These beautiful golden seeds have supported breastfeeding women for thousands of years. Fenugreek is an ancient plant that is both food and medicine. It is one of the first recorded herbs in early Egypt. Every herb book on my shelf speaks of the many benefits of fenugreek seeds for lactation. So, why are modern women concerned about fenugreek seeds? Are there dangers of fenugreek?  

Read on to learn how this ancient plant is still serving modern women and helping them breastfeed their babies and make tons of thick, rich breastmilk. Find out why women think they need to boost their supply in the first place. Discover the real concerns about fenugreek and determine if fenugreek is the right herb for you?

 

 

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Today we’re talking about herbal tinctures. In this episode of Apothecary Wisdom, I’m answering the questions: What are herbal tinctures? We’ll compare the benefits of alcohol tinctures vs. glycerine tinctures. I’ll share some alternatives to alcohol tinctures and how to remove alcohol from herbal tinctures. How to store tinctures and how to determine the proper dosage of herbal tinctures for adults and children. 

What are Herbal Tinctures

Herbal tinctures are concentrated herbal extracts made by soaking either fresh or dried, bark, berries, leaves, flowers, or roots from one or more plants in a liquid combination of alcohol and water. This liquid solvent is called the menstruum. The alcohol pulls out or extracts the active and therapeutic properties for the plants, the alkaloids, the vitamins, and minerals.  

 

 

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At this time, 25 years ago, I was in a Zen temple meditating with the monks. I had just turned 21 years old. That is when I learned about The Bodhisattva Vow. The Bodhisattva vow is a vow taken by Buddhists to liberate all sentient beings. When I first heard about the vow, I was like, No, thank you! I'm not that much of a team player. I'll walk my own path, but I'm not about to try to liberate all sentient beings! That is way too much pressure.


As we approach the Summer Solstice, today's Apothecary Wisdom is dedicated to sharing insights about what this vow really means and what we as a collective are experiencing and what I'm processing personally. Today, I'll share insights, mindfulness actions, and self-care tips that promote emotional stability and spiritual connection to the greater cycles of nature. Continue reading

I'm here today to bear witness to systemic racism. To bear witness means to acknowledge that something is real. Racism and trauma are very real. Each of us has experienced generational trauma that is held in our bodies, our blood, and our bones.
My voice is tiny and is full of the wrong words to adequately address systemic racism. None the less, I feel compelled to share my voice to support the collective. Continue reading

There are several factors that play into how long it takes for your body to return to it’s full fertile cycle; meaning that you ovulate, your uterine lining is prepared to nurture a fertilized egg, and you menstruate. Although it is unlikely that you would get pregnant if your period has not returned, it is still possible. So, be careful! If you would not welcome a new pregnancy, use birth control that will be compatible with breastfeeding.

Our Cycle Relief herbal tincture can provide relief from painful cramps and heavy bleeding during your period after giving birth.

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How often have you heard women's menstrual cycle is 28 days, and you ovulate on day 14?

This is a myth that is widely accepted as truth. Sadly this misunderstanding is the cause of countless unwanted pregnancies. And, this myth has prevented many couples who desired a pregnancy from attaining one. 

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Wow! Here we are, 2020, in the middle of a global pandemic! Lots of us are experiencing waves of intense emotions and are looking for ways to stay centered in these extraordinary times of uncertainty.  Continue reading

On today’s episode of Apothecary Wisdom, we are making herbal tinctures from the plants we found popping up in the flower beds and growing wild in our yard. I bet you have some of these same medicinal herbs growing in your yard that you can make medicine from, too! Continue reading

When we think of Thyme our mind often wanders to its culinary use, but did you know just how medicinal Thyme truly is?

 

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We know there are different categories and grades of fever, but now let's talk about treating the fever when necessary. Hydrotherapy is a great choice when treating fever and can be easily done at home.  Continue reading