Lavender Lemonade Recipe

Article courtesy of BCHA President & Professional RHT member Katolen Yardley – MNIMH, RH (AHG) ~ Medical Herbalist

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://aeblog.alchemyelixir.com/2014/04/21/lavender-lemonade/

LAVENDER LEMONADE

A refreshing summer drink – serve with garnished of fresh lavender.

Ingredients:

• 5 cups of water
• 1/2 cup sugar (or experiment with adding xylitol or + /- 10 grams of dried stevia leaves for a natural sweet taste)
• 6 lemons ​- juiced
• half a lime​ – juiced
• 6 long sprigs of fresh lavender​ or 1/4 cup of dried lavender flowers

Boil water in a pot on the stove – reduce heat to a low temperature. Add the sugar/ stevia and simmer for 5 minutes. (Taste to adjust flavor as needed). Stirring often to prevent burning and to ensure all sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, lime juice, and lavender flowers. Place the lemonade in the fridge to cool down all the way. Serve with lemon wedges and ice cubes. Enjoy!

Makes about 1 quart or 1 liter

About Katolen

Katolen Yardley, MNIMH, RH (AHG) -Medical Herbalist
Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Katolen is a Medical Herbalist and a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, currently in private practice in Vancouver and Port Moody, BC and offers online consultations throughout North America. She has been employed in the Holistic Health field since 1993, with clinical experience since 1995. Her personal interest in health lies with the emotional connection to wellness and dis-ease. She specializes in women’s health issues, skin dis-ease, digestive and nervous system disorders and believes in providing usable tools for healing through inspiration and education.

Katolen has been involved in curriculum development for numerous educational programs. She is adjunct faculty at Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, has taught at Pacific Rim College and is an instructor and clinic supervisor of a Dominion Herbal College approved student training clinic. Katolen offers hands on medicine making classes, herb walks and public talks at Van Dusen Botanical Gardens and UBC Sustainable Farm. Katolen is the president of the Canadian Council of Herbalist Associations (CCHA) and a third term president of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of BC (CHA of BC). She is the author of the book – The Good Living Guide to Natural and Herbal Remedies (release date July, 2016).

From 1998 until 2015, she appeared monthly on Global Television Morning News, offering herbal information to the public. Katolen has been a guest on the Discovery Channel’s Healthy Home Show, has been published in numerous magazines and health journals including: the British Journal of Phytotherapy, Shared Vision Magazine, Elated News, Choices Markets Newsletters and Living + Magazine, she is a guest speaker at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, has presented at international conferences including Phytotherapy Canada, the BC Pharmacy Association, the Canadian Herbalists Association of BC, Ontario Herbalists Association, Health Action Network, Kootenay Herb Conference, Green Gathering, Vancouver Island Herb Gathering, Powell River Women’s Health Network, Washington State’s Northwest Herbal Fair, Northern California Women’s Herbal Symposium, North West Herb Symposium, Nanaimo Horticultural Society, the BC Post Secondary Support Staff Conference and appeared in interviews on the Dr. Don Show, the Simi Sara Show, Access Television, Health Stuff You Need to Know Podcast, CKVN News, CBC National News, The Weather Network, CBC Talk Radio, CKNW’s World Today and CFML Radio.

www.katolenyardley.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Holly Fourchalk – Ph.D., HNM, MH, HT, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://www.choicesunlimited.ca/keep-those-bugs-off-effectively-without-toxins/

 

There are several healthy ways to keep bugs at bay, during the summer, here is one way

It used to be called 4 Thieves Vinegar – easy to make at home

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp dried food – grade lavender
• 2 tbsp dried mint
• 2 tbsp dried sage
• 2 tbsp dried thyme
• 4-8 fresh garlic cloves minced

Directions:

• Combine in a glass jar
• Add 32 oz of apple cider vinegar
• Cover tightly – but not with a metal lid (if you have a metal lid- cover opening with plastic wrap first so the vinegar doesn’t react with the metal)
• Leave in dark, cool place for 6 – 8 weeks
• Shake gently and strain into another bottle
• Pour 1/4 C  into a 1 C bottle with sprayer
• Fill with 3/4 C water

Spray onto clothes and/or body when needed.

Do your research, have fun and enjoy the summer.

 

About the Author:

Dr Holly, has a genetic disorder and therefore a passion about health. With a PhD in Research, Design & Analysis;  in Psychology: Endocrinology; MA in Herbal Medicine; Dr of Natural Medicine; PhD Nutrition; Advanced Ayurveda Practitioner; Homeopathy, Reflexology; Energy Practitioner; Hypnotherapy & more, she has written 25 books and teaches around the world.

http://www.choicesunlimited.ca/

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Dr. Cobi, PhD, DNM, CHT, RNCP, ROHP, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: https://store.drcobi.com/blogs/news/what-can-be-done

 

What can be done…

Stress is an unavoidable fact of life. Fortunately we have physiologic systems in place to help us cope in our response to stress. When our bodies are under stress, our adrenal glands produce hormones in order for us to respond to the stress. The adrenals or stress glands produce the hormones cortisol and DHEA which create the short and long term hormone responses. The adrenals also produce adrenalin which stimulates the instant stress hormone response otherwise known as “fight or flight”. Chronic exposure to stress can result in what is known as the General Adaptation Syndrome, which has three major stages.

Alarm Stage

In the Alarm stage, bursts of the hormones cortisol and adrenaline are released in response to a stressor, resulting in the traditional “fight, flight or freeze” responses.

Resistance Stage

In the resistance stage, the body uses high cortisol levels to free up stored energy that helps the body physically resist the stressor. It is now known that a prolonged resistance stage may increase the risk of developing stress related diseases. If cortisol levels remain elevated, symptoms may include feeling tired but wired, having difficulty sleeping, weight gain around the waist, high blood pressure, hair loss, muscle mass loss and anxiety. Excess cortisol also interferes with the action of other hormones like progesterone, testosterone and thyroid which further creates more imbalances and increasing symptoms.

Exhaustion Stage 

At this stage, the adrenals are either depleted from producing too much cortisol or are reacting to the detrimental effects of high cortisol. This reduces the cortisol production significantly. Symptoms of low cortisol include fatigue (especially morning fatigue), increased susceptibility to infections, decreased recovery from exercise, allergies, low blood sugar, a burned out feeling, depression and low sex drive.

How can you tell if you have Adrenal Fatigue?*

You may be suffering from Adrenal Fatigue if you regularly experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Depression and/or anxiety
• Increased abdominal fat
• Tired for no reason
• Trouble getting up in the morning even when you go to bed at a reasonable hour
• Feeling rundown or overwhelmed
• Lowered immune system
• Increased startle response
• Food cravings
• Blood sugar imbalances

Adrenal function can be measured through a saliva test called the Adrenal Stress Index or ASI and can be done by a natural medicine practitioner. The ASI measures the levels of the adrenal hormones throughout the day in order to get a true account of the fluctuations that should occur. Levels of DHEA and cortisol vary according to the level of stress and for how long that stress has been occurring.

Increasing cortisol production is the normal response to stress and is highly desirable as long as the stress is removed and the adrenal glands can recover. Ongoing, unremitting stress means the adrenal glands and the whole body is in a constant state of alert, does not get time to recover, and eventually becomes exhausted. Identifying which stage you are in is extremely important in order to have the right treatment plan implemented.

 

With proper treatment most people can fully recover from Adrenal Fatigue. Improving your weakened or exhausted adrenals should include several measures including:

1. Reduce consumption of refined carbohydrates like white bread and high sugar foods. Refined carbohydrates cause insulin to be released. The release of insulin triggers the release of more cortisol, which causes further stress on the adrenal
2. Eliminate caff Caffeine stimulates the release of adrenalin which in turn increases the stress response.
3. Relieve and reduce emotional stress as much as possible. Learn stress management techniques and practice them
4. Get to sleep by 10pm every night and sleep in as often as life permits. At least 8 hours of sleep are needed to properly rest the adrenal glands. It is important to not watch television or review work or other stressful material while in bed as these activities may raise cortisol
5. Visit a natural health practitioner and have a specific supplement and treatment protocol designed for your specific needs. There are many vitamins, minerals and nutrients that will help to dramatically improve the state of the adrenal glands and bring the body back to balance.

 

About the Author:

Dr. Cobi Slater, PhD, DNM, CHT, RNCP, NNCP began her medical training at Dominion Herbal College where she graduated with honors after 4 years of schooling with a degree in Clinical Herbal Therapy.

Dr. Cobi continued on to complete further specialized training to qualify as a DNM (Doctorate of Natural Medicine), awarded by the Examining Board of Natural Medicine Practitioners of Canada and the Board of Natural Medicine Doctors and Practitioners of North America. Dr. Cobi holds a PhD in Natural Health Sciences with a specialty in hormonal dysfunction.

In addition, Dr. Cobi is trained as a Natural Health Practitioner, Natural Health Consultant, Natural Health Educator, a Natural Health Technician, Certified Laser Therapist, and Registered Orthomolecular Health Practitioner/Registered Nutritional Consulting Practitioner.

Dr. Cobi‘s inspiration to pursue a holistic approach to health and wellbeing led her to establish Essential Health Natural Wellness Clinic located in Maple Ridge, BC. Essential Health is dedicated to providing professional, safe and effective complementary healthcare through the use of research and evidence-based natural medicine therapies. Offering assistance for chronic disease, hormone issues, immune health, allergies, skin problems, digestive complaints, nutrition counseling and lifestyle counseling to name a few, Essential Health educates and empowers individuals to achieve an optimal state of health and wellbeing.

Dr. Cobi currently practices in her local clinic and conducts on-line consultations throughout North America. She writes health articles and columns for several newspapers and health magazines and is the International Best-Selling Author of 5 books including: The Ultimate Candida Guide and Cookbook, The Ultimate Hormone Guidebook, The Ultimate Metabolic Plan, The Ultimate Gluten and Dairy Free Cookbook and the Refresh, Revive, Restore 10-Day Detox Book.

Dr. Cobi is a professional RHT member of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of British Columbia, the Natural Medicine Practitioners of Canada, the International Organization of Nutritional Consultants, the Canadian Association of Natural Nutritional Practitioners and the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses. She is also a member of the Board of Natural Medicine Doctors and Practitioners of North America, the Natural Medicine Certification Council as well as the Health Action Network Society.

www.drcobi.com

Article courtesy of Professional RHT member Katolen Yardley – MNIMH, RH (AHG) ~ Medical Herbalist

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://aeblog.alchemyelixir.com/2011/06/30/plantain-plantago-lanceolata-plantago-major/

 

Plantain – the Latin names are Plantago lanceolata and Plantago major

Synonyms: Ribwort plantain, english plantain, rib grass, long plantain, ribwort, broad leaf plantain, lance leaf plantain

Plantain is a visually familiar plant to anyone looking down at their feet while walking on the grass, or by roadways. Growing up to 5-15 cm tall, two species are most common, broad leaf plantain – or plantago major (with round large leaves) and lanced leaf plantain – plantago lanceolata (with long, narrow ribbed/ lanced leaves). Both species can be used interchangably and the leaves are commonly used medicinally.

Traditional uses of Plantain

1. Soothing: Due to the high mucilage properties in this plant, the actions of the mucilage properties in this plant are active both internally and externally. A notable wound healer, plantain is soothing for pain and inflammation. Plantain can be combined with other herbs for bronchial ailments and offers soothing protection for dry inflamed mucosa, for a thick mucous and harsh cough or asthma. Also soothing for the digestive tract.

2. A nutritive tonic herb: The leaves are an excellent source of chlorophyll and packed full of minerals including vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, calcium, magnesium and silica.

3. Antiseptic: ideal made into a poultice for addressing wound healing, cuts and abrasions on the skin, also used in combination with other herbs for lung infections or urinary tract infections.

4. Urinary Tract Tonic: soothing for the mucous membranes lining the urinary tract, helps to reduce colic and spasm or bleeding. Gently soothing and weakly antiseptic for the urinary system.

5. Refrigerant: a cooling effect both locally and for inflammation and a fever. Can be combined with diaphoretic herbs for lowering a high body temperature and encouraging sweating.

6. Anti catarrhal: a unique remedy that can help to depress the secretion of mucous from the membranes of the respiratory tract. A possible herb used for hayfever and seasonal allergies.

7. Astringent: The presence of tanning in this plant make it ideal for toning the mucous membrane issues of the mouth and throat, skin and digestion. Added into a soothing eyewash, or also of benefit for diarrhea. Traditionally used for both internal and external wounds to stop bleeding from an open wound or cut. Internally using plantain as a tea would go far in supporting conditions of a bleeding ulcer. Ideal for bleeding gums and gum inflammations.

8. Traditional External Applications: Plantain is a widely used and soothing agent for all types of skin healing, from cuts and wounds, scrapes and abrasions, plantain can be applied as a poultice, a cream, salve or fomentation. Also ideal for assisting the body remove venom from insect bites and as a poultice, effective for pulling out congestion. A soothing remedy for all mucous membranes in the body, for hoarse dry coughs and also for bronchial congestion. An ideal healing agent for wounds and ulcers, inflammation and bleeding conditions. A soothing urinary system herb for inflammation of the mucous membranes.

Dosage: Infuse one teaspoon of herb for 15 minutes in boiling hot water, strain and enjoy 3 cups daily as a general adult dose.

About Katolen

Katolen Yardley, MNIMH, RH (AHG) -Medical Herbalist
Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Katolen is a Medical Herbalist and a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, currently in private practice in Vancouver and Port Moody, BC and offers online consultations throughout North America. She has been employed in the Holistic Health field since 1993, with clinical experience since 1995. Her personal interest in health lies with the emotional connection to wellness and dis-ease. She specializes in women’s health issues, skin dis-ease, digestive and nervous system disorders and believes in providing usable tools for healing through inspiration and education.

Katolen has been involved in curriculum development for numerous educational programs. She is adjunct faculty at Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine, has taught at Pacific Rim College and is an instructor and clinic supervisor of a Dominion Herbal College approved student training clinic. Katolen offers hands on medicine making classes, herb walks and public talks at Van Dusen Botanical Gardens and UBC Sustainable Farm. Katolen is the president of the Canadian Council of Herbalist Associations (CCHA) and a third term president of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of BC (CHA of BC). She is the author of the book – The Good Living Guide to Natural and Herbal Remedies (release date July, 2016).

From 1998 until 2015, she appeared monthly on Global Television Morning News, offering herbal information to the public. Katolen has been a guest on the Discovery Channel’s Healthy Home Show, has been published in numerous magazines and health journals including: the British Journal of Phytotherapy, Shared Vision Magazine, Elated News, Choices Markets Newsletters and Living + Magazine, she is a guest speaker at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, has presented at international conferences including Phytotherapy Canada, the BC Pharmacy Association, the Canadian Herbalists Association of BC, Ontario Herbalists Association, Health Action Network, Kootenay Herb Conference, Green Gathering, Vancouver Island Herb Gathering, Powell River Women’s Health Network, Washington State’s Northwest Herbal Fair, Northern California Women’s Herbal Symposium, North West Herb Symposium, Nanaimo Horticultural Society, the BC Post Secondary Support Staff Conference and appeared in interviews on the Dr. Don Show, the Simi Sara Show, Access Television, Health Stuff You Need to Know Podcast, CKVN News, CBC National News, The Weather Network, CBC Talk Radio, CKNW’s World Today and CFML Radio.

www.katolenyardley.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Emily Boese, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: https://www.befiercehealth.com/single-post/backyard-pharmacy-elderflower-champagne

 

Yah, you heard me.

We making champagne! Poppin’ bottles.

This is one of my absolute favourite recipes, and I started making it before I knew (or cared???) about all the fabulous medicinal qualities of Elderflowers.

This recipe is care of my dear friend Emma’s late mum, who had the best green thumb of anyone that I’ve ever met.  Emma is decidedly, the best person to know come the apocalypse, largely due to the skills that she has learned from her beautiful mama. Aside from being able to make Elderflower champagne, Emma can grow pretty much anything and can also spin yarn from wool! But I digress.

Come late spring to early summer, Elder trees can be seen blooming all over the world.  In the Okanagan, where I currently reside, we are blooming like crazy in mid-late June.  In New Zealand, where I first learned to make this delightful drink, October to early December is when you are harvesting.

The bonus of the Southern Hemisphere timing is that you can have Elderflower Champagne just in time for Christmas!  There is nothing like popping a bottle of this on a hot Christmas morning.

Brewing this has all the elements of making me feel like an alchemist, or Claire from Outlander. Now all I need is a strapping young ginger man and I’m set!

There is the finding and the picking of the flowers. Mixing it all together. Relying on wild yeast (hello microbiome! This is, after all, a natural health business). And then? The bubbles.

This recipe is simple and fun.  And if you muck it up you can just try again next week, as the season of blossoms is pretty long. Let’s get into it!

1. Find a tree.

In the Kelowna area, this is pretty easy.  We have a few different varieties around, including the standard Sambucus nigra (Black elderberry, the most commonly used medicinal variety) and Sambucus cerulea, which is a more drought-tolerant species that is native to the area.

I have seen Elders in many parks and at the sides of roads.  In the city and in the suburbs.  There are heaps out by the Kelowna airport!

Make sure you have permission if you are picking from private property or reservation land.  If you are picking from a public area, it is good to find out if they are using sprays around. Ideally you want spray-free Elderflowers.  You don’t want any chemicals piggy-backing on your medicine!

2. Make sure that tree is Elderflower

The flowers are tiny and white and grow in little bunches like umbrellas.  The leaves come out right across from each other, with one final leaf sticking out the end.  They will grow in odd numbers (because of the end leaf), usually 5 or 7. The edges of the leaves are slightly serrated, like a bread knife.

The leaves are important because there are a few trees that have similar looking flowers.

PROPERLY IDENTIFYING a plant is the MOST IMPORTANT part of any plant-medicine-making venture.  (See all the capitals I used there?  This is my “I mean business” paragraph).

If you are not 153% sure that you have the right plant, just don’t do it.  At best, your champagne will suck.  At worst, you will poison yourself and your friends when you serve it at a BBQ.

I have misidentified this plant myself, most embarrassingly at a workshop I was running on Backyard Medicine!  But I was new to the area, and lots of plants look similar.  Luckily, there was a local, experienced gardener about who very gently corrected me (thanks Gwen!).

So don’t pull an Emily, get your plants straight!

3. Pick flowers

For this recipe, which makes about 4L of sparkly deliciousness, you will need about 10 heads of Elderflowers.

You don’t want to strip any tree of all its flowers, you want to leave some to become berries in the fall (see post from last year about Elderberry Syrup!) and you want to leave some for other people, the bees, and the birds.

Wildcrafting (harvesting from the wild) is super fun and rewarding, but needs to be done responsibly.  (Serious Emily paragraph #2)

4. Make Champagne!

I am now going to abandon this numbered list and just give you the recipe.

Note that this isn’t something that you make in one day.  From picking to drinking this is more like a minimum 2 week situation.  Just a heads up.

Elderflower Champagne:

10 heads elderflowers

3 lemons, juice and rind (ideally organic)

450g sugar (sorry but white works best)

4.5 L water

1tbsp cream of tartar or white vinegar

1 large soup pot

2 x plastic 2L bottles, clean!

• Shake the bugs out of your elderflowers. There will be many. Do this outside.  Or don’t worry too much.  I have drank many, many bugs in my elderflower over the years 

• In a large soup pot, add 1L of boiling water

• Add sugar to the pot and stir until dissolved

• Add the other 3.5L of cold water

• Add your cream of tartar or vinegar

• Add the elderflowers

• Chop the lemons and squeeze the juice into your pot.  Add in the rinds too for extra flavour and all the bioflavonoids!

• Cover the pot with a lid or a clean tea towel and let sit out for 24-48 hours.  It doesn’t need to be a tight lid, just something to keep the bugs out

• After 24-48 hours, strain out the liquid and bottle into 2L bottles

• Screw the lids on tight and let them sit where you can keep an eye on them for 1-6 (or more!) weeks.  The longer you leave it, the more the yeast will eat up the sugar, and the dryer and more alcoholic of a drink you will have.  In saying that, I’ve left some for 8 weeks and never get more than a very mild buzz out of it.

• If leaving for more than a week, it is a good idea to open the bottles a smidge to let the pressure out occasionally.

• Enjoy!

Depending on the wild yeasts in your area, this drink only ever becomes very mildly alcoholic.  I have definitely served it to kids after a couple weeks of fermenting.  I think of it more like a (non-alcoholic) ginger beer.

In saying that, I bet it would make a fabulous wine spritzer!

 

About the Author:

 Hey, I’m Emily!

​I love playing outside, growing and eating good food, and drinking a bit of nice wine or a good, hoppy IPA.  With a local cheeseboard, of course. Holistic Nutrition and Herbal Medicine are my specialties.  I am a qualified natural healthcare practitionerwith a Bachelor of Natural Medicine, and I offer one-on-one health assessments, individualised treatments and meal plans to help you get your health back on track.

I have just returned to Canada after spending nearly 12 years living in New Zealand, and have settled in beautiful Kelowna, BC. While I was in NZ I studied natural medicine at the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine.

​I am a Professional Member of the BCHA. My approach to health is all about balance.

www.befiercehealth.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Chanchal Cabrera – Msc., FNIMH, RH (AHG), RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: http://www.chanchalcabrera.com/interview-with-chanchal-talking-on-horticulture-therapy-gardens-without-borders-and-herbal-medicine/

 

What are the goals of Gardens without Borders?

Gardens without Borders is a federally registered not-for-profit that was founded 10 years ago to deliver horticultural therapy programs. Over the years, we have assisted numerous seniors, adults with developmental delays, children with Asperger’s and autism and many other folks who have enjoyed the gardens and the farm environment. More recently, GwB has expanded to take on the running of the botanic garden at Innisfree Farm. We are a seven-acre site specializing in food and medicinal plants. We teach people how to grow, harvest and prepare their own remedies, and how to cook and appreciate farm-fresh foods. We want to empower people in food and medicine security by teaching them practical skills.

How do the gardens at Innisfree Farm offer a therapeutic environment?

For some participants it is simply the opportunity to be outdoors in a tranquil place with no traffic or other human sounds, just the wind in the trees and the birds singing. Walking the labyrinth, smelling the roses, sitting by the pond—all of these offer the chance to slow down, unwind a bit and let go of stress and tension. Others need a structured program with planned activities such as picking and pressing flowers, planting a container garden to take home, making nature art and so on. Still others are able to work in the garden beds alongside our interns and volunteers, share our community lunch, and benefit from the physical activities, camaraderie and sense of contributing to the community at the farm. We customize the garden offerings to suit each individual.

What’s the relationship between horticultural therapy and herbal medicine?

HT is herbal medicine come to life! They are like two sides of the same coin. When I was in graduate school doing my masters of science in herbal medicine at the University of Wales, I did my thesis on quality of life parameters for long term breast cancer survivors who had used herbal medicine. It required advanced statistical analysis and lots of abstract reasoning, and although I was documenting some profound healing from the herbs, I also realized that the tinctures, capsules and pills used had done nothing to deepen their relationship with nature or the ultimate source of their healing. Perhaps I could say that the herbal medicine I was studying and practicing felt unconnected to the actual plants. That’s when I had a sort of epiphany—one of those bolts from the blue that are often a good idea and always disruptive, an intuition that more or less told me to re-focus my work from product to plant, from clinic to garden. I immediately enrolled in the HT program with Christine Pollard at Providence Farm and have been working on the amalgamation and integration of the two practices ever since. So the relationship for me, in my practice, is completely fluid; they are useful, effective and valuable.

One of the unspoken and unofficial but nonetheless critical roles of the herbalist is to strengthen people’s relationship with nature, to assist them in connecting to the greater whole and to understand their own roles and responsibilities in the natural order. By deepening a patient’s appreciation of and concern for nature the patient receives healing on a very deep and profound level, far beyond chemical constituents or carefully constructed formulas.

How can horticultural therapists use herbal medicine for the benefit of their clients?

Aromatherapy can be introduced in subtle ways such as a sprig of herb to wear in a lapel or breast pocket: lavender for someone who is agitated, rosemary for someone who is forgetful, rose or geranium for someone who is sad, mint for someone who is lethargic. Every patient in my practice gets a herbal tea to drink to help reinforce the connection to the actual plants, not just extracts and potions, but the actual flowers, roots, barks and leaves, and it deepens their appreciation of nature. Although I prescribe therapeutic blends, it’s easy for anyone who is not a trained herbalist to use herbs safely and effectively in these ways.

Another simple HT program might involve growing plants and herbs such as lemon balm, peppermint, bee balm, linden, anise hyssop, rose petals and so on, that are easy to grow, taste great and that pose no risk when consumed as a pleasurable tea or tisane.
Taking HT participants on herb walks might also be an option. Depending on the training of the horticulture therapist, whether they have studied anything about herbs or plants as well, it might be as simple as trying to find five yellow flowers or searching for wild berries or mushrooms—to look at, not to eat!—or identifying medicinal plants in gardens, woods and parks.

Another great HT activity is to make natural skin care products or natural household cleaning products. Using healthy ingredients and essential oils—a little goes a long way—people can make something healthy and useful.

What is most satisfying about what you do?

On a professional level, obviously it is when patients get better, when they don’t need me anymore. But on a personal level, my happiest times are when I’m working in the gardens. Obviously, I am benefiting from the horticultural therapy going on here too.

Any final thoughts?

As much as HT is a natural corollary to herbal medicine, so the reverse is also true. If horticultural therapists want a profession, a career, a vocation, of healing with plants then they might want to consider training to become a professional clinical herbalist. The two disciplines are inextricably interwoven and mutually complementary.

 

 

About the Author:

Chanchal lives with her husband Thierry Vrain in Courtenay on Vancouver Island in BC where they cultivate vegetables and herbs on 7 acres and are building a healing garden retreat center. Visit Innisfreefarm.ca to read more about this.

Chanchal has been a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists since 1987 and obtained her MSc in herbal medicine at the University of Wales in 2003. She has an extensive background in orthomolecular nutrition and allergy therapy as well as clinical aromatherapy.

Chanchal has held the faculty chair in Botanical Medicine at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in New Westminster since 2004 and she serves on the board of advisors of Dominion Herbal College in Burnaby. She publishes widely in professional journals and lectures internationally on medical herbalism, nutrition and health.

www.chanchalcabrera.com

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Emily Boese, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: https://www.befiercehealth.com/single-post/2018/03/12/Everyday-Plant-Medicine-2—The-top-5-benefits-of-using-plant-medicine

 

When is it appropriate to use plant medicine?

We should all be harnessing the power of plants everyday!  And many of us do in the foods we eat.

The line between plant medicine and nutrition can be very blurry… think about ginger, turmeric, garlic, oregano… these are all common food ingredients and yet they have also been used medicinally for thousands of years.

Anyone who has ever drank a cup of tea or coffee has experienced plant medicine in a hot water extraction and has felt the phytochemical caffeine coursing through their veins!

I point this out to show you that plant medicine isn’t something weird or foreign… it is an integral part of our world as humans!

One of the main things people ask me is about the safety of using plants.  And as a general rule – plants which have been used for hundreds or thousands of years have an excellent safety profile.

**HOWEVER – if you have a serious medical condition or are on medication then it is your responsibility to speak to a practitioner before self-prescribing herbs. **

The use of pharmaceutical meds is relatively new compared to herbs – and you need to work with someone who is well trained in how these different medicines can interact.

In many cases, plants can still be safely and effectively used alongside pharmaceutical medication – but you want to check it out first to ensure that you are using plants which won’t negatively change the way the meds are working in your body.

Now let’s get into it.

The benefits of using plant medicine

Humans have co-evolved with plants and are designed to utilize the nutrients and chemicals within them.  Here are some of my fave benefits of using plants as medicine.

1. Plants work with the body – They tend to  “nudge” it in the right direction so that the body can better self-regulate

(Big shout out to Simon Mills for introducing me to the concept of the *nudge*… he’s like as big of a celebrity as you can be in the world of herbal medicine!)|

2. Nutritive –  Plants contain nutrients that the body can use as well as those secondary metabolites which act medicinally.  So you are actually feeding your body something useful at the same time.

3. Gentle – Rather than forcing or blocking a reaction in the body it is more of that “nudge” action again.

Often this means that there is no rebounding of an issue once the herb has stopped – the body can continue to do the work on its own.

This is a direct contrast to many pharmaceutical drugs – rebound insomnia, rebound reflux, and issues with weaning and dependency are common examples of issues found with many pharmaceuticals

4. Powerful – It can feel like a paradox that plants can be both gentle AND powerful but many plants pack a punch and their effects can be profound and fast.

Anyone who wants to test this theory – have a cup of Senna tea tonight before bed and call me in the morning 

5. Balanced – Due to complexity of whole plants they tend to have less side effects than their synthetic counterparts.

A great example of this is dandelion leaf.

Dandelion leaf works as a mild diuretic, aka it helps the body flush out excess fluid through the kidneys and urinary tract. Most pharmaceutical diuretics cause people to excrete potassium.  We need potassium for lots of important functions and so that needs to be monitored and often supplemented.

Dandelion leaf naturally contains high amounts of potassium so it balances out.  Amazing and sophisticated.

 

About the Author:

 Hey, I’m Emily!

​I love playing outside, growing and eating good food, and drinking a bit of nice wine or a good, hoppy IPA.  With a local cheeseboard, of course. Holistic Nutrition and Herbal Medicine are my specialties.  I am a qualified natural healthcare practitioner with a Bachelor of Natural Medicine, and I offer one-on-one health assessments, individualised treatments and meal plans to help you get your health back on track.

I have just returned to Canada after spending nearly 12 years living in New Zealand, and have settled in beautiful Kelowna, BC. While I was in NZ I studied natural medicine at the South Pacific College of Natural Medicine.

​I am a Professional Member of the BCHA.  My approach to health is all about balance.

www.befiercehealth.com

Article courtesy of the BCHA Student Subcommittee for the 2019 Herbal Medicine Awareness Week.

 

Most people today are familiar with Hops in the context of beer, but did you know Hops also has a long history of use as a traditional medicine?  

 

Hops became popularized in Canada in the 1890s when Henry Hulbert moved to Sardis, BC and joined a community of people growing the bitter flower people were becoming to know and love for its diverse medicinal benefits and flavour profile in brewing. (Chilliwack Museum, 2008). Clemons Horst moved to BC in 1902 and joined the cultivation of Hops. This farm grew to eventually be the largest producer in the area and what we know today as BC Hop Company. (Chilliwack Museum, 2008)

Both Agassiz and Sardis, in the Fraser Valley, grew to be areas producing the most hops within the British Commonwealth by the 1940s. However, as breweries industrialized in the 1990s, the hops industry collapsed. (Botn, 2014)

With the growth of craft brewing and people reconnecting with traditional practices, hops has resurged and once again become a beloved taste we know well and connect with. Now as the industry grows this creates space for society to also once again connect with the many properties this plant encompasses to support health and well-being. (Botn, 2014)

Medicinal Actions and Uses of Hops

• Relaxing and sedating for the mind and body
• Soothing and stimulating to the digestive system
• Mild estrogenic effect
• Pain relieving
• Anti-microbial (PRC Monograph)

In the same plant family as Cannabis, preparations of Hops have a sedative, relaxing, anti-spasmodic action and a warming, bitter action on the digestion – actions familiar to those who like Bitter Beer!

Hops are excellent for calming the nervous system and very useful for insomnia. The hop flower is also beneficial for anxiety and nervousness, especially when this causes digestive upset. The effect on digestion is attributed to the bitter taste – the bitter flavour stimulates the production and secretion of digestive enzymes and acids.

The relaxing effect of hops can extend to the airways and may be beneficial for tight, spasmodic conditions like asthma (PRC Monograph).

Since hops have estrogenic properties, they may be especially beneficial in insomnia and anxiety associated with menopause. Some research suggests that Hops flavonoids may also help reduce hot flushes (PRC Monograph).

Botany of Hops

The hops perennial vine is native to Europe and Asia, but also thrives in North America. This climbing vine is a member of the Cannabaceae family and is rich in essential oils and resinous bitters. The female flowers, called strobiles, are used in both medicine and beer making. (PRC monograph)

The annual stems twist in a clockwise direction, growing up to 6m in length and giving rise to 3-5-lobed sharply-toothed leaves with a very rough surface. The smaller leaves are single lobed. The flowers are dioecious: the small male flowers occur in loose panicles in the upper leaf axils, the female flowers (strobiles) in closely-stacked, cone-like catkins made up of bracts with tiny flowers tucked into the axils. The cones grow threefold after fertilisation, up to 5 cm in length, and change colour from pale greenish-yellow to yellow-brown. (PRC monograph)

Key constituents in hops are volatile oils, resinous bitter principles (The oil and bitter resins together are known as lupulin), condensed tannins, phenolic acids, and flavonoid glycosides (PRC monograph).

Historical & Traditional Uses

One of the first recorded uses of Hops comes from the 12th century, when they were used as a preservative by German monks in the beer brewing trade (PRC monograph).  

Historically hops was used to increase the melancholic humor. This humor was based on the earth element, the element of deep thinkers and creative minds. In a time when medicine was used to purge medical conditions, hops was considered to purge the sanguine and choleric humours, which consisted of air and fire elements. These elements were very outwardly expressive and reactive. By purging these qualities one would be moved towards a more reflective and calm state. (Ody, 1993)

Dosage and Safety

Due to the estrogenic effects hops should be used with caution during pregnancy, lactation, and with estrogen dominant conditions. This caution also extends to andropausal men (PRC Monograph). Hops has depressant effect in higher nerve centers of brain which suggests caution with depression. (Ody, 1993)

It’s generally considered safe to consume 1.5 to 3 g of dried hops per day, and 10 to 30 mL per week of a 1:3 tincture (PRC Monograph).  

 

Hop Infused Recipes

SUNSHINE TEA WITH HOPS by Student Subcommittee Member Cheyenne Jackson
Enjoy this invigorating and relaxing iced tea to cool you while inspiring your inner sunshine.

5g Hop flowers (Humulus lupulus)
10g Fresh Orange zest or dried peels (Citrus sinensis)
5g Fresh or dried mint (Mentha piperita or Mentha spicata)                                                                        

10g Lemonbalm (Melissa officinalis)                     

* Fresh lemon juice

* Honey

*Add desired amount to your preferred sweetness/taste

Infuse in hot water for 15 minutes with lid to savour the many therapeutic and delicious qualities of the volatile oils (essential oils).                                                                                                                       

Strain. Add honey and fresh lemon juice. Place in fridge to cool.

This refreshing beverage can be enjoyed any time of day and will bring a whole other level to relaxing in the sunshine!

 

HERBAL TEA RECIPES by Student Subcommittee Member Elizabeth Rodriguez:

Restful Tea:
This recipe makes a calming and restful tea, suitable for before bedtime.
10 g Hop flowers
10 g Passionflower
10 g Oat straw
20 g Lemon balm  
Mix dried herbs together and steep 2 teaspoons in a covered cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes.  Covering your teacup helps to retain the volatile oils!

Digestive Tea:
Try this tea after a heavy dinner or to calm an acidic feeling stomach.
10 g Hop flowers
15 g Peppermint leaves
25 g Chamomile flowers  
Mix dried herbs together and steep 2 teaspoons in a covered cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes.  Covering your teacup helps to retain the volatile oils!

 

References

Botn, M. (2014). History of hop growing in BC. Retrieved from  http://www.orchardandvine.net/articles/the-resurgence-of-hops-farming/

Chilliwack Museum and Archives. (2008). Henry hulbert of hulbert hop gardens. Retrieved from  http://www.chilliwackmuseum.ca/hops/BG_Growers.html

Ody, P. (1993). The complete medicinal herbalism. Great Britain: Dorling Kindersley Limited.

PRC Monograph. (n.d). Humulus lupulus (Hops). Pacific Rim College.

Practitioner Interview Series by the CHA of BC Student Subcommittee member, Liza Couse.

Meet Holly Fourchalk, Ph.D., DNM, MH, HT, RHT

 

Holly Fourchalk is a director of the CHA of BC and a Dr. of Natural Medicine (DNM ®) with PhDs in Psychology and in Nutrition, an MA in Herbal Medicine, and training in Ayurveda, reflexology, and homeopathy. She also sees energy and therefore trained in all the energy medicines from Reiki to Theta.

She is committed to life-long learning and helping others with her vast knowledge of holistic medicine. She is located in Pitt Meadows, BC where she has her home office, fruit orchard, and vegetable gardens. She travels throughout the lower mainland for speaking engagements and to work with clients. Holly has a rare genetic disorder that has been a catalyst for her curiosity and passion for health. She grew up with seizures and various other issues that she has been able to control through the use of food, herbs, movement, and meditation.

Holly has had a fascinating journey of learning and discovery. Her pursuit of higher education began when she entered university to study astrophysics and finished her degree as a psychologist. She then worked as a clinical counsellor for 20 years. Holly began incorporating natural medicine into her practice, merging conventional and holistic medicine. She then switched over to focusing solely on natural medicine and incorporated various areas of specialization into her work. With a PhD in Nutrition, she identified the biochemistry of cellular healing, and with her PhD in Psychology (Psychoneuroendocrinology), she initiated the movement to bring different fields of study together.

Holly’s interests and her work is largely focused on cellular health and genetics. Rather than simply treating specific organ systems or pathologies, Holly seeks to eliminate the root cause of illness by shifting the body back into its natural healing processes. She is quoted saying, “Don’t Manage your symptoms, eliminate the cause.” This is done through a combination of advanced medical technology, traditional herbal medicines, and whole-foods diet.

Most commonly in her practice she uses herbal medicine and nutrition. She explains, “Food is to maintain your health, herbs are for dealing with any areas you’ve gone sideways.” She encourages her patients to grow their own food and has set an excellent example by doing so herself. When asked her favourite herb, Holly provided a list of favourites, as seen below. However, if she had to choose one it would be Urtica dioica (stinging nettle). She explained this is because it cleans out the blood and lymphatic system, rebuilds the blood, and is very nutrient dense.

Holly’s other go-to herbs:

• Gut: Filipendula and Althaea

• Liver: Burdock and Wormwood

• Kidneys: Uva ursi

• Cardio: Hawthorne

• Adrenals: Eleutherococcus and Rhodiola

• Respiratory: Lungwort and Eucalyptus

• Ayurveda: For bones, joints, arthritis – Mahanarayana oil and clove bud oil

• General healing: Ashwagandha and Yarrow

 

Holly is an incredible resource of information, she has written over 30 books and contributes articles for many medical and alternative journals. For deep learning into herbal medicine beyond her work, two books she recommends are:

• The Desktop Guide to Herbal Medicine by Bridgette Mars

• The Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Andrew Chevallier

She also suggests any book by David Hoffman.

 

When asked about important lessons she would like to pass on to future practitioners, she emphasized the importance of truly listening. She explained that by deeply listening to tone and attitude and through observing facial and body language, underlying issues of a client can be identified. Further, she wants to encourage new practitioners to keep on learning and expanding their offerings of modalities. She stated, “Every time you add in another modality or another capacity you deepen the understanding of the prior modalities you’ve worked with.” For self-care, Holly is committed to her home grown whole-food diet, daily movement, and meditation.

She uses 8 different forms of meditation eclectically and runs a meditation group each week. Holly is always expanding her practice. She is currently working with a new program that uses scalar technology to capture the vibrational frequencies of plants/compounds in a holographic patch that is applied topically to provide dramatic healing effects. Her unique, eclectic practice combines traditions and knowledge from the past and current technological innovation.

Holly currently offers 2 hour health assessments that involve an ASYRA assessment (which can assess over 60,000 variables in the body), urine analysis, nitric oxide analysis, and a deep past medical history. She does house calls, international consulting, and even offers E-Courses. So, wherever you are, Holly can help!

If you would like to learn more about Holly’s practice you can visit her website here.

 

About the Author: 

Liza Couse is a holistic nutritionist and herbalist. She has practiced in Canada and Mexico as an independent consultant, and has worked with a wellness based start-up and a herbal dispensary. She holds a deep interest in sustainable food systems and has studied regenerative agriculture abroad. She currently contributes to an organic herb farm on Vancouver Island, BC.

Since 2017, Liza has been committed to furthering her education in holistic health by pursuing a Diploma of Phytotherapy at Pacific Rim College. She is excited to be augmenting her nutritional and agricultural background with the study of Western Herbal Medicine.

Article courtesy of BCHA Professional RHT member Dr. Cobi, PhD, DNM, CHT, RNCP, ROHP, RHT

To view entire article with additional information, please visit: https://store.drcobi.com/blogs/news/rainbow-collard-wraps

 

From the Refresh Revive Restore 10-Day Detox Book by Dr Cobi Slater…. coming soon!

Ingredients

• ¼ cup Hummus
• 4 large collard green leaves
• 2 cups chicken breast thinly sliced or ground turkey
• ½ cup red pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ cup shredded red cabbage
• ½ cup grated beets
• ½ cup grated carrots
• ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Lay collard greens flat on a cutting board and remove the stems, keeping the leaves connected at the top.
2. Spread 1-2 Tbsp. of hummus on each leaf.
3. Top with chicken or turkey. Layer the vegetables on top.
4. Wrap each collard leaf like a burrito, folding the bottom up first and then the sides. Continue to roll until all the contents are tucked inside.

 

About the Author:

Dr. Cobi Slater, PhD, DNM, CHT, RNCP, NNCP began her medical training at Dominion Herbal College where she graduated with honors after 4 years of schooling with a degree in Clinical Herbal Therapy.

Dr. Cobi continued on to complete further specialized training to qualify as a DNM (Doctorate of Natural Medicine), awarded by the Examining Board of Natural Medicine Practitioners of Canada and the Board of Natural Medicine Doctors and Practitioners of North America. Dr. Cobi holds a PhD in Natural Health Sciences with a specialty in hormonal dysfunction.

In addition, Dr. Cobi is trained as a Natural Health Practitioner, Natural Health Consultant, Natural Health Educator, a Natural Health Technician, Certified Laser Therapist, and Registered Orthomolecular Health Practitioner/Registered Nutritional Consulting Practitioner.

Dr. Cobi‘s inspiration to pursue a holistic approach to health and wellbeing led her to establish Essential Health Natural Wellness Clinic located in Maple Ridge, BC. Essential Health is dedicated to providing professional, safe and effective complementary healthcare through the use of research and evidence-based natural medicine therapies. Offering assistance for chronic disease, hormone issues, immune health, allergies, skin problems, digestive complaints, nutrition counseling and lifestyle counseling to name a few, Essential Health educates and empowers individuals to achieve an optimal state of health and wellbeing.

Dr. Cobi currently practices in her local clinic and conducts on-line consultations throughout North America. She writes health articles and columns for several newspapers and health magazines and is the International Best-Selling Author of 5 books including: The Ultimate Candida Guide and Cookbook, The Ultimate Hormone Guidebook, The Ultimate Metabolic Plan, The Ultimate Gluten and Dairy Free Cookbook and the Refresh, Revive, Restore 10-Day Detox Book.

Dr. Cobi is a professional RHT member of the Canadian Herbalist’s Association of British Columbia, the Natural Medicine Practitioners of Canada, the International Organization of Nutritional Consultants, the Canadian Association of Natural Nutritional Practitioners and the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses. She is also a member of the Board of Natural Medicine Doctors and Practitioners of North America, the Natural Medicine Certification Council as well as the Health Action Network Society.

www.drcobi.com