Elderberry Syrup Now that we're in Autumn, the days are getting shorter and the colder air is moving in. As much as I love this time of year, I need to think ahead to the cold and flu season and prepare my medicine cabinet for winter. Because of Elder's affinity for the respiratory system, it's our herbal ally for October. Elder - October's Herbal Ally Botanical Information Elder (Sambucus nigra and S. canadensis) is a deciduous, rapidly growing shrub or small tree in the Ado

As summer slowly comes to end and fall begins later this month, it’s time to prepare our winter herbal apothecary. Mullein is the perfect herb for our home apothecary because of its benefits to the respiratory system; therefore, Mullein is our herbal ally for September. Mullein is abundant now and has been all summer; so, forage what you can if you see it growing while walking or hiking. However, don't pick any herb that grows along a busy highway or road (which mullein does

Two ancient Egyptians holding sticks over a steaming pot of garlic The holidays may be behind us, but winter—and cold and flu season—is in full swing. Garlic is a traditional herbal ally that may help support the body’s natural defenses against viruses and bacteria as well as strengthen and support the respiratory system. Discover how garlic can support wellness throughout the winter months, which is why it’s January’s herbal ally. Garlic - January's Herbal Ally Botanical Inf

It's September and I've already made a big batch of Chicken and Vegetable Soup with Roasted Green Chili, because allergies have kicked in, and my nose and chest are congested. This soup is a nourishing meal to help combat the symptoms of a cold, flu, or allergies; and there's nothing like good old-fashioned chicken soup when you're sick. This soup has the added benefit of roasted green chili, which is a staple here in New Mexico. Green chili is hot, pungent and will help thin

It's time to make Fire Cider - an old folk remedy that is made in Autumn for the cold winter months. It can help boost the immune system, clear up sinus congestion, warm you up on a cold day, and aid digestion. Fire cider is an oxymel, which is a traditional preparation of herbs steeped in raw apple cider vinegar and sweetened with honey - so it’s hot and sweet. Because it’s an old folk remedy, there are a lot of variations of the recipe. Most recipes call for garlic, onion a