Author: Nathalie

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The I Ching – A Universal Binary Model

The Spectrum I Ching by Nathalie Strassburg

SHORTCUTS: Introduction to the I Ching, A Universal Model, Intuitive Geometry & The I Ching, I Ching Diagram, Spectrum of Consciousness, Your Personalized I Ching Profile & Report, Profile Report Example

Introduction to the I Ching

The I Ching is Chinese and the oldest of all the classical systems, from around 800 BCE. It is a great universal model and one of the oldest books in the world. It is based on simple binary (what our computers are built on) with 64 themes. In its original form it guides through the ways of nature, and provides wisdom for contemplation and insightful answers to questions.

A Universal Model

The hexagrams that form the basis of the I Ching are from the Bagua, in Taoist Cosmology. It is the 8 symbols that represent the basic principles of existence. It is represented by the 8 trigrams, 8 elements of nature: Earth, Wind, Fire, Thunder, Mountain, Water, Lake, and Heaven. Each trigram has three lines, each line either “open” or “solid”, representing yin or yang, 0 or 1 forming binary numbers 000-111 (0 to 7).

Intuitive Geometry & the I Ching

Intuitive Geometry Method Icons

I had some knowledge of the I Ching Hexagrams by the time I got into geometry and created the Intuitive Geometry book. Intuitive Geometry is intended to be a universal model to draw and design based on the same kind of universal structure so that Intuitive Geometry becomes a framework for an infinite number of projects. I believe the Intuitive Geometry system can be a great educational tool because we learn so much easier with colors and patterns.

I Ching Diagram

I Ching Diagram for Intuitive Geometry by Nathalie Strassburg
The 8 Trigrams from the I Ching / Bagua: Earth, Wind, Fire, Thunder, Mountain, Water, Lake, and Heaven with their corresponding binary, Chinese and Intuitive Geometry icons.

Spectrum of Consciousness

The 64 hexagrams is a useful tool for exploring something as complex as the spectrum of human consciousness. Looking at the spectrum of consciousness through 8 primary themes makes it simpler to see a larger perspective while appreciating the subtle essence of each.

The 64 Hexagrams from the I Ching / Bagua. Earth, Wind, Fire, Thunder, Mountain, Water, Lake, and Heaven
The 64 Hexagrams from the I Ching / Bagua. Earth, Wind, Fire, Thunder, Mountain, Water, Lake, and Heaven

Your Personalized I Ching Profile & Report

Your I Ching Personalized Profile & Report is based on your birthday, time and location. It is an introduction for educational and entertainment purposes. Order Here.

Your personalized profile and report contain your design aspects, personality, powers, gifts, uniqueness, passion, life tasks, possibilities, destiny and keys for life fulfillment.

Includes: Your Personalized I Ching +- 7 Page PDF report (1mb). Your I Ching Profile Poster printable JPG file: Prints up to 900×600 mm / 35,4 x 23,6 inches (8mb). Please see the gallery below or product images. Order Here.

Profile Example

I Ching Astrology Human Design Gene Keys Female Profile by Nathalie Strassburg
Female and Male Profiles are available. The Profile Poster Prints up to 900×600 mm / 35,4 x 23,6 inches.
I Ching Astrology Human Design Gene Keys Male Profile by Nathalie Strassburg
Female and Male Profiles are available. The Profile Poster Prints up to 900×600 mm / 35,4 x 23,6 inches.

I recommend further study of the I Ching, Human Design system, Gene Keys, Kabbalah, Chakras, Astrology, Psychological Archetypes, personality spectrum, Numerology, Advaita Vedanta etc.

I ching Products

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The Art of Self-Love

The Art of Self Love by Nathalie Strassburg

SHORTCUTS: Sel- Love First, The Languages of Self-Love, The Spectrum of Self

Self-Love First

Others reflect the love we give to ourselves, prove it to yourself. We can only care for another’s emotional well-being when we know how to care for our own. Honesty and acceptance allow us to open a secret door to our inner self. Intimacy is about seeing, feeling, hearing, understanding and knowing our authentic true self. Authentic Self love is the highest vibration frequency in this world. This means meeting our needs, and giving to ourselves what we would want someone else to give to us. Self sacrifice, and selfishness are the lower vibrations of self love.

The Languages of Self Love

Words of Self-affirmation

Encouragement, appreciation, empathy, honesty, listening to ourselves, focussing on our higher self. Showing ourselves compassion and speaking kindly to ourselves. Soothe ourselves during stressful times with positive statements and affirming truths. Daily use of Personal affirmations – listening, writing, reading, speaking, chanting, and singing. Journaling to understand one self, recognize our gifts, heal, and grow.

Gifts of Self-Love

Cultivating self awareness. Thoughtful gifts and gestures from the heart, and with expressions of gratitude. Gifts that nourish our mind, body, soul and spirit. Recognizing all the gifts we receive by just being alive, recognizing that the source of all we have is life, nothing really belongs to any of us. This sets us free. Being grateful to life is receiving a gift, it fills us. Investing in ourselves. Making our thoughts our best friends. Recognizing our efforts and being open to feedback for growth. Having patience with our own growth. Relaxing and taking time to enjoy just being.

Acts of Self-Service

Action phrases that affirm positive beliefs, supports growth, releases grievances. Doing what is in our best interest and for the highest benefit of all. Meeting our needs in healthy ways. Meeting our emotional needs. Developing talents and interests. Making our physical and emotional well being our priority and our responsibility to the greatest degree possible. Following our authentic joy. Being authentic. Cultivating higher aspirations for our life. Facing our pain, healing the past and opening our hearts. Saying No. Saying no to co-dependency and yes to interdependency. Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries. Living a higher purpose. Friendship. Living with positive intentions and empowering others. Balance in giving and receiving support.

Quality Self-Time

Uninterrupted and focused conversations, writing, journaling, using a diary, recording, prayer, any one-on-one time with ourselves. Stillness is quality time. Meditation. Contemplation and introspection. Self-inquiry. Creative expression. Honoring ourselves, our feelings, and our needs. Doing something special or unusual for ourselves. Reading or watching uplifting content. Time in Nature. Rest, recovery, and sleep.

Being Present in our Body

Non-verbal expressions such as touch, cuddling, stroking, massage, moving meditations, acts of self-care, long baths, warm shower, spa, exercise, hygiene, grooming, pampering, masturbating, tantra, yoga, dancing, qigong etc. Learning to trust our body’s inner wisdom.  Paying attention to ourselves, our feelings, our thoughts, and being mindful.

The Spectrum of the Self

Physical Aspect

This is us as the Liberator, and the highest manifestation is Love. The skills we develop are Intuition (Intuiting) and Willing (Affirming). This is the field of Self-Love and Love of Others.

Instinctive self – Server: to help.

Tribal self – Nurtuer. to nurture.

Emotional Aspect

This is us as the Actor, and the highest manifestation is Grace. The skills we develop are Judging (Contemplation) and Feeling (Compassion). This is the field of Integrated Psychology.

Emotional self – Sage: to train.

Rational self – Scholar: to learn.

Spiritual Aspect

This is us as the Inquirer, and the highest manifestation is Peace. The skills we develop are Prospecting (Investigation) and Sensing (Sensation). This is the field of Ecological Science.

Achiever self – Warrior: to achieve.

Ecological self – Priest/Priestess: to aspire.

Mental Aspect

This is us as the Creator, and the highest manifestation is Joy. The skills we develop are Observation (Observing) and Imagination (Concentration). This is the field of Arts and Culture.

Integrated self – King/Queen: to be a role model.

Holistic self – Higher Self: to create.

Motivational & Inspirational Messages

If I want to feel love I have to be love by Nathalie Strassburg
Love is a Spectrum by Nathalie Strassburg
Self love first by Nathalie Strassburg
Love Revolution by Nathalie Strassburg

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Strawberry Growing Guide

Strawberry Growing Guide

SHORTCUTS: Ideal Environment, How to Plant, How to Water, Companion Planting, How to Propagate, How to Harvest, Parts Used, Preparations, Uses, Key Constituents, Key Actions, Research.

Information

Fragaria × ananassa
FAMILY ROSACEAE
InformationStrawberries come in a wide assortment cultivated varieties and are delicious, juicy, sweet and known for their wonderful aroma. Strawberries are great in the garden because they are easy to grow, like a variety of soils, easy to propagate through runners and they are perennial, so you can keep them year after year, though it is recommended to replace mother plants every few years.

Growing Environment

Ideal Environment 

The best time to plant is in spring or  late summer.  A pH level of 6.0 to 6.5 is the best soil for growing strawberries, but a range of 5.5 to 7.0 is also acceptable.  Plant in full sun or dappled shade, and in somewhat sandy soil.  The addition of manure and a thin layer of straw mulch or other mulch / ground cover. 

How to Plant

How to Plant 

You can start from seed or you can buy your first plants from a nursery and then grow more from the runners yourself.  If planting from seed, put a couple of seeds into each 6mm deep hole, 15cm apart or in separate containers.

Watering

How to Water

Water strawberries immediately after planting. After that water once a week, or not at all if there is at least 30mm of rain.  If you are making new plants from runners keep them moist or in a party covered area so that they don’t dry out.

Companion Plants

Companion Planting 

Good companion plants for Strawberries is Borage, Garlic, Spinach, Lupin Flowers, Lettuce and Thyme.  

Avoid broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collard greens, kale and kohlrabi.

Here are the Companion Plants by group: Herbs, Flowers, Trees, Vegetables, Berries, Fruit and Mushrooms

How to Propagate

How to Propagate 

Runners can be taken from the plant or removed to encourage more energy towards the fruit.  A good way to make new plants is to place the tip of the runner in a small growing container next to the mother plant and then cutting it off as soon as they have set roots in the growing container. 

Harvest

How to Harvest

Strawberries should ideally be harvested at least every other day. The berries are picked with the caps still attached and with at least 1.5cm of stem left.  Strawberries need to remain on the plant to fully ripen because they do not continue to ripen after being picked. 

Medicinal Plants Parts Used

Parts Used

The berries are harvested and used.  Unlike some other berries I have not found any information about the use of the leaves.

Medicinal Preparations

Preparations

Strawberries can be used fresh or frozen (fresh is always better) and can also be used to make a variety of preserves, fruit juice, ice cream, pies, cakes etc.

Plant Uses

Uses

The best way to get the benefits of strawberries is to include the fruit in your diet and eating them fresh whenever possible.

Constituents

Key Constituents

Flavonoids, Vitamin C, Manganese, tannins, acids, smaller amounts of other vitamins and minerals, as well as a variety of chemicals that make up the fragrance and pigment.

Key Actions

Key Actions

Anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antioxidant and decreased cardiovascular disease risk (12).

Research

Research

Studies show that the anticancer effects of berry bioactives are partially mediated through the ability to counteract, reduce, and also repair damage resulting from oxidative stress and inflammation(12).

USEFUL LINKS: About the Growing Guides, The Medicine Garden, Companion Plants, Basic Preparations and Plant Constituents. Disclaimer. References.

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Rooibos Growing Guide

Rooibos Growing Guide

SHORTCUTS: Ideal Environment, How to Plant, How to Water, Companion Planting, How to Propagate, How to Harvest, Parts Used, Preparations, Uses, Key Constituents, Key Actions, Research.

Information

Aspalathus linearis
FAMILY FABACEAE
InformationRooibos (meaning Redbush) is a shrub with needle-like leaves that can grow up to 2 metres in height. The Rooibos plant is endemic to a small part of the Western Cape in South Africa, forming part of the fynbos biome. It grows in a symbiotic relationship with local micro-organisms and according apparently difficult to grow elsewhere.

Growing Environment

Ideal Environment 

The native environment for Rooibos has a unique temperature range which drops to freezing in the winter, and reaches up to 48°C in the summer, similar to a Mediterranean climate.  The plant prefers deep coarse acidic sandy soil and they do not get irrigation in order to stimulate drought conditions.

How to Plant

How to Plant 

Rooibos can be grown from seed and planted in the late summer or spring, commercial growers germinate seeds in greenhouses and plant them out into the fields after four months during autumn. Seeds need to be scarifiedby cutting the seed coat using abrasion or thermal stress to encourage germination.

Watering

How to Water

According to various sources Rooibos is not watered very often to stimulate drought conditions, the best rooibos is said to come from areas with lower rainfall.  Areas where Rooibos is cultivated typically have a winter rainfall between 200 mm and 400 mm per year

Companion Plants

Companion Planting 

Look for plants that prefer similar soil and water conditions.  One commercial grower uses crop rotation with oats to return nutrients to the fields.

Here are the Companion Plants by group: Herbs, Flowers, Trees, Vegetables, Berries, Fruit and Mushrooms

How to Propagate

How to Propagate 

Propagation through seed is most common although root cuttings can be done from semi-woody cuttings in early spring.

Harvest

How to Harvest

Rooibos is harvested once a year during the summer but cutting the young branches,  chopping them finely, watering and airing.  The branches are then left to “sweat” in heaps so it develops the characteristically reddish color and sweet flavor. After sweating the tea is dried in the sun.

Medicinal Plants Parts Used

Parts Used

The leaves and twigs are used.

Medicinal Preparations

Preparations

Rooibos is taken as an infusion, a warm tea with or without milk and honey or sugar.  Rooibos also makes great iced tea.

Plant Uses

Uses

It is a popular health drink because it contains no harmful substances or caffeine. It is also used as a milk substitute for infants who are prone to colic. There is also evidence that the flavonoids contribute to a reduction in heart disease and other ailments. (21)

Constituents

Key Constituents

C-glucoside dihydrochalcones aspalathin and nothofagin amongst others. (21)

Key Actions

Key Actions

Antispasmodic, antioxidant, anti-mutagenic and anti-ageing effects. (21)

Research

Research

Animal studies show that rooibos has potent antioxidant, immune-modulating and chemopreventive effects. A review found no documentation of adverse side effects of consuming rooibos tea. (22)

USEFUL LINKS: About the Growing Guides, The Medicine Garden, Companion Plants, Basic Preparations and Plant Constituents. Disclaimer. References.

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Aloe Ferox Growing Guide

Aloe Ferox Growing Guide

SHORTCUTS: Ideal Environment, How to Plant, How to Water, Companion Planting, How to Propagate, How to Harvest, Parts Used, Preparations, Uses, Key Constituents, Key Actions, Research.

Information

Bitter Aloe, Umhlaba
FAMILY ASPHODELACEAE
Aloe Ferox is a robust plant that can grow to 3 meters high and it is indigenous to South Africa. It is one of several Aloe species used to make a purgative medication, and also yields a gel that can be used in cosmetics. The leaves are tick and fleshy with reddish-brown spines and red or orange flowers. Aloe ferox is listed on the plant list of endangered plants.

Growing Environment

Ideal Environment 

Aloe ferox prefers dry-tropical climates, open areas, sandy-loamy soils and full sun. Give each Aloe plant at least 1 meter spacing.

How to Plant

How to Plant 

You can grow Aloe Ferox from seeds, sow just under the surface in a sandy soil.  Water regularly and make sure the soil drains well.  Transplant into small pots or bags once they are about 4cm high (approximately 6 months).  From seed it takes about 4 to 5 years for the plants to reach the first harvest.

Watering

How to Water

Once the plant is established or from about 20 centimetres in size you can water moderately, once a week.  If you are growing your Aloe in a container take care not to over water.

Companion Plants

Companion Planting 

Aloe Ferox can grow with other plants that prefer full sun, open areas and well draining sandy soil, such as other Aloes or succulent plants.

Here are the Companion Plants by group: Herbs, Flowers, Trees, Vegetables, Berries, Fruit and Mushrooms

How to Propagate

How to Propagate 

Aloe ferox plants are propagated mainly from seed and cuttings.  The side branches or basal sprout are removed and the wound is allowed to dry off for some time before planting.

Harvest

How to Harvest

Harvesting is done in winter by manual leaf cutting. Only the 10 to 15 lower leaves of an adult Aloe Ferox plant are harvested. The leaves are cut as close to the stem as possible and stacked in a round tower so that the yellow exudate drips into a hollow in the centre which is lined with a plastic sheet.

Medicinal Plants Parts Used

Parts Used

Leaves and roots. The bitter yellow juice is found just under the surface of the leaf and is tapped to form a dark brown resin which is a solid lump.  Aloe gel comes from the inner fleshy part of the leaf and is often use in cosmetics.

Medicinal Preparations

Preparations

A small crystal about 5mm in size is taken orally as a laxative. Half the dose is taken for arthiritis. The fresh bitter sap is also instilled directly for conjunctivitis and sinusitis. (21)

Plant Uses

Uses

The leaves and roots can be boiled and used as a laxative, for arthritis, eczema, conjunctivitis, hypertension and stress.

Constituents

Key Constituents

The main purgative principle is the anthrone C-glucoside aloin (=barbaloin). The aloin content in exudate varies between 8,5 and 32%. The gel polysaccharides are binogalactan and rhamnogalacturonan types. Aloe gel is a watery mixture of pectic substances, amino acids, minerals, trace elements and organic acids amongst others. (21)

Key Actions

Key Actions

The wound-healing properties of aloe gel come from glycoproteins and is responsible for the hydrating, insulating and protective effects. The anthraquinone derivatives act as a laxative. (21)

Research

Research

Aloe vera has been the subject of numerous studies with results ranging from skin and wound-healing properties, laxative, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, antimalarial and anthelmintic activities. Aloe Ferox research is something that has started more recently, for example the Aloe Council of South Africa was founded in 2006.

USEFUL LINKS: About the Growing Guides, The Medicine Garden, Companion Plants, Basic Preparations and Plant Constituents. Disclaimer. References.

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Lemon Tree Growing Guide

Lemon Tree Growing Guide

SHORTCUTS: Ideal Environment, How to Plant, How to Water, Companion Planting, How to Propagate, How to Harvest, Parts Used, Preparations, Uses, Key Constituents, Key Actions, Research.

Information

Citrus Limon
FAMILY RUTACEAE
Lemons come from a beautiful evergreen tree. It is native to Asia but grown around the world for its distinctive sour taste (that comes from about 5% of citric acid). Lemons are incredibly versatile and has countless medicinal, culinary and non culinary uses.

Growing Environment

Ideal Environment 

Lemon trees like to grow in well drained soil in a sunny location and appreciate organic fertiliser every year.  If your soil drainage is poor it would be better to plant the tree in a raised bed.  The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.

How to Plant

How to Plant 

While you can grow them from seed it is probably best to buy a tree that has already been grafted onto a good root stock.  Plant the tree in fertile soil (use compost) in a sunny spot and allow enough room for the tree to grow without being crowded, or alternatively as a hedge or in a large pot.  You can plant add organic fertiliser in the spring and mulch year around.

Watering

How to Water

Water the lemon tree at least once a week if there is no rain. While the tree is young keep the soil moist without being saturated.

Companion Plants

Companion Planting 

The best companions for a Lemon (or any citrus tree) are Thyme, dill, hyssop, lemon balm, parsley, marigold, nasturtium, borage, comfrey, clover, and alfalfa.  Lemon trees will grow better with enough nitrogen so plant it with comfrey.

Here are the Companion Plants by group: Herbs, Flowers, Trees, Vegetables, Berries, Fruit and Mushrooms

How to Propagate

How to Propagate 

Growing lemon trees from seed is possible but they wont be true to their parent and it will take 3 to 6 years for it to produce fruit.  Its best to take a cutting from an existing tree, through air layered or purchase a tree from a nursery that has been grafted onto good root stock.  There are several varieties to choose from, even some that will produce flowers and fruit throughout the year.

Harvest

How to Harvest

The fruit is usually harvested in the winter when the vitamin C content is the highest. Cutting them off with pruning shears or simply full them from the stalk. Undamaged fruit can be stored for several weeks.

Medicinal Plants Parts Used

Parts Used

The fruit juice and peel are used, the pith and peel contain volatile oil and most of the flavonoids.

Medicinal Preparations

Preparations

The juice can be combined with hot water (and a pinch of cinnamon and clove of garlic) for colds and a sore throat (gargle). Drink lemon water first thing in the morning for cleansing (Do not brush your teeth immediately the citric acid can damage your enamel).

Plant Uses

Uses

Acne and Boils, arthritis, bites and stings, chilblains, colds and flu, cold sores, sore throats, weak digestion, preventative, immune system booster.

Grated lemon and/or the peel is excellent in food.

Constituents

Key Constituents

Volatile oil 2.5% of the pell, limone (up to 70%), alpha-terpinene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, citral, coumarins, Flavonoids, Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3 and C.

Key Actions

Key Actions

Antiseptic, Anti-rheumatic, Antibacterial, Antioxidant and reduces fever.

USEFUL LINKS: About the Growing Guides, The Medicine Garden, Companion Plants, Basic Preparations and Plant Constituents. Disclaimer. References.

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Elder Tree Growing Guide

Elder Tree Growing Guide

SHORTCUTS: Ideal Environment, How to Plant, How to Water, Companion Planting, How to Propagate, How to Harvest, Parts Used, Preparations, Uses, Key Constituents, Key Actions, Research.

Information

Sambucus nigra
FAMILY ADOXACEAE
InformationElder tree is a deciduous tree that grows up to 10 meters, with oval leaves, cream flowers and dark berries. There is allot of folklore attached to Elder tree, for example in England many people won’t cut down an Elder tree and woodcutters would apparently recite a placatory rhyme to the Elder Mother (1). Elder tree is mostly used for flu, colds, hay fever (1), diarrhea, rheumatism (3) and as food in cordials, marmalade and syrups.

Growing Environment

Ideal Environment 

Elder trees will grow in a variety of conditions including both wet and dry fertile soils, primarily in sunny locations. They can also be planted as a bush in a pot or outside in the garden. They are native to European woods and hedges (1).

How to Plant

How to Plant 

Its easiest to buy a tree or grow your own from a cutting taking during spring.  Plant in fertile soil (use compost) in a sunny or partly sunny spot and allow enough room for the tree to grow without being crowded (a few meters).  You can let the tree grow large or cut down a third every year which is said to increase fruit production.  You can also add organic fertiliser in the spring and mulch year around.

Watering

How to Water

Water the trees at least once a week during warmer and drier periods and every other week during the winter but ensure the ground does not dry out completely.  Elder trees prefer moist areas and should be watered frequently enough if there is no rain.  Mulch helps to keep weeds away and keep the moisture in the ground.

Companion Plants

Companion Planting 

Elder tree is beneficial because it attracts bees and insects when flowering and birds when the berries are ripening.

There are no specific plants but you can have other edible shrubs but remember to consider the shade given by the tree as many edible and medicinal plants prefer a sunny spot.

Here are the Companion Plants by group: Herbs, Flowers, Trees, Vegetables, Berries, Fruit and Mushrooms

How to Propagate

How to Propagate 

You can grow elder tree from seeds, sources recommend planting the seeds in trays and cover with plastic, keep them moist but not soggy, they will apparently germinate the following spring, but it can be sooner depend on how warm it is.  Its easy to create cuttings in late spring or early summer when the new growth appears. Take softwood cuttings from vigorous stems, strip off the leaves from the lower third, use rooting hormone or honey and insert into a prepared pot. New growth should appear four to six weeks later.

Harvest

How to Harvest

Flowers are harvested late spring and the berries are picked in early autumn. Its easiest to cut of entire clusters of flowers or berries.

The branches will start to drop when the berries are ready. You can remove the berries from the branches with a fork.  Unripe berries can be separated in water, they will float.

Medicinal Plants Parts Used

Parts Used

The fresh flowers can be used and also dried. The berries are toxic raw and should be cooked, both the fresh and dried berries can be used.

Medicinal Preparations

Preparations

Infusion of the flowering tops can be used for colds (take half a cup of infusion 3 times a day), a tincture of the flowering tops works for hay fever and rheumatism / arthritis (1 tsp with water taken a few times a day), a cream can be made from the flowering tops and berries, and a decoction of the berries can be used for rheumatic aches (1).

Plant Uses

Uses

Coughs and colds, catarrh and allergies, arthritis, acute infections with fever, headache and nausea, rhinitis, asthma, croup, hay fever, conjunctivitis, rheumatism, pharyngitis, diarrhea, tonsilitis, and stomatitis (1,3).

Constituents

Key Constituents

Flowers & Berries: Flavonoids, triterpenes, volatile oil, sterols, tannins, mucilage, Minerals, vitamin A & C, iron, sambucin, anthocyanocides, pectin, sugar, fixed oils (linoleic, linolenic). Leaves: Cyanogenic glycosides and Bark: Lectins, tannins, baldrianic acid (1, 3).

Key Actions

Key Actions

Flowers: mild diaphoretic, mild laxative, diuretic, alterative, demulcent, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, anticatarrhal, caminative, emetic, anti-inflammatory. Berries: diaphoretic, laxative, diuretic, anti-rheumatic, emunctory stimulant (all excretory organs or ducts), anti-neuralgic, alterative, carminative, emetic (1, 3).

Research

Research

In a placebo-controlled study from Norway, elderberry was shown to be effective for treating Influenza A and B. People using the elderberry extract recovered much faster than those only on a placebo (20).

USEFUL LINKS: About the Growing Guides, The Medicine Garden, Companion Plants, Basic Preparations and Plant Constituents. Disclaimer. References.

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Marigold Growing Guide

Marigold Growing Guide

SHORTCUTS: Ideal Environment, How to Plant, How to Water, Companion Planting, How to Propagate, How to Harvest, Parts Used, Preparations, Uses, Key Constituents, Key Actions, Research.

Information

Calendula officinalis
FAMILY ASTERACEAE
Marigold is an aromatic seasonal flower that grows around 60cm tall. The flowers are vibrant yellow and orange. Marigolds are now grown in most temperate areas around the world and is said to be native to southern Europe (1). There are numerous cultivars with different color and size flowers. There is some record of the flowers being used since ancient times as a medicinal herb and a dye.

Growing Environment

Ideal Environment 

Marigolds are ideal for a sunny (or partially shady) spot and are quite tolerant of average to slightly poor soils but you will get healthier plants and better flowers with rich, well draining soil.  You can add compost and organic fertiliser.

How to Plant

How to Plant 

Marigolds grow easily from seeds and can be planted during the spring and summer.  Plant the seeds 1cm deep and about 20cm apart or thin them out.

Watering

How to Water

Water immediately after sowing the seeds, keep the small plants reasonably moist but not wet.  After that you can water Marigolds one or twice a week during dry periods or if it has rained less than 30mm.

Companion Plants

Companion Planting 

Marigolds are really great to have in the garden (especially a vegetable garden) because the odour repels many unwanted insects and attract bees.  It is said to enhance the growth of basil, cucumbers, eggplants, potatoes, squash and tomatoes.  At least one or two sources say one should avoid planting them close to beans, cabbage and broccoli.

Here are the Companion Plants by group: Herbs, Flowers, Trees, Vegetables, Berries, Fruit and Mushrooms

How to Propagate

How to Propagate 

Marigolds are best planted from seeds.  You can start indoors in trays if you live in a colder area, but Marigolds grow pretty quickly and can be sown directly outside as long as there is no risk of frost. Let some flowers dry on the plant, remove the dried petals and break open to remove the seeds and save them for next season.

Harvest

How to Harvest

Harvest the flowers during the summer on a warm dry day and dry the whole flower heads in the shade on a rack or use immediately.

Medicinal Plants Parts Used

Parts Used

The flowers are used primarily, but I have seen some books that include stems in ointment recipes, but from research it appears that the most important constituents are in the flower heads.  The flowers petals are also edible.

Medicinal Preparations

Preparations

Make an infusion for infections, infused oil (with coconut oil worked great) for inflamed skin and eczema, a tincture for internal use, an ointment or cream for cuts, burns and varicose veins.

Plant Uses

Uses

Marigold preparations are used for athele’s foot, bites and stings, breast tenderness, digestive infections, inflamed skin or rashes, excema, varicose veins and wounds or bruises (1). Use the flower petals in salads or garnish in vegetable, fish and egg dishes. You can also make an insect repellent spray from Marigold by using an infusion.

Constituents

Key Constituents

Flavonoids, triterpenoid saponins, carotenoids, resin, volatile oil (1, 3).

Key Actions

Key Actions

Anti-inflammatory, relieves muscle spasms, astringent, heals wounds, antiseptic, detoxifying, antiviral, antiprotozoal, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, lymphatic, phytoestrogenic (1, 3).

Research

Research

There have been quite a few studies on Marigolds that suggest that Marigold extracts may have anti-viral, anti-genotoxic and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro (13).

USEFUL LINKS: About the Growing Guides, The Medicine Garden, Companion Plants, Basic Preparations and Plant Constituents. Disclaimer. References.

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Echinacea Growing Guide

Echinacea Growing Guide

SHORTCUTS: Ideal Environment, How to Plant, How to Water, Companion Planting, How to Propagate, How to Harvest, Parts Used, Preparations, Uses, Key Constituents, Key Actions, Research.

Information

Echinacea purpurea
FAMILY ASTERACEAE
Echinacea, also known as coneflowers, are herbaceous perennial plants that grow up to 140cm high and grow from a short basal stem with fibrous roots. Echinacea produces beautiful composite flower heads during the summer. Other species used as medicine include E. angustifolia and E. pallida.

Growing Environment

Ideal Environment 

Echinacea will grow best in a sunny spot and even in lightly shaded areas.  Provide average loamy soil with some organic matter, about a neutral pH.

How to Plant

How to Plant 

Plants should be at least 40cm apart.  When growing from seed you will get better germination rates with 4 to 6 weeks of cold stratification. Sow seeds and cover lightly with soil.

Watering

How to Water

Keep the plants moist until they have a few sets of leaves then water once a week when there is no rain.  Echinacea is drought tolerant so do not over water.

Companion Plants

Companion Planting 

Grow Echinacea with other flowers, herbs and vegetables including eggplant, broccoli, brussell sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, chillies, peppers and tomatoes.

Here are the Companion Plants by group: Herbs, Flowers, Trees, Vegetables, Berries, Fruit and Mushrooms

How to Propagate

How to Propagate 

Echinacea can be grown by root division, basal cuttings and clumps can be divided, usually in the autumn or spring.

Harvest

How to Harvest

Flowers are gathered in full bloom and roots of 3 to 4 year old plants are harvested in the late summer or early autumn.

Medicinal Plants Parts Used

Parts Used

Fresh and dried root is used primarily, the flowers are used occasionally.

Medicinal Preparations

Preparations

A tincture of the root (dosage is about 1.5ml in water 3 times a day), Decoction of the root (as a gargle for example) and you can make capsules with powdered root.(1)

Plant Uses

Uses

Stimulates the immune system and improves resistance to infections. (3) Other uses include Acne and boils, allergic rhinitis, bites and stings, chilblains, cold sores, coughs and bronchitis, earache, flu, sore throat, tonsillitis, mind asthma, mouth ulcers, urinary and fungal infections.

Constituents

Key Constituents

Glycosides (caffeic acid derivatives: echinacoside, isochlorogenic acid, chlorogenic acid, cichoric acid), polysaccharides (inulin), glycoproteins, aminds (alkamides), volatile oils, polyacetylenes, flavonoids, alkaloids. (3)

Key Actions

Key Actions

General tonic, immune stimulator, lymphatic, antimicobial (antibacterial & antiviral), anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, diaphoretic, anti-catarrhal, detoxifer, bitter. (3)

Research

Research

Echinacea decreased the odds of developing the common cold by 58% and the duration of a cold by 1·4 days on average. Published evidence supports echinacea’s benefit in decreasing the incidence and duration of the common cold. (24)

USEFUL LINKS: About the Growing Guides, The Medicine Garden, Companion Plants, Basic Preparations and Plant Constituents. Disclaimer. References.

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Dandelion Growing Guide

Dandelion Growing Guide

SHORTCUTS: Ideal Environment, How to Plant, How to Water, Companion Planting, How to Propagate, How to Harvest, Parts Used, Preparations, Uses, Key Constituents, Key Actions, Research.

Information

Taraxacum officinale
FAMILY ASTERACEAE
Dandelion is found worldwide and unfortunately mostly seen as a weed. Every part of the plant is edible and it contains notable amounts of vitamins (more vitamin A than raw carrots!) and minerals including calcium, potassium, iron and manganese. Dandelion is s very old plant, it has many medicinal uses and makes a good companion plant. Related species is T. erythrospermum.

Growing Environment

Ideal Environment 

Dandelion can grow almost anywhere, including pavement cracks, but it thrives in rich moist soil.  It is interesting to see how the plant looks completely different depending on the type of soil and environment it is growing in. Dandelion can grow in full sun or partial shade and in hot summers and cold winters.

How to Plant

How to Plant 

Scatter the seeds on the surface, cover lightly with soil and keep moist.  Dandelion has a habit of coming up where you did not intend it to, it self sows very easily and once you have it in the garden it is likely you will see them coming up everywhere.

Watering

How to Water

Water Dandelion regularly, once a week and up to 4 times a week if it has not been raining.

Companion Plants

Companion Planting 

Dandelion makes a good companion plant because it is said that the taproom brings up nutrients for the shallower rooting plants, and it adds minerals and nitrogen into the soil.  Dandelion also attracts beneficial  insects to the garden.

Here are the Companion Plants by group: Herbs, Flowers, Trees, Vegetables, Berries, Fruit and Mushrooms

How to Propagate

How to Propagate 

Dandelion is a perennial plant and self sows easily so propagation is usually just through seeds, which you can also gather and save for the following season.

Harvest

How to Harvest

You can harvest Dandelion greens and florets throughout the season, all parts can be eaten and roots can be harvested in the autumn of the second year of growth.

Medicinal Plants Parts Used

Parts Used

All parts of the plant is used, roots, young leaves and the florets.

Medicinal Preparations

Preparations

Dandelion leaves are used in salads, sandwiches and teas. The roots are used in some coffee substitutes and the flowers can be used to make wines.  You can also make a root decoction (seen recipes for both hot and cold decoctions), leaf decoction, root and/or leaf tincture.

Plant Uses

Uses

Dandelion is used for disorders of liver and gall bladder, diabetics, skin rashes, eczema, gallstones, metabolic disorders, blood purification, gout and rheumatism, disorders of the spleen, face and eyes and acne.

Constituents

Key Constituents

Sesquiterpene lactones, triterpene steroids, phenolic acids, polysaccharides, carotenoids, protein, sugars, pectin, choline, vitamins, minerals, bitter principle (taraxacin, taraxacerin), inulin.

Key Actions

Key Actions

Leaf: diuretic, choleretic, anti-inflammatory. Root: choleretic, cholagogue, tonic, antirheumatic, bitter, alterative, depurative (3).

Research

Research

In 2012 some researchers in Canada received a grant for studying the cancer fighting properties of Dandelion root tea and it is said to be very effective.

USEFUL LINKS: About the Growing Guides, The Medicine Garden, Companion Plants, Basic Preparations and Plant Constituents. Disclaimer. References.

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