Currently drinking: 'green drink' (parsley water with lime)
Currently listening: Songs for the Nations- Sean Feucht
I can't believe I went so many years without taking advantage of this amazing plant that grows so prolifically on our property. (Yours too, probably.) One can focus so much attention on the schamncy and elitist herbs, overlooking this powerhouse provided so humbly and beautifully as summer gives way to fall. If you have ever struggled with allergies, the very thought of abundant yellow fields on the sides of the road can make your eyes water. Never fear! Goldenrod is a colorful member of the Aster Family and is therefore not an allergen. Conversely, a simple tea made from a handful of blossoms and leaves is an effective treatment for allergies and sinus issues. Besides other wonderful workings in all things digestive, it has lovely antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and lymphatic qualities.
Ergo, I present to you Smithern's recipe for a sore muscle and joint rub beneficial for all the happy harvesters.
Ingredients: 5 oz freshly picked Goldenrod,
0.5 dried Chamomile
1-3oz of Beeswax (depending how thick you want it to be)
several drops of Oregano Oil and Cassia Oil
1.5 cups Olive Oil
Step One: gather goldenrod, rinse, and dry.
Step Two: cut 5oz worth of blossoms.
Step Three: measure 0.5oz of dried chamomile.
Step Four: place goldenrod and chamomile in a saucepan with 1.5 cups of olive oil.
Step Five: simmer on low-med for about an hour, stirring frequently.
Step Six: place cloth over a bowl, and pour out the slightly odd smelling concoction. You are handling hot oil, so you know, don't intentionally get it on any exposed skin.
Step Seven: strain and return oil to saucepan.
Step Eight: add 1-3oz of beeswax. I tend to add a lot since I prefer less goopy salves.
Step Nine: after melting beeswax, remove from heat, and add generous amounts of oregano oil (for joint and muscle flexibility) and cassia oil (for gentle heat and circulation). Pour into glass jars with lids. Place in fridge overnight.
And Voila! You have a wonderful rub for tired and sore muscles that smells like an forest in Autumn.
