Tools for Natural Living

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus), also known as great or common mullein, is a biennial member of the figwort family that is original to Eurasia, Africa and now naturalized in the Americas. All parts of the plant are used in traditional healing systems, although most people are familiar with using only the leaves and flowers. Historically, mullein is used to address gastrointestinal complaints, skin disorders and respiratory conditions. Mullein is easily recognizable by its tall st

Although peppermint (Mentha x. Piperita) is a popular culinary herb, most people don’t realize that it’s a natural hybrid of water mint (M. aquatica) and spearmint (M. spicata), making it a relatively new member of the mint family of plants. As its common name implies, the herb has a flavor and aroma profile that includes the bright freshness of mint as well as a peppery note. Peppermint has a long history of medical use due to the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic,

Keep this blend on hand to add zesty flavor to spreads, dips, breads, salad dressings, casseroles, pasta and grilled or roasted meats and vegetables. This recipe makes a large batch, but you can adjust the ingredient proportions accordingly to suit your needs. Ingredients 1 cup dried basil 1 cup dried oregano ½ cup dried dill weed ½ cup dried French tarragon ½ cup dried marjoram ½ cup dried minced onion 1/4 cup dried minced garlic 2 teaspoons ground mustard 2 teaspoons sea sa

Communicating with the unspoken language of flowers is known as floriography, an art that has been practiced for thousands of years throughout the globe. The practice reached its peak in Europe during the Victorian era, when messages deemed inappropriate to speak aloud were communicated by wearing or giving talking flower bouquets known as nosegays. There is also a long history of flower symbolism in art and literature. Although many artists and authors utilized the language

Brioche is a sweet yeast bread with a rich taste and a tender crumb. The flavors of orange and coriander in these little gems will brighten your morning! Ingredients 2 cups bread four 2 teaspoons fast-acting dried yeast ½ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon superfine sugar 2 teaspoons ground coriander seeds Zest of one orange 2 tablespoons hot water 2 eggs beaten ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted 1 small egg, beaten (for egg wash) Directions Lightly grease two brioche pans (or a 12-cup mu

This is an old-fashioned beauty treatment with benefits that modern science can back up. Milk contains lactic acid, one of the alpha hydroxy acids that help to reduce the signs of aging. Chamomile contains antioxidant compounds that soothes skin, especially in those prone to rosacea and eczema. Ingredients ¼ cup whole milk ¼ cup heavy cream 2 heaping tablespoons dried chamomile flowers Directions Place all ingredients in the top of a double boiler. Gently heat the milk mixtur

Dill vinegar is exceptionally good to use in salad dressings or to use as a marinade for grilled or roasted meats and vegetables. Tip: A tablespoon or two brightens the flavors of chicken or turkey vegetable soup. How to Make Dill Vinegar Place 2 tablespoons whole dill seed in a mason jar. Add enough white wine or champagne vinegar to fill the jar within 1 inch of the top. Place a square of cheesecloth or wax paper on the top of the jar before securing the lid (this prevents

This colorful blend features our favorite summer flowers and looks as beautiful as it smells. Display the mixture in decorative bowls or baskets, or use to fill dream pillows and linen and closet sachets. Ingredients 1 cup dried chamomile flowers 1 cup dried lavender flowers 1 cup dried rose petals ½ cup dried calendula flowers ¼ cup dried lemon verbena ¼ cup dried hops flowers 2 ounces powdered orrisroot ½ ounce shredded angelica root 25 drops palmarosa essential oil 15 drop

This simple but flavorful sauce is a traditional dressing for steak au poivre, or peppercorn steak. However, the sauce is also nice with chicken or salmon. For added color, use a rainbow combination of white, red, green and black peppercorns. Ingredients 2 tablespoons butter 1/4 cup finely chopped shallots 1/4 cup cognac or other brandy 1 cup beef broth or stock 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon freshly cracked peppercorns 1/4 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley Direc

Sweet citrusy tangerine and spicy basil come together in this rich cream based on sweet almond and coconut oil. It’s so simple to make and oh-so-soothing on the skin. Ingredients 1 ½ tablespoons sweet almond oil 1 ½ tablespoons coconut oil 1 tablespoon grated beeswax (or use pastilles) 2 tablespoons vegetable glycerin 15 drops tangerine essential oil 8 drops basil essential oil Directions Combine the sweet almond oil and coconut oil in the top of a double boiler. Slowly heat