Talk about wild- dandelion defies all rules of gardening and thumbs its nose at the pesticides designed to kill it- THANK GOODNESS! What a powerful herb! In my region, zone 9b, the cool weather (what we call winter) has caused the dandelions to reemerge. They won't bloom much until spring, but the green plants have popped up all over my herb garden. I thought it fitting for today's focus. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Common names: Lion’s tooth, piss-a-bed Identification - Bright yellow composite flowers - Deeply toothed leaves in a rosette - Hollow milky stems - Globe seed head ("wish flower") Energetics - Bitter - Drying - Cooling Key Actions - Bitter digestive - Cholagogue (stimulates bile) - Diuretic - Hepatic - Nutritive tonic Chemical Constituents - Sesquiterpene lactones (bitters) - Inulin (prebiotic fiber) - Potassium (supports diuretic action) - Flavonoids - Triterpenoids Medicinal Uses - Liver & Gallbladder: improves bile flow, detoxification - Digestion: stimulates stomach acid, appetite, and digestion - Kidneys: strong yet safe diuretic without depleting potassium - Metabolic health: supports blood sugar regulation - Nutrition: vitamins A, C, K, iron, calcium Folklore A symbol of resilience; children’s “wish blowing” traditions date back over 300 years.

This little plant shows up in disturbed areas and neglected beds- but don't skip it! Plantain (Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata) is one of those humble herbs that most people overlook—or even pull as a weed—without realizing they’re tossing out one of nature’s best healers. Found along paths, in yards, and even growing through sidewalk cracks, plantain has earned the nickname “the green bandage” for good reason. For centuries, herbalists have turned to plantain to soothe insect bites, bee stings, burns, and minor cuts. The leaves contain aucubin, an anti-inflammatory compound, and allantoin, which promotes new tissue growth. When you crush a fresh leaf and place it directly on a sting or wound, it quickly calms itching, draws out toxins, and encourages healing. Internally, plantain shines as well. A tea made from its leaves or seeds can help ease coughs, sore throats, and digestive irritation, acting as a gentle demulcent that coats and soothes mucous membranes. In folklore, plantain was believed to protect travelers from harm and was carried as a charm of safety. The Anglo-Saxons even listed it among the nine sacred herbs used for healing. Next time you see this unassuming plant in your garden, think twice before weeding it out. Plantain is a powerful, free medicine chest right under your feet—one that has stood the test of time. I made a great tea with plantain and lemon balm when I was having trouble last winter.

It’s that time of the year! Goldenrod is making its appearance 😀 Goldenrod: A Powerful Herb with Healing Benefits Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) is a vibrant yellow flowering plant often associated with late summer and early autumn fields. While sometimes mistaken as a cause of seasonal allergies (a reputation it doesn’t deserve—ragweed is the real culprit), goldenrod has a long history as a medicinal herb in traditional and folk medicine. Traditional Uses Historically, goldenrod has been used by Indigenous peoples and herbalists for a variety of ailments. Its most common applications include support for the urinary tract, treatment of wounds, and relief from inflammation. The plant contains compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, and essential oils that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Health Benefits - Diuretic: Goldenrod helps flush out the urinary system, making it useful for urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, and general detoxification. - Anti-inflammatory: The herb may reduce inflammation in the body, offering relief for sore throats, arthritis, or skin irritations. - Antimicrobial: Goldenrod’s antibacterial and antifungal properties support its traditional use in treating wounds and infections. - Allergy Support: Ironically, goldenrod may help ease allergy symptoms due to its antihistamine-like effects. How It’s Used Goldenrod is most commonly consumed as a tea, tincture, or capsule. The aerial parts of the plant (leaves and flowers) are harvested when in bloom and dried for later use. It can also be applied topically in salves for sore muscles or skin issues. Safety and Considerations Goldenrod is generally safe for most people when used appropriately. However, those with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (like ragweed or daisies) should proceed with caution. People with kidney conditions or those taking diuretics should consult a healthcare provider before using goldenrod. Final Thoughts Far from being a mere roadside weed, goldenrod is a powerful herbal ally with a rich tradition of healing. Whether you're sipping it as a tea or using it topically, goldenrod offers natural support for wellness, especially during seasonal transitions

Lamb’s quarter (Chenopodium album), also known as wild spinach or goosefoot, has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, though scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is limited. Medicinally, it has been used: • Anti-inflammatory and pain relief: The leaves and seeds have been used in poultices or teas to reduce inflammation, soothe skin irritations, and alleviate minor aches, such as joint pain or insect bites. • Digestive aid: Infusions or decoctions of lamb’s quarter have been used to treat indigestion, constipation, and stomach upset, often attributed to its mild laxative properties. • Nutrient supplement: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and magnesium, it has been consumed to address nutrient deficiencies or support overall health. • Antioxidant properties: Some traditional uses leverage its antioxidant compounds to combat oxidative stress, though this is less documented. • Antimicrobial effects: In some cultures, leaf extracts have been applied to wounds or used internally to fight infections, based on its purported antimicrobial properties. Preparation: Typically, leaves are used fresh or dried in teas, poultices, or tinctures (see classroom for directions on how to make these) while seeds may be ground for specific remedies. Caution: Lamb’s quarter can accumulate nitrates and oxalates, especially in nutrient-rich soils, which may be harmful in large quantities, particularly for people with kidney issues or oxalate sensitivity. It may also cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you have never used this herb before, start with a weak tea or diluted tincture.