Healing By Nature

In my mind, I’ve always associated hollyhocks with summer holidays at the beach. Even this year, my beach vacation was punctuated with oooh-ing! and aaaah-ing! over the majestic hollyhock torches that were dotted around the small coastal town we were staying in. They seem to thrive in the sandy soil and the humid weather. It probably also helps that the sea breeze keeps the air around these rust-prone plants flowing freely.  Back home, my own hollyhocks had had a short season in the sun. They were just opening up before we left in June and were already done flowering by mid-July. (Every year, I swear that I won’t go traveling when the garden is in full swing. And every February, in the fog of seasonal affective disorder, I end up booking a summer holiday.) Now the question is, what do I do with my hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) once they’re done blooming?  At this time of year, f...

  In the vast and diverse world of plants, there exists a humble yet incredibly potent herb that often goes unrecognized for its remarkable health benefits. Purslane, commonly mistaken as a mere weed in gardens and sidewalks, is in reality a nutritional powerhouse and a veritable lifesaver for those who know how to harness its potential. Despite its unassuming appearance, this succulent plant is a treasure trove of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, making it one of the most beneficial greens that most people overlook. The irony is palpable – what many try to eliminate from their lawns could actually be the missing key to a healthier life. Beyond its misunderstood reputation lies a source of profound health benefits, waiting to be integrated into our daily diets. This article aims to unveil the myriad of advantages purslane offers and guide you on how to incorporate this “common weed” into your lifestyle, transforming it from an overlooke...

  Over the past decade, the advice on the best time to cut back perennials has been noticeably shifting. Thankfully, our increased awareness of the fact that we need to protect pollinators is leading more and more people towards a nature-friendly style of gardening. And deferring pruning until spring is just one of the ways in which we can turn our gardens into safe havens for beneficial insects.  We talked about the main reasons why you should prune in spring and about the plants that should leave standing over winter in this post. But there are some perennials that can (and often should) be pruned hard in the fall. Cutting back in fall is needed in order to promote plant health and remove the unwanted diseases and pests that may take over these plants in the winter. After all, taking care of the plants you already have and not treating them as disposable is very much in line with the sustainable gardening ethos. What perenni...

Lemons are one of the most versatile fruits for cooking and baking, but did you know you can grow them at home? While most citrus trees need to grow outdoors in warm, humid climates, the Meyer lemon tree will happily grow in a pot in your home. We’ve been growing our own lemons indoors for years and are happy to share our best tips so you can do the same. Why Grow Meyer Lemon Trees? If you’ve never tasted a fresh Meyer lemon, you truly don’t know what you’re missing! Meyer lemons are sweeter than average lemons and make the most amazing lemonade you’ve ever tasted. The reason you don’t see them for sale in grocery stores very often is that their soft skin makes it harder to ship them without damage. But you don’t have to buy Meyer lemons when you can grow them. When grown in a pot this tree maxes out around 4 feet tall, which makes it easy to grow in your home. Growing a Me...

  Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, enjoyed by millions of people every day. While many of us love coffee for its rich flavor and energizing effects, there are several compelling health benefits that might surprise you. Let’s explore the real reasons you should consider making coffee a part of your daily routine. Boosts Your Physical Performance One of the most immediate benefits of drinking coffee is its ability to enhance physical performance. The caffeine in coffee increases adrenaline levels, which can improve physical exertion by as much as 12%. This makes coffee a great pre-workout drink, helping you push through your exercise routine with more energy and endurance. Supports Brain Health Coffee is packed with antioxidants and beneficial nutrients that support brain health. Studies have shown that regular coffee consumption can reduce the risk of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The ca...

  There’s something truly special about the wisdom passed down from our grandmothers. They knew the secrets to a healthier life, like the simple yet powerful trick of throwing nuts into boiling water. This old-fashioned practice may sound unusual, but it can actually unlock numerous health benefits and enhance the nutritional value of nuts. Let’s dive into this age-old wisdom and discover how it can improve your diet. Why Boil Nuts? Nuts are already renowned for their nutritional value, packed with healthy fats, proteins, and essential vitamins. However, boiling them can bring out even more of their benefits: Easier Digestion: Nuts contain a compound called phytic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of important minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. By boiling the nuts, you can reduce the phytic acid content, making them easier to digest and allowing your body to absorb more nutrients. Enhanced Flavor and Texture: Boi...

  When you indulge in a juicy melon, don’t discard those seeds! Instead, let’s explore the amazing benefits of incorporating melon seed tea into your daily routine. Not only is it simple and natural, but it offers a range of advantages that your body will thank you for. Hydration and Detoxification: A Refreshing Boost Melon seed tea is incredibly hydrating, effectively flushing toxins from your body. By promoting better kidney function and overall detoxification, it supports your body’s natural cleansing process. Packed with Nutrients for Your Well-Being Did you know that melon seeds are a fantastic source of vital nutrients? They contain vitamins A, B6, C, and E, as well as minerals like magnesium, potassium, and zinc. By incorporating melon seed tea into your diet, you can nourish your body and promote overall health and well-being. Good for Digestive Health: Keep Things Running Smoothly Ditch the discomfort of constipation by includ...