If you aren't familiar in the farming world, winter is referred to as the "dark" or "dead" season given that trees go dormant and temperatures drastically slow down activity in the soil. As the chill in the air intensifies and the days get shorter, nature provides a burst of vibrant flavors to brighten our winter palates – citrus fruits.
From juicy oranges and tangy grapefruits to zesty lemons and limes, these fruits add a refreshing twist to our meals. Citrus fruits pack a nutritional and health benefit one-two punch during the colder months when cold and flu symptoms are circulating and the variety of in season food wanes. Have you ever wondered why citrus fruits are particularly abundant and flavorful during winter? We'll delve into some reasons for that as well as some general citrus facts and tips for tree care, harvesting and we'll even throw in a recipe for you!
Citrus is a genus of the Rutaceae family which includes all tropical and subtropical fruits such as orange, grapefruit, lemon, lime and a host of hybrids and lesser species. Oranges are said to have been introduced to Europe around the time of the Crusades and Moorish occupation of Spain. It's origins are pretty obscure today though rumor has it their genesis was in India, from there they were cultivated in Arabia and migrated westward.
Now, why are these fruits so good in, and for, the winter?..
Citrus trees are evergreens that are intolerant to frost but can bear colder temperatures to variant degrees, limes being the most sensitive to even a hint of frost. The hardiest of them all, is the Kumquat. Oranges can withstand temperatures under 30 degrees without too much damage. You see, it's the cold hardiness of citrus that makes it taste better, as the chill affects the structure within the fruit, the natural sugars within are activated.
Citrus typically thrives in very hot tropical climates; however, the fruit is of much better taste and quality where it's cooler -- semitropical regions produce the best fruit. Dry summer winds require wind breaks to protect a crop, while excessive humidity can bring fungal diseases. Here, in Northern California, Zone 9b, we have a dry summer, subtropical, Mediterranean" climate -- while its winters are cold enough to give the citrus that excellent flavor, wind and irrigation can pose a challenge.
Oranges probably hold the crown in the citrus kingdom in terms of overall benefits for the body. They are rich in folate, Vitamin C of course, Vitamin B, Vitamin A, potassium and calcium! Both folate and vitamin B are essential to regulating the production of serotonin and dopamine which are "feel good" and motivational neurochemicals.
Citrus fruits are also high in fiber aiding in digestion, they help to absorb iron which is important for your blood and immune system and have powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that can help reduce some cancer risks. Those same compounds are also helpful for the skin. So not only do they taste great, eating citrus will improve the quality of your life! These are just to name a few because there's certainly more upsides to these delights.
Most commercial oranges are varieties of Citrus sinensis, a common sweet orange, unlike its wild ancestors that can be found growing in parts of the tropics which are dismally sour in comparison. Much different than the aromatic, brisk fruits we grow modern day. As mentioned above, oranges are one of the most dependable sources of Vitamin C (one orange on average contains approximately 75-100mg). From tree to table, they provide much more nutritional value. Oranges have also been said to aid with clearing mucus from nose and head and some respiratory ailments such as bronchitis.
The winter classic is the Navel orange with its large, easy-to-peel super sweet fruit! We grow Navel, Valencia, and Blood Orange on the homestead and every year we share the same citrus craze!
You can get fresh organic Navel oranges in our homegrown citrus boxes!
Oranges require high amounts of organic nitrogen when growing. They prefer a slightly acidic soil with a Ph of about 5.5.-6 and while they'll benefit from trace minerals such as zinc and iron you want to avoid over fertilizing so you will want to be mindful of recommended applications depending on the age and type of tree you have. When the trees are young, they should be kept consistently moist. In around its second season or so the watering can then go to one heavy watering every 2-3 weeks.
If you have an established tree to harvest check firmness. Gently squeeze the orange. A ripe orange should give slightly to pressure. Typically, the oranges will become more fragrant as they ripen also, but the best gauge is to taste! After the winter solstice on Dec. 21st is a good time to start checking for ripeness. :)
So far as is known the seeds were brought to the West Indies originally, Citrus paradisi was first thought to be shaddock, another type of citrus fruit, at any rate we wound up with grapefruit. The correct species name, Pomelo or pummelo, isn't popular in this country, and it was dubbed grapefruit for its growth habit of forming grape-like clusters on the inner branches of the tree.
Grapefruit like oranges, don't present any problems when it comes to pollination and the only way they differ in care from oranges they tend to need more fertilizer.
Extracts from seeds can be used as an antiseptic and pomelo contains lycopene which is a beneficial antioxidant. Pomelo is the largest citrus fruit and ancestor to the common red and pink grapefruit seen commercially. It tends to be sweeter to taste and less acidic. Be aware however, grapefruit has compounds that can interefere with the absorption of statin based medication so be sure to check with your primary care physician and/or health care provider.
Citrus limonia are said to have been introduced to Europe at around the same time as oranges were and brought to America by Spanish occupiers. Being that we have a lesser number of uses for lemons it is not as widely cultivated as orange. Lemons are more tender than oranges and grapfruit, but hardier than limes.
Lemon trees can grow up to 20 feet high with an open head, but like its other cousins there are dwarf varieties perfect for smaller spaces. They can bare flowers, ripe and unripe fruit simultaneously and under favorable conditions they bear fruit consistently.
Several lemon hybrids are grown peculiarly, such as the Meyer lemon native to China, of high acclaim. It is a cross between a mandarin orange and a lemon and the flavor sweeter and less acidic. Their scent is akin to bergamot and more reminiscent of herbs and spices.
Lemon can be pot grown and some pot grown trees have been known to last up to 100 years!
The most tender of the family, limes or Citrus aurantifolia, are semitropical for the most part are best cultivated in the southern tip of Florida and certain regions of California, such as ours in the Central Valley. Limes as we know are great for desserts and cool cocktails and have much of the same uses as the lemon though they contain less acid and more sugar.
The trees are almost everbearing given the temperatures don't drop too low inuring blossoms. When entirely ripe, limes are yellow like lemons! So yes, the green limes you love however fresh they may be, are not fully ripe. Limes are extremely tolerant of soils and are shallow rooted. Be mindful of keeping the bud joints high on them if rainfall is heavy in your area and watch for low hangin branches. As with most citrus, always watch for suckers and cut those whenever possible. You'll notice no buds or anything on those shoots and they will be of a different color and flesh than the normal branches.
There are many more varieties and types of citrus to explore and maybe we'll revisit that later, but hopefully you have a better understanding on why we love our citrus so much!
The unique combination of harvest timing, flavor development, and cultural traditions makes citrus fruits a cherished and essential part of the winter experience here at our homestead. We hope we've imbued you with the same spirit. So, as winter settles in, embrace the zestiness of citrus fruits -- add a burst of sunshine to your plate and a boost of health to your body!
Winter Citrus Guide - The FruitGuys
https://extension.arizona.edu/node/5315
J.I. Rodale, 1977. How To Grow Vegetables and Fruits by the Organic Method. Rodale Press
Judy Pray, 2010. Garden Wisdom & Know-How: Everything You Need To Know to Plant, Grow, and Harvest. Black Dog & Levanthal Publishers.
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Soups and Stews:
Stuffing:
Purees and Mashes:
Baking and Desserts:
Pasta Alternatives:
Sautéing:
Sheet mulching is a no-till garden technique that mimics natural decomposition and soil building of the forest floor. It has emerged in the last couple decades as a popular and effective method for soil health and fertility. This technique, also known as sheet composting or "lasagna gardening," involves layering various organic materials to create a nutrient-rich environment for plants. Let's delve into the world of sheet mulching and explore how this simple yet powerful approach can benefit your garden and the environment.
Years ago, we had all the grass in the front yard of the property removed and began sheet mulching so we could swap our lack luster lawn for an herb spiral with a wide variety of California natives. We wanted to grow food and medicine, not lawns -- while saving water and enriching the environment around us.
After loads and loads of wheelbarrows with woodchips, plenty yards of cardboard and compost (it is not so labor intensive, but may take a few applications to yield the desired result), the grass was no more. Judith would begin to plant her herb spiral garden and before you know it, the space was totally transformed and brilliant.
This hack takes minimal effort but offers great reward! So, without further ado, let's delve into the world of sheet mulching and explore how this simple yet powerful approach can benefit your garden and the environment.
Sheet mulching is a process that mimics natural decomposition, fostering a healthy soil ecosystem. The method typically involves layering organic materials directly onto the soil surface, creating a "mulch sandwich" that nurtures the underlying soil. The key components of sheet mulching can include:
Cardboard or Newspaper Base:
Carbon-Rich "Browns":
Nitrogen-Rich "Greens":
Compost:
Top Mulch Layer:
We personally use extra cardboard and compost topped with a generous amount of woodchips and have found that to work just as well. How you like your lasagna is up to you! :) Keep in mind that you want more carbon than nitrogen similar to a compost pile to have the right balance.
There's a handful of places we have sourced cardboard from which is worth thinking about since most of us don't have a ton laying around.
From grocery stores, to bookstores, furniture warehouses and even Facebook marketplace and Nextdoor -- If you ask and look around, you will be surprised at how many resources you have in your area!
The first thing you want to do is prepare the area. You want to make sure all grass, shrubbery, etc. is cut all the way down before you lay down your first materials.
Water the area and get rid of bigger debris that will take longer to decompose. If the soil in the area is compacted or clay dominant, then you will want to use a fork or similar tool to break it up. Adding any desired amendments to the soil would be done at this point as well.
Next, you want to gather all of your materials per the list above. After you have all of your materials you will want to start with covering the area with a nitrogen-rich material like grass clipping to really get the decomposers in the soil excited. Once this is done you are ready to lay your newspaper, cardboard, and other carbon and nitrogen sources.
Keep alternating materials layering them on top of each other until you have a good 3-4 inches minimum of mulch down. Give a heavy water weekly and let nature take care of the rest!
Weed Suppression:
Soil Enrichment:
Water Conservation:
Erosion Prevention:
Sustainability:
Carbon Sequestration:
In conclusion, sheet mulching stands out as a sustainable gardening technique that goes beyond the surface benefits. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting, incorporate sheet mulching into your gardening routine to nurture the soil, reduce the need for any potentially harmful inputs, and promote overall healthier soil and vibrant plant life.
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Sicilian-style olives are similar to the common Spanish-style cocktail olives but are a bit more bitter because they are only fermented in brine that has been seasoned with various herbs and spices. Commercially prepared cocktail olives are generally cured with lye, which removes more of the bitterness. This recipe works well with ripe green olives such as Sevillano. Discard any olives with color (rose or red-brown); they will soften and will not hold up the the curing process.
Supplies needed
Preparation
1. Sort the olives according to size, if desired, and discard any bruised or defective fruit.
2. Pack the olives into quart or half-gallon glass jars that can be made airtight, or place larger amounts in food-grade pails or barrels with tight fitting lids.
3. To each container add seasonings as desired. You may want to add dill pickle spices - use about 1 level tablespoon per quart jar or 1 rounded tablespoon per 2 quart jar. You may also try adding a little fennel seed (1/2 teaspoon per quart) or a sprig of fresh dill or chopped garlic, peppercorns, whole dried chili peppers as desired. For my recipe i added 1 1/2 tsp of oregano, 1 slice of lime, 1 smashed garlic clove per pint jar.
4. Prepare brine. The amount of salt to use depends on the size of the olives. For large olives (ie Sevillano and Ascolano) which shrivel easy in a strong salt brine, prepare a medium-strong brine with 10 ounces (1 cup of pickling salt) per gallon of cool water. For small olives (ie Manzanillo or Mission varieties), which do not shrivel easily in salt brines, prepare a strong brine with 1 pound of salt (1 1/2 cups) per gallon of cool water.
5. Add about 2 cups of vinegar to each gallon of brine. Cover the olives in the jars (or barrels) with the brine-vinegar mixture and loosely close the lids. I generally add a bit of good quality olive oil on top of each jar before closing my lid.
6. Store the olives in the brine at about 70 degrees F for about 2 months, checking on them at regular intervals. I generally check mine every 2 weeks. Fermentation will be most rapid at temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees F. During the initial period of active fermentation (4 or 5 days), when a large amount of gas forms and excessive foaming and frothing occur, take care to replace any lost brine. Keep the containers full of brine at all times.
7. When gas bubbles stop forming (within 2 months), tighten container lids firmly and store for at least another 2 to 4 months or until the olives develop the flavor you desire. I like my olives a little on the bitter side, so I generally begin to enjoy them around month 3. If i find they are too salty for my liking, I make a weaker brine solution and refill the jars.
8. These Sicilian-style green olives can be stored in a cool, dark place for at least 1 year in brine when properly fermented, if the jars remain airtight (to minimize surface yeast and mold growth).
Our olives rarely last a year. If you find you have more than you need, these make excellent gifts for any occasion.
Enjoy!
Judith
This recipe is courtesy of UCDavis Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources
Additional resources
UC Food Safety at UC Davis provides information about food safety and has links to resources on home food preservation. https://ucfoodsafety.ucdavis.edu
Research on food preservation is ongoing - recommendations may change. Make sure your food preservation method is always current.
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Our 2023 garlic harvest!
Did you know that there are many types of crops that you can plant once and continue to harvest year after year, with little to no maintenance? Being able to plant edible items one time and reap their harvest for many years to come may seem like a fantasy, but it has in fact been achieved successfully for thousands of years. Permaculture, growing food forests, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable gardening are all systems that incorporate the idea of growing edible plants for harvest in a manner that replicates Earth’s natural ecosystem.
Access to nutritious and healthy food is a basic human need–it should be a human right. With many people all over country experiencing food apartheid, one would think that an easy solution would be to grow food forests in every neighborhood by making good use of vacant lots, practicing permaculture gardening in our own backyards or wherever possible, and regenerative agriculture in order to feed the people and preserve the land.
Nature is continuous; it cycles over and over again. Dead leaves and plant matter decompose, adding nutrients to the soil. New plant growth absorbs the nutrients from the soil to begin the cycle all over again. Many types of plants can be planted in harmony with nature’s continuing cycle, but it is important to know the basics before you can plant a garden that you can harvest forever.
Compost produced from our worm bins.
Before getting started, you’ll first need to understand a few terms: Permaculture, food forests, sustainable gardening, and regenerative agriculture. Knowing the basics of what they are, how they work, and how they benefit both you and the environment can help you understand just how important sustainable gardening really is.
A term you may not be familiar with if you’re a beginner gardener, or even if you’ve been gardening for quite a while, is permaculture. Permaculture is considered to be a contraction of the words “permanent” and “agriculture. The idea behind permaculture is to design a garden or other agricultural space in such a way that they are sustainable and self-sufficient, requiring little to no maintenance to produce a bountiful harvest for years to come. Permaculture ethics and principles are designed to meet the needs of humans while also healing and protecting the land.
Though the term “permaculture” is fairly new, the practices and ideas of permaculture have been incorporated by people for thousands of years. Chemical-free, organic gardening was the only way that ancient civilizations were able to cultivate the land. The main core ethics of permaculture include earth care, people care, and fair share. It challenges us to observe the natural environment and working with the nature’s systems.
A food forest is a sustainable way to grow food–it’s a growing system that is similar to a natural forest. By planting indigenous edible plants, shrubs, and trees to replicate the natural ecosystems and patterns of a forest, you can create an ecosystem that can thrive on its own without the need for weeding, mowing, watering, fertilizing— or using pesticides or other harmful chemicals. Think about a natural forest; the tall trees provide shade and protection for the shorter trees and shrubs below. The shade and dead leaves also provide protection and cover for the soil, allowing it to absorb and retain moisture year-round.
Natural forests do amazingly well without the need for help from humans. A food forest, when strategically planted, can mimic a natural forest in its self-sufficiency and sustainability. With the right plants in the right places, you can plant your food forest and reap the benefits for many, many years. Depending on what you choose to plant, a food forest can provide you with fresh food from your own backyard year-round.
Below are photos of a section of our front yard that we transitioned to a food forest. Our food forest has a variety of plants that grow here and no matter the season there is something available to harvest. We harvest African blue basil late summer through early winter for making stews, soups and flavored spreads. Our ground cherries are a delicious refreshing snack during the summer months that anyone who passes by it cannot resist this juicy fruit. Edible flowers such as nasturtiums and calendula make it into our salads, mezze platters and salves. Best of all, planting a food forest takes less maintenance than the average vegetable garden as all the plants support each other.
Circa 2018. Our front yard was covered in grass and we slowly removed the grass by sheet mulching the area using recycled cardboard and free wood chips. Over time, I began planting the area with some of my favorite perennial and self seeding plants.
Farmers are becoming more and more aware of the terrible environmental effects that many modern agricultural practices have on the planet. According to Sustainable Agriculture vs. Regenerative Agriculture — Regenerative Farmers of America, modern agriculture is one of the most polluting industries on Earth, responsible for up to 25% of greenhouse gasses produced each year.
Regenerative farming is rooted in the principles of permaculture-it relies on agricultural practices that are meant to emulate nature. Farmers practicing regenerative agriculture focus on increasing biodiversity and improving the water cycle. They also engage in agricultural practices that focus on the overall health of the entire ecological system, rather than on high-yielding crops.
Source: https://climateactionnowma.org/regenerative-agriculture
“Sustainable gardening” is a term that is a lot like the term “permaculture” in that it is basically the concept of using gardening practices that enhance the natural environment and cause no harm. Sustainable gardening usually consists of chemical-free, organic gardening practices that are self-sustaining.
In their aim to keep agricultural processes as sustainable and natural as possible, permaculture gardening and growing food forests come with many, many benefits, so we’ve listed a few of the major ones for you below:
A Broadfork is a tool used to break up the densely packed soil without the need for heavy machinery. This helps to improve soil aeration and drainage. The gardener in the photo is doing what we call 'extreme broadforking.'
Honey bee foraging on Purple Aster Flower.
Now that you’re familiar with permaculture, food forests, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable farming, I bet you’re wondering, “What types of crops can I grow that can be harvested repeatedly?”
We’ve talked a lot about how permaculture works, but what types of plants can actually be harvested over and over again? Perennials, by Merriam-Webster’s definition, are “present at all seasons of the year” or “persisting for several years usually with new herbaceous growth…” In other words, they are plants that come back every year. Though not all types of edible plants are perennials, we’ve made a list of a few that come back year after year that you can grow in your garden.
Berries have a lot of health benefits–folk medicine utilized them for centuries for health and medicinal purposes. Many types of berries are loaded with antioxidants and are high in fiber, vitamins, and other nutrients. There are many different types of perennial berries to choose from, just be sure to choose a variety that is native to your area. Some examples include strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, and gooseberries. When growing a food forest, note that berry bushes can grow quite large, so be sure to research the best placement for them.
It goes without saying that one plant that keeps giving, year after year, is a fruit tree. Peaches, pears, apples, oranges, avocados, and various types of nuts all grow on trees. The one drawback of planting fruit or nut trees in a permaculture garden or food forest is that they can take many years to bear fruit. Don’t let this deter you from adding a few of these to your garden though. They will bear fruit and nuts for many generations to come and can help feed many people through the seasons.
Our walnut trees are one of my favorites. I enjoy making Nocino, a delicious black liqueur, using green walnuts, fresh vanilla bean, cinnamon and more. It also has been known for its numerous health benefits.
Left: Me standing in front of our California Black Walnut (Juglans hindsii). Right: Harvesting green walnuts for nocino making.
Very high in Vitamin A, sorrel is a leafy green herb that has been used around the globe for centuries. Although it is mainly utilized to be consumed, its medicinal properties include aiding in digestion, liver health, and relief from mouth ulcers and sinus problems. Sorrel prefers moist, fertile soil in full or partial to dappled shade.
Great for pies, sauces, and jellies, rhubarb is a beautiful, versatile perennial vegetable. Though it prefers full sun, it can tolerate parietal shade as long as it has well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. Once it’s established, it doesn’t need much attention and can be productive for up to 10 years. Rhubarb is good for bone and heart health and is a great source of fiber. It has more antioxidants than kale and is said to help fight inflammation and aid in digestion.
A few types of onions will grow year after year, and those include the bunching onion and Egyptian onion. A bunching onion is a long green onion similar to a chive or green onion. They grow in clusters and require between 4 and 6 hours of sunlight a day. They can be added to stews, soups, or any dish. Egyptian onions are closely related to garlic and leeks but are treated much like an onion in cooking. They are easy to grow and can be used like spring onions.
Garlic is a common seasoning that is used worldwide, and it offers a plethora of health benefits along with its widespread culinary use. It has been known to lower cholesterol and blood pressure and is a common treatment for colds and the flu. Although garlic is dug out of the ground for the use of its root, leaving a few portions of the bulbs behind will result in more garlic the next year. Garlic is often planted in the fall, where it lies dormant in the winter and begins to grow as the soil warms in the spring.
Garlic confit is a cooking technique where garlic cloves are slowly cooked in oil at a low temperature until they become soft and tender. This process infuses the garlic with a rich, mellow flavor and creates a creamy texture. The resulting garlic cloves can be used as a versatile and flavorful ingredient in various dishes, such as pasta, sauces, soups, or spread on bread. The infused oil can also be used as a delicious base for cooking or as a flavorful dressing.
Grown as a perennial in U.S. zones 3-10, chives are cold-hardy members of the Allium family. They come back every year and can be harvested for their edible leaves and flowers. While adding a zesty, flavorful pop to your dishes, chives are known to be good for your heart and can boost your immune system. They are usually used in cooking but can be eaten right out of the garden.
One of the first vegetables that are ready to harvest in the spring, asparagus is a great addition to a permaculture garden or food forest. They can take a year or two to become established, but once they do they can last for decades. Asparagus is virtually fat-free and is high in iron, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B-6. Asparagus prefers to be planted in full sun with well-draining soil. Be sure to prep the soil well before planting for best results, since your asparagus will be around for a long time.
A perennial root vegetable that is known for its peppery flavor, horseradish can come back year after year. The root can be replanted to create new horseradish plants. Being a root vegetable, horseradish is a great addition to a permaculture garden that needs help with compact soil. It’s known to boost immunity, improve digestion, and has antibacterial and diuretic properties. It has also been known to improve respiratory conditions. Its other medicinal uses include natural anti-inflammatory properties and potent, pain-relieving analgesic.
Everybody deserves to have access to nutritious food. Incorporating practices such as permaculture, food forests, and regenerative agriculture can help ensure racial and food justice and equality for an entire nation. There are many different types of crops that you can plant once and harvest for years to come to help feed people from your community. Always research which crops can grow in your area.
Starting your own food forest or permaculture garden today, no matter the amount of available space can have major environmental, social, and individual benefits to your community.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a versatile and flavorful spice that has been used for thousands of years in both traditional medicine and cooking. It is native to Southeast Asia and is now grown in many parts of the world. The part of the ginger plant that is primarily used is the rhizome, which is also known as the ginger root.
Ginger is an easily cultivated plant that anyone can grow! If you don’t have a lot of space to plant a garden, ginger grows very well in containers. Since ginger is native to Southeast Asia, it thrives in warmer temperatures. This means that growing ginger in containers is ideal because plants can easily be moved indoors if the temperatures get too cold.
Growing ginger in containers at home is an excellent way to enjoy fresh ginger and its many benefits in a smart, sustainable way. Growing ginger can greatly reduce the food miles, which will help reduce your carbon footprint.
In this article, I'll key you in on everything you need to know about ginger and how to grow it.
History and Cultural Influence of Ginger
Ginger has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for thousands of years. It is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, and it was used in ancient China and India for its healing properties. In ancient times, ginger was also a valuable commodity for trade, and it was highly prized by the Greeks and Romans. It was eventually brought to Europe by Arab traders, and it became a popular spice in medieval cuisine.
It is known as the first foreign spice that was grown in the “New World” in 1585 and had once been worth as much as the price of a sheep in China during the 14th century. Ginger has a long history of being used in dishes and medicine in Southeast Asia; it can provide you with numerous health benefits.
Ginger has a rich cultural history that dates back thousands of years, with strong connections to many indigenous cultures and African American communities. In many indigenous cultures, ginger has been used for its medicinal properties and as a staple ingredient in traditional dishes. For example, in Hawaii, ginger is an important part of the cuisine and is used in dishes such as poke and Lomi-Lomi salmon. In the Caribbean, ginger is used in jerk seasoning, a spicy and flavorful blend of herbs and spices that is used to marinate and grill meats.
In African American culture, ginger has been used as a natural remedy for various ailments, including indigestion and colds. During the era of slavery, ginger was often used in traditional African herbal remedies and was also incorporated into the diets of enslaved people. Today, ginger continues to be an important ingredient in many African American dishes, such as sweet potato pie and gingerbread. Ginger has a long and diverse cultural history, with strong connections to indigenous cultures and African American communities. From its use in traditional medicines to its incorporation into various dishes, ginger continues to play an important role in many cultures. I love to add ginger in my sweet potato pie for a kick of spice to the contrasting sweetness!
Today, ginger is grown in many places, including India, China, Peru, and Brazil. The United States is the largest importer of ginger root, with its main supplier being China. The United States imported roughly 63,392 pounds¹ of ginger from January to August 2020–that’s a lot of ginger, especially when you learn how easy it is to grow at home.
Selecting a Container for Growing Ginger
Before you begin growing ginger at home, you’ll first need to choose the right container for the job. When selecting a container to grow your ginger in, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, the container should be large enough to accommodate the ginger plant. Ginger plants can grow quite large, reaching around 3 to 4 feet tall. The rhizomes (roots) grow wide rather than deep and can grow to about 1 to 2 feet in width. This means that ginger needs plenty of room to spread out, so choose your container size accordingly.
A container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and 12 inches deep should be adequate for a single ginger plant. But if you want to grow multiple plants, you'll likely need a larger container. Reclaimed wine barrels average around 27 inches in diameter, so they are the perfect-sized container for growing ginger.
Next, the container should have adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Ginger plants need well-drained soil to flourish. If the container doesn't have drainage holes, the soil can become waterlogged, which can lead to root rot. Since the root (or rhizome) is the main part of the ginger plant that is used, you’ll want to avoid root rot at all costs.
Finally, the container should be made of a durable material that can withstand exposure to the elements. Reclaimed wine barrels are a popular choice for growing ginger because they are large, sturdy, and attractive. However, any container made of wood, ceramic, or plastic can work, if it meets the other criteria.
How to Grow Ginger in a Reclaimed Wine Barrel
Once you have selected your reclaimed wine barrel or another container, it's time to start growing ginger! Here are the steps to follow:
Creating the right environment for planting ginger is essential for a successful harvest. Ginger thrives in warm, humid climates with plenty of rainfall. The ideal soil for ginger should be well-draining, loose, and rich in organic matter. Before planting, the soil should be prepared by adding compost or aged manure. Ginger is usually planted in early spring, and the rhizomes should be planted about 2 inches deep, with the buds facing up. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the growing season. Ginger can take 8-10 months to mature, and the plant should be harvested once the leaves start to turn yellow and die back.
Harvesting and Storing Ginger
Ginger can take quite a while to fully mature, but you can harvest your rhizomes as soon as they become large enough for your liking. In late summer, ginger plants stop producing new leaves and start to die.
Note that ginger grown at home tends to have thinner skin than store bought, making it easier to damage. Take caution when harvesting and be sure to use any damaged rhizomes first.
Harvesting and storing ginger is a relatively simple process. Once the ginger plant has matured, you can harvest the rhizomes by carefully digging them up with a garden fork or trowel. Cut off the leaves and stems, and gently brush off any soil.
Ginger can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks. Store ginger in the fridge for 3 weeks in the crisper drawer. This works best if it’s wrapped in a paper bag (a plastic bag may cause mold).
If you want to keep the ginger for longer, you can peel and freeze it. Another storage option is to dry it for later use. To freeze ginger, simply peel and chop it into small pieces and store it in a freezer-safe container. To dry ginger, slice it thinly and place it in a dehydrator or oven on low heat until it is completely dry. Store the dried ginger in an airtight container.
Culinary Uses of Ginger
Ginger is a popular ingredient in many cuisines all around the world. It has a spicy, warm, and slightly sweet flavor that can add depth and complexity to dishes. While ginger is commonly used in Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern cuisine, it pairs well with both sweet and savory ingredients.
Some popular culinary uses of ginger include adding it to stir-fries, curries, soups, and marinades. It is also used in baking, especially in desserts like gingerbread, cookies, and cakes. Ginger can be used fresh, dried, or ground, and it is often paired with other spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom to create complex flavor profiles. Ginger can also be used to make tea or be infused into cocktails for a spicy kick.
Medicinal Uses of Ginger
Ginger has also been used for centuries for its many medicinal properties. It is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Ginger has also been shown to have pain-relieving properties and may be helpful in reducing muscle soreness after exercise. Additionally, ginger has been effectively used by many cultures worldwide to relieve nausea and vomiting, especially during pregnancy or after surgery.
Ginger root may also help improve digestion and reduce symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating and gas. Some studies have even suggested that ginger may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed to confirm this.
Overall, ginger is a versatile and beneficial ingredient that can be used both in cooking and as a natural remedy for various health issues. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using ginger as a treatment for any medical condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Ginger
Growing ginger in containers is a popular option for those who don't have a lot of outdoor space or live in colder climates. Here are five frequently asked questions about growing ginger in containers:
In conclusion, growing ginger in a container is a rewarding and enjoyable experience that can be done in small spaces or in colder climates. With the right environment and care, you can grow your own fresh and flavorful ginger all year round. To ensure success, it is important to choose a suitable container (such as a reclaimed wine barrel) with good drainage, use high-quality soil, and provide adequate moisture and nutrients. Check out this fun Instagram reel showing me planting ginger in a reclaimed half wine barrel!
As a bonus, ginger has many potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and aiding digestion. By growing your own ginger, you can enjoy these benefits and know exactly where your food comes from, while reducing your carbon footprint at the same time. So why not give it a try and start growing your own ginger in a reclaimed wine barrel today!
Citations
To improve ecosystem stability and human benefits, environmental stewardship involves conserving and endurable practices to protect the environment. And when it comes to urban farming, practices like crop rotation, cover cropping, composting, and IPM are widely used in ecological land stewardship.
It’s important to understand these practices clearly before diving into the benefits. And in this article, I am following this procedure to make things easy for you.
Land stewardship is based in the spiritual concepts of reciprocity and relationship. To adopt these methods is to inculcate a different view of the world and environment you live in - understanding how various parts contribute to the larger organism. Prior to the catchy name, indigenous peoples of the Earth practiced these things as a part of their culture. Proper management of people, land and natural resources was not just something cool to do, it was an obligation to the Creator.
Precisely What Does Ecological Land Stewardship Entail in Urban Farming?
Ecological land stewardship entails managing land holistically to promote ecological health and produce food, thread, and other aids. Regarding urban farming, land stewardship practices include-
Crop Cycling
Crop cycling refers to growing diverse crops in a particular area in a controlled sequence. Pests and infections can be decreased, soil health can be improved, and crop yields can be increased as a result.
We practice both intense planting and crop rotation in our garden spaces. This means that in any given space you may find up to 4 species of plants complimenting each other. In addition we typically do not grow the same crop in the same place from one growing season to the next. Tomatoes for example are heavy feeders and are susceptible to soil borne diseases or pests that can live in the soil for some time. For that reason, planting them in the same place consecutively increases the crop’s vulnerability.
Cover Cropping
In this practice, plants are grown between main crop cycles to prevent soil decay, reduce nutrient loss, and shield the soil.
We owe the widespread adoption of this practice to the genius of Dr. Washington Carver who discovered that by using leguminous crops you could rather rapidly help regenerate severely degraded soil lacking nitrogen specifically which is a main building block in plant growth. It also helps to reduce soil erosion. At our farm as we rotate crops, during our somewhat dormant season we use cover crop mixes to replenish nutrients back into the soil after a growing period. Crops such as hairy vetch, rye, oats, fava beans etc., when cut right before fruiting will send the energy and nutrients to be used in that fruit production back into the soil. The clippings can be used to heat up and feed your compost as well or can be used as a great healthy snack for your chickens.
Composting
Composting is the process of transforming organic materials like food debris and yard trash into nutrients.
The art of composting is likened to alchemy as it takes waste materials, that together with the aid of natural elements and organisms, alters their composition creating something new and of great value.
A thermophilic compost pile is the traditional method and one of 3 main methods we employ at the farm. By combining green waste, food scraps and other yard debris, essentially forms of nitrogen and carbon, heat and moisture breakdown the matter into rich humus.
Integrated Pest Management
This ecological approach to controlling pests includes many formulas like biologically reducing the pests. This ensures the usage of minimum pesticides and the reduction of pest inhabitants.
One of the practices mentioned above is a part of pest management as you read that crop rotation can deter or prevent certain pests from taking hold to your crops. Another means we use are organic pesticides which normally use natural bacteria and other compounds to eradicate pests. In addition to that, incorporating a variety of plant species in a space that will attract insects that will predate other harmful insects is very effective biological control. These predatory organisms are part of what are called beneficial insects in the garden.
What Are The Benefits of Ecological Land Stewardship in Urban Farming?
Let’s discuss some of the benefits of ecological land stewardship in urban farming.
Enhanced Soil Condition And Productivity
The practices that we discussed beforehand can increase the presence of helpful microorganisms. They can also enhance soil configuration, and increase the availability of nutrients for plants.
Furthermore, compost and organic fertilizers can enhance soil condition since they help increase soil organic matter and enhance soil structure.
Overall, the productivity of the soil gets a massive boost.
Remember, the Earth loves to be covered and though the soil needs occasional rest, otherwise keeping something growing at all times is good for soil business!
Raised Ecosystem Diversity And Ecosystem Services
Urban farms can incorporate a diverse range of plant and animal species through ecological land stewardship. Moreover, practices like crop cycling and intercropping allow the farms to assist many unharmful insects, pollinators, and some more eco-friendly organisms.
Additionally, by using sustainable farming practices urban farms can help to reduce the negative impacts of farming on the surrounding ecosystem. The practices include composting and lowering chemical inputs.
An example of this could be alley cropping. In this practice you have a combination of annuals and perennials that can serve multiple purposes including more than just food. You can be producing compost feed, animal feed, firewood, and medicine all in the same area while contributing to a very biodiverse and robust ecosystem.
Decreased Usage of Artificial Fertilizers And Pesticides
One of the main focuses of ecological land stewardship in urban farming is to increase the usage of organic procedures whenever possible.
Hence, this whole process is inversely proportional to the usage of synthetic materials. This not only improves the health of the farmers but also is environment-friendly.
The usage of integrated pest management brings the usage of artificial pesticides to a minimum.
Remember there are also many organic pesticides out there that are not harmful at all to the environment or to your plants!
Enhanced Water Administration And Preservation
Ecological land stewardship practices can improve water management and conservation in urban farming. This can be done through practices such as-
With these techniques, urban farmers can decrease the amount of water lost through evaporation and runoff. They can also reduce their reliance on municipal water sources.
Improved Solidity Against Climate Change
Ecological land stewardship could be used to increase resilience to climate change. This is achievable by promoting practices such as water preservation, soil protection, and the use of native plants.
These practices can help to reduce the impact of extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods. They can also increase the ability of urban farming systems to adapt to changing climate conditions.
You could take the composting example for instance as a testament to this truth. It is estimated that out of a million metric tons of food waste produced in this country about 470 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent to methane is release. Composting could reduce that by 50% some studies have shown.
Economic Benefits
Ecological land stewardship in urban farming can provide a number of economic benefits. This includes reducing the costs of inputs (e.g. water, fertilizer) and increasing yields.
Moreover, by growing food in the city, urban farmers can cut down on transportation costs and increase access to fresh, locally-grown produce for consumers.
Enhanced Community Engagement And Education
By incorporating ecological land stewardship practices, urban farming can produce not only healthy and nutritious food but also provide educational opportunities for community members. It can also enhance community engagement through workshops and volunteer opportunities.
Land stewardship promotes family values and communal efforts to better the quality of living for everyone and everything in any given environment. The better we serve what gives us life, the better our lives and those of our progeny will be.
FAQs
Let’s look at some of the frequently asked questions and their answers on the benefits of ecological land stewardship in urban farming
Is there any instance of success in urban farming projects utilizing ecological land stewardship practices?
Ans. There are plenty of instances. Brooklyn Grange in New York, the largest rooftop farm on the planet, is one of them.
Who is responsible for environmental stewardship?
Ans. According to the EPA, each person and organization that impacts the environment has a responsibility to preserve the environment. Environmental stewardship is therefore a shared responsibility.
Final Thoughts
Urban farming can address food security by increasing access to fresh produce in cities and reducing dependence on long-distance food transportation. It can also help to mitigate environmental challenges by reducing carbon emissions, decreasing stormwater runoff, and improving air quality.
Ecological land stewardship in urban farming improves soil health, increases biodiversity, reduces pollution, and creates sustainable food systems, promoting healthier and more resilient communities.
By incorporating ecological land stewardship practices, you can improve the health and productivity of your urban farm while also benefiting the environment. And this article will help you to understand all of the benefits.
Some of the peppers used this season include scotch bonnets, padron, yellow peru, habanero, jimmy nardello and of course jalapenos! You can use any variety of peppers you can get your hands on and while many of my peppers pack some heat, feel free to use a balance of both sweet and spicy peppers to suit your taste.
Let's get into the recipe....
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We already discussed this. If you aren't growing your own, stop by your nearby farmer's market or a gardener neighbor or friend who may have more than they know what to do with. I like to start with 40 peppers of various size, colors and levels of heat. Be sure to wash them thoroughly and compost any peppers that show broken skin or signs of deterioration.
I recommend wearing gloves for this step especially if you are using a good amount of spicy peppers. Be sure to remove all stems and tops from your peppers and slice them lengthwise. If the peppers are small, I generally do not bother slicing them. I prefer not to remove the seeds as this is where alot of the pepper's heat is concentrated. You will also want to dice about 6 to 7 tsp of fresh garlic.
Place all ingredients from saucepan into a blender and blend. If you don't have a blender, give it a go with an immersion blender or your food processor. Be sure to blend well until all seeds and peppers are blended well. Taste. Here is where you can perfect your sauce. If you need more heat, throw in another scotch bonnet or so and blend again.
Okay, maybe this is three steps. I like to skim the bubbly froth off my sauce before bottling. This sauce will thicken as it stands so my favorite way to bottle is to place in a good old fashion canning jar. This hot sauce stores well in the fridge for up to two weeks. If you are making more than what you can consume in two weeks, you may store it in a freezer friendly container and freeze until needed.
There are 7 species that scientists say are suited to be the best decomposers to use for vermicompost. By the way "vermi" means worm hence their compost or castings being called by that name. These are split into 2 categories: a) Temperate species and b) tropical species. Red worms for the most part, are what you will see and hear when you talk about vermicomposting.
We focus on the Red Wigglers (E. fetida) which are the most used worm out of the 7 species identified as suitable for worm farming.
If you plan on starting a worm bin it will be helpful to use the scientific name, as E. fetida has numerous common names and it could get confusing. We call them red wigglers here on our farm.
The red worms are preferred because they can handle a wider range of environmental conditions such as temperature and pH. Since they are a very efficient breeder species, Eisenia fetida are very popular among worm farmers.
Earthworms are cold-blooded meaning they cannot regulate their body temperature. They breathe through their skin which requires it to have to stay moist in order to allow dissolved oxygen to pass through their skin to the bloodstream. In addition they are hyper sensitive to light. They prefer to work undercover and not be in the spotlight if you can dig it.
First thing we have to do is distinguish vermicomposting from traditional composting. One could be inclined to think they are the same or will give you the same product, the only difference being the worms do most of the work, but that would be a mistake.
Vermicompost and compost are two very different processes with different considerations that require different environments. Vermicompost relies on worms and other microorganisms to break down organic matter, to transform the physical, biological characteristics into a stable product i.e, a soil amendment. This is such a beautiful thing, for one's waste to turn into something totally different and of high value in the scheme of what goes in to our bodies.
Vermicast, which is fancy speech for a mixture of worm poop and undigested organic materials, is a rich cocktail of nutrients for the soil which will increase crop yields. Think of it as a natural slow-release fertilizer which is difficult to overdo. Technically speaking, vermicast doubles as a soil amendment and a fertilizer. To clarify the difference between the two, a soil amendment is a substance that improves the physical aspect of the soil. A fertilizer is something that will directly affect and benefit the plant.
In contrast, traditional composting is a controlled process that entails converting organic material into a soil amendment, but using biologically generated heat in aerobic conditions to do so. Worm bins should not overheat, because too much heat will kill them. Different conditions, diffferent product.
One benefit quoted for vermicast over traditional compost is the price difference.Worm farmers that sell their vermicast will make 7 to 60 times more for it. However, if you're not interested in the worm business but want to farm them in your garden there are many more such as:
We could probably dig up many more, but this is a good start for you to seek more answers in the soil. I hope I have succesfully inspired you to nerd out on worms, start vermicomposting too, or at least start having more respect for these wonderful creatures who help us have a healthier Earth.
There are various setups for vermicomposting. The one you choose should best suit your space and intended outcome. Keep in mind however, that it could be as simple as a rubber tote in a cool spot in the house, maybe a garage or shaded corner of the yard. Whichever you decide on, once you purchase your first bag of worms, if you manage them right it's a one time investment.
I couldn't tell you all these amazing things about red wigglers and earthworms and leave you hanging. So now, it's time to use this inspiration to build yourself a worm bin. There's a wide variety of equipment designed for vermicomposting that range from cheap to outright ridiculous in pricing. The most popular and effective method for beginners and some veterans alike however, is using stackable plastic totes. It is functional and easy to transport.
The size of your tote should be what you thinks suits your situation best, but you could start with something as small as 15 gallons then upgrade if you need to. Location and temperature are always a factor to consider. You will want to make sure it is in an easily accesible place and somewhere sheltered to protect from extreme weather conditions
Bedding is also important for the environment you're creating for your creepy crawler friends. This can consist of shredded newspaper, cut up cardboard, straw, sandy soil, coco coir and similar materials.
This will be needed to start the worms off until you start to feed them food scraps. Once you're familiar with some basic do's and don'ts like what to compost or not, you will soon see how easily you can compost in the comfort of your home.
Click here fors step-by-step instructions on how to construct your worm bin. Enjoy!
]]>Buying handmade soap has a lot of great benefits to offer. Most of the time, all-natural items are good for the environment since they do not require large factories or facilities to produce them. Handmade soap tends to be unique since it is carefully crafted by an actual person.
In many cases, handcrafted soaps and other products are also safer to use than their mass-produced counterparts. This is especially true when it comes to handmade skincare goods.
This, along with my passion for herbalism and love for the natural world, is one of many reasons why I decided to produce handcrafted soap and other natural body products. Formulating and creating each unique recipe with the goal of creating an earth friendly product with benefits is simply empowering.
The way you treat your skin has a huge impact on your overall well-being. Being the largest organ in the body, the skin is very porous and is quick to absorb what is placed on it. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, millions of people in the US are potentially exposed to harmful chemicals absorbed through the skin.
Our most popular bar is Calendula + Lemongrass and in addition to its amazing scent, the benefits for the skin are numerous. Read on to learn more.
Calendula is my spirit herb. Most people refer to calendula as just a flower but she's so much more. I started growing calendula about five or six years ago as a little patch near my front door. I wanted this plant to be the first thing I see each time I leave my home and the last thing before coming back inside. Since then, this edible self-seeding herbal ally has taken over several spaces in our homestead and have claimed these spaces as her own. We don't mind it. Calendula is ridiculously easy to grow and blooms readily from spring to fall.
Calendula, also called Calendula officinalis, is a type of marigold plant that has been used historically for various ailments. It is primarily used in treating skin conditions such as healing wounds, soothing eczema, and diaper rash. Some researchers have suggested that its also effective for vaginal yeast infections and fungal infections.
The extract of calendula could potentially help in treating wounds and ulcers. In animal studies, the plant’s extract was found to regulate certain protein expression that promotes wound healing. In another study, calendula extract was shown to increase the collagen presence in wounds. Collagen is a protein that is necessary in forming new skin.
Besides being able to treat wounds, calendula has also been found to reduce scarring. The properties of this plant soothes and softens the skin that allows it not only to heal quickly but also cleanly.
Lemongrass is a tropical plant that is used in herbal medicine and cooking. Its oil, which is extracted from its stalks and leaves, has a pungent, citrus scent. The extract is often used in personal care products and is popular in aromatherapy for relieving stress.
In a 2010 study, the essential oil of lemongrass was found to be effective against bacteria, such as those that can cause skin infections.
In addition, lemongrass contains anti-inflammatory properties and is known to reduce redness in skin, itching and swelling. It purifies the skin by being a deep pore cleanser and it has been used to treat fungal infections.
In another study, researchers learned that lemongrass oil could effectively deter several types of fungi. One type of fungi that could be treated with lemongrass can cause ringworm, jock itch, and athlete’s foot.
Handcrafted soap that is made using lemongrass oil is also beneficial in reducing skin oiliness. The substances present in the oil can help in controlling oil secretion from the skin.
The process and ingredients to create handmade soaps are truly what separates it from the store-bought soaps today. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they are also made with ingredients that are naturally beneficial to the skin.
At Yisrael Family Farm, we produce handcrafted soap products that incorporate all-natural ingredients. Our soaps can be found at local retail stores, but can also be purchased via our online store.
If you wish to know more about our Calendula + Lemongrass soap bars, click here!
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There is something deeply satisfying about walking into your kitchen and putting together ingredients that will nourish and heal the body. I cannot think of any other super tonic that is more needed in each and every home during the winter than fire cider.
Fire cider is made up of a blend of herbs, spices, and peppers and many of its components can be found in your kitchen. We steep ingredients for a period of 4 to 6 weeks in apple cider vinegar, strained and sweetened with raw honey. Rosemary Gladstar, an herbalist, coined the term in the 1970s & herbalists from all walks of life have made versions of the tonic for the last 40 years.
Even beyond the 70s, the use of vinegar in herbal remedies is well documented and has been used for centuries, particularly amongst African slaves and other folk practitioners who have used vinegar as a cure for fevers, to avoid the development of vaginal infections, the prevention of skin and scalp problems, arthritis and so on. One remedy for rheumatism would include taking an empty whiskey bottle and filling it half full with vinegar then putting a couple of handfuls of large red ants and shaking well. This tonic was applied both externally and internally to battle rheumatism. Both slaves and plantation owners alike used vinegar for many ailments and while some people today may think these remedies seem a bit obscure the truth of the matter is, for many they worked.
Today we will take a deeper dive into looking at different elements that make up fire cider and their benefits - let's get in to it.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a major component of fire cider. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is one vinegar that I really like to use because it has more nutrients and enzymes than regular distilled vinegar so when you are making tonics whether it's a fire cider or any other herbal tonic, you want to use an apple cider vinegar (ACV) particularly one that is raw and unfiltered. It is made by fermenting the sugar from apples which creates acetic acid and is responsible for many great benefits. Making your own ACV is fun and easy to do, but buying it is ok to do as well. The supply is plentiful and it doesn't cost much for a solid organic, raw, and unpasturized ACV. Some of my favorite brands to use are made by Natural Coast and Braggs.
I could write an entire blog post about all the amazing benefits of ACV. It is widely popular for its benefits to promote good gut health due to all of the amazing probiotics it naturally contains. It also aids in weight loss, lowers blood sugar levels, and helps to kill harmful bacteria. Place ACV in a spray bottle of water and tea tree essential oil to win the battle against foot and toe fungus.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of sourcing organic ACV to ensure you end up with a clean tonic free of pesticides.
Horseradish
People will often think of a creamy sauce when horseradish comes to mind, but horseradish is actually a spicy pungent root vegetable in the mustard family. It has been used in folk medicine for centuries to treat conditions such as inflammation, high cholesterol and more notably to improve respiration issues and clear sinuses. There are many variations of fire cider recipes that exist, however horseradish is a constant staple in my fire cider no matter what other components I may change along with it.
Horseradish is the number-one herb for combating sinus congestion and headaches. It clears your sinuses better than anything; even when you’re just grating it, by the time you’re done, your sinuses are wide open.
Be sure to use fresh horseradish and you may elect to grate or thinly slice it so more surface area of the root is exposed to the ACV to maximize maceration. It contains calcium, magnesium and potassium and is known to be rich in antioxidants. Consider adding this dynamic accumulator in your garden and grow your own as it is a vigorously growing perennial that will provide good medicine for your family for years to come. Consuming large quantities of horseradish can be toxic and omit if from your recipe if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Garlic
Many people are familiar with garlic and if you have had any classes with me you know I'm a big fan of it. If I see a recipe that asked for two or three cloves of garlic, for me, that means use 10 to 12 cloves. I especially load up on garlic during the winter months using it heavily in soups and stews to take advantage of its many healing properties.
Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is an annual bulbous herb of the Alliaceae family that are native to Central and South Asia. It has been used for culinary and spiritual purposes for many years. Garlic, also known as poor man's penicillin, is antibacterial and antiviral so it helps fight viruses and colds. Pre-clinical data demonstrated that garlic and its OSCs (organosulfur compounds) have potential antiviral activity against different human, animal and plant pathogenic viruses through blocking viral entry into host cells. This is why we want it in our fire cider.
There is always an abundance of garlic harvested each year on our homestead. Much of it gets braided and added to meals, some will find its way into our annual batch of fire cider, the remaining bulbs will be planted for next season's harvest.
A student attended one of my fire cider classes and after making her own batch, she contacted me to say her garlic turned blue. Bluish/green garlic can sometimes happen when making fire cider. The color change is caused by a reaction between enzymes and sulfur-containing amino acids in the garlic (the same enzymes are responsible for garlic's flavor) along with the acid (in this case vinegar). So while it may look a little off, its fine and safe to eat.
Onion
Onion belongs to the same family of plants as garlic. Similar to garlic, onion contains many immune-boosting properties that contains antioxidants that fight inflammation. They are rich in B vitamins, Vitamin C and potassium. Onions have been used for centuries to treat loss of appetite, hypertension, fevers, colds and cough.
Slaves used onions to treat many infections by putting the ill person in a room full of onions to cleanse out the illness. This method is practiced in many homes today by placing an onion on the bedside table or sleeping with onion slices in your sock to draw out illness.
Ginger
Everybody needs to have ginger in their kitchen whether fresh or dried. Ginger is just an amazing kitchen medicine. It is a rhizome so it can be grown easily in pots and containers. I recommend using only fresh ginger for your fire cider.
Ginger is good for your immune system, it aids in digestion and helps to increase blood flow so it supports your circulatory system. It gets your blood moving especially for people who have the body constitution where they tend to be cold often. These are folks who usually walk around with an extra layer of clothing.
In addition to being warming, ginger can soothe an achy stomach, ease a sore throat, and there are studies being conducted with osteoarthritis patients who have reported significantly less joint pain while using ginger.
Herbs, Citrus, and Peppers
We cannot forget our herbs and other boosts that will fuel our fire cider with even more healing plant power. Rosemary is commonly used for fire cider however there are many other herbal plants and berries that can be added to your tonic.
Our turmeric root harvest
The list goes on and on. Citrus and hot peppers almost always end up in each batch of fire cider I make. When using citrus, I include the peel as well. As with hot peppers, I use all of it. Including the seeds! Cayenne pepper is one of the best cardiovascular herbs. It helps your immune system mobilize and moves blood through the system.
Honey
Another critical component of fire cider is honey. Honey is very soothing for inflamed tissues and organs, but its primary purpose is as a harmonizer for the fire cider. It helps blend all the flavors together and makes it taste wonderful not just to your taste buds, but to your digestive system as a whole.
In addition, honey helps to sooth sore throats and if you use local raw honey, it may help alleviate allergies by gently exposing you to local pollen.
So without further delay, here is our homestead recipe for Fire Cider. This recipe can be made into a 16 to 32oz mason jar, however I encourage you to quadruple the recipe and aim to make a gallon. Your family and friends will thank you.
References:
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/armoracia-rusticana/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7434784/
The star of this hearty winter dish are the sweet potatoes. The tender sweetness of the potatoes add a balance with the richness of the spices. The potatoes also add quality protein and substantial quantities of vitamins A, B, and C, while the pungent spices stimulate the immune system and increases circulation.
Sweet potatoes, Ipomoea batatas, are a trailing herbaceous perennial in the morning glory family, that spreads along the ground by rooting at the nodes. The leaves are beautifully heart-shaped with lobes at the base and the eldest of the leaves will give birth to pink, purple, or white flowers that resemble its cousin, morning glory.
Sweet potatoes are indigenous to northern parts of South America and later traveled to Africa and Asia. In the West Indies and Africa, the starchy aja type is preferred, while the sweet batata type is popular in most other parts of the world. It is the seventh largest food crop grown in the world.
This year our sweet potato harvest did not disappoint. Our sweet potatoes are harvested in the fall and store well in the pantry for use in our winter meals such as this chili. We enjoyed the greens in several dishes such as my Coconut Stewed Callaloo. I've baked them, added them to our chili and even made purple sweet potato pies (I will post that recipe soon!). They are so tasty and good for you too.
Boiling sweet potatoes retains more beta-carotene and makes the nutrient more absorbable than other cooking methods such as baking or frying. Up to 92% of the nutrient can be retained by limiting the cook time, such as boiling in a pot with a tightly covered lid for 20 minutes. Cooking with the skin on further helps to minimize leaching of nutrients including beta-carotene and vitamin C.
The healing spices of garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder are the perfect combination for the cooler months. The warmth of these spices fill our home and bodies as we get cozy with our big blankets, warm fires, and soft sweaters.
Double the recipe if feeding a crowd, or save and meal prep for leftovers during the week. Leftover chili is delicious on tortilla chips garnished with fresh onion, olives, lettuce and guacamole. Leftovers can also be made into Shepherd's Pie or enchiladas.
Enjoy!
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes:
garnishes can include: Cilantro, fresh onion, sliced avocado, cheese, sour cream, hot sauce. We like ours served with a big batch of cornbread fresh baked in my cast iron skillet!
by Chanowk & Judith Yisrael
I wanted to know the name of every stone and flower and insect and bird and beast. I wanted to know where it got its color, where it got its life - but there was no one to tell me.
- George Washington Carver
For the past 10 years, Yisrael Family Urban Farm has worked at the intersection of ecological land stewardship, sustainable food and agriculture, racial equity and justice, education and community building, and workforce development. Based in Sacramento, Yisrael Family Farm’s mission is to transform the hood for G.O.O.D. (Growing Our Own Destiny) using urban agriculture as a tool for community engagement, empowerment and employment.
With a single seed, not much bigger than the period at the end of this sentence, we hope to rebuild and restore South Oak Park to a healthier place where all families have equitable access to the resources they need to thrive. Starting with a few plants in the backyard, our vision has grown to showing communities everywhere that the answers are contained in the soil.
When faced with a time of trouble, we are forced to re-evaluate our priorities and focus on the things that really matter, namely, water and food. Without access to these things, panic ensues and our lives can easily come to a halt. We are all guilty of over-consumption and in some cases downright wasteful because we’ve been conditioned to believe that the grocery stores will always be there with everything we need.
This recent coronavirus outbreak (like many others) has pushed this reality in front of our faces once again. Panic buying is at an all time high, store shelves are empty of water, non-perishable food items, and many people are faced with high levels of stress.
Many people are refocusing their priorities and looking to grow their own food. Even though it’s during a crisis we are firm believers that everything happens for a reason.
As mentioned before, we’ve all been conditioned towards waste and over consumption so before getting into the food growing aspect of this section let’s talk about some ways in which we can maximize the foods we have.
The best way to continue to eat fresh healthy foods during times of quarantine is to start with the things you already have. Onions, leeks and carrots are just a few things that you can regrow almost indefinitely without much garden space or in a pot or container next to a window that gets some sun.
Next is fruit and vegetable storage. We’ve all had a situation where we’ve bought produce and left it out too long or put in the fridge only to come back and find a mess to clean up and material for the compost. Knowing whether food is best stored in the refrigerator, the counter, or in the freezer, is important to making your fruits and vegetables last.
One of the biggest mistakes I made early on in my journey of food production was not learning how to store the food I grew. Imagine watching 25 pounds of summer squash go from pristine quality to compost over a period of days due to improper storage…never again.
Now let’s talk about growing food.
“Beauty surrounds us, but usually we need to be walking in a garden to know it.”
- Rumi
Many questions I get about food revolve around what to do if you live in an apartment or don’t have in-ground space so we will start there. Many crops that we eat on the daily basis such as leafy greens, lettuce and radishes can be grown in containers outside or inside where there is a sun facing window.
When it comes to container gardening, the general rule is the bigger the better, especially if you are growing something outside. Big containers are hard to move once filled with soil so decide on placement before you start. My favorite outside container is a half wine barrel, but you can use buckets, old bathtubs, baskets whatever just be sure that it has holes in the bottom and use gravel or river rocks at the bottom for drainage.
Soil should be a potting soil marked organic or with the acronym OMRI (Organic Materials Research Institute) to make sure you're getting soil that’s not spiked with chemical fertilizers or pesticides. To keep the soil fertile, use some type of organic commercial fertilizer.
Crops to grow in this configuration include leafy greens as well as root crops like turnips, beets, carrots and radishes. Root crops are my favorites, such as turnips and beets, because you get two crops for the space of one. Garlic and other alliums like scallions & bunching onions do great as well. Don’t stop there. You can also grow tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and other fruit bearing crops but get something to hold them up or they might fall over.
No garden is complete without herbs, so let’s cover some of the well-known culinary varieties. Basil, Borage, Chives, Dill, Fennel, Rosemary and Sage all come to mind and do great in wine barrels for easy outside container gardening. Keep in mind that some herbs creep along the ground as they spread, like thyme, while others, like Basil, tend to grow tall. Position them in a way that they all get good sun.
Now that we've have covered quick growing leafy greens and herbs, let’s move to crops that are great for long term storage in the fridge. Many already know vegetables like potatoes, onions, and yams can be stored up to 5-7 months in the right conditions, while some varieties of squash last half a year.
Don’t overthink this. What's important here is to get started. Mistakes are part of the journey and is nature's way of teaching you directly.
Let’s recap what you need to get started:
Last but not least, if you go through all this or still need help starting your garden or how to quickly get food growing for you and your family, we can help you get started now..
For the last 5 years we've been building in-ground and container gardens in and around the Sacramento and surrounding areas via our Urban Roots Garden Build program.
We can help you install a low maintenance garden that can supplement your need to go to the store for vegetables and herbs.
Healing plants are all around us and the coronavirus has boosted the desire for more information on traditional herbal remedies. No matter where your ancestors hail from, they have used plants medicinally, for culinary uses and various rituals. Using plants for medicine is the absolute oldest healing system on earth.
With so many plant varieties available to us, learning about herbal remedies can sometimes be overwhelming if you’re new to herbs. In response to the growing demand of information on antiviral herbs and herbs that support the immune system, visit our blog article here.
In addition to herbal plant medicine, tonics are a great way to incorporate healing into everyday living. Judith’s recipe for Fire Cider has been a winter ally for us for several years. Judith teaches a Fire Cider class every fall in anticipation of the deep dark days of winter which often welcomes us to the common colds and flus. Here we offer our very own Fire Cider Recipe from Yisrael Family Urban Farm to assist you and your family with immune boosting goodness.
Fire Cider is known for being a great digestive aid, for easing headaches, and assists with sinus congestion. For dosing, take a shot glass daily, add a tablespoon or two in your vegetable curry or use it to make your own herbal dressing. For more acute ailments, take a tablespoon every couple of hours.
Classes on our urban farm are on hiatus during our current environment of social distancing, however we are developing other opportunities for you to connect with us remotely. Stay tuned for more information on that. In the meantime, Angie, who facilitates our Urban Farm Afro Yoga classes, is live via Instagram on Wednesdays at 10am. You can get more information by linking up with Angie at @afroyogabyangie
In addition, Down Dog is offering all their apps - Down Dog, Yoga for Beginners, HIIT, Barre, and 7 Minute - free until April 7th for students and healthcare workers. These apps are free until July 1st.
We have seen our share of online posts and various communications to parents who are now trying to find the balance working from home while teaching their children. The language of Math is quite different when your child is accustomed to common core and you are teaching them how to carry the 1. Relax. Trust us. We homeschooled our children for several years and have found excellent ways to create a learning environment outside of the traditional classroom. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you navigate this new terrain.
It isn't necessary to try to maintain the same schedule and rigor your child had while in school. Keep in mind, schools are supported by a whole body of folks preparing meals (well sorta), keeping the spaces clean, ordering curriculum, and some will even offer transportation. Truth is, most families do not have the support to maintain all those areas while also being in the teacher role.
If your teenager's natural sleep cycle is to wake up at 10am, work with that. The extra rest is good for them. Use the early morning hours for preparing your day, practicing self-care, checking in at the office, or taking a free online class. If having school for 2 to 4 hours a day is all you can handle, that is wonderful. Just don't overthink it.
Spending more time at home also means an increase in the preparation of meals at home. Include your child in the meal planning and preparation. Provide smaller children with a grocery store ad in the mailer and have them circle foods that are healthy for the body. Let them set the table and set a goal to sit down together to share a meal (with no devices). Find a new recipe and allow older children to help prepare it. Teach them to double the recipe by adding fractions, simple cutting techniques, and make them responsible for cleanup. For those young people who are more advanced in the kitchen, give them a budget for a week's worth of meals and challenge them to create a menu or meal plan staying within budget (including snacks!).
Create quiet time for daily reading. Find books on subjects that are of interest to your child and allow them to read for 30 min to 1 hour a day. Have them verbally summarize what they read or they can write a summary paragraph.
There are many resources available right at your fingertips. Here are some of our favorite online resources to utilize when teaching at home.
Don't forget to take time to have fun in all this. In the last week our family has played Old Maid, chess, dominoes and several others. This is a great opportunity to show the young ones how to play marbles or clear a spot in the kitchen for a good old fashioned game of jacks. Get the body moving by jumping rope, double dutch or affirmation hop scotch with a new twist!
We hope you find this blog of resources helpful as you navigate the next few weeks with your loved ones. If you have other great ideas or resources, feel free to share them in the comments below. And remember, we are rooting for you!
With much #yisraelpassion to you and yours...
The spreading of the Coronavirus has lead many folks to begin seeking out immune boosting herbal plant allies. I have received numerous messages and inquiries about proper herbal preparation, which herbs are more effective, and even easy to grow herbs for their immune boosting qualities. This is so great.
There are many herbal allies a person can look to when boosting the overall immune system for their families. However, it’s important to note that we should not rely solely on plant allies when considering the overall health of our bodies. Basics such as proper hand washing, getting adequate rest and drinking water are some of the most important and basic immune boosting activities. Managing stress is another big one to consider. I have spoken to folks who are extremely panicked and stressed during this time while others are approaching the situation with a calm demeanor. The stress hormone can flood your system and suppress your immune system which can make you more susceptible to illness and infection. Take time to analyze where you are on the spectrum and adjust where necessary before you begin to introduce herbs into your daily routine. I want you to think of plant medicine as a supporter not the fixer.
In response to the inquiries I’ve received, I’ve put together a short list of seven herbs that can assist you. Keep in mind, you must know your own body and do your own research on whether these herbal allies will be right for you. If you are new to some of these plants or new to herbalism in general, I recommend you gradually incorporate a new herb in your life.
A few years ago, I studied the benefits of wild weeds as detoxing cleansers for the body during springtime. I went into my back yard and picked several different wild weeds such as cleavers, plantain, nettle and several others. I made this wonderful overnight infusion and a few hours after drinking it, I experienced the worst stomachache ever. I could not pinpoint which herb affected me because I had use so many. So, I share this story with you in hopes that you will not make a similar mistake and instead will build a relationship with these amazing plants.
With that said, here you go...
Astragulus root comes from a perennial plant in the pea family. Local herbalist Candis Cantin introduced me to astragulus root about two years when I took a yearlong herbal intensive course that focused primarily on Traditional Chinese Medicine.
I consider my relationship with this herb to be still fairly new. Astragulus has many health benefits to include anti-aging, fatigue, and used to help treat heart disease and diabetes. The Chinese have used this root for centuries to boost the body’s immune system due to its high content of antioxidants that inhibit the growth of free radicals in the body. However, taking too much astragulus can actually suppress the immune system.
Make a decoction of astragulus to release its useful compounds for a medicinal beverage or use as a tincture. Some herbalist will grind it into a powder once the root is dried and pack into capsules that can be taken easily. Though there’s no official consensus on the most effective form or dosage of astragalus, 9–30 grams per day is typical.
If you ever have an opportunity to see an Elder tree – do it. They are quite beautiful. The trees produce clusters of tiny beautiful white flowers (which are also medicinal) and those flowers will produce the popular berries many people are already aware of. Elderberries are first green when grown then eventually turn a dark purple/black color. Green elderberries are toxic and should never be used. I wait until our berries are almost black in color but before they begin to fall to the ground – this usually happens in late spring to early summer. Fresh and dried elderberries have been known to still carry traces of cyanide. It is believed, cooking ripe elderberries further reduces cyanide content.
I sometimes use the fresh berries to make elderberry syrup for my family, but I generally prefer drying them as it can prolong their shelf life. Elderberry syrup is quite popular but you can also use them for teas and tinctures. They give a beautiful purple liquid however they tend to taste very earthy and musty. These berries are a powerful antiviral and have been known to hasten the recovery time of the flu. Use as a tincture, a syrup, a decoction, infused honey or an infused oil. Infused oil of the leaves relieves pain and inflammation from sprains and bruises. Spiritually, elderberries help with letting go and accepting change. It assists when dealing with death and life transformations.
Echinacea is another top immune-boosting plant ally the earth gives us each year. Its benefits for immune enhancing is extremely popular as many people have had great success in using this plant. Not only is the plant a powerhouse in the body, its breathtakingly beautiful and is just gorgeous in the garden. The root, leaf, flower, and seeds of this amazing plant are all medicinal, however it is the root that is primarily used for medicine. It works by increasing T-cell activity in the body which is the body’s first line of defense against foreign harmful toxins, and is rich in polysaccharides, which protect cells against viruses and bacteria. Echinacea is an antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial – what a powerhouse!
Echinacea can be used as a tincture, in teas and even infused for a sore throat spray. As a poultice, echinacea is a classic remedy for eczema, acne and boils. There are several species of Echinacea however, because of the popularity of this herb, some of the species are now considered at-risk and some are endangered. Echinacea augustifolia has been found to be more effective in lab studies however echinacea purpurea is also highly medicinal. Be sure to source from a responsible grower with sustainable practices so we can save this plant for future generations. Some people are allergic to echinacea and will experience allergy symptoms such as runny nose, itchy eyes or a scratchy throat when using it. Spiritually, echinacea gives strong supportive energy for the warrior experiencing emotional transitions.
Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant and is used often in Indian cooking and Ayurvedic medicine. It’s relatively easy to grow in pots and containers with just a few organic roots you can obtain from your local grocery store. Growing in popularity, turmeric is effective for many skin infections such as ringworm and athlete’s foot as well as being effective for inflammation and its antioxidant properties.
Infuse turmeric in honey and take by the teaspoon to ease a sore throat, stimulate the digestive system and reduce inflammation. Make a hot tea of fresh shavings of ginger and turmeric with a dash of cinnamon and honey for a healing tasty beverage. Or make a hot cup of Golden Milk with turmeric root powder, coconut milk (or other plant-based milk), honey (maple syrup if vegan), MCT oil, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Golden Milk
Serves 8
(For 1-2 servings just use 1/3 of amounts below. I make extra to store in
the fridge for my family)
3 cups unsweetened almond or coconut milk
6 teaspoons honey, maple syrup or agave for vegans
1 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cinnamon sticks (or ground cinnamon to taste)
3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
3/8 teaspoon ground ginger
Place all ingredients in saucepan and heat while stirring with a whisk.
Be sure to not scorch the milk. Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days and
reheat as needed.
Enjoy!
We cannot talk about boosting the immune system without including our good reliable friend garlic. Garlic has been used medicinally for centuries. Earliest known references show that garlic was a part of daily life for ancient Egyptians. Garlic contains many compounds that come with so many benefits such has improving cholesterol levels, reducing high blood pressure, hepatitis, whooping cough, lowering the risk of heart disease and has been tested for its effectiveness with Alzheimers and dementia. Garlic is even effective has a household disinfectant.
Garlic has been known to be an immune boosting superstar. The compounds in garlic have been shown to boost the disease-fighting response of some types of white blood cells in the body when they encounter viruses, such as the viruses that cause the common cold or flu. Load up on the garlic! I always triple or quadruple the amount of garlic in any recipe. Make roasted garlic cloves to spread on top of fresh garlic bread. Garlic-infused honey make a great tasty medicine to take by the spoonful or in teas or homemade salad dressing. Garlic-infused oils are easy to make their way in pastas, on bread and can even be used for an ear infection.
The ancient Egyptians believed so strongly in the power of garlic to ward off evil spirits that they would chew it before making a journey at night. In New Mexico, a young girl would use garlic to rid herself of an unwanted boyfriend.
Lemon balm is a delightful perennial herb from the mint family. It is lemon-scented and its leaves have deep veins that are arranged opposite each other, alternating along its square stem. The leaves are attractive bees who are persistent when gathering around its flowers to collect the sweet nectar.
Lemon balm is a digestive aid that calms and uplifts the spirit, calms the overactive thyroid and speeds the healing of herpes lesions and flu symptoms. Combine lemon balm with any herb listed here to for a great tasting immune boosting tea. Use as a tincture for hyperthyrodism and its antispasmodic properties and relief of nausea and gas. This herb is great for lifting the spirit in those suffering from depression and anxiety - great to use for stressful times as we are in now.
Lemon Balm is bound to the Moon and to Water. It is used in rituals associated with healing, health, friendship, love, and success. Historically, it is a symbolic plant used to transmit messages between lovers. What a great herbal ally to have as we distance ourselves from the outside and reconnect with those we dwell with intimately.
Known as a wild weed in some areas, yarrow is potent medicine for many ailments including flus and colds. If you choose to wildcraft this plant, be sure to have an experienced herbalist correctly identify this plant. Poison hemlock can look like yarrow to the untrained eye and with poison hemlock, you will NOT have a chance to try the experience again. Back to yarrow. The entire plant is medicinal, the flowers, leaves, and the root. Yarrow leaves helps to stop bleeding from the smallest cuts to the deepest wounds. It helps to prevent infection. Chew the roots to alleviate tooth and gum pain or infuse the leaves in oil to promote healing of bruises.
At the first indication of a cold or flu, steep yarrow flowers and leaves in hot water for a tea. You may also opt to take a bath with branches of yarrow leaves and flowers to soak in. After your bath, wrap up in a blanket or sleeping bag to promote sweating.
As mentioned, yarrow can be used in a tea, an oil infusion, or a tincture. Just as yarrow can seal the wounds of the physical body, it can also seal wounds in the spirit. When feeling overwhelmed, take a few drops of yarrow tincture in a tea or water and allow it to work to bring balance within.
These seven herbs are just barely scratching the surface to what the earth provides to keep ourselves and our families healthy. If you have personal questions that are specific to your health, please consult a medical practitioner or a clinical herbalist in your area.
Feel free to post below and share your favorite herbal ally to boost your immune system.
]]>I first heard of callaloo while in college from my Jamaican roommate who enjoyed cooking and introduced me to many tasty dishes from the island. Unfortunately, callaloo was not one of them because she said it just wasn't something a person could find here in the US, but she spoke of it often.
Now fast forward about twelve years later during a farm tour on our urban farm. One of the women touring in the group began to shout and excitedly point to a tall plant that volunteers itself around the homestead every year. It took me a minute to realize what she was shouting, 'Callaloo! You have callaloo!' She was pointing at a 7ft tall plant that I only knew as amaranth.
Callaloo the dish and the plant are often used interchangeably with those from the Caribbean Islands. It is generally a plant-based dish that's often prepared with greens, okra, onions, tomatoes and spices - and no two islanders make it the same.
So with an abundance of amaranth greens along with sweet potato greens freshly harvested from our homestead I decided to create my own version of this island favorite. I have already been eating amaranth greens for several years, however sweet potato greens are new to me.
Sweet potato greens are a cross between turnip greens and spinach. They were slightly bitter when I tasted them raw but found they cook down rather quickly like spinach and the bitterness mellows out dramatically. I also read they are nutrient dense with many benefits such as controlling blood sugar levels, is anti-bacterial, and antioxidant. (Source: University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension). Sweet potatoes take a good amount of time before the roots can be harvested (95 to 120 days!) so utilizing the greens makes a good use of space for food production.
Above is a photo of our sweet potato greens patch. If you look closely, you will see a light blanket of ash - the result of the local wildfires that has surrounded us recently. A reminder to take additional care when cleaning and preparing the harvest. I prepared a 10% vinegar solution to soak and wash all the green in prior to cooking.
I can get a little long winded about these amazing greens. Here's the recipe for my Coconut Stewed Callaloo with Sweet Potato Greens!
Ingredients:
Directions:
Skin is the largest organ of the body and how we treat our skin can have a major impact on our overall health. Our skin is incredibly porous and absorbent. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), it is estimated that more than 13 million workers in the United States are potentially exposed to chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin. These potentially toxic chemicals can be drawn through the skin and transferred into the bloodstream, causing concerning long-term damage.
Eight years ago, we made the decision to handcraft our own natural soap and it was a huge deal for our family. We begin to see changes almost immediately, especially with our ongoing battle with eczema with our youngest daughter. We wanted to take what has worked so well for our family and offer it this amazing experience to more people. Each bar is artisan handmade and takes weeks to cure which maintains the integrity of the nutrients, essential oils and vitamins in our soap.
Most conventional, over-the-counter “soaps” are actually compacted detergents stripped of any natural benefits. According to the FDA, to be regulated as “soap,” the “alkali salts of fatty acids” must be the only material that results in the product’s cleaning action. In fact, the next time you're out shopping take a closer look at the majority of conventional soaps you will find on the shelf. Most are labeled 'beauty bar' or 'detergent bar' or something similar - because they aren't technically considered soap!
If the product contains synthetic detergents, it’s a cosmetic, not a soap. Now more than ever, it’s imperative to educate ourselves on the products we use. In the spirit of transparency, here are 6 Reasons to Make the Switch to Natural Handmade Soap.
Okay, so that's actually 7 reasons and we're just getting started.
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