Herbes – My Recipes

Grow Flowering Herbs In A Hydroponics System

Here are some tips for growing flowering herbs in a hydroponic system:

Light: Herbs need a lot of light to grow well, so use LED grow lights for 14–16 hours per day. Carnations need at least 12–16 hours of light per day, and the spectrum of light should be suited to flowering plants.
pH: Maintain a pH level of 5.5–6.5 in the hydroponic solution to help herbs absorb nutrients.
Temperature: Most herbs grow best in a temperature of 60–70°F (15–21°C).
Humidity: Keep humidity around 40–70%.
Air circulation: Use fans or ventilation systems to maintain a gentle breeze and prevent fungal diseases.
Nutrients: Monitor nutrient levels and adjust as needed.
Pests and diseases: Regularly inspect herbs for pests and diseases.
Harvesting: Harvest herbs as needed, but avoid taking more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Basil – wait till 4-6 inches tall before placing in tower
Calendula – harvest blooms
Chamomile – harvest blooms
Chives
Cilantro – use only 1 seedling in winter 1-3 summer
Dill – use only 1 seedling
King of the bitters – medicinal
Lavender – slow growing – may need to be cut back if over large
Lemon balm –
Oregano – use only 1-2 seedling
Peas- perennial pride – bush
Rosemary
St Johns Wort grows tall
Stinging nettle – wear gloves – boil it before using
Thyme – use only 1 -2seedling
Water cress –

Growing Yarrow in Tucson

Yarrow can grow in Tucson, Arizona:

Western Yarrow: Achillea millefolium

Moonshine yarrow: Achillea x ‘Moonshine’

Hardiness: Yarrow is fully hardy in Tucson.

Sun tolerance: Yarrow can tolerate full morning sun to all-day light shade, but it does best in full sun.

Soil requirements: Yarrow can adapt to many soil types, but it does best in well-drained soil.

Watering: Yarrow should be watered regularly, but fertilizer can negatively impact its longevity and flowering.

Pruning: Yarrow should be divided every couple of years to maintain its vigor and keep it in bounds.

Staking: Yarrow may require staking.

Allergic reaction: Some people may have an allergic reaction to the foliage or sap of yarrow.

Yarrow is a strong-scented plant that’s common in the northern hemisphere, including Arizona’s high country. It’s not a desert species, but it can be found in high desert situations.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a plant that has many uses, including:

Healing wounds: Yarrow has been used to stop bleeding and promote healing of wounds and cuts. It can be applied directly to wounds or crushed into a paste with water.

Treating fevers and colds: Yarrow tea has been used to treat fevers and colds.

Relieving pain: Yarrow can help with toothaches, muscle spasms, and PMS spastic pain.

Reducing inflammation: Yarrow has been used to treat Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Soothing stomach issues: Yarrow may help with indigestion, heartburn, and stomach cramps.

Gardening: Yarrow can be grown as a cut flower or dried flower, and its cultivars come in a variety of colors.

Yarrow may be unsafe for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have bleeding disorders. It may also cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family, which includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies.

Herb Use & Dosage Guide

Each herb has a broad range of applications…
Dosage Guide Note
1 dropperful = 30 drops = 0.75ml (approx)
(Note: a dropperful doesn’t actually fill the whole dropper, it’s one pump of the bulb!).

Aloe vera is a medicinal plant that grows in hot climates such as California, New Mexico, and the Caribbean. It contains more than 75 active ingredients, including enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, some of which could make it useful for treating diseases.

This plant-based remedy contains chemicals that reduce swelling in the skin, relieve redness and scaling, soothe itchy skin, and promote the growth of new skin cells. These properties make aloe vera useful for treating skin conditions such as: Acne, Cold sores (herpes), Cuts and scrapes, Insect bites and stings, Minor burns and sunburn and Psoriasis. . Aloe juice is also promoted as a natural remedy for diabetes, heartburn, and inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS). When taken by mouth, aloe vera may help lower cholesterol and blood sugar and ease heartburn.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
Alfalfa is rich in minerals and healthy compounds, and contains a high amount of protein. It has been used to treat morning sickness, nausea, kidney issues and urinary tract discomfort. It also acts as a diuretic and a light stimulant.
1-3 ml, 3 times daily

Ashwagandhan Nurtures your nervous system and increases your vitality. Consumption with alcohol, other drugs or natural health products with sedative properties is not recommended. 1-4 ml, 3 times daily

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
This staple spaghetti topper actually has a range of medicinal uses and can help with a lack of appetite, excess gas and cuts.

Burdock Root For detox and pain associated with rheumatism. May cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to plants in the asteraceae family.
1-4 ml, 3 times daily

Calendula Anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating. Do not use if you are allergic to plants of the Asteraceae/Compositae/Daisy family.
1-4 ml, 3 times daily

Chamomile Reduce gastrointestinal complaints and ease restlessness and nervous irritability. Do not use if you are allergic to plants of the Asteraceae/Compositae/Daisy family. Can relieve skin inflammation and irritations.
1-4 ml, 3 times daily

Dandelion Root Stimulates bile flow (helps with constipation) and improves digestion.
2.5 – 5ml, 3 times daily

Echinacea The perennial Echinacea plant is said to be a powerful immune booster and is used to combat symptoms of colds, flu, and infections. Antimicrobial infection fighter. Consult a health care practitioner before use if you are taking
immunosuppressants or if you have a progressive systemic disease such as tuberculosis, leukosis, collagenosis or multiple sclerosis. Do not use if you are allergic to plants of the Asteraceae/Compositae/Daisy family.
1-4 ml, 3 times daily

Elecampane root is used for asthma, bronchitis, intestinal worms, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support its use. It is also used to prevent coughing, especially coughing caused by tuberculosis; and as an expectorant to help loosen phlegm, so it can be coughed up more easily.

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)
The leaves of the feverfew can be used in teas and chewed to relieve headaches. As a natural anti-inflammatory, it is said to help with arthritis and a variety of skin conditions.

Lavender
Simply the smell of lavender has been shown to help people relax. It can be used as an antiseptic and is useful for skin inflammation, insomnia and anxiety.

Lemon Balm Mild sedative and calming agent. Lemon Balm may interfere with the action of thyroid hormones. Caution
advised for those with hypothyroid.
2 – 6 ml, 3 times daily

Licorice Root For respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions. Not suggested for everyday long-term use. Prolonged use in conjunction with thiazide
and loop diuretics and cardiac glycosides is contraindicated and liquorice should not be administered in combination with spironolactone or amiloride. This herb is not recommended
for those taking cardiac glycosides, hypotensive agents, corticoids, diuretic drugs, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Discontinue use at least 2 weeks before surgery.
1-3 ml, 3 times daily

Marigold (Tagetes)
Marigold has a wide range of uses, including treating acne, sunburn, ulcers, digestive problems, insect bites and more.

Marshmallow root is a perennial herb. Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a gummy substance that forms a gel when mixed with water. This gel can be used to: Soothe irritated mucous membranes, Reduce irritation in the throat and stomach, and Soothe chapped skin. Some potential benefits of marshmallow root include: Relieving coughs, Improving dry mouth, Protecting against ulcers, Soothing skin irritation, and Healing wounds. Marshmallow root is generally well tolerated in adults, but some people may experience rare allergic reactions. Anecdotal reports also suggest that taking marshmallow root may cause upset stomach and dizziness.

Marshmallow root can be used in a variety of ways, including: Herbal syrups, Infusion blends, Body care products, Gargling, and Throat soothing.

Milky Oat A sedative tonic to strengthen your nervous system, especially after periods of prolonged stress
1 – 5 ml, 3 times daily

Motherwort A sedative for the relief of nervousness and restlessness. Consult a health care practitioner before use if you have a heart condition or are taking heart medications. Consumption with alcohol or other medications with sedative
properties is not recommended.
1-4 ml, 3 times daily

Mullein Cough remedy and anti-inflammatory
2.5 – 5 ml, 3 times daily

Nettle Leaf Helps relieve seasonal allergy symptoms. Excessive doses may keep you awake at night, nettle seeds are stimulants.
1.5 to 4 ml, 3 times daily

Nettle Seed Restore balance to the adrenals.
2 ml, 3 times daily

Oatstraw Regular consumption of oatstraw tea or supplements can help alleviate symptoms of PMS, improve mood, and enhance overall energy levels. By nourishing the adrenal glands, oatstraw can also help in managing stress and reducing cortisol levels, making it an excellent natural remedy for hormonal imbalances.

Pansy Wild (Viola tricolor)

Another anti-inflammatory herb, the wild tansy can be used to ease eczema and skin blemishes and help loosen phlegm. It was also believed to help the heart, which is
why it is sometimes called heartsease.

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Useful for so much more than plate decoration, parsley can treat bad breath, gas, inflammation, and even has anti-cancer properties.
Peppermint (Mentha × Piperita)
Peppermint should be a go-to for any stomach issues. It has also been shown to help with alertness and headaches.

Red Clover Relief to inflammatory skin conditions. Consult a healthcare practitioner if you currently have or have previously had hormonal sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis or uterine fibroids
2 – 4 ml, 3 times daily

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is one of the best herbs to improve concentration, memory and mood. It is also great for wound healing, hair growth, and bad breath.

St Johns Wort
Relief of restlessness and nervousness. Consult a health care practitioner: if you experience sleep disturbances; if you are taking conventional medicine such as contraceptives, HIV-1 protease inhibitors, nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, immunosuppresants, anticoagulants, digoxin, theophylline, serotonergic antidepressants, migraine therapies, SSRIs and/or anti-epilepsy drugs; Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Discontinue use at least 2 weeks before surgery.
2 – 4 ml, 3 times daily.

Sage (Salvia officinalis)
The name Sage is derived from a word that means “to heal” or “to save”, reflecting its historical use as a medicinal herb. It is useful for a variety of ailments, including mouth and throat inflammations, bloating, heartburn and depression.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
The active phenol in thyme is thymol, known to be a potent antiseptic. It is useful for coughs, sore throat, tooth decay, congestion and indigestion.

Willow Bark Relieves headaches and back pain. Do not use: if you are taking blood thinners or herbs or medications containing acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or other salicylates; if you are allergic to acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) or other salicylates; if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
3 – 6 ml, 3 times daily

Wild Tansy can be used to ease eczema and skin blemishes and help loosen phlegm. It was also believed to help the heart.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has many medicinal uses, including:

Bleeding: Yarrow can stop bleeding from wounds and cuts. The plant’s leaves can be mashed with water and applied to wounds.

Burns and sores: Yarrow can be used as a poultice for burns and open sores.

Fevers and colds: Yarrow tea can help with fevers and colds.

Toothaches: Yarrow can help with toothaches.

Anxiety and insomnia: Yarrow can act as a mild sedative to help with anxiety or insomnia.

Inflammation: Yarrow can help with inflammation.

Multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial found that people with multiple sclerosis who took 250 or 500 mg of yarrow daily for a year had fewer yearly relapses.

Chest congestion and sinus issues: Yarrow tea can help with chest congestion and sinus issues.

Yarrow can interact with some medications, including blood thinners, stomach acid reducers, high blood pressure medications, and sleepiness-inducing drugs. Yarrow is also likely unsafe to take during pregnancy because it can affect the menstrual cycle and may cause miscarriage.

6 Mushroom Proactive immunity defense
2 – 4 ml, 3 times daily

Dosage By Age & Weight

1 | AGE

Children should use a reduced

dosage (see next page) and

some seniors may also find a

smaller amount effective.

3 | WEIGHT

Standard dosages are based on

a 150lb adult. If you weigh more

or less, you might need to

adjust the dosage accordingly

up or down.

5 | GOALS

Someone working through

deeper physical conditions may

use more tincture than

someone seeking subtle effects

on the mind, emotions, or spirit.

2 | SENSITIVITY

Someone who tends to be

sensitive to herbs or medicines

in general will often need less of

an herb to have an effect.

4 | YOUR HEALTH

We always suggest working with

a herbalist or your health

practitioner if you have

underlying health conditions.

6 | CONDITION

Acute conditions like the flu or a

headache often require a more

frequent dosage (i.e. every

hour) but for a short-term

period (i.e. 1-2 days)

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CHILDRENS DOSAGES

There are two formulas that are widely used to calculate

children’s dosages: Clark’s Rule and Young’s Rule.

(We prefer Clark’s Rule, as body weight is more specific)

Clarks’ Rule:

Adult Dose X (Weight ÷ 150) = Childs Dose

Example: 11 year old girl who is 70 Lbs, and the adult dose is 30 drops

30 Drops X (70 ÷ 150) = Child’s Dose

30 Drops X (.47) = Child’s Dose

Child’s dose = 14.1 Drops (Round to 14 Drops),

Young’s Rule

[Age / (Age + 12)] x Recommended Adult Dose = Child’s Dose

Example: 11-year-old girl and you’re working with that same 30 drops, 3

times a day adult dose:

30 drops x (11 ÷ (11+12)) = child’s dose

30 drops x (11 ÷ 23) = child’s dose

30 drops x .48 = child’s dose

Child’s dose = 15 drops, 3 times a day

Astragalus Root

Astragalus has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine in combination with other herbs.
Its root is used for health care purposes.
Commonly combined with other herbs, astragalus has been promoted as a dietary supplement for many conditions, including upper respiratory infections, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome, and chronic kidney disease, among others. It’s also promoted to strengthen and regulate the immune system. Topical use (application to the skin) of astragalus is promoted for improving blood flow and speeding wound healing.
Astragalus may be safe when used orally and appropriately. (Doses up to 60 grams daily for up to 4 months have been used without reported adverse effects.) Some possible side effects with oral use include rash, itching, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort, but these are uncommon.
Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system.
Some astragalus species, usually not found in dietary supplements, can be toxic to livestock. Several species that grow in the United States contain the neurotoxin swainsonine and have caused “locoweed” poisoning in animals. Other species contain potentially toxic levels of selenium. Too much selenium can lead to diarrhea, irritability, nausea, skin rashes, and nervous system problems.
Little is known about whether it’s safe to use astragalus during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Some research in animals suggests that astragalus can be toxic to the mother and fetus.
Insomnia, sleeplessness, and interrupted sleep patterns can be cured by regular consumption of astragalus root. By improving overall health, metabolism, and hormonal balance this root can help in delivering a peaceful sleep.
How long do you need to take astragalus to start experiencing its benefits? Since most of the beneficial compounds in astragalus are fat-soluble and have a cumulative effect, you may need to take this substance for more than a week to experience its unique benefits.
(Doses up to 60 grams daily for up to 4 months have been used without reported adverse effects.) Some possible side effects with oral use include rash, itching, nasal symptoms, or stomach discomfort, but these are uncommon. Astragalus may interact with medications that suppress the immune system.
Astragalus has not been reported to cause clinically apparent liver injury. Because of its possible effects on CYP activity, its potential for herb-drug interactions should be considered before it is used.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow has been used in many cultures for many health conditions, but there is little scientific evidence to support its benefits. Yarrow can also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, medications for high blood pressure, and medications that reduce stomach acid.
Yarrow may be unsafe for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have bleeding disorders. It may also cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family, which includes ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, and daisies.

Does not grow well at all in Tucson Az.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) has many medicinal uses, including:

Healing wounds: Yarrow has been used to stop bleeding and promote healing of wounds and cuts. It can be applied directly to wounds or crushed into a paste with water.

Treating fevers and colds: Yarrow tea has been used to treat fevers and colds.

Relieving pain: Yarrow can help with toothaches, muscle spasms, and PMS spastic pain.

Reducing inflammation: Yarrow has been used to treat Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Soothing stomach issues: Yarrow may help with indigestion, heartburn, and stomach cramps.

Gardening: Yarrow can be grown as a cut flower or dried flower, and its cultivars come in a variety of colors.

Grow Chamomile

Chamomile can be grown in Tucson, Arizona, and is considered a cool-season annual herb:

When to plant

Sow seeds in early spring or fall when temperatures are above 55°F.

Where to plant

Chamomile prefers full sun and well-drained soil. If you have caliche soil, you can grow chamomile in pots with a cactus soil mix.

How to care for

Water regularly after planting and keep weed free. Chamomile plants are hardy and don’t need winter cover.

Types of chamomile

German chamomile can be grown in the winter, but needs to be replanted each year because it dies in the heat. Roman chamomile is best planted in the spring and uses more water than native plants.

German chamomile can be grown very easily in the cooler months of winter, while the Roman chamomile is best planted in spring. Both need six to eight hours of sunlight per day. Like many herbs, they do best in well drained soil. Thus if you have caliche soils, consider growing them in pots with a cactus soil mix