Taraxaci. Young dandelion leaves were traditionally eaten frequently in Europe, particularly France. In folk medicine all over Europe it was considered a reliable tonic which supported the digestive and urinary systems.

In the United States, various Native American tribes considered dandelion to be a prized edible, a gastrointestinal aid, a cleansing alterative, and a helpful healing poultice or compress. The Bella Coola from Canada made a decoction of the roots to assuage stomach pain; the Algonquian ate the leaves for their alterative properties and also used them externally as a poultice. Additionally, the Aleut steamed leaves and applied them topically to sore throats. The Cherokee believed the root to be an alterative as well and made a tea of the plant (leaves and flowers) to calm the nerves. Further, they chewed the root to allay tooth pain. It is interesting to note that dandelion was used for pain relief by the Iroquois as well. They made a tea of the whole plant administering it for this purpose and also considered it be an alterative tonic. In the southwestern U.S., in Spanish speaking communities practicing herbalism, dandelion called ‘chicoria’ or ‘diente de leon’ was also considered a reliable blood purifier.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) it is referred to as ‘Xin Xiu Ben Cao’ or ‘Pu Gong Ying’ and considered to be energetically sweet, drying, and cooling. According to TCM, dandelion clears heat from the liver and has a beneficial effect on the stomach and lungs. It can uplift the mood and promote lactation.

The root was listed as official in the United States National Formulary, in the pharmacopeias of Austria and the Czech Republic, in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia, and the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia amongst others. It is an herb that is highly effective in strengthening and supporting the liver. It helps to balance the menstrual cycle as well. Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar strongly suggests this herb for bloating, pre-menstrual irritation, and for breast tenderness and says that it is “invaluable to women going through menopause.” The leaf can alleviate bloating by removing excess fluid from the system. The leaf contains potassium, which is often lost through frequent urination. Dandelion root’s benefit to the digestive tract is twofold as it contains inulin. (which may support healthy bacteria in the intestines), and is also a bitter digestive tonic which tones the digestive system and stimulates the appetite. It calms heat and also hot emotions, and is thus helpful in those that are irritated or nervous.

The young dandelion greens (rather than the older ones which become too bitter) are wonderful in salads. These leaves can also be steamed like spinach (although they take a little longer to cook than spinach) and spiced with salt, pepper, and butter. Other savory spices such as nutmeg, garlic, onion or lemon peel can be added as well.

 

FLAVOUR NOTES AND ENERGETICS Bitter, drying, and cooling

HERBAL ACTIONS Choleretic, appetite stimulant, digestive bitter, cholagogue, and mild laxative actions, mild purgative, hepatic, tonic, lymphatic, alterative, demulcent

USES AND PREPARATIONS Dried root or leaf as tea or tincture, powdered dried root encapsulated, or powdered and roasted and made into a coffee substitute beverage. Fresh leaf and flower as edible foods.

CONSTITUENTS Leaf and Flower: flavonoid glycosides such as luteolin and free luteolin, chrysoeriol coumarins, cichoriin, aesculin, bitter principles such as lactucopicrin (taraxacin), triterpenoids, and phytosterol.Root: sesquiterpene lactones, triterpenes (b-amyrin, taraxol, and taraxerol), carbohydrates such as inulin (ranging from 2% in spring to 40% in the fall), carotenoids such as lutein, fatty acids, flavonoids including apigenin and luteolin, minerals such as potassium (up to 5%), phenolic acids (caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid), phytosterols including sitosterol, stigmasterol, and taraxasterol, sugars, vitamin A, choline, mucilage and pectin.

PRECAUTIONS No known precautions.

RECIPES

1) Dandelion Fritters:

Use Fresh Leaves and Flowers for these delicious savoury treats. Can be made gluten free as well, modifications provided:

Ingredients

1/2 cup chopped fresh dandelion leaves

1/2 cup dandelion fresh flower petals

1/2 red onion, minced

1/4 Coconut flour & 1/4 cup almond flour OR ½ cup spelt flour

2 eggs, beaten

1 clove Garlic, minced

1/4 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

• Mix together the ingredients.
• Heat a skillet on medium heat until hot then grease with butter or coconut oil.
• Spoon 1/4 cup measure of the batter into the pan and fry on both sides until cooked through, about 3 – 4 minutes on each side.
• Repeat until all the batter is fried up.

 

2) Dandelion root Acetum and/or Oxymel

What is an acetum?

An acetum is a liquid preparation made by extracting various herbs with various vinegars. This simple to prepare medicine is valuable to our health for many reasons. The vinegar, which acts as the menstruum, is capable of extracting many minerals and vitamins that an alcohol extraction is incapable of. In this case, we prepare a dandelion root acetum using apple cider vinegar. Remember when making medicine to use the highest quality, organic, ingredients available to you. You may also wish to gather fresh dandelion leaves to create an acetum with as well.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Mason jar of your size, Dandelion root to loosely fill the jar, Apple Cider Vinegar (use the finely cut dandelion root supplied if you so choose).

METHOD: Loosely fill your mason jar with the herb and then pour your ACV over to fill. Cap, label with the date and contents. Allow to macerate, capped, for at least 2 weeks, optimally 6 weeks. Shake everyday and watch as this medicine evolves.

• When ready, strain through layers of cheesecloth and bottle into an amber bottle. Average adult dosage of this vinegar is 1- 3 teaspoons in a small glass of water.
• Once this Acetum is finished you may wish to take the end result and create an Oxymel.
• To create an Oxymel:
• Take one-part Acetum to one-part honey, lightly heat to combine. Bottle and label.
• Shelf life both medicines is roughly 6 months – 1 year.
• Both medicines provide a high mineral content formula useful for all the health benefits listed in the article above.

 

3) Dandelion Chai Mix

Ingredients

1/2 cup Roasted Dandelion Root

3 Tbsp Fennel or Anise seed

1 teaspoon green Cardamom pods or ground Cardamom

1 teaspoon Cloves

3 Cinnamon sticks crushed

1 Tbsp dried Ginger root

1 /2 tsp black Peppercorns

 

Mix the ingredients together in a quart jar, shaking and stirring until well mixed.

To make the chai:

Add 1 tbsp mixture per cup of water, simmer for 5 minutes then steep for 10 minutes.

Add honey and/or cream or milk to taste.

 

4) Dandelion Flower Lemonade

Ingredients

125 ml of freshly picked dandelion flowers

500 ml sized jar

30 ml lemon juice

10 ml raw honey

Directions

• Add the honey to the jar and enough hot water to melt it.
• Place the dandelion flowers in the jar.
• Fill the jar with room temperature water plus the lemon juice.
• Cap and chill in the fridge.
• It is ready to serve in about four hours.
• You can strain off the flowers, or leave them in as a beautiful addition to your dandelion lemonade.

 

I encourage all of you to try to dig up a few roots this spring and add them to your meals, beverage and culinary delights. Dandelion has so much to offer us and ask so little in return other than to be left to grow and allowed nourish our environment, both for the insects and for us.

 

About Emery Herbals:

Founded in 2003, Emery Herbals began as a small, urban, home based business, providing access to consciously sourced and created plant medicine. Since, Emery Herbals has relocated to rural British Columbia, expanding to house an East West focused Botanical Dispensary, Healing Suites and Teaching Centre.

Emery Herbals commits to providing open access to high quality, consciously sourced botanicals; professional health services and empowering education experiences that aim to encourage and cultivate sustained wellness.

We have an East West focused approach to our Botanical Dispensary with a diverse inventory of raw herbs, tinctures, essential oils, teas and health related items. Our sacred relationship to our natural environment is instilled in our commitment to providing access to the lowest impact, consciously sourced herbs grown through local farms, privately owned wild lands, and ethical world suppliers.

Our Botanical Dispensary provides formulating, compounding and dispensing services for the local community, regional health practitioners as well as distant clients and health providers in other areas of the world. Through the many years of formulating and custom blending for her clients, Colleen Emery has created a dynamic offering of shelf products ready to dispense directly to our clients available for purchase in the Winlaw location as well as in the Online Apothecary.

Emery Herbals Healing Suites offers access to educated and trained health Practitioners in a peaceful and enriching environment to help guide and support your wellness and healing journey.

Our Teaching Centre actively provides education experiences to help grow your connection to the natural world and bring empowerment to your healthcare.

www.emeryherbals.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Holly Fourchalk – Ph.D., HNM, MH, HT, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://www.choicesunlimited.ca/how-your-kitchen-can-protect-you-against-anti-biotic-resistant-bacteria/

 

Long before we the age of artificial synthetic antibiotics or man made laboratory created antibiotics
…nature provided us with some awesome antibiotics that still work!!!

1. Spices like garlic support our immune system and act as anti-microbials

2. Real cinnamon (especially Sri Lanka cinnamon) is anti-microbial

3. Spices like oregano, rosemary and thyme are antimicrobial for upper respiratory issues

4. Echinacea (especially Augustifoliais a great for improving immune function)

5. Probiotics in your foods (fermented, pickled, yogurt) is great to increase the probiotic component of your immune system

6. Honey was a great natural anti-biotic prior to the laboratory ones

7. Watermelon is great for the immune system

8. Ginger is another anti-microbial and also an anti-inflammatory

And there are a host of others…Go back to nature and REAL medicine and REAL food and GET HEALTHY

 

About the Author:

Dr Holly, has a genetic disorder and therefore a passion about health. With a PhD in Research, Design & Analysis;  in Psychology: Endocrinology; MA in Herbal Medicine; Dr of Natural Medicine; PhD Nutrition; Advanced Ayurveda Practitioner; Homeopathy, Reflexology; Energy Practitioner; Hypnotherapy & more, she has written 25 books and teaches around the world.

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Dr. Cobi, PhD, DNM, CHT, RNCP, ROHP, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: https://store.drcobi.com/blogs/news/the-delicate-symphony-of-hormones

The delicate symphony of hormones that occur within the endocrine system can be easily disrupted in many different ways. The sheer act of aging can result in the endocrine system being upset.

As reproductive functions play out over time, hormone levels naturally decline. If the hormones decline too quickly, this can trigger the onset of early menopause and can cause other hormone imbalances associated with the change of life. Lifestyle habits play a major role in the pace of hormonal decline and premature aging.

Hormone balance is deeply connected to many different factors including nutrition, exercise, detoxification capabilities, obesity and stress levels. At midlife, the already overstressed adrenal glands must take over much of the hormone production previously handled by the ovaries. Chronic stress which exceeds the body’s capabilities causes excess cortisol to consequently flood the system and disrupt the total hormone production.

The body sacrifices its own progesterone in order to make even more cortisol in response to the chronic stress. This depletes the key balancing hormone progesterone with obvious implications for estrogen dominance. Prolonged stress deteriorates our bones, atrophies our muscles, decreases strength and energy, lowers libido and overwhelms our immune system. This puts women at serious risk for severe menopausal symptoms as well as chronic illnesses and autoimmune diseases. Many women’s ailments are linked to specific hormonal imbalances which can be triggered by any one or a combination of the following:

• Stress and overexertion
• Not enough time for relaxation and play
• Improper breathing
• Improper diet- excess saturated or hydrogenated fat, sugar, refined carbohydrates, meats, dairy, toxins in fish
• Nutritional deficiencies- such as vitamins B5, B6, C, zinc, selenium, magnesium, tyrosine, tryptophan, essential fatty acids
• Food sensitivities
• Environmental allergies
• Infectious organisms and/or imbalances in intestinal flora
• Intestinal toxins, such as yeast toxins
• Impaired liver function or liver stagnation
• Elevated blood sugar
• Excess alcohol
• Smoking
• Exposure to electromagnetic chemicals, including PCB’s, dioxin, pesticides, phthalates, Bisphenol A, PVC, fire retardants, parabens in cosmetics
• Exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals or hormonal excess in utero
• Pharmaceutical drugs, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy
• Heavy metals, particularly cadmium, mercury and lead
• Lack of exercise or excessive exercise
• Light at night
• Lack of exposure to sunlight
• Shift work
• Insomnia
• Obesity or being underweight
• History of emotional trauma or abuse
• Negative thought patterns and emotions

 

About the Author:

Dr. Cobi Slater, PhD, DNM, CHT, RNCP, NNCP began her medical training at Dominion Herbal College where she graduated with honors after 4 years of schooling with a degree in Clinical Herbal Therapy.

Dr. Cobi continued on to complete further specialized training to qualify as a DNM (Doctorate of Natural Medicine), awarded by the Examining Board of Natural Medicine Practitioners of Canada and the Board of Natural Medicine Doctors and Practitioners of North America. Dr. Cobi holds a PhD in Natural Health Sciences with a specialty in hormonal dysfunction.

In addition, Dr. Cobi is trained as a Natural Health Practitioner, Natural Health Consultant, Natural Health Educator, a Natural Health Technician, Certified Laser Therapist, and Registered Orthomolecular Health Practitioner/Registered Nutritional Consulting Practitioner.

Dr. Cobi‘s inspiration to pursue a holistic approach to health and wellbeing led her to establish Essential Health Natural Wellness Clinic located in Maple Ridge, BC. Essential Health is dedicated to providing professional, safe and effective complementary healthcare through the use of research and evidence-based natural medicine therapies. Offering assistance for chronic disease, hormone issues, immune health, allergies, skin problems, digestive complaints, nutrition counseling and lifestyle counseling to name a few, Essential Health educates and empowers individuals to achieve an optimal state of health and wellbeing.

Dr. Cobi currently practices in her local clinic and conducts on-line consultations throughout North America. She writes health articles and columns for several newspapers and health magazines and is the International Best-Selling Author of 5 books including: The Ultimate Candida Guide and Cookbook, The Ultimate Hormone Guidebook, The Ultimate Metabolic Plan, The Ultimate Gluten and Dairy Free Cookbook and the Refresh, Revive, Restore 10-Day Detox Book.

Dr. Cobi is a professional RHT member of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of British Columbia, the Natural Medicine Practitioners of Canada, the International Organization of Nutritional Consultants, the Canadian Association of Natural Nutritional Practitioners and the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses. She is also a member of the Board of Natural Medicine Doctors and Practitioners of North America, the Natural Medicine Certification Council as well as the Health Action Network Society.

www.drcobi.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Katolen Yardley – MNIMH, RH (AHG) ~ Medical Herbalist

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://aeblog.alchemyelixir.com/2016/02/01/trauma-rest-and-the-role-of-nature-in-resetting-the-nervous-system/

Having recent opportunity to teach in the certificate program “The Holistic Approach to Trauma,” at Langara College in Vancouver BC. The impact of extreme stress and the chain reaction that stress has on the body is fresh in my mind.

PSTD can be triggered from a traumatic event which creates emotional upheaval, flashbacks and anxiety which is re-lived again and again in both the mind and the body.  Rather than integrating the experience and moving forward – which is our bodies normal way of adapting, the trauma of a stress filled event can overwhelm the body, impacting resiliency and ones ability to cope; creating a looping state where the body re-lives an event which occurred in the past. PSTD and chronic stress can create a domino effect, impacting all endocrine  hormones throughout the body, altering immune system, hormones, thyroid function (the bodies motor for functioning) and adrenal health and can trigger inflammatory conditions leading to chronic dis-ease.

Finding my own self in urgent need of rest after a unique year, I sought out the most possible peace filled environment I could imagine. A small cabana hut, complete with a book and a hammock right on the ocean. Time to reconnect with nature and simply exhale.

My temporary home, a one room hut with a thatched palm roof and outside my door was nothing but a wide stretch of  pristine white sand beach (noted to be some of the most beautiful in the world) and awe inspiring, magnificent views of  turquoise waters.

Perhaps the very best therapy for trauma (or simply overload from stress) is the quiet calm, the lush green, serene stillness of NATURE. The simplicity of nature assists in our remembering that we are all connected and mother earth is our playground and a healer on this journey called life.

Studies have been conducted on immersion in nature and its benefits for individuals suffering from stress and extended trauma. Nature can play a fundamental role in the
restoration of a healthy nervous system, providing an opportunity to re-set a hyper functioning overly sensitive state. Immersion in nature is hugely beneficial for those suffering from PSTD. It matters not where ones makes contact with nature to experience the healing offered through contact with her trees, plants and the earth – gifts of mother natures and her green allies. Contact with nature can occur in ones garden, a local community park, or in the countryside, a meadow or at ocean level; remote wilderness, a jungle or high up in the mountains.  It is the benefit that fresh clean air, stunning beauty, walking barefoot in the soil, hugging a tree and experiencing the soothing sounds of mother nature. There is growing evidence that our green friends – trees, plants, flowers can improve our health and well being and reminds us of the connection we have to inhabitants  on this planet -plants, animals as well as each other. We are a part of a larger community.

In my soon to be released book “The Good Living Guide to Natural and Herbal Remedies” I speak of the urgent importance of recognizing mother nature and all she provides as necessary for the health of all life on this planet.  Mother nature provides plants which are our nourishment, our foods and our medicines – plants are our healing allies – we co exist together on this planet. We could not exist on this planet without plants. It is essential that we recognise her essential value in our life and seek to protect her gifts which are disappearing at a rapid rate. 

The beach road outside of Tulum, Mexico is known for its bohemian new age feel, live music, plenty of yoga, juice bars, plenty of ecologically conscious retreats and small boutique hotels – a far removed sanctuary from sprawling busy resort hotels miles away; this lush beach front is still largely surrounded by palm trees, green jungle plants, mangroves and animals. No pressure to do anything except to enjoy the sparkling Caribbean Sea and stunning shoreline. The first night I took in some late night music therapy – feeling the reverberations of vibration soothe my tired soul.

Further south of the Riviera Maya,  past the Tulum Playa coastline, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is a world renowned Ecological Reserve and designated World Heritage Site (UNESCO); extending roughly 120 kilometers of coastline, and over 400,000 hectares of land. Sian Ka’an currently is the largest protected area in the Mexican Carribean. This biosphere reserve contains tropical jungle forests, marshes and wetlands, freshwater lagoons and mangrove forests, palm savannah and intersects  the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef (the second largest barrier reef in the world) with its white beaches and sand dunes.  It is the home for an thousands of plant and animal species, a habitat for more than 300 species of birds, (including the great blue heron, jabiru, ocelot, margay and wood stork, American flamingo, toucan, vultures, ) spider black howler monkey, crocodile, black iguana, puma,  jaguar, brown pelican, puma, ocelot, tamandua and tapir, It also is home to a great diversity of marine life: nesting marine turtles, rays, coral fish and numerous fish species.

Studies confirm that peace filled green environments such as those found in nature have an impact on mental well being, reducing fears, anxiety, anger, tension and depression.  Recognizing the challenges and stressors of daily living in our western industrialized society, nature can provide the needed reset button and perhaps may just influence our own future choices and the direction – if we recognize mother nature as valuable we might be more likely to fight to preserve her own health.

Continued and frequent contact with mother nature may be a necessary contact to sustain
balance – sustainable and ecological friendly practices for tourism are desperately needed. New levels of ecological tourism are needed to prevent the destruction of the beauty which tourists flock to enjoy; currently at the cost of the plant life and animal species that call this backdrop home.  Perhaps it is a timely call for mutual healing – for both ourselves – humans suffering the consequences of our industrialized lifestyle – insomnia, hypertension, plagued by anxiety and worry.  And our own active involvement the natural world, ensuring she is flourishing, healthy and well for our mutual growth/ nourishment on this planet.

Yet during my stay I was aware of the urgent need for more environmental conservation practices in the Yucatan Peninsula to sustain this exquisite environment.  This very land which provides such great beauty and deep healing is in desperate need of saving, as large resorts and fast moving developments destroy miles of mangroves creating irreversible destruction to the fragile ecosystem of this land.

What we do to the planet we do to ourselves. It is time that we take responsibility for the state of the environment and make personal and conscious choices for its improvement.

When I awoke in the morning, and took my first morning ocean swim, I could SEE the truth of the situation! Before the local beach groomers had swept the beach to remove the proof -at night the ocean would deposit ALL that was being held in her waters – plastic, plastic, and more plastic! Bottles, containers, plastic chips, hundreds of colored plastic bits littered the beach. Resembling little colored fish, I could imagine larger fish ingesting these plastic parts thinking they were nourishment. An example of xenoestrogens and a visual example of the impact that tiny bits of plastic can have on marine life and aquatic species.

Ecotourism and the issues surrounding growing coastal urbanization is a focus as locals seek to preserve the beauty of the environment and retain the biodiversity of plant and animal species in the Yucatan. Environmental groups are committed to protecting the local areas and fragile ecosystem and attempt to slow down or prevent the ecological problems that have already taken hold in Cancun and Playa Del Carmen.

Many smaller hotels are conscious of the need for sustainable tourism and take steps to  minimize the environmental impact on this fragile ecosystem, supporting existing conservation projects to help preservation for future generations. Some of the challenges of this area:

• there are well-documented garbage and sewage problems: septic tanks from larger (and even smaller) hotels may be dumping soap water from their laundries into the mangroves or nearby cenotes polluting the underground river system.
• chlorophenoxy herbicides from pesticides and chemical fertilisers used in green lawn areas and golf courses are now major threats to the fragile barrier reef
• due to a lack of proper man made drainage, the hydrological cycle is short, and over time the vegetation in existing mangroves ends up dying
• contamination of drinking water and ocean life from both untreated sewage and containing byproducts found in human urine (containing traces of pharmaceutical medication (such as xenoestrogen chemicals found in birth control pills, premarin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen and residue from beauty care products containing plastic beads, antiseptics (aka antibiotics such as triclosan) are a major problem
• traces of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) have also been found in ocean water and has an impact on coral and marine life
• documented climate change, raising temperatures and water levels, pollution and contamination has damaged local mangroves and reefs

Taking small steps to be  eco-friendly, many smaller boutique hotels have no electricity past midnight. Toilet paper is not flushed  and it is requested that water and other resources be used sparingly. Many showers are refreshing one tap cold ocean water rinses. Solar panels provide electricity and many hotels take steps to reuse and recycle offering filtered water (refills) rather than selling bottled water containers.  Many environmental agencies make recommendations such as the use of impermeable liners beneath golf courses, improved wastewater treatment infrastructure, prohibition of dumping treated sewage into saltwater and protection of remaining mangrove habitat, which buffer coastal areas from pollution.

Centro Ecológico Akumal is a non-governmental organization that focuses on sustainability-related issues and improving ecosystem management in and around Akumal.

Statistics from the Mexican government state the the mayan riviera is the fastest gowing resort area in the world. Mangroves that once covered all of the coastal area, have now been bulldozed and paved over. A jarring example of how NOT to create a sustainable tourist area. Scientists now believe that mangrove forests can help slow climate change, by purifying the water from human wastes and pollutants, and in doing so, coral reefs are less effected. The roots of mangroves act to trap sediments that would otherwise be washed back out by the waves. Moreover, mangroves provide a habitat for many different species of animals and suck a large amount of industrial carbon out of the atmosphere and bury it deep within the underground network of roots.

Mother natures offers us her gifts – nature is a stunning reprieve from hectic city life. It is essential that we recognize and preserve her qualities and  value her continued existence and seek to protect her gifts which are disappearing at a rapid rate. 

About Katolen

Katolen Yardley, MNIMH, RH (AHG) -Medical Herbalist
Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Katolen is a Medical Herbalist and a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, currently in private practice in Vancouver and Port Moody, BC and offers online consultations throughout North America. She has been employed in the Holistic Health field since 1993, with clinical experience since 1995. Her personal interest in health lies with the emotional connection to wellness and dis-ease. She specializes in women’s health issues, skin dis-ease, digestive and nervous system disorders and believes in providing usable tools for healing through inspiration and education.

Katolen has been involved in curriculum development for numerous educational programs. She is adjunct faculty at Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, has taught at Pacific Rim College and is an instructor and clinic supervisor of a Dominion Herbal College approved student training clinic. Katolen offers hands on medicine making classes, herb walks and public talks at Van Dusen Botanical Gardens and UBC Sustainable Farm. Katolen is the president of the Canadian Council of Herbalist Associations (CCHA) and a third term president of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of BC (CHA of BC). She is the author of the book – The Good Living Guide to Natural and Herbal Remedies (release date July, 2016).

From 1998 until 2015, she appeared monthly on Global Television Morning News, offering herbal information to the public. Katolen has been a guest on the Discovery Channel’s Healthy Home Show, has been published in numerous magazines and health journals including: the British Journal of Phytotherapy, Shared Vision Magazine, Elated News, Choices Markets Newsletters and Living + Magazine, she is a guest speaker at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, has presented at international conferences including Phytotherapy Canada, the BC Pharmacy Association, the Canadian Herbalists Association of BC, Ontario Herbalists Association, Health Action Network, Kootenay Herb Conference, Green Gathering, Vancouver Island Herb Gathering, Powell River Women’s Health Network, Washington State’s Northwest Herbal Fair, Northern California Women’s Herbal Symposium, North West Herb Symposium, Nanaimo Horticultural Society, the BC Post Secondary Support Staff Conference and appeared in interviews on the Dr. Don Show, the Simi Sara Show, Access Television, Health Stuff You Need to Know Podcast, CKVN News, CBC National News, The Weather Network, CBC Talk Radio, CKNW’s World Today and CFML Radio.

www.katolenyardley.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Dr. Cobi, PhD, DNM, CHT, RNCP, ROHP, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: https://store.drcobi.com/blogs/news/7389684-25-things-that-you-can-do-to-dramatically-improve-your-health

1. Drink Water– the actual recommended amount is half your body weight in ounces (Ex. 150lb person would require 75 ounces of water per day). It may be advisable to start with half of the full amount and slowly work your way up. Herbal tea also counts as water.

2. Avoid the Dirty Dozen– by eating the following fruits and vegetables in the organic form you will reduce your pesticide load by as much as 97%! (Celery, peaches, apples, blueberries, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach, kale, cherries, potatoes, grapes)

3. Use Coconut oil– the fats found in coconut oil, namely lauric acid is the richest source of medium chain triglycerides which have many health benefits.

4. Drink Coconut water– Considered to be “Nature’s Gatorade”, coconut water is the BEST way to re-hydrate and restore electrolyte balance.

5. Eat Kale– It is not only loaded with “good for you” nutrients it also contains Sulforaphane, which is formed when cruciferous vegetables such as kale are chopped or chewed. This triggers the liver to produce enzymes that detoxify cancer-causing chemicals. These enzymes inhibit chemically-induced breast cancers, eradicate colon cancer cells and help to stop the proliferation of breast cancer cells, even in the later stages of their growth.

6. Eat your Spinach– The A and C vitamins in spinach plus the fiber, folic acid, magnesium and other nutrients help control cancer, especially colon, lung and breast cancers.

Spinach’s secret weapon, lutein, makes it one of the best foods in the world to prevent cataracts, as well as age related macular degeneration, the leading cause of preventable blindness in the elderly. Foods rich in lutein are also thought to help prevent cancer.

7. Eat Organic Blueberries-Packed with antioxidant phytonutrients called anthocyanidins, blueberries neutralize free radical damage to the collagen matrix of cells and tissues that can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, peptic ulcers, heart disease and cancer.

8. Eat Raw Nuts– Almonds, Brazil nuts, and sesame seeds are a rich source of calcium and have protective benefits against cardiovascular disease. Nuts are an excellent source of protein and can help regulate blood sugar, lower LDL cholesterol levels, and contribute to healthy skin, hair, nails, teeth & gums.

9. Grind your Flax Seeds– Studies have been shown that 2 tablespoons of ground flax seed can decrease estrogen related cancers by as much as 70%. Flax seeds are also an excellent source of fiber and omega 3 fatty acids.

10. Omega 3 fatty acids– The health benefits of regular consumption of Omega 3’s are endless but some of the most well researched benefits include decreased pain and inflammation, depression, skin conditions, memory, cardiovascular health and cancer protection.

11. Rotate your food– Diets that include a variety of foods have been found to reduce the risk of food allergies and sensitivities from occurring.

12. Eliminate dairy– Dairy has been implicated in many health conditions including skin conditions, digestive disorders, chronic ear infections, allergies and other inflammatory conditions. The hormones found in dairy products can upset the delicate hormonal balance in our bodies.

13. Eliminate gluten– Many researchers now agree that whether you are allergic to gluten or not, avoiding it has many health benefits. Gluten has been linked to several autoimmune conditions and it very challenging to digest for many people.

14. Eliminate sugar– 1 gram of sugar is the equivalent to 1 teaspoon of sugar when reading a food label. Once you start doing the math, it is undeniable that we are consuming way too much sugar. 1 teaspoon of sugar can leave the immune system defenceless for 4 hours.

15. Eat raw– Consume raw vegetables at least once per day. The enzymes are still intact when foods are consumed raw, which aids in digestion. Go completely raw one day per week.

16. Do not eat farmed fish– Go wild!

17. Do not eat pork– Pork is one of the most inflammatory foods leading to an increase in inflammation in the body. A pig is a real garbage gut. It will eat anything including urine, excrement, dirt, decaying animal flesh, maggots and decaying vegetables. They will even eat the cancerous growths off other pigs or animals.

18. Limit alcohol– Alcohol is dehydrating and puts extra pressure on the already over burdened liver.

19. Limit caffeine– Over consumption of caffeine can cause anxiety, palpitations, dehydration and headaches.

20. Avoid artificial sugars– Artificial sugars are one of the most over-consumed poisons. They have the ability to cross the blood brain barrier and cause many symptoms in the body including headaches, fatigue, tremors, mood disturbances and body aches.

21. Read labels– If you cannot pronounce it then do not eat it!

22. Use an infrared sauna at least 1 time per week– The health benefits of infrared sauna use include weight loss, detoxification, immune benefits, pain management, improvement in skin conditions and heightened energy.

23. Move your body– There are endless benefits to daily exercise. A 30 minute walk per day has been show to dramatically decrease depression and anxiety symptoms.

24. Sleep– Nightly adequate sleep is essential for hormone production and healing in the body. Start winding down the day by about 8pm by dimming lights so that melatonin production can be increased in the brain to ensure a good night’s rest.

25. Reduce electromagnetic pollution especially at night– Turn off all screens especially at night. Over exposure to electromagnetic pollution from TV’s, computers, clock radio’s and other electronic devices has a stimulating effect on the nervous system and can lead to an interruption in sleep cycles.

 

About the Author:

Dr. Cobi Slater, PhD, DNM, CHT, RNCP, NNCP began her medical training at Dominion Herbal College where she graduated with honors after 4 years of schooling with a degree in Clinical Herbal Therapy.

Dr. Cobi continued on to complete further specialized training to qualify as a DNM (Doctorate of Natural Medicine), awarded by the Examining Board of Natural Medicine Practitioners of Canada and the Board of Natural Medicine Doctors and Practitioners of North America. Dr. Cobi holds a PhD in Natural Health Sciences with a specialty in hormonal dysfunction.

In addition, Dr. Cobi is trained as a Natural Health Practitioner, Natural Health Consultant, Natural Health Educator, a Natural Health Technician, Certified Laser Therapist, and Registered Orthomolecular Health Practitioner/Registered Nutritional Consulting Practitioner.

Dr. Cobi‘s inspiration to pursue a holistic approach to health and wellbeing led her to establish Essential Health Natural Wellness Clinic located in Maple Ridge, BC. Essential Health is dedicated to providing professional, safe and effective complementary healthcare through the use of research and evidence-based natural medicine therapies. Offering assistance for chronic disease, hormone issues, immune health, allergies, skin problems, digestive complaints, nutrition counseling and lifestyle counseling to name a few, Essential Health educates and empowers individuals to achieve an optimal state of health and wellbeing.

Dr. Cobi currently practices in her local clinic and conducts on-line consultations throughout North America. She writes health articles and columns for several newspapers and health magazines and is the International Best-Selling Author of 5 books including: The Ultimate Candida Guide and Cookbook, The Ultimate Hormone Guidebook, The Ultimate Metabolic Plan, The Ultimate Gluten and Dairy Free Cookbook and the Refresh, Revive, Restore 10-Day Detox Book.

Dr. Cobi is a professional RHT member of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of British Columbia, the Natural Medicine Practitioners of Canada, the International Organization of Nutritional Consultants, the Canadian Association of Natural Nutritional Practitioners and the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses. She is also a member of the Board of Natural Medicine Doctors and Practitioners of North America, the Natural Medicine Certification Council as well as the Health Action Network Society.

www.drcobi.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Corporate Sponsor, Emery Herbals.

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: https://emeryherbals.com/herb-of-the-month-violet/

Violet’s spring blossoms are some of the first flowers to arrive after the solitude of Winter has left us. Their medicine is one of nourishment, softening and strengthening. I find Violets arrive in time to soften the hardness that can emerge in the decline of Winter. Violets are often referenced as being helpful in times of transition, whether that be seasonal or life transitions. Historically Violets were worn at funerals, they assist in comforting and strengthening the heart in times of despair. Violets truly celebrate the arrival of spring in a joyful and supportive fashion with their intoxicating aroma and wonderful addition to our medicine cabinets and food.

Common Name: Violet Leaf and Flower

Scientific Name: Viola spp. Many species including Viola tricolor, Viola adjunca, Viola langsdorfii, Viola palustris, Viola canadensis, Viola galvella, Viola sempervirens, Viola odorata to name several.
Family: Violaceae
Energetics: cooling, moistening
Herbal actions: primarily demulcent; astringent, bitter. Some species have aromatic flowers.

Body Systems Affinity: Respiratory, Lymphatic, Mucous Membrane

Botanical Characteristics:

There are many kinds of violets found in the wild and in everyday garden spaces and lawns.  All are low growing plants with heart or kidney-shaped leaves that are a deep, rich green. Flowers have five petals arranged with two upper, two middle, and one lower petal, which is often larger. There are many colours to be found: dark purple, yellow, white, beige, blue, even multi coloured. Violets will readily cross with each other. Luckily, all violets are edible and are used for medicine interchangeably. Violets like a damp, moist growing condition.

Violets’ morphology easily attracts early insects and get their flowers pollinated and this plant has a built in strategy for reproduction and survival.

Herbalist Elise Krohn writes:

Lower petals have bright lines that glow like landing strips for bees or butterflies. The mouth of the nectary is guarded by two modified stamens that deposit pollen on visitors when they crawl into the flower. Combs on the bottom petal gather pollen that has been transported from other violet flowers off bee bellies.

But violets have devised an ingenious back up plan for reproduction in case they bloom too early for pollinators.  Small greenish flowers grow in late summer under ground or at the soils surface.  They do not open, and are self-fertilized.  

Some violet seeds have outgrowths called oil-bodies that ants carry off for food and disperse at a distance from the parent plant. Violets also reproduce by throwing out runners that set roots and become new plants.

Maude Grieves writes:

The flowers are full of honey and are constructed for bee visitors, but bloom before it is really bee time, so that it is rare that a Violet flower is found setting seed.

There is indeed a remarkable botanical curiosity in the structure of the Violet: it produces flowers both in the spring and in autumn, but the flowers are different. In spring they are fully formed, as described, and sweet-scented, but they are mostly barren and produce no seed, while in autumn, they are very small and insignificant, hidden away amongst the leaves, with no petals and no scent, and produce abundance of seed.

This peculiarity is not confined to the Violet. It is found in some species of Oxalis, Impatiens, Campanula, Eranthemum, etc. Such plants are called cleistogamous and are all self-fertilizing. The cleistogamous flowers of the Violet are like flowers which have aborted instead of developing, but within each one are a couple of stamens and some unripe seeds.

The Violet propagates itself, also, in another way by throwing out scions, or runners, from the main plant each summer after flowering, and these in turn send out roots and become new plants, a process that renders it independent of seed.

Gathering Information:

I get very excited about the potential of Violet gathering season for it can last from mid spring all the way through summer by travelling higher altitude later in the season. Gather violet leaves and flowers when they are young and fresh, vibrant and colourful. After providing an offering to the plant and sharing your gratitude to it, gentle remove leaves and flowers by pinching off the plant. Ensure you leave enough of the plant so that it continues to flourish and only harvest 1/3 of the stand at the very most. Violets are often found in wetland areas so please be mindful where you step as you are searching for this plant. Many herbs are due to arrive after violets unveil, be cautious not to disturb this sensitive ecosystem.  Many wild violets transplant well and will flourish in shady areas of your garden.

Culinary Uses:

All violet leaves and flowers are edible, including their close relative, pansies, and Johnny jump ups.  According to herbalist Janice Schofield, just two violet leaves fulfills our daily requirement for vitamin C.  Violet is a nutritious spring food and can be added to salads, soups, sautés, sauces, and whatever else your imagination comes up with. Both the leaves and flowers can be added to food, however the leaves are a particular excellent salad green when combined with other delicious wild and cultivated veggies. Recipes follow.

Caution: Wild violet leaves contain saponins which can irritate mucous membrane and cause tummy upset when eaten in very large quantities.  Do not eat more than a handful at a time and best to combine with other greens such as spinach, lettuces, chickweed etc.

Medicinal Uses:

The leaves of violet are high in mucilage that soothe irritated tissue.  The leaves also contain salicylic acid, which helps reduce pain and lessen swelling. Violet leaves can be muddled and put on bruises and wounds to help reduce swelling and lessen the pain of injuries. Excellent remedy for bee bites, stings, bruises etc. Can be used as a spit poultice easily when on the trail, in the garden or forest. Violet has an infinity to the respiratory system, especially in children, can soften a dry harsh cough and help soothe sore tissues associated with colds and flu.

Violet leaves and flowers also have an infinity for the lymphatic system. The tea of the flowers, leaves, and sometimes the roots is used internally to help reduce stagnation relieve congested tissue. A tea of Violet leaves in the winter time when the throat is dry and glands are sensitive to the touch relieves the pain and softens the harsh feelings in the throat. Beneficial to any cystic condition in the body.

RECIPES

Every spring and early summer I venture out to collect many leaves and flowers of the violet plant. Some of the leaves I dry to create teas with in the fall, winter and early spring. Some leaves and flowers I tincture for a stronger medicine utilized in times of dry coughs, lymph congestion and cystic like situations.

I also collect many of the fragrant flowers and create a medicinal honey and a medicinal oil. The later two are for my own use and are to infuse the energy of the violet into my daily life through its scent and flower energy. The energy of the violet flower is said to free us from our past, unsettling thoughts and trauma, open the heart chakra and encourages healthy self awareness.

 

Here are some of my favourite recipes:

Violet Flower oil infusion

Supplies needed:

• Highest quality carrier oil you can obtain, remembering that toxins and contaminates are concentrated in fat molecules, making it especially crucial to source your oils as pure as possible. Also choose an oil that has very little aroma and has a long shelf. This is a medicine I splurge for organic grape seed oil or organic jojoba oil.
• Violet flowers
• Jar
• Love

Find an abundant violet stand that has fragrant flowers. Not all violets will, V. tricolor, a domestic species native to the UK does. It has naturalized here and its quite abundant, often found wild.

Carefully and graciously choose your flowers filling your jar as you go. Immediately pour oil to cover and cover with cheese cloth or a light towel. You can add more flowers every day as they bloom until you jar is filled up, filling to cover as needed. Because this is a fresh flower oil do not cap as the flowers may mold in the oil without the option of being able to disperse their moisture.

Don’t heat infuse in the sun. Allow the aroma to be gently coaxed out by the oil over time. Set the jar in a cool, dark area where you can check on it daily and watch the oil change. Heat extractions only work well for when its over 30 degrees day and night for a stretch of 10 full days. Fluctuations of temperature allow for fermentation.

When you are satisfied you have captured the aroma you may strain, bottle and label. This is both a culinary and medicinal application of medicine.

 

Violet Flower Honey

Supplies needed

• Best quality honey available
• Violet Flowers
• Jar
• Love

Follow the above recipe, however I recommend saving the violets after straining, drying and creating a candy treat.

Option: You may also add 1-part brandy to 2 parts honey to create an elixir option. Add the brandy when combining the honey and violets together, stir well. All other steps are the same.

 

Wild Leaves and Flowers Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Spinach greens
• 1 cup Violet Leaf and Flower
• 1 cup Chickweed greens
• 1 cup Miner’s Lettuce
• Edible flowers such as rose, calendula, borage etc.

Combine leaves together and place flowers beautifully on top to adorn. Serve with your favourite dressing.

Mine is as follows:

• ¼ cup Violet infused grape-seed oil
• ½ cup Olive Oil
• ½ cup Nettle infused Apple Cider vinegar
• ¼ cup raspberry, mint puree (combine raspberries and a few of mint leaves in the blender and wiz).
• 1 teaspoon honey

Combine and drizzle over salad.

 

Fresh Violet Leaf Tincture

This is a staple in my medicine cabinet for the winter months, soothing dry throats, easing swollen glands and nourishing deeply.

For this recipe you will need 50% alcohol, less than this concentration may not properly extract medicine and due to the water content of the fresh violet you may reduce the overall percentage too low in your final product.

I have given you the Simpler’s method for this tincture recipe. If you would like the scientific method or if you have questions regarding tincture making feel free to reach out!

 

Simpler’s method:

Chop your violet leaf into smaller pieces and pack tightly into your jar. Cover with your alcohol (referred to as the menstruum).

Cap and leave to combine together for 7 days.

After 7 days, blend to puree the contents and return this tincture back to its jar. You may need to add a wee more menstruum to help the slurry blend. Macerate (leave to combine together) for up to 21 – 41 more days preferably following the moon cycles, starting on the new moon and straining on the full moon. I tend to leave most of my tinctures for 6 weeks minimum.

Some Herbalist recommend blending fresh herbal tinctures at the start of the tincturing process. I wait for a stretch to allow the herbs and the menstruum to commingle and get to know each other better before I create a combined slurry of them. Energetically this feels more gentle and instinctually allows the wisdom of the herb to let go of its constituents gradually. 

After the set maceration time is up, strain and press through layers of cheese cloth into a large bowl and then bottle and label. The final product may be mucligenic, thick almost like a syrup and this is a good thing!!

Dosage is 1 – 2 ml as needed for above conditions.

Enjoy all the goodness of Violet medicine this season. Simply brew a tea of the loose leaves and flowers, enjoy the taste, journey with this plant she has many messages to offer.

All the best for a fantastic and healthy spring season!!

 

About Emery Herbals:

Founded in 2003, Emery Herbals began as a small, urban, home based business, providing access to consciously sourced and created plant medicine. Since, Emery Herbals has relocated to rural British Columbia, expanding to house an East West focused Botanical Dispensary, Healing Suites and Teaching Centre.

Emery Herbals commits to providing open access to high quality, consciously sourced botanicals; professional health services and empowering education experiences that aim to encourage and cultivate sustained wellness.

We have an East West focused approach to our Botanical Dispensary with a diverse inventory of raw herbs, tinctures, essential oils, teas and health related items. Our sacred relationship to our natural environment is instilled in our commitment to providing access to the lowest impact, consciously sourced herbs grown through local farms, privately owned wild lands, and ethical world suppliers.

Our Botanical Dispensary provides formulating, compounding and dispensing services for the local community, regional health practitioners as well as distant clients and health providers in other areas of the world. Through the many years of formulating and custom blending for her clients, Colleen Emery has created a dynamic offering of shelf products ready to dispense directly to our clients available for purchase in the Winlaw location as well as in the Online Apothecary.

Emery Herbals Healing Suites offers access to educated and trained health Practitioners in a peaceful and enriching environment to help guide and support your wellness and healing journey.

Our Teaching Centre actively provides education experiences to help grow your connection to the natural world and bring empowerment to your healthcare.

www.emeryherbals.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Megan Tardif-Woolgar, BSc (Hons.), Dip. Phyt. RH (AHG), RHT (CHA of BC)

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://megantardifwoolgar.com/blog/the-bitter-truth

Why do I love spring? Because of all the BITTER herbs that are popping up all over the place! Dandelions! Nettles! Burdock! Oh my!

It is this time of the year when we would traditionally be moving away from those heavy and starchy tubers and meats, things we have stored to survive the winter, and on to the newest greens that we find once the snows melt.

But….we just finished Easter- the festivity of rebirth- celebrated with the heavy consumption of bunny-lain chocolate Easter eggs, yellow chick peeps, chocolate rabbits, eggies and cream eggs. Carnage. All the foods which bog us down even more and make our livers unhappy- we pile them right on. But don`t we love those sweet and fatty tastes? It`s not just our cultures affinity for the rich and boisterous flavours that make us unhealthy. It is the cravings for the sweet and the neglect of the other tastes which causes so much imbalance within our bodies. And the modern food industry helps us get there- making sweeter than sweet (and highly addictive) high fructose corn syrup, and the saltier than salt monosodium glutamate (MSG). In fact, they had this all figured out some time ago. Enter obesity epidemic…. Now we totally disregard and even selectively breed out those tastes that are less tantalizing, such as the bitter and the sour tastes.

Why should we all love BITTERS? Because bitters stimulate digestion. More specifically, the bitter taste on your tongue (and YES you have to taste it!) stimulates the production of digestive secretions via the vagus nerve. It prepares your body for food and promotes the breakdown and the ASSIMILATION of the food you eat. Bitters can be taken 15 minutes before you eat, or you can try adding some delicious dandelion leaves to your salads. They are also delish if you steam the basal florette (the bunch of leaves that pop up before the plant produces yellow flowers) and add a splash of vinegar. Yum! Your digestive system will LOVE you! Also, when we prepare our system to eat by introducing bitters, we feel full sooner, and we are far less likely to over eat (Mr. Munchie, Peeps, or what have you…).

Bitters also support the liver- the organ that suffers so much wear and tear trying to detoxify our bodies- especially after all the grief we give it. Let`s all give our livers some LOVE and eat dandies instead of candies! Don`t feel too keen on skipping through your back yard picking dandelions or other bitters for your salad?
Do not fear! Head down to the Dieppe market on Saturdays from 7 to 1:30- I have a Bitters blend with your name on it! Just remember that Bitters stimulate stomach secretions, and therefore should not be taken if you experience acid reflux, GERD, or stomach ulcers.

 

About the Author:

About Megan

Megan started her journey with a degree in Environmental Science from Dalhousie University. Although she is still very passionate about healing the planet, she feels that on the large scale this planetary healing cannot happen without individual changes in perception and well-being.

Megan graduated from Pacific Rim College with her diploma of Phytotherapy (Herbal Medicine) in 2014. She has extensively studied and worked with over 150 different herbs, and has over 500 clinic hours of experience. Megan is a registered herbalist with the American Herbalist`s Guild (http://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/), the Canadian Herbalists Association of British Columbia (http://www.chaofbc.ca/), and has been a board member of the Herbalist`s Association of Nova Scotia since 2015 (http://herbalns.org/). Megan has a special interest and experience treating digestive disorders and mental health issues (the two of which she believes are inherently interconnected).

Megan is happiest helping facilitate the connection between the human and plant world for the purpose of healing the body, the mind and soul. She can often be found in her herb garden with her hands in the dirt- planting, harvesting, or medicine-making. Megan believes that the key to creating resilient communities lies within the nurturing of both individuals and the planet. It is important for Megan to participate in the empowerment of both patients and the community, educating about herbal medicine so that individuals may foster their own healthy relationships with plants.

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Avery Knechtel, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://www.mindfulmedicinehealth.com/blog/2017/4/28/spring-cleansing

 

Spring Spring Spring!!!

What an amazing time it is.

I’m getting asked a lot about spring cleansing – and although I’m not one to promote a generic, laxative rich cleanse, I do agree that Spring is by far the best time to use cleansing herbs.

The earth is poking out all those wonderful spring time tonics which by nature are gently cleansing, alterative and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Most people who feel healthy do not need to partake in drastic cleanses – your body does that amazing stuff for you (shoutout to our kidneys and liver!!)

By removing unhealthy foods from our diet like, sugar, alcohol, dairy and poor quality meats and adding in some gentle plant power from our favourite spring time herbs – this can be a cleanse enough!

By giving our livers a break, re-setting our digestive systems by removing poor quality, mucous forming foods, increasing water and exercise and eating WHOLE foods (nothing out of a package), your body will reap the benefits of a natural and beneficial cleanse.

 

 

About the Author:

Avery is a Medical Herbalist, born and raised on the incredible Vancouver Island in Southwest British Columbia. She is now living in Victoria after graduating with honors from Pacific Rim College – Diploma of Phytotherapy program, where she studied western herbalism, biomedical sciences, herbal energetics, nutrition and Ayurveda.

Avery uses a combination of Western herbal medicine, Ayurvedic philosophy and holistic nutrition in her practice to assess and treat each person based on their constitution. She studied Ayurveda under her teacher in Kerala, India in 2012 and 2016.  Now a professional member of the BCHA, she hopes to make Herbal Medicine accessible to all.

Other passions include, traveling, gardening, camping and volunteer Harm Reduction work.

www.mindfulmedicinehealth.com

Practitioner Interview Series by the CHA of BC Student Subcommittee member, Sarah Gavin.

Meet Krista Dawn Poulton, Medical Herbalist, Dip. Phyt, RHT, BKin  ~ Herbalist ~ Educator ~ Medicine-maker ~

Sustainable Medicine Making and Creating a Network of Practitioners for a Resilient Future for Herbalists in Canada with Krista Dawn Poulton

Krista and I met up in a little eco-friendly and locally focused coffee shop called Habit in Victoria. We talked about the experience of starting a practice after finishing school, her goals within practice, teaching at the college and her visions for the future. I have been a teacher’s assistant for Krista’s Advanced Herbal Medicine Making class for two years now and when I first started school I remember Krista at the front desk helping me organize my schedule. Getting together for this interview was an exciting way to dive deeper into how Krista started, juggles and leads many herbal medicine initiatives.

Krista is a medical herbalist, educator, grower and medicine maker based out of Victoria, BC. She teaches classes at Pacific Rim College where she is encouraging students to become active members of the Student Subcommittee for the CHA of BC, a valued professional network of herbal medicine. In between creating and teaching courses at the college, Krista can be found in one of her three garden projects, one personal, one communal, and one a couple of provinces away; busy planting, growing, harvesting, and connecting with plant medicine. Krista is passionate about making her own herbal preparations for her clinical practice, which she runs out of a shared office space in Cook Street Village.

Following a degree in Kinesiology and than working in the field Krista started to become interested in holistic healing methods and herbal medicine. A first foray into the field through a hands-on apprenticeship led Krista to Pacific Rim College. Krista knew that she would start working in the field immediately after graduation and utilized her class time effectively to focus on projects, create clinic forms, and network future opportunities. She worked part-time as an Administrative Coordinator at Pacific Rim College while starting up practice, designing medicine courses and creating workshops.

Krista understands the value of networking within the herbal community. She recognizes the powerful opportunities to support each other in the field by joining herbal associations and connecting with local herb gatherings. She encourages people to keep the momentum after completing the education and to step back into the field if they have taken time off.

Krista Dawn Poulton is passionate about women’s health, particularly with reproductive empowerment. Her mission with her practice is to teach women to love and adore their bodies, address societal norms of body awareness and educate ways to shift reproductive issues with the use of herbs, diet and supplements.

Reproductive and women’s health is a specialty of Krista’s that began organically unfolding once seeing people in clinic. It started with a consult with a person curious about cycle tracking, where Krista offered a quick review of how to do it within the clinical consult. This left such an impact on the person that they referred two friends to receive Krista’s guidance and expertise. They wanted to know if she would host a workshop. Krista started pulling together information, resources and power points.   She began with offering workshops to four people inside her clinical space and lead a three level workshop series. This led to learning and developing marketing skills as she had put energy into creating the series and there was an obvious need within the community. It was popular and ran every week for a year.   Krista would offer deals to attendees to come and see her in practice and saw it flourish. While recounting this sequence of events Krista smiled and said, “Thanks to that one person who was like we should do this.” This has now lead to Krista teaching Menstrual Cycle-Tracking and Herbal Medicine to the general public and practitioners all over Western Canada, including developing an three part online course through Pacific Rim College Online.

A favourite herb of Krista’s is Peony (Paeonia spp). Her mother grew peonies and they were her favourite flower before becoming an herbalist. “I would just stick my head in them as the smell and softness of this plant is intoxicating.” Krista describes the energetics and medicine of peony, “She is very soft, subtle, sweet, nourishing, and powerful. There is a powerful experience when you take peony. It softens yet is not a pushy hormonal herb. It is similar to how people use chaste tree for everything, which I don’t as I prefer to use peony. If in doubt, peony is nice as a hormonal balancer. The herb does so much but doesn’t cause side effects such as some of our other hormone balancing herbs. It is for those who need to connect into softness, and gentleness, yet is also very powerful.”

Engagement within the herbal community is important to Krista. One of Krista’s visions for the future is a round table where people come together and compare different extracts of herbs. “I have been envisioning an organoleptic workshop where everyone brings in different holy basil and different extractions so we can compare. Almost like a coffee tasting but with herbal medicine.” It was an exciting year for Krista to set up three online programs through Pacific Rim College Online, designed for the general public to increase knowledge and empowerment with reproductive health with the use of cycle-tracking & botanicals and for practitioners to utilize cycle tracking as a diagnostic tool to assess reproductive pathologies with the focus on treatment protocols. She also grew more herbs this year than previous years, growing over 130 pounds of milky oats in Saskatchewan and plans to continue expanding in this area.

The vision for the future of herbal medicine is vast. Krista thinks of herself as a component in the ecosystem of herbal medicine and values the resiliency and strength of a well-connected network. We have to keep the profession strong in this time of political uncertainty in regards to how we reintegrate herbal medicine into the main stream. Diversity is critical to ecosystem health and we need all practitioners, medicine makers, growers, and students working together to have their voices heard and their needs met. Keep an eye open for future endeavours with Krista Dawn Poulton and she continues to expand her business with growing, advocating for sustainability in the herbal industry, offering online courses & workshops, as well as, her work as a Director with the CHA of BC working closely with the Student Subcommittee and Member Engagement Committee.

 

www.kristadawnpoulton.com

About the Author: 

Sarah Gavin is a Phytotherapy student at Pacific Rim College in Victoria, BC. She is an enthusiastic medicine maker who enjoys urban harvesting and using herbs in the kitchen. She is currently Krista Poulton’s Teacher’s Assistant in Advanced Herbal Pharmacy. On her spare time Sarah enjoys creating nutritious and aesthetic salads with edible weeds and flowers. She hosts fermentation workshops reconnecting with traditional fusion methods for edible and medicinal plant preparations. This keeps her inspired and busy experimenting. Sarah is passionate about protecting BC’s Old Growth Forests and works with the Ancient Forest Alliance. Sarah will be starting her own practice in Victoria, BC when she finishes training.