Calendula is an herb of sun and fire. Her golden orange and yellow blooms warm the spirit with a cheerful vibe. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is commonly known as pot marigold–not to be confused with the more common and naturalized marigold (Tagetes erecta). Although calendula is not native to traditional Appalachian folk practices, she’s earned a…
Category: Plant Profiles
Chamomile Benefits, Uses, and Folk Wisdom
Let’s learn about chamomile and it’s many benefits. Chamomile is one of the most used herbs by herbal tea drinkers and herbalists alike. It is a quiet and gentle companion found generously in Nature yet steady and wise in that old-soul kind of way. This herb is a delicate powerhouse–mimicking a tiny daisy which lends…
Chamomile Tea and the Art of Slowing Down
In a world that can seem like it’s spinning too fast, there’s something sacred about pausing for a cup of chamomile tea. It’s a small act of quiet rebellion against the pace of modern life–a way to take a moment for yourself, to breathe, to be present in your own spirit. The modern world has…
Catnip for Humans: A Soothing Herbal Ally for Mind and Body
When most folks hear the word “catnip,” they picture a house cat rolling in the herb, purring blissfully. But the herb we call catnip (Nepeta cataria) has long been a friend to humans too. It grows wild along roadsides and in the corners of our gardens, with gentle healing powers. For those of us who…
How to Use Lemon Balm for Anxiety, Sleep, and Digestion
Today, I want to introduce you to my best friend in the herbal world: lemon balm. It’s a wonderful ally to keep in your garden, and if you do, you know how quickly its lemony scent can lift your mood–and how prolific it is. This gentle, joyful herb has helped me through anxious days, restless…