Herbalism: Natures Secret: Knowledge & Guidance Through Healing Plants' by Jennifer Divyajyota Michelsen

Natures Secret: Knowledge & Guidance Through Healing Plants by Jennifer Divyajyota Michelsen

I first saw Jennifer Divyajyota Michelson's beautiful book and cards 'Natures Secret: Knowledge & Guidance Through Healing Plants' on one of my favourite Instagram pages @littletreesgrow aka Erin Ashleigh (see Erin's house tour on moon to moon here) and they instantly caught my eye. Over the last couple of years I have began reading about herbalism and taking a few classes so was really excited to see a new text I hadn't yet discovered. I also love the idea of the cards, making it easier to focus on learning about the benefits of one plant at a time. They are also great for teaching children!!

Eager to learn more about these beautiful cards and accompanying book, I caught up with Author Jennifer Divyajyota Michelsen.....

Hi Jennifer thank you for taking time to talk to moon to moon

Can you tell us a little bit about your self and background?

I'm a yoga teacher in the Satyananda tradition (Bihar School of Yoga, India) and a qualified teacher of Permaculture and Sustainable Community Design. I've worked as coordinator of large organic gardens, studied and completed courses in organics, medicinal plants, and herbal medicine.

Natures Secret: Knowledge & Guidance Through Healing Plants' photo by @littletreesgrow

What led you to creating the series?

I was introduced to the idea of working with Nature Intelligence during a six-week organics class in 1997. Since that time I have worked "co-creatively" with Nature Intelligence in my design and implementation work as coordinator of organic gardens. I connect with Nature Intelligence and establish a conscious, active personal partnership with Nature through kinesiology. Through this work, the idea of the book evolved. I connected directly to Nature to get all the Insights/Lessons for the book.

Natures Secret: Knowledge & Guidance Through Healing Plants by Jennifer Divyajyota Michelsen

Can you tell us a bit about the cards and book and how they are to be used?

The book can be used to learn about 40+ medicinal plants, their history, myth and, most importantly their healing properties. The medicinal qualities of the plants can be utilised through a variety of herbal preparations, tinctures, decoctions, flower essences, essential oils and herbal teas. 

Each card has also been designed to provide insight and to aid in recognising an issue and facilitating its release or simply in using a particular plant for personal support. You can choose a card daily or whenever you need guidance and support. 

Natures Secret: Knowledge & Guidance Through Healing Plants by Jennifer Divyajyota Michelsen

The cards feature diverse plants from TCM , Ayurveda and wise woman traditions how did you choose what 40 plants you would print?

The project was huge so I started with one plant at a time. I worked with Nature Intelligence and listened to my heart in my choices. Lavender was the first plant that came to me. Each selection was through the same process. It took 10 years to complete and a great deal of research. Many of the Insights in the book embrace spiritual practices for personal growth and balance. Yoga, meditation, fire ceremony and other modalities can be used to strengthen the plants' healing abilities and assist in transforming, aligning and bringing balance.

Natures Secret: Knowledge & Guidance Through Healing Plants Photo by @newearth.mama

The set is currently 40 cards do you have plans for a follow up series?

I have a list of 40-50 more herbs to research although writing another book seems like an overwhelming task at the moment.

I've started a children's book. I have ideas and I'm in the process of taking 12X of the basic plants in the book and adapting them to children. Each plant will have an interactive project to go with it. 

Thank you so much Jennifer for taking the time to speak to moon to moon.... if you are interested in buying or finding out more about the book and cards you can visit Jennifers site natures creation or visit her on instagram

To read more Interviews on Moon to Moon click here

xx Gabi

Wild Rosehip Syrup Recipe....

So for regular readers you may have noticed a lack of posts over the last couple of months. I have had a really tough time this year, so I have been taking some much needed time out to focus on my mental and physical health and make some changes to my lifestyle to help rejuvenate and nourish and bring about a healthy mind and body.... its a work in progress :)

One of these big changes has been discovering the joys of making fermented foods (Kefir, Kombucha, Saurkraut etc...) and upon being introduced to Susan Weed by Stina from Mother Mountain Herbals have been inspired to attend a number of herbal workshops and have since been testing out making my own herbal medicines. I started with nettle infusions and then onto an immune boosting elderberry syrup which although really yummy and potent (no colds for me this season) never turns out as tasty as the Pukka one, so after joining an awesome Facebook group got the courage to go wild foraging and make some rose hip syrup......which is not only divine but packed full of nutrients and the all important Vitamin C!!!

Dog Rosehips

I posted the above picture on Instagram and got the thumbs up from my followers for publishing the recipe so here it is with a bit of an explanation first....

Rose Hips
 Rose hips are a great source of Vitamin C, they contain 50% more vitamin C than oranges. They also contain Vitamin A which is also benefical to the immune system, and can help prevent and fight off infections.

I used Dog Rosehips as these were the only ones I could find locally. Rose hips should ideally be red not orange, plump but not too hard or too soft and with no blemishes or wrinkles, as you can see from the photo below a lot of mine were a bit squishy but it turned out fine, I suppose the better quality the better the nutrient content

Raw Honey
 So unlike most recipes I found online I have substituted the suggested sugar for raw honey. Raw Honey is basically honey that has not been heated, pasteurized or processed in any way. It is more expensive than mass produced honey but worth the extra pennies as unlike the processed stuff has all the immune boosting vitamins and minerals still intact... plus it tastes so much better, you will never go back once you try it!


The recipe below is for a small batch as this is all I could get this late in the year, if you are lucky enough to find a good wild crop then just multiply the ingredients to what you have. Next year I will get out there early !!

Ingredients

300g Rosehips
400mls Boiling water
1/4 cup Raw Honey (or until tastes good and is the right consistency for you)

1)  Find your Rosehips!

2) Rinse the rosehips in a sieve and dry

3) Using a blender roughly wizz up the rosehips 

4) Put the rose hips into a large saucepan

5) Pour on 400mls of hot water and bring to the boil, turn down the heat and simmer for 15 mins

6) let the mixture cool slightly then pour into either a jam bag or a doubled up muslin.  Leave hanging (if you can, i just put the muslin over a seive) to drip down into a bowl to drain for 30 mins.

7) With clean hands, squeeze the remaining fluid out of the rosehips and disgard/compost.

8)  Poor the fluid through the muslin again just to get rid of any bits

9) Reheat liquid then take off the heat and add the honey, stirring until melted. If you dont have raw honey you can add shop brought or sugar to taste

10) Put into your sterilised bottles and keep in the fridge.... enjoy!!!

Serving suggestions: Straight off the spoon, on porridge or pancakes, in sparkly wine :)
 

Rosehips and Luigi ( My son wanted him in the photo)

All opinions are my own, external links are just for reference, I am not paid by or affiliated to the companies :)

Return to The Earth: Botanical Tea Towel

Return to The Earth: Clary sage Botanical Tea Towel

How cute is this Clary sage tea towel from Return to The Earth?

Not happy with just making awesome lotions and potions, Return to The Earth have teamed up with Sara Gossett to make these beautiful tea towels, with more on the way....

To grab yours visit Return to The Earth here on Etsy...

Nevada City Series: Fat and The Moon

Fat and The Moon

IN the Second part of the Nevada City Series, I am so pleased to be talking to New Nevada City Resident Rachel from Fat and The Moon. I have been a big fan of Rachel's work for a few years and have tried many of her wonderful creations, including her magical All Creme (sent to me by UK stockists The Future Kept), and really sensitive deodorant Creme.... So over to Rachel....

Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Rachel Budde, I’m an artist, herbalist and mama of Fat and the Moon.

What is behind the name fat and the Moon?

I had a hard time arriving at a name for my business. Everything I was coming up with sounded like names for vibrators- so I reflected on what influenced and inspired me about the potions I was brewing. I thought of the oils and butters, the mediums of external plant medicine.  The herbs are infused in the fat which we then feed to our skin. It also struck me that using ‘fat’ in a ‘beauty care’ line would be a way to recontextualize and question the word’s negative connotations. The moon is influential on most aspects of life, especially the cycles of growth and transformation. I wanted to invoke the lunar, with all of it’s magical and feminine associations. Naming a business is like coming up with a prayer you want to be spoken, Fat and the Moon has become my mantra. The meaning of the name grows the longer I’m with it.

You have recently moved to Nevada City, what was it that attracted you to it?

Nevada City has the most beautiful composition of gorgeous landscape, inspiring people, and small town goodness. I feel so lucky to be in this community.

Fat and The Moon: Cabin Life 

What attracted you to studying Herbalism?

In my art practice, I am very interested in mythology. A common thread running through all mythology is the story of how people relate to the landscape around them, the plants, animals and forces of the ecosystem they belong to. When I was going to art school and living in NYC, my love of myth made me realize I needed to get to know the other, non human beings in my landscape. New York City is nature, it is just a particular kind of ecosystem. So the weeds became my friends. I soon discovered that many of the common weeds are potent medicinal plants. My orientation to my environment was forever changed. Even in the middle of a concrete jungle, dandelion makes its presence known. Derelict and ugly became alive and magical. My curiosity about plants continues to grow, I continue to be amazed by them.

Do you have a favourite of your products that you use daily/weekly?

I’m always in a rotation of favorites. Lately, I’ve been really digging using the Mermaid Mask as a cleanser and the Dusk Lip Paint as a blush. I never leave home without my All Salve- I use is as a lip balm, to smear on my lashes for a little oomph and to heal the various little owies I seem to cultivate.

What advice would you give to anyone stuck in a rut who is interested in starting a more authentic life for themselves/ new business venture?

First off, appreciate yourself for wanting to make a change that comes from your heart. It is a sign of true bravery. Being true to yourself and your aspirations is not an easy path. You have to be willing to face yourself, your edges and your gifts head on. Curiosity is the key.

A massive thank you to Rachel. Visit Fat and the Moon here

Thyme Herbal's 'Everyday Living Series'

I think I have featured the bottom Thyme Herbal poster before on Moon to Moon, but the collaborative work of hebalist Brittany Wood Nickerson and Illustrator Chelsea Iris Granger is just so beautiful I thought it deserved a re-share.

Although I am a nurse in a very clinical/medicine based field, I truely beleive in the power of plant based medicine and nutrition, however like many people can become lazy when cooking for myself.  These pretty posters would be perfect for the kitchen wall not only to brighten up the room but also to inspire me to cook healthy food for the family.

The Moon Calendar is also stunning and educational......About the Moon Poster the collaborative duo say...

The intention of this year’s poster is to help inspire connections with herbs associated with sleeping, dreaming, and relaxing. The moon is a nightly creature, long associated with quiet, darkness, and soft introspection. It carries a dreamy energy that helps us access the more watery, intimate places inside ourselves. Connecting with moon energy is a great way to connect with these more subtle elements of the self.

Herbal Wisdom by Brittany Wood Nickerson , Illustrations by Chelsea Iris Granger

Close Up of Kitchen Medicine Poster

The Posters and inspirational information about Herbailsm/ recipies can be found over at Thyme Herbal and I thoroughly recommend a visit!!

To view More posts on Herbalism on Moon to Moon click here

Interview with Stina from Mother Mountain Herbals......

Mother Mountain Herbals: Psychic Eye Herbal tea

Today on Moon to Moon I am super proud to be chatting with Stina from Mother Mountain Herbals, an Independant Herbal tea and beauty product maker from North Carolina.  The combination of extremely covetable packaging and seriously fabulous teas has seen Mother Mountain Herbals shooting to success all in Stina's first year of business!!

So lets find out more.....

       Hi Stina, can you tell Moon to Moon a little about you and what you do?

Hi I'm Stina, the creator and owner of Mother Mountain Herbals. I live in the mountain countryside of Asheville, North Carolina.

        How did you start getting into Herbalism?

Years ago I was living in Los Angeles, suffering from depression, on a career path that was no longer serving me, and longing for a more simple and natural way of living. Any day off I had I would go hiking in the hills and canyons surrounding the sprawling cityscape. I was enamoured with all the magnificent plants that I came across and wondered what uses they had. I started carrying field guides and read Susun Weed's "Healing Wise". It was pretty much a done deal after that. I knew my path was aligning with herbalism.

When did you decide to launch your own range?

After moving to Asheville, I was hired at a coffee shop/bar downtown to create teas and herbal elixirs. I was getting a lot of great feedback from customers and my boss actually encouraged me to make my own business out of it. I finally felt like I had enough self confidence do it- so I worked on my branding for about 8 months and then launched MMH in May of 2015.

Mother Mountain Herbals: Psychic Eye

What inspired you to start mother Mountain herbs and what is the inspiration behind the name?

I obtained a wealth of emotional, spiritual, and physical healing on my path with herbs. One of my goals with MMH is to assist others with the same healing by making it easy and fun to integrate plants into everyday life.

The name Mother Mountain Herbals is inspired by the Townes Van Zandt album "Our Mother the Mountain". I loved the meaning behind the title because I live in the mountains and it is the land here that nurtures me. 

Do you have any herbs that you use on a daily basis?

I really try to stay on top of stinging nettle and oatstraw infusions daily. Drinking them is like taking a multivitamin, but better. Our body assimilates their minerals like food, so we get a lot more nutrition out of them rather than taking a pill. Plus I believe the energies of the plants have benefits as well- opposed to a synthetic, laboratory made vitamin. I also use various mushroom extracts in my daily smoothies and always keep a bottle of skullcap tincture in my purse. 

Do you have a favourite of your products?

That's hard to say! I drink tea and use my beauty products everyday. But I think my favourites are somewhat interchangeable. There's one product that I make and really love that doesn't get as much attention as the others- I'm not sure why! I couldn't live without it. It's the Masa + Honey Face Polish. I'm an exfoliation advocate and that particular scrub is so gentle yet really effective. And it doesn't leave my skin dry. I would buy it even if I didn't make it. 

Here in the UK the weather is cold and there is little sunshine, do you have any recommendations for blends?

When I think of dark days and cold weather, I want to really nourish myself and keep my immune system strong. I would probably be drinking lots of Wild + Weedy Tea and ElderMother Tea. Wild + Weedy contains lots of herbs to strengthen and fortify all systems of the body. I might even make an infusion out of it. ElderMother contains herbs that ward off acute viral illnesses like colds and flus.  I would also be dosing up on good quality cod liver oil. It's one of the best ways to keep optimal vitamin D levels in the winter time. It's the sunshine vitamin! 

Mother Mountain Herbals: Maiden Grey tea

I am a big fan of Earl Grey tea and your Maiden Grey tea is absolutely divine, what was the inspiration behind this blend?

When I first created the teas they were for the coffee shop and I thought we needed some more blends that would appeal to people who might not be into tisanes. I love Earl Grey too- but wanted to create something more feminine, like a flower potion. I think rose, lavender, and jasmine are really dreamy paired with the bergamot in Earl Grey. 

The illustrations and packaging are absolutely wonderful , did you study art or design?

No, I never went to college! But I developed a love for drawing at a very young age. I think I have an old photo of toddler Stina scribbling faces and dogs in a notebook. I've been doodling and painting my whole life, basically. 

What next for Mother Mountain herbals?

Well, I just became a vendor for Urban Outfitters and completed my first order from them. I felt like that was a pretty huge accomplishment in my first year of business.  My partner and I are in the process of purchasing a house with land- which means I can have a new home studio + space to grow herbs for MMH. As soon as I have more room to breath, I can expand my product line. Also- my goal this year is to start writing/illustrating a book about herbs!

For those readers who are interested in learning more about herbalism what would you say would be the best place to start?

The best starting place for me was Susun Weed's book "Healing Wise". It covers some great basics and dives into developing relationships with the plants you're using. Also attending any workshops in your area is fun to too! 

Mother Mountain Herbals: Maiden Grey, Psychic Eye and Mellow Belly

Stina was kind enough to send me some teas to sample and I thoroughly recommend you give them a try. They were so pretty I felt a bit naughty opening them, but I am so glad I did they were all beautifully fragrant and each tasted divine!!

First I tried the Psychic Eye Tea, this is a beautiful blend of refreshing Gotu Kola and Holy Basil mixed with magical mugwort and striking blue cornflower. Stina says 

"This tea assists with receiving information from the spirit realms and facilitates focus and attention outside of time. Enjoy prior to meditation, tarot readings, ritual work, or just before bed to promote vivid dreaming."

 I drank this one when my 19 month old finally settled for his nap to help me relax after the mayhem of my morning, it was beautiful and certainly did the job.

 Next on my list was Maiden Grey. As a long time Earl Grey fan I was really excited to be trying the Maiden Gray tea, I didn't realise my trusty favourite could get any better. 

"A floral and feminine version of the traditional old Earl. This dreamy elixir combines whole jasmine buds, pink rose petals, and aromatic lavender to transform your tea time into something truly flower powerful. Excellent with cream and local honey. Mildly caffeinated with organic black tea"

This tea is so so pretty, and is honestly my new favourite. I discovered Rose tea in China a few years ago and have been an avid fan since, who would have thought the flavors would merge so well with my trusty Earl Grey?.... perfect with a little Honey and almond milk!!

Stina also sent me some Mellow Belly Tea. This remains unopened, not because I am not tempted to rip it open, but because I suffer each month from Stomach troubles so am saving it for then.... I will let you know how i get on....

So will I be buying these teas again? Absolutely......, next time i will be adding some Masa and Honey Face Polish , some Sweet Orange and Patchouli dry shampoo and one of Stinas Hot Cloth cleansing kits to my order (currently sold out)...

So ....

A massive thank you to Stina for taking time out of preparing orders for Urban Outfitters and her store and house hunting to talk to Moon to Moon. I cant wait to see what 2016 brings xxx

I hope you all enjoyed the interview, I am planning many more on Moon to Moon this year

xx