With its bright, tart flavor, sumac is a fun foraged ingredient to work with in the late summer. North American varieties of sumac can be used similarly to their cousin, R. coriaria, a spice commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Its complex, sour flavor adds a unique twist to a variety of dishes. I also like to add sumac to baked goods. Find my Apple Sumac Muffins recipe here. The ripe…
Late summer is a time of abundance, with gardens overflowing and the fields and forests offering plenty of wild foods to forage. Since ancient times, people have celebrated this season with harvest festivals, giving thanks for the food that would sustain their families through the long cold winter months. Celebrating Lammas Observed on August 1st, Lammas marks the beginning of the grain harvest. The name Lammas comes from the Old English hlāfmæsse, meaning “loaf mass.” Also…
National Moth Week is a mothing event that’s hosted by Friends of the East Brunswick Environmental Commission, a 501c3 non-profit organization based in Central New Jersey. It first began in 2012 as a local event, but has since grown into an international citizen science initiative that invites people worldwide to document moth species and share their observations, contributing to both science and conservation. National Moth Week is the perfect time…
1. Blueberry Basil Popsicles Two summer favorites, blueberries and basil, come together in this cooling, sweet treat. Basil adds herbaceous notes that enhance tart, fruity blueberries for an unexpected, but delicious flavor twist that is enjoyed by kids and adults alike. 2. Lemonbalm & Cucumber Agua Fresca This refreshing blend of lemon balm and cucumber is a simple, tasty way to stay hydrated during the summer months. Sip a glass…
We all know that wearing protective clothing and slathering ourselves with sunscreen can help to prevent damage from sun exposure. But, any seasoned parent also knows that sometimes this is easier said than done. When your toddler refuses to wear his sun hat or you forget to reapply the sunscreen after your kids have been swimming for hours, you may find yourself wishing there was another way to help cut…
Summertime can be extra rough on our skin, as more time outdoors means increased exposure to sand, chlorine, salt water, wind, extra sun, environmental toxins, and other factors which can be dehydrating and damaging. This rejuvenating serum blends nourishing oils and skin-loving herbs to hydrate and revitalize skin, helping boost its health and overall appearance. The addition of golden mica lends a hint of shimmer to brighten skin tone and create…
This simple vinaigrette is a lovely way to infuse your summer salads with the flavor and soothing spirit of chamomile. Tangy and floral, it pairs beautifully with fresh greens and seasonal herbs. Garnish with fresh chamomile blossoms for a sweet finishing touch.
Give your skin a little extra love with a botanical body butter. Made with all natural ingredients, it’s a great alternative to store bought skin creams, which often contain toxic additives. Combining herbs with a blend of oil, butter, and wax, this luxurious body butter is deeply hydrating and has numerous benefits for the skin. The addition of a small amount of golden mica adds a delicate shimmer, giving your…
Hawthorn is well-known for its ability to physically strengthen the heart. It has been shown to help regulate blood pressure & cholesterol, promote cardiac function, and reduce palpitations. Hawthorn is also a calming nervine that deeply nourishes the emotional heart. It is a wonderful ally for soothing grief, worry, and heartache. When combined with relaxing, uplifting rose, these two herbs make for a gentle yet potent formula. Whip up a…
While often overlooked as a pesky weed due to their sting, nettles (Urtica dioica) have long been cherished by herbalists for their edible and medicinal qualities. Nettles are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrient-dense greens are the perfect addition to a variety of dishes– and spring is the perfect time to harvest their tender tops…