Echinacea

Common Names – Echinacea, Purple coneflower Botanical Name – Echinacea spp Family – Asteraceae It is a simple flowering plant and a member of the daisy family. More commonly known as purple coneflower, many people grow this powerful herb without even realizing it! The name derives from the Greek word ekhinos (hedgehog) because the cone resembles aContinue reading “Echinacea”

Elecampane

Common Names – Elecampane, Wild Sunflower, Horseheal, Yellow Starwort, (more below) Botanical Name – Inula helenium Family – Asteraceae Elecampane (Inula helenium) is a perennial herb in the aster family with a long history of medicinal uses. In appearance, it is reminiscent of a sunflower plant, with tall stalks, pale green foliage, and bright yellow flowersContinue reading “Elecampane”

How To Make Decoctions

Decoctions are preferred for harder herbs like roots, barks, and seeds, it takes longer to release the healing properties.  It’s best, but not necessary, to mash or grind the thick herb before use. To make a decoction, you just need the following steps: Use 1 tablespoon dried herb per 1 1/2 cup of cold, filtered waterContinue reading “How To Make Decoctions”