Syrups & Elixirs & Tonics, part 1

Syrups, elixirs, and tonics are my favorite herbal preparations to make and gift. I also keep a few on hand for myself. This is how I define these three concoctions. Syrup – Made with herbs, water, and sugar (or honey) Elixir – Made with herbs, honey (or maple syrup), and alcohol Tonic – Made with herbs, honey, and vinegar. Making a Syrup There are endless … Continue reading Syrups & Elixirs & Tonics, part 1

All About Nettle

Botanical Name Urtica dioica Common Name(s) Nettle, Common Nettle, Stinging Nettle Family Urticaceae (50 species) Native to Europe, Asia, Northern Africa, Western North America Geographical Distribution Everywhere Botanical Description Nettle is a flowering perennial that is both dioceious (separate male and female plants) and monoecious (both male and female flowers on the same plant) (Shannon 2006) (Ohio Perennial and Biennial Weed Guide). It grows nearly … Continue reading All About Nettle