Florence Herb Enthusiasts

Not your usual stir fry oil!

2012-01-07T00:59:00.000-08:00

We all have resolutions for the New Year even if we don’t share them out loud or write them down for later proof of our failure. It probably comes as no surprise that one of the top five that most people admit to is adopting healthier habits. To learn something new to help achieve your healthy resolutions attend the Florence Herb Enthusiasts meeting on Thursday, January 19th at 10 am at the Unitarian Universalists Fellowship on the northwest corner of Highway 101 and Heceta Beach Road when local resident, Steve Frenzl, will share the remarkable health benefits of green tea oil.

Steve served as marketing director for the company that introduced the oil to the American market in January 2011. He personally discovered one of the many benefits of this extraordinary oil when he used it topically after a 10K walk. Steve shared, “I didn’t properly lace my shoes so by the end of the walk a huge blister had formed on my left foot. The pain had me limping the remainder of the day and that night my foot throbbed so bad that I couldn’t get to sleep.” His wife, Nicole, massaged green tea oil into his foot and to Steve’s astonishment, in literally seconds the pain disappeared--plus when he stepped out of bed the next morning expecting pain again, it was still gone. After one more application of green tea oil the following day, the affected foot had healed completely. (Steve shared that he’s suffered similar blisters before and they usually required a week or more to mend. There are many such stories about the oil’s unusual healing properties.)

Although green tea oil has sprung up as a new alternative to olive oil, for cooking, baking and dressings, it’s anything but new. Indigenous to China, emperors have used it for thousands of years for its nutritional and healthful value. Made from the seeds of the same plant family that produces green tea leaves, green tea oil is rich in antioxidants, as well as essential fatty acids (Omega 6 and 9) and vitamin E. Green Tea Oil has a much higher smoke point than olive oil (488 degrees F versus olive oil’s 320 degrees) making it ideal—and safer—for high-heat cooking. Smoke point is the temperature at which oils start to burn causing chemical breakdown, loss of nutrients, creation of free radicals and cancer-producing carcinogens. Besides its topical use as a pain reliever and healing agent for minor cuts, abrasions, sunburn and insect bites, it is also used for cosmetic purposes to reduce wrinkles and age spots.

To learn more about the culinary and wellness qualities of green tea oil to start your year off right join us!

Rootstalk Festival A Success for Oregon Wolves

2011-10-20T22:47:00.000-07:00

October 19, 2011 – Eugene, OR – Mountain Rose Herbs hosted a three day benefit festival for Cascadia Wildlands in September of this year. All profits made from the first-ever Rootstalk Festival were donated to support wilderness conservation campaigns in the Pacific Northwest managed by the Eugene-based non-profit organization.

Kate Ritley of Cascadia Wildlands called Rootstalk a “revolutionary event that redefined the rules for conferences and festivals.” Rootstalk drew over 40 experts and environmental groups who presented classes on sustainable living, herbal medicine, wilderness skills, urban farming, and homesteading projects to over 700 attendees. The festival also featured live music, a masquerade ball, fireside storytelling, an organic food court, and a vending bazaar with handmade goods for sale.

The event raised money through admission, festival merchandise, and herbal beer sales. Mountain Rose Herbs presented the final donation from Rootstalk to Cascadia Wildlands a week after the festival, just as Oregon issued death warrants for half of the wolves in the Imnaha Pack – one of only three wolf packs in the state. “We are using the donation from Rootstalk for a lawsuit to stop the State of Oregon from killing any more wolves. This generous gift will pay for all of our legal expenses including our attorney's time to help us put critically endangered wolves back on the path to recovery,” said Ritley. The Oregon Court of Appeals has temporarily stopped plans to execute the wolves thanks to this legal action.

Mountain Rose Herbs planned Rootstalk for nearly two years with a fulltime event planning staff. “Rootstalk was even more incredible than we could have imagined,” said Shawn Donnille, Vice President at Mountain Rose Herbs. “It was thrilling to see a new community blossom into its own, especially one focused on wilderness protection and environmental awareness. Wolves are near and dear to our hearts, so knowing that Rootstalk was a rallying force to protect them really validates our efforts and just brings us so much joy.”

The next Rootstalk Festival will be held August 29th - September 2nd 2013. For news and updates about Rootstalk, visit the festival’s page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rootstalk-Festival/193252730697355.

"Putting by"

2011-10-10T16:46:00.000-07:00

“Putting by” is an old-fashioned term for preserving food for eating long after the harvest or butchering. “One of my fondest memories as a child was seeing my grandmother’s pantry shelves lined with neat rows of jars filled with the vibrant colors of fruits and veggies. I was captivated as I viewed the contents. Fifty years later canning my own food evokes memories of Grandma’s pantry and the love that was in each jar” said Jacquie Beveridge, co-founder of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts.

The Thursday, October 20, 2011, meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts will feature Becca Ottensman, proprietor of the Shed Bakery, who will share tips for “putting food by” not only by canning, but freezing, drying and creating your own herbal vinegars and oil to last through the fall and winter. “If canning seems like too big a project there are other much easier methods to enjoy your harvest,” said Becca who has been baking professionally for thirty years as well as teaching baking and cooking classes in the public and private sector.

Becca will share additional valuable tips about baking and using organic products. Be prepared to learn simple techniques you can utilize at home to enjoy the bounty of this season throughout the year. And, learn even more about sustainable food and the potential food crisis that we will all face.

See you Thursday, October 20, 2011, at 10 AM for this meeting! It's at our usual location...Florence Unitarian Universal Fellowship on the N/W corner of Heceta Beach Road and Highway 101.

Rootstalk

2011-08-09T14:31:00.000-07:00

Mountain Rose Herbs is sponsoring a fabulous event September 22-25, 2011, in Salem, Oregon! With 35 teachers there will be learning opportunities for every skill level.

This year’s event is being held in honor of Cascadia Wildlands, a small but fierce organization of planet guardians who educate, agitate, and work to inspire a movement to protect and restore Cascadia's wild ecosystems. This amazing group fights to preserve and rebuild a Pacific Northwest with vast old-growth forests, rivers full of wild salmon, wolves howling in the backcountry, and vibrant communities sustained by the thriving temperate forest zones found from central Alaska to northern California. These unique landscapes of the Cascadian bioregion are crucial to the health of our world and to the abundant natural splendor we hold so dear in our lives.

Your attendance at Rootstalk will directly support Cascadia Wildlands. All of the profits raised by ticket sales, merchandise sales, and donations will be gifted to this much needed non-profit organization on behalf of all of the festival goers and participants who make Rootstalk an exceptionally beautiful and powerful event.

For details visit their website: http://www.rootstalkfest.com/

Functional Feast, Finding Herbs and Natural Dyes

2011-05-27T23:13:00.000-07:00

Functional Feast, Finding Herbs and Natural Dyes

Three amazing herbalists are featured in a day long workshop sponsored by the Florence Herb Enthusiasts that is open to the public on Saturday, June 25, 2011, from 10 am- 4 pm at the Yurt at Honeyman Park. This event is limited to 45 people and there is a fee of $45. Lunch is included and pre-registration is required by June 3, 2011. Call 997-8311 for more information or email florenceherbenthusiasts@gmail.com.

Heather Nic An Fhleisdeir, a Clinical Herbalist and former professional Chef has offered sensible and practical healing counsel for 23 years. She is a Master Herbalist and proprietor of Mrs. Thompson's Herbs and Folklore in Eugene www.celticherbs.com. Heather’s portion of the workshop will address Herbal Healing in the Kitchen, a guided discovery of healing foods and herbs for addressing common health concerns and how to cook with them. Arthritis, attention deficit, gallstones, high cholesterol and blood pressure, diabetes, hair loss, insulin resistance, low thyroid, osteoporosis and weight gain all respond well to eating and not eating specific herbs & foods. Learn in detail about these essential nutrients for vibrant health. Explore ways to combine them for better energy, digestion and great taste. Using an array of delicious ingredients, cooking techniques will be demonstrated for the successful use of herbaceous flavors and European style food. We will cover nutrition, medicinal plant constituents, learn culinary applications, share a delicious luncheon feast and herbal beverages to help us to restore and to heal.

Nome McBride, a popular speaker for the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, is an ethno-botanical herbalist who organically farms over 15 acres and wild harvests hundreds of herbs a year from the National Forests of the Pacific NW. He will lead guided herb walks around the area after lunch. Nome, is the co-founder of Eugene based American Herbal Dispensary Inc. (Pharmacopia Herbals) www.pharmacopiaherbals.com;.

Liisa Korpela, who holds a BFA degree in the Fine Arts of Textiles and Natural Dyeing and a Major in Biology, will lead an experiential portion of the workshop where you will learn about the wealth of resources nature provides from animals, insects, lichens, mushrooms, plants, and minerals that can be used for coloring. You will learn the basics to apply these techniques for your craft projects using materials that can be found in your backyard or kitchen. Each individual will have the opportunity to dye a handkerchief to take home. Liisa is a Master Herbalist and the founder of Bella Botanica, a natural health and beauty care company in Eugene, where she consults and teaches about herbal medicine www.bellabotanica.com

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience three amazing herbalists in one day in Florence!

Spiritual Herbalism

2010-12-28T20:24:00.000-08:00

All herbs have spiritual meanings that have been handed down through the ages. “Our ancestors saw all life as sacred and in all life there possessed an intelligence that was sacred. Listening to nature was considered ‘ the way’ one learned about the magical and medicinal properties of herbs and flowers,” shares Liisa Korpela. Liisa is the founder of Bella Botanica, a natural health and beauty care company in Eugene, where she also consults and teaches about herbal medicine.

At the January 20th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Liisa, will share her passion about plants and herbs and discuss how to build relationships with nature. “ The symbiotic relationship with plants and nature has been lost to us, as we have ’fallen out of the garden’, separated from nature,” explains Liisa. “With this new generation of interested herbalists, we are rebuilding and restoring these ancient relationships. By blending the art and science of herbalism, we can bring forth holistic ways to care for the body, mind and spirit.”

To learn about the spiritual qualities of herbs and how they can enhance our connection to nature, come join the Florence Herb Enthusiasts who meet every third Thursday of the month at 10 AM at the Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at the corner of Heceta Beach Road and Hwy 101. Everyone is welcome.
Also check www.florenceherbenthusiasts.com.

Herbal Holiday Potluck!

2010-12-01T22:14:00.000-08:00

It’s beginning to look a lot like delicious. The Florence Herb Enthusiasts will hold their annual Christmas herbal potluck luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 9th at 11:30 AM, not the usual date and time. Instead of the monthly meeting that features a guest speaker, field trip or a craft, participants will enjoy a scrumptious herbal feast. Everyone is welcome!

Please bring a dish featuring one or more herbs to share. It can be anything from appetizers to dessert. Plates, napkins, cups and utensils will be provided along with teas and coffee. To add more sparkle and fun to the party, singer Tres Eberhard will play the piano and sing Christmas carols. For even more fun two local vendors will have herbal gift items for sale. This year everyone is asked to bring a wrapped Christmas ornament under five dollars to exchange.

Come join the holiday festivities, give your taste buds an herbal zing, and take home a new Christmas ornament.

Oregon grape, Elderberry and Echinacea

2010-09-02T20:47:00.000-07:00

Not many people are aware that the state flower of Oregon blooms on a beautiful shrub called the Oregon grape. Many herbalists rank the Oregon grape as one of the most versatile Native American herbs available today.” Medicine men used the crushed, dried yellow rootstock of the Oregon Grape to cure a wide variety of ailments, including ulcers, heart burn, rheumatism and more,” explained Nome McBride, co-founder of Eugene based American Herbal Dispensary Inc. ( Pharmacopia Herbals). McBride is an ethno-botanical herbalist who organically farms over 15 acres and wild harvests hundreds of herbs a year from the National Forests of the Pacific NW.

McBride will give a power point presentation explaining the healing medicinal properties of three herbs, the Oregon grape, Elderberry and Echinacea at the September 16th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts. “The name Oregon grape is something of a misnomer. The grapes are not grapes at all, though you can eat them, and they can be cooked down into a jam. The purple fruits can have a cooling effect when crushed and put in drinks used by herbalists to break fevers. High in vitamin C, the berries were used to prevent and treat scurvy. The root is often administered as an infusion,” shared McBride.

To learn more about these fascinating and healing herbs, join the Florence Herb Enthusiasts and help celebrate their sixth birthday at 10 AM on September 16, 2010 at the Florence Universal Unitarian Fellowship on the N/W corner of Heceta Beach Road and Hwy 101. Everyone is welcome.

Smarty Plants!

2010-08-06T00:13:00.000-07:00

Join us Thursday, August 19, 2010, to hear local resident Peter Boyer share a delightful and thought provoking look into the language of plants and their relationship to the planet.

"Far from existing inertly, plants appear to be able to perceive and react to what is happening in their environment at a level of sophistication far surpassing that of humans", explains Peter.

At this meeting we will also have our annual raffle! For more information visit our website: www.florenceherbenthusiasts.com or email us at: florenceherbenthusiasts@gmail.com

Companion planting for garden health!

2010-05-05T19:48:00.000-07:00

Companion gardening is the practice of planting several different plants in close proximity to each other with the idea that they help each other in some way. This technique is used mostly in the vegetable garden and can help create a beautiful, edible landscape that feeds the senses as well as the palate. At the May 20th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Barbara Rowland, owner of Honeyman Nursery, will discuss when, where and how to plant a vegetable garden. She will also share tips on which herbs and flowers will do well as their companions to protect them from invading insects and deer.

“Combining herbs and flowers with vegetables not only protects them, but the herbs you love to use in preparing meals are already conveniently placed for harvest,” explained Rowland. “Basil keeps flies and mosquitoes away and garlic wards off aphids as do the marigolds. Try a cool-season border or a large pot of lettuce, bunch onions, tomatoes and marigolds. Your garden should get at least 6 hours of sunlight. And a good fertilizer is simple chicken manure for the vegetables and flowers as well,” she explained.

To learn how to create a garden that is flavorful, high yielding and visually pleasing, come join the Florence Herb Enthusiasts Thursday, May 20, 2010, at 10 am at Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, N/W corner of Highway 101 and Heceta Beach Road.

Natural Egg Decoration for Spring

2010-03-07T20:24:00.000-08:00

At the March 18 meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Kat Cunningham will recreate some of her hand-crafted decorated eggs. For hundreds of years people in other countries have decorated eggs to celebrate this"Rites of Spring" tradition. Before commercial egg coloring kits, herbs and other botanicals were used to create delicate hues. Dried pressed flower petals, waxed herbs, and bits of family memorabilia decorated these time- honored treasures. “Like jewels, they are passed down through families to welcome the advent of spring or a newborn in the family,” explained Kat Cunningham, owner of KatStyle Designs, Florence’s new Art and Craft Center.

“To create beautiful golden colors add the herb cumin to the vinegar bath. Baths of cumin, red onions, paprika, carrots, blueberries, herbs and assorted teas make excellent dyes. Pictures cut out from magazines can be used to embellish your treasure. Supplies will be provided, but you are welcome to bring personal things such as a mini photos, family charms, stamps and pressed herbs and flowers that will make your creation truly unique to pass down thru generations,” shared Kat.

Cost of an egg and supplies is five dollars. Please bring scissors, your imagination and your friends!

Come join the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, who meet the third Thursday of the month at 10 AM at the Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship on the corner of Heceta Beach Road and Hwy 101. Please RSVP so there will be enough supplies. Everyone is welcome.

Whether you are a novice, professional or in between, come explore the wonderful world of herbs. For more information, please call Marlena Armstrong at 902-8393 or visit http://www.florenceherbenthusiasts.com/ for more information and pressing instructions on our website.

Mouth Watering Culinary Delights!

2010-02-05T21:47:00.000-08:00

Novice cooks may fret about which herbs to add to a recipe. “There is only one rule to remember when cooking with herbs and that is THERE ARE NO RULES!” shared Tami Jenkins and Linda Lydik. Both of these talented cooks work in the health department of the Seventh Day Adventist church and have been conducting plant based, whole food cooking classes for the past 20 years. They will share their vegetarian herbal recipes and serve up samples of mouth watering culinary delights at the February 18th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts.

Linda Lydick, who works in the Nutrition Center at Fred Meyers, says, “People ask me every day what they can do to get more fiber in their diet, how to lower cholesterol and make desserts with out the refined sugars and flours. There are many creative ways to make simple, healthy changes. For starters we will make cheese, salad dressing, cream soup and cashew gravy, all non-dairy,” she shared. “We love using
Herbs de Provence, basil, oregano and dill in our recipes as herbs can offer tasty alternatives to help cut back on salt, fat and sugar. Our version of non meat balls with gravy is not to be missed, as well as our ice cream and carob fudge,” explained Tami.

To sample these yummy vegetarian dishes, and learn how to add flavor with herbs, come join the Florence Herb Enthusiasts who meet the third Thursday of the month at 10 AM at the Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship on the corner of Heceta Beach Road and Hwy 101. Don’t miss out on door prizes, great recipes and delicious free samples. Everyone is welcome.

Whether you are a novice, professional, or in between, come explore the wonderful world of herbs. For more information call Jacquie Beveridge at 997-8311 or email: florenceherbenthusiasts@gmail.com

Materia Medica for the New Year

2010-01-04T23:35:00.000-08:00

Join us , Thursday, January 21, 2010 at 10 am, to hear Nome McBride, co-founder of Eugene based American Herbal Dispensary Inc. (Pharmacopia Herbals), who will give a presentation he calls “Plants for the People: A local Materia Medica.” McBride, an Ethno-Botanical Herbalist, has a long tradition in his family of both agriculture and medical practice. Through his herbal products company he bridges those two worlds together. His company organically farms over 15 acres and wild harvests hundreds of herbs a year from the National Forests of the Pacific NW. He lives in Pleasant Hill with his wife and son and enjoys the beauty found in life wherever he goes.

“All are welcome to learn time-tested practical skills for increasing health with plants that are already amongst us. By learning the concepts of basic herbalism, participants will learn not just when to use certain herbs for certain ailments, but the actions, the reasons why the herbs work and how to identify those qualities in a given herb,” explained McBride. He is known in the herbal community for his concise and relevant approach to herbal healthcare. He teaches extensively in the Northwest at herbal fairs, conferences and as a guest teacher at many reputable herbal schools and naturopathic universities.For more information call Marlena: 541-902-8393 or email: Florenceherbenthusiasts@gmail.com. Meetings are held at Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship on the N/W corner of Highway 101 and Heceta Beach Road.

5th Annual Holiday Herbal Potluck & Gift Exchange

2009-12-02T23:10:00.000-08:00

It’s party time! The Florence Herb Enthusiasts will hold their fifth annual Christmas herbal potluck luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 10th at 11:30 AM, not the usual date and time.

Instead of the usual monthly meeting that features a guest speaker, field trip or craft, participants will enjoy a scrumptious herbal feast that will allow everyone to sit down, relax and get to know each another better after another fantastic year of learning about herbs. Creative herbalists are asked to bring a dish featuring one or more herbs to share. It can be anything from appetizers to dessert. Plates, napkins and utensils will be provided along with teas and coffee.

To add more sparkle to the party, singing entertainer, Stan Talley, with his clear, romantic tenor voice, will sing a medley of Christmas favorites for all to enjoy. For even more fun, local herbalists will offer gift items for anyone looking for that special something for Christmas. Everyone is asked to bring a wrapped gift, herb or garden themed, for under five dollars to exchange.

Come join the holiday festivities, give your taste buds an adventure and take home an unusual gift.

For hundreds of years people have used herb mixtures to affect their dreams...

2009-10-04T15:14:00.000-07:00

For hundreds of years people have used herb mixtures to affect their dreams. In the same way that certain fragrances, like the aroma of baked bread or fresh roses summon pleasant memories, herbs can also facilitate pleasant dreams. “Relaxing herbs, primarily catnip, lavender and mugwort, were combined in little pillows that were used to help crying babies get to sleep. Herbs, like sage, induce sleep and mugwort soothes bad dreams, while roses relieve headaches. You can make a pillow for yourself or others and help everyone sleep like a baby.

At the Oct.15th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, participants will select patterns cut from soft fleece material and their own special blend of herbs to make a dream pillow. “Along with the herbs, we will be using batting, embroidery thread and needles. This craft is hand sewn with a beautiful outside blanket stitch that is easy to make. Instructions will be cheerfully offered to those who may be sewing-challenged.

All the supplies will be provided for the dream pillows for the low cost of five dollars. If you plan to attend, please call 902-8393 or e-mail us at Florenceherbenthusiasts@gmail.com us to so we will have plenty of supplies on hand. Bring buttons to make your own finishing touch.

To learn how to make a dream pillow, come join the Florence Herb Enthusiasts who meet every third Thursday of the month at 10 AM at the FUUF at the corner of Heceta Beach Road and Hwy 101. Everyone is welcome. Herbal teas and refreshments will be provided.

Whether you are a novice or an in between, come explore the wonderful world of herbs. For more information call Marlena Armstrong at 902-8393 or visit www.florenceherbenthusiasts.com.

It's Birthday Time!

2009-09-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

Florence Herb Enthusiasts will celebrate their 5th birthday on September 17, 2009, with delicious party treats, an herb tasting contest and a spectacular raffle of wonderful items and services donated by local herbal vendors and members.

Ginny Kelly, one of last year's winners displays her beautiful smile and her prize!

"When we started our herb club in 2004, we had 8 people attend the first meeting. Today we have more than 80 active members!" exclaimed Jacquie Beveridge, co-founder of the club. "Over the years we have explored the healing properties of Chinese herbs, gone wild crafting, learned how incense is made from spices, made herbal cleaning products, and featured many herbalists who shared their love of herbs and knowledge. Our members had fun learning how to make worm composting bins and discovering which herbs to plant to attract bees and butterflies to their gardens."

To borrow from an old TV game show, Name that Tune, herb-savvy volunteers will be blindfolded and asked to Name that Herb! Taste buds will be challenged and a prize goes to the person with the most correct answers. "We will start with the more widely used herbs and then tease the palate and separated the novice from the connoisseur of herbs," explained Marlena Armstrong, co-founder of the herb club.

Wren Smart, owner of Wren's Nest, will surprise participants with a scrumptious herbal delight specially prepared to celebrate the day. Get your raffle tickets at the door and join in the festivities!

Mexican Herbs & Peppers..........Ole!

2009-08-13T23:57:00.000-07:00

At the August 20, 2009, meeting Rosa Perez, owner of Rosa's Restaurant in Florence, will share the wide array of delicious native Mexican herbs and chili peppers and demonstrate how to make several of her fabulous, mouth-watering dishes using them.

"Mexican herbs and chili peppers can add a little kick to salsa without causing a lot of fire. Some salsa recipies call for cilantro or coriander, as well as garlic, and peppers mixed with lime juice," explains Rosa. "In Mexico, our family put cilantro in a jar on the kitchen table so everyone could eat a little along with the meal. It has a clean and refreshing taste that compliments tortillas as well as the digestion".

Rosa will share information about herbs and peppers commonly associated with Mexican food and surprise us with the medicinal properties of some of them!Join us to sample her tantalizing Peach Habenero Sauce, a blend of hot with a little sweetness that creates a flavor that lingers on the palate to create a light pop of sensational flavor!

Planning Your Perfect Herb Garden with Barb Rowland

2009-06-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

Florence Herb Enthusiasts learned a great deal about unusual herbs that thrive in Florence at their June meeting from Barb Rowland, owner of Honeyman Nursery. In case you missed it stop by Honeyman Nursery and chat with them about what to plant.

Cindy Goldstein was the lucky winner of the pot full of herbs....congratulations, Cindy!

Everyone enjoyed the Lemon Tea Bread........click on the link in the recipe box.....

Wasabi!

2009-05-05T22:31:00.000-07:00

Wasabi. It’s not just for sushi anymore! To wake up your bored taste buds try wonderful wasabi with grilled salmon, tuna, steak, pork, shrimp and definitely add it to your vinaigrette to make a Kickin’ Asian Salad. “Real wasabi has a strong, hot flavor which dissipates within a few seconds and leaves no burning aftertaste in one’s mouth. It is a very complex, spicy yet sweet compliment to your meal. The root, called a rhizome, is ground into a paste and used in foods to add spiciness,” explained Bridget Klinger, who has worked for the past seven years at Pacific Farms located in Florence. If she isn’t taking orders for this yummy 100% wasabi paste, she is busy filling the plastic tubes, making labels, boxing, shipping and even riding the fork lift to get product ready for shipment!

Wasabi is a member of the Brassicaceae family which includes cabbages, horseradish and mustard and is relatively difficult and expensive to cultivate. At the May 21st meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Bridget will discuss where and how wasabi is grown and explain how it is used in foods as well as its medicinal properties.

To learn more about this fascinating herb that packs a powerful yet pleasant punch to the taste buds, come join us on May 21, 2009.

Luscious Lovely Lavender!

2009-04-07T17:13:00.000-07:00

At the April 16th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Frances Klippel will share how to choose the right plants, prep the soil, where to plant and how to harvest this lovely herb. She will also give tips for lavenders’ many uses in cooking, cosmetics and crafts. “Herbs de Provence is a classic herb blend using fresh or dried herbs. Very popular in the Mediterranean, it is used to season everything from soups to grilled chicken. This traditional version uses the key ingredient, lavender. You can also use lavender to make your own body powder that will keep you cool and dry all day. It can even be used to make an anti-bacterial spray,” she explained.

Frances will also demonstrate how to make lavender wands and a dazzling lavender fan for your own fragrant breeze in the summertime. Starting this month, people are encouraged to bring any herb starts or seeds they would like to share. Door prizes include lavender starts and lavender powder! Everyone is welcome.

Our meeting is at 10:00 am at the Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. N/W corner of Heceta Beach Road and Highway 101.

Feather your nest with Wren!

2009-03-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

The next fabulous meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts is Thursday, March 19! We hope you'll be there to hear Wren Smart share timely tips for our spring nests!

NEST, noun: a cozy or secluded retreat; a place of rest, a HOME. There is nothing more comforting than a warm inviting home. “There are many ways to get in touch with our five senses to create beauty and serenity in our home. With our current economic situation we are left feeling frazzled and in need of relief. Take 15-30 minutes just for yourself everyday. Make a tasty cup of Yerba Maté, which has more antioxidants than green tea. No get it to go tea! Take time to make it yourself,” explains Wren Smart, owner of The Wren’s Nest, an herbal boutique with amazing teas and cozy cottage décor items. She is in the Bridgeport Market, located on the beautiful Siuslaw River.

Wren will discuss how to ‘Feather Your Nest’ by getting in touch with your five senses to bring peace and comfort in your life without spending a lot of money. “We can create beauty with what we already have. Scent layering is a way to create a special ambience. Our sense of smell is amazing. Ever notice how a certain scent can take you back in time? By using essential oils, soy candles, linen sprays and vase diffusers, many pleasurable memories can be triggered,” Wren explained. “Be creative. Try combinations of lavender, cinnamon and vanilla candles, and potpourri as well. The combination makes for a richer experience. Try a drop or two of scented oils in a terracotta light bulb ring and your home is filled with scent. Relax and enjoy.”

So, come join us to learn how to feather your nest with simple things that nourish the soul and lift the spirits. Wren will bring one of her outstanding and unusual specialty teas for all to enjoy and also offer a tea infuser thermos called a Tea Tiger as a door prize!

Thyme Garden Owners, Rolfe & Janet Hagen come to Florence!

2009-02-14T21:28:00.000-08:00

Imagine a green salad topped with colorful edible flowers, a chicken breast stuffed with apple and sage, and baked in a cashew crust, green beans with basil and delicious homemade herbal pastas served in a peaceful setting of tall firs and old growth maples. Visitors to The Thyme Garden are treated to this sumptuous luncheon after strolling through gardens that offer a dazzling display of one of the largest collection of herbs in the Northwest. At the February 19th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Rolfe and Janet Hagen, owners of The Thyme Garden, will share how their love of herbs led them to a farm and seed business hidden in the magical coastal range mountains of Oregon.

“Our interest in herbs began at our country restaurant which was surrounded with herb gardens. The gardens not only provided herbs for the pleasure of our customers, but they gave us seeds that we collected to sell. From these sprouted the Thyme Garden Seed Company,” shared Rolfe. “ In 1989 we sold our restaurant and purchased our 80 acre farm in Alsea to expand our seed business and start a nursery, ”explained Janet. “On a guided tour through our display gardens we discuss the plants and herbs we see as well as the ones you will have the pleasure of experiencing with your herbal luncheon. Our nursery has over 700 varieties of plants and herbs, and this year we have added eight different varieties of mushroom plugs to our collection of herbal products. So now you can grow your own gourmet mushrooms,” shared Janet.
Rolfe and Janet will also discuss hops that began as a kitchen herb, popular dried medicinal and culinary herbs and more. So, come join us to learn more about these incredible edible flowers and herbs grown in the beautiful Thyme Garden.

Visit their website at: http://www.thymegarden.com.

Superfoods to Start the New Year!

2009-02-14T21:16:00.000-08:00

Rebecca Paternostro, owner of The Herb Jar, and her daughter Kaley discussed super foods to give our immune system a boost for better health. “Imagine a super food, not a drug, powerful enough to help lower your cholesterol, reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer, and for an added bonus, even put you in a better mood.” explained Rebecca. Rebecca’s store sells natural and organic products and has an astounding selection of herbs. She is a holistic health practitioner, nutritionist and herbalist with a degree from the Natural Healing Institute of Naturopathy.

“Super foods such as Acai, Goji and Cacao are packed with antioxidants that help boost the immune system,” explained Rebecca. “The Acai, (pronounced ah-saw-ee) berry is one of the world’s most interesting and unique foods, and it is also the healthiest. Chocked full of antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids, this tiny berry packs a nutritional wallop rarely seen in the natural world. Some experts consider it to be the world’s most complete food. The Acai berry has almost an identical protein and amino acid profile as that of an egg!” she shared. “Eating super fruits and vegetables is one way to insure that the body is getting its daily dose of antioxidants and important nutrients. The berries can be taken in a capsule, as a powder or as a liquid in juices. A great way to enjoy these nutritional gems is to blend them with other super fruits to make yummy smoothies,” shared Rebecca.

4th Annual Holiday Potluck Party!

2009-02-14T20:45:00.000-08:00

Our fourth annual Christmas herbal potluck luncheon was held on Thursday, Dec.11th at 11:00 AM. Instead of the usual monthly meeting that features a guest speaker, field trip or craft, participants enjoyed a scrumptious herbal feast that allowed everyone to sit down, relax and get to know one another better after another fantastic year of learning more about the world of herbs.

Creative herbalists brought delicious dishes featuring one or more herbs to share. We were enchanted with the heavenly harp music of Jeanne Olwin. Diana Kekule and Marti Galone brought their special gift items such as scented soaps, sachets, balms, essential oils, tinctures and more for anyone looking for that special something for Christmas gift giving.

The gift exchange was a lively event with everyone receiving fun herbal gifts!

Annual Wreathmaking Extravaganza!

2008-11-11T14:52:00.000-08:00

Whether hung on the front door or above a crackling fireplace, a Christmas wreath announces the arrival of the holiday season. ‘Tis the thyme for entertaining and decorating the house, so come join in the fun at the Florence Herb Enthusiasts fifth annual Christmas wreath-making gala!

This wonderfully messy and aromatic event will unfold for all to enjoy on Thursday Nov.20th at 10 A.M. Greenery will be provided, but we welcome any other floral treats that people would like to bring. Participants should bring scissors, wire-cutters, accent pieces and ideas to share to create their own scent-sational herbal wreath. Cost of a wreath ring and greenery is $3. People bringing their own wreath ring are asked to make a donation toward decorating supplies. We welcome any other floral treats that participants would like to bring to share. Please let Marlena know if you plan to attend so we will have plenty of supplies.

The Ancient Nectar of the Gods

2008-09-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

Join us in celebrating our 4th birthday and learn about the ancient nectar of the gods!

One of the most interesting types of wine that anyone can make is a honey wine, traditionally known as mead. Mead comes in a dazzling array of flavors, depending on the type of honey, the brewing process and the addition of fruits, herbs, exotic spices and berries.“ Choose freshly harvested tree- ripened fruit for a higher content of sugar. Fresh cherries, peaches, and blueberries make excellent wine. You need a LOT of fruit and your finished product is only as good as the fruit you start with. I pick hard and fast,” explained Neila Rose Crocker, an herbalist at the Garden of Peace Organic Farm near Triangle Lake. She is an expert in organic gardening, herbal lore and organic wine making.

At the September 18th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Neila will discuss the medicinal benefits of organic, home made mead wines. “Mead is nothing more than honey, water and yeast. It is simple to make and you can use what you have around the house for equipment. Gallon jars work well. You can start with small batches and get creative. The infusions of flowers and herbs make delicious wines. Rose and fresh raspberries in wine are absolutely fantastic,” she shared. “Picking and sharing berries is an amazing family thing. All of the family can sit and be comfortable and pick. I will also share a Native American story titled, “The Huckleberry Lesson: A Native American Tale of Sharing.”

To learn the simple and natural art of wholesome wine making, come join the Florence Herb Enthusiasts who meet the third Thursday of the month at 10A.M. at the Florence Unitarian Universal Fellowship at the NW corner of Heceta Beach Road and Hwy 101. Marianne Bisbane, owner of the Shed Bakery, will delight everyone with a special surprise from her bakery to celebrate the 4th anniversary of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts!

Lavender, Lavender, Lavender

2008-08-18T16:53:00.000-07:00

Lavender is such a romantic flower that every gardener sooner or later succumbs to the urge to grow it. The oil in the lavender’s small, blue -violet flowers gives the herb its fragrant scent. “ The Oregon coast is a great place to grow lavender…lots of sand! Lavender does not like wet feet or rich soil, so the sand in Florence is good for growing this lovely herb by the sea, ” explained Frances Klippel, who lives in Florence and is a licensed massage therapist. “ I use lavender in my massage practice for its calming and soothing effects. And I use it in my handcrafted soaps and natural cleaning products. My love of this fragrant herb inspired me to take an online six week course to learn more about growing lavender.”

At the August 21st meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Frances will share how to get started growing lavender, which plants to choose, soil prep, where to plant and how to harvest this lovely and fragrant herb. She will also talk about the best types of lavender for cooking, baking, crafts and landscaping. “I use my own lavender for my cooking and baking enjoyment. One type of lavender may be good for baking, but not for cooking. For growing lavender starts in the springtime, little green houses can be made out of plastic bottles. I will demonstrate how to make a mini greenhouse, and also how to make lavender wands that will last for years! Oh, and did I mention that deer don’t like lavender?”

Whether you are a novice, professional or in between, come join us to expand
your culinary, craft and medicinal knowledge of herbs .

Remembering Chizuko

2008-08-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

私たちはあなたがいなくて残念に思います

(We will miss you)

Our esteemed member, Chizuko Lampman, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2008, at home surrounded by her family members.

Chiz was a vital member of our organization and the entire Florence community. We will miss her sweet gentle smile, her wisdom and her generous spirit.

A “Celebration of Life,” an opportunity to share memories of Chizuko, will be held at 12pm/noon, Saturday, August 9, 2008, at the Florence Unitarian Fellowship [Hwy 101 & Heceta Beach Road] with Ron Adkins officiating (potluck style). Contact Ralph or Noriko at 541-997-8669 for more info. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Florence Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at PO Box 2502, Florence, OR 97439.

Just as the soft rains fill the streams, pour into the rivers and join together in the oceans, so may the power of every moment of your goodness flow forth to awaken and heal all beings, Those here now, those gone before, those yet to come.
By the power of every moment of your goodness May your heart's wishes be soon fulfilled as completely shining as the bright full moon, as magically as by a wish-fulfilling gem.
By the power of every moment of your goodness May all dangers be averted and all disease be gone. May no obstacle come across your way. May you enjoy fulfillment and long life.
For all in whose heart dwells respect, who follow the wisdom and compassion, of the Way, May your life prosper in the four blessings of old age, beauty, happiness and strength.

~~Buddhist blessing~~

June 2008--Frances Klippel--Learn About 'Earth Friendly' Cleaning

2008-06-09T22:36:00.000-07:00

We all know that money doesn’t grow trees, but how about soap? Since ancient times, soap nuts have been used for laundering fine silks and by jewelers for shining gold and silver. Soap nuts are the dried fruit of the Soapberry tree found in Indonesia. “Put two to three soap nuts in a cloth bag and toss in the washer to make your clothes look brighter and softer. Use the liquid from the boiled nuts for washing pets, cleaning kitchens and bathrooms, cars and even windows,” shared Frances Klippel, an herbalist and naturalist who has lived in Florence for seven years and also travels to her second home in Puerto Rico. “These nuts are biodegradable and a hypoallergenic alternative to chemical-ridden detergents.”

At the June 19 meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Frances will discuss the various ways to make ‘green’, earth-friendly cleaning products.” I am so sensitive to the chemicals used in many commercial cleaning products that I can’t even walk past the soap aisle in the supermarket,” explained Frances. “Herbs, essential oils and common household products, such as baking soda and vinegar can make effective cleaning solutions without chemicals and harsh fumes. Eucalyptus and mint are disinfectants that provide a fresh and clean scent. Vinegars made with rosemary, lavender and thyme make excellent solutions that clean just about everything. And with prices rising for everything in this economy, the solutions can be made in bulk for a fraction of the cost.”

To learn how to clean more eco-friendly and best of all, cheaper, come join the Florence Herb Enthusiasts who meet at 10 A.M. the third Thursday of the month at the Florence Unitarian Universal Fellowship Hall at the corner of Heceta Beach Road and Hwy 101. Essential oils and soap nuts will be available for purchase. And don’t miss out on the door prizes! Everyone is welcome.

Whether you are a novice, professional or in-between, come join us to expand your culinary, craft and medicinal knowledge of herbs. For more information call Jacquie Beveridge at 997-8311.

In Memoriam

2008-06-09T22:30:00.000-07:00

Our esteemed member, Dayna Devlin, departed this world on Friday, June 6. Services will be held at Burns Riverside Chapel, Florence, Oregon, at 11:00 AM on Thursday, June 12.

May 2008

2008-04-29T17:29:00.000-07:00

The ever popular Marti Galione will be the speaker for our May meeting!

Anyone can put together an ‘herbal medicine chest’ that will meet most of their family’s common health care needs by growing, harvesting and drying many herbs that are already growing in their garden. “Methods of preparing herbal remedies include: infusions (hot teas), decoctions (boiled teas), tinctures (alcohol and water extracts). Others include herbs in hot baths, steam inhalation and even aromatherapy,” explains Marti Galione, a local herbalist who lives in Waldport. In 1980 Marti grew 180 medicinal herbs on her herb farm in New York where she trained with many top herbalists.

At the May 15th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Marti will discuss the mixing and preparing of herbal tinctures, decoctions and syrups in the fascinating world of herbs. “One of the best ways to make these natural remedies is to extract the healing principles of each herb. Basil will help reduce stress and clear the mind. Sage balances female hormones. Aniseed relaxes the stomach and chest. Cinnamon clears the nose and lungs and Ginger relieves nausea. I will explain the different things we can extract with and how to mix various herbs together and why,” she shared.
So, come join in the fun of learning how to make your own personal herbal medicine chest. Marti will also bring tincture bottles for sale.

April 2008

2008-04-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

At the April 17th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Neila Rose Crocker discussed the importance of growing common and rare herbs for personal health, friends, family and the environment. "Slippery elm, Chasteberry tree (vitex), Shave grass (horsetail), Sorrel, Marshmallow, Fo-ti and Burdock root are just a few of the naturally growing herbs that can be found. For centuries, vitex has been reputed to be a hormone balancer and a natural alternative to estrogen replacement," she shared. " Each herb has a purpose and a spirit for us to discover. Their unique medicinal properties provide my family with a ‘traveling medicine pack’ that comes in handy on hikes."

Thousands of years ago, when people first began using herbs, they had no idea why herbs worked. All they knew was that a certain plant or herb elicited a desired result. “We need to appreciate the common and rare herbs that grow in our gardens and in woodsy areas, as they provide many natural remedies for good health. These wild herbs are the cheapest and most potent of anything that can be bought and have many uses. Wild herbs such as Nettle leaf can ease allergies while Yellow Dock is great for taking the sting out of insect bites,” explained Neila Rose Crocker, a native of Oregon who grew up on a farm that raised edibles and animals. She now lives on a 35 acre farm in Triangle Lake where she grows rare and unusual herbs, raises goats and makes her own goat cheese. “The goats eat the herbs and we get the milk with the herbs as an added bonus.”

The herb of the month was turmeric. Anne Machalek enlightened us about the health benefits of this important herb!

Herbal Spirits

2008-03-11T19:54:00.001-07:00

It’s cocktail thyme! Just imagine vodka flavored with cilantro, dill leaf, fennel or rosemary for a different taste. The true magic of an herbal liqueur is revealed when used in common cocktails or in cooking. “Making liqueurs at home is as easy as making a cup of tea with ingredients that are readily available,” explained Jacquie Beveridge, co-founder of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts. “Anyone can create an herbal liqueur for sipping as well as for adding exotic flavors and interest to recipes.”

At the March 20th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Jacquie Beveridge, will discuss and demonstrate how to make various herbal liqueurs.“ Herbal liqueurs are not a new fad. In fact, as early as the 5th century B.C., Hippocrates flavored alcohol with herbs and aromatic plants. Since sugar cane had not yet been discovered, the brew was fit for only the strongest men! During the Middle Ages elixirs were concocted to aid digestion. In their effort to seek preventive cures for diseases in the 13th century, alchemists discovered how to distill spirits. To help with the taste they added herbs, spices and fruits,” she explained. “ Monks continued to experiment with these formulas and to this day they make popular liqueurs, wines and beers.”

To learn more about herbal liqueurs and how to make them, please come join in the fun. Everyone is welcome. This will be the first meeting of the herb club in their new location, the Florence Universal Unitarian Fellowship Hall at the NW corner of Heceta Beach Road and Hwy 101.

De-mystifying ayurveda

2008-03-11T19:47:00.000-07:00

We don’t usually think of ginger, turmeric and frankincense as medicinals. Instead, the names conjure up images of a kitchen spice shelf, a tasty curry or an exotic incense. Herbs have played an important part in balancing health in a natural way according to a 5,000-year-old health care system in India called Ayurveda. “Ayurveda, ‘the science of life’ is a health system that considers each of us as a unique individual with a unique body-mind type (metabolic typing). This wellness program includes customized diet, healing herbs, gentle detoxification, aroma therapy, steam and massage therapy,” explained Suzanne Gano, a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner and Nutritional Therapist, who helps people regain their health and prevent disease through balanced body chemistry. Her formal education includes Bachelor’s degrees in Biology, Psychology and Art and a Master’s degree in Psychiatric Social Work.

Suzanne demystified Ayurveda and explained how the three Doshas, Vatta, Pitta and Kapha are just a different way to describe our constitutions and how to gear our diet and lifestyle toward health promoting practices, and away from disease producing practices. “ An optimal diet for you should be individually determined and it will also need to change to balance the effects of the seasons as well as your activities and age,” explains Suzanne. She also offered simple remedies for protecting the body against stress, winter season colds and flu, seasonal affective disorder, fatigue and fibromyalgia.

Florence Herb Enthusiasts co-founder, Marlena Armstrong, enlightened us with information about "the stinking rose" Garlic!

Stay well with tissue salts and organic food

2008-03-11T19:20:00.000-07:00

Diane Raybould, owner of Nature’s Corner Café and Market in Florence, was the speaker to start the new year right! Diane explained how to stay well with tissue salts and organic food. “A ‘salt’ is any type of readily dissolved mineral combination, not just table salt. Cell salts are not a substitute for a balanced diet or supplements, but improve absorption and utilization of minerals,” explained Diane, who has studied homeopathic medicine for over twenty- five years. She has lived in Florence for over 17 years and since she has always had a passion for 100% organic food, she decided to open her own restaurant and market to provide healthier food for her family and the community.

”Cell salts are a good first suggestion for people new to homeopathy because of the ease of selection, the safety in potency and the quick result. Obviously, one of the best ways to insure good health is to enjoy an organic diet. Many people are ‘starving to death’ by eating foods that lack nutrients and then they overeat. This is where vitamins come in. The body must have minerals to make vitamins or make use of vitamins regardless of the source,” she explained.

Member Ruth Baumrucker helped start the new year with a short presentation about Parsley.

Happy Herbalists Enjoy the Holidays!

2008-03-11T17:21:00.000-07:00

Florence Herb Enthusiasts celebrated December with their third annual Holiday Party and Herbal Bazaar. Jeannie Olwin provided seasonal harp music as everyone filled their tummies with scrumptious food.

The Holiday Bazaar featured local herbalists who offered gift items such as scented soaps, sachets, eye pillows, balms, lotions and specially blended herbal teas for that special something for holiday gift giving.

December Holiday Party

2007-11-25T15:14:00.000-08:00

‘Tis the holiday season and ‘thyme’ for the Florence Herb Enthusiasts to celebrate their third annual Christmas herbal pot luck luncheon on Thursday, Dec.13th at 11:00 A.M. (not the usual time) at the Coast Village clubhouse. Instead of the usual monthly meeting that features a guest speaker, field trip or craft, participants will enjoy a scrumptious herbal feast that will allow everyone to sit down, relax and get to know one another better after another fantastic year of learning more about the world of herbs.

Creative herbalists are asked to bring a dish featuring one or more herbs to share. It can be anything from appetizers to desserts. Plates, napkins and utensils will be provided along with herbal teas and coffee. While sampling all the ‘herbal-licious’ delights, participants will enjoy holiday music played by harpist Jeanne Olwin. For more fun, a Holiday Bazaar will feature local herbalists who will offer gift items such as scented soaps, sachets, eye pillows, balms, lotions and specially blended herbal teas that will be on sale for anyone looking for that special something for Christmas. Everyone is asked to bring a wrapped gift, herb or garden themed, for under five dollars to exchange.

So, come join the holiday festivities, give your taste buds an adventure and do a little Christmas shopping at the same time.

Herb Club Totes and Aprons

2007-11-25T14:11:00.000-08:00

Florence Herb Enthusiasts Tote Bags and Aprons....just in time for gifts!

Two sizes are available:
the convention tote which is 14X14X3 and/or
the jumbo tote which is 20X15X5

Each item is only $10.00!

Contact Marlena to place your order.

Wreathmaking Extravangaza- November 15th!

2007-11-01T15:00:00.000-07:00

Goblins and ghosts have long departed the landscape and are being replaced with the sounds of gobble, gobble and jingle, jingle that sweep in the holidays. ‘Tis the thyme for entertaining and decorating the house, so come join in the fun at the Florence Herb Enthusiasts’ fourth annual Christmas wreath-making gala! Last year creative herbalists fashioned festive and aromatic wreaths for the coming holidays by using fresh and fragrant pine, evergreens, bay leaf branches, cedar, holly, local herbs and other woodsy treasures.

"Look for plants that will be useful for adding colorful and unusual accents, like lavender, bee balm, baby's breath, heather, ornamental grasses and even sea shells," suggests Marlena Armstrong, co-founder of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts. "There are endless combinations of colors, aromas and textures that can be combined to make a unique wreath. We make these Christmas wreaths big and we make them small, but most of all we make it fun!”

This wonderfully messy and aromatic event will unfold for all to enjoy on Thursday, Nov.15, at 10 A.M. in the Coast Village clubhouse. Participants should bring scissors, wire-cutters, ribbons, accent pieces and ideas to share to create their own scent-sational herbal wreath. Cost of a wreath ring and greenery is $ 3. People bringing their own wreath ring are asked to make a donation toward decorating supplies. Greenery will be provided, but anyone with access to any other floral treats and wishing to share are asked to please call Marlena Armstrong at 902-8393 to make arrangements for pick up.

Myth and Magic of Herbs

2007-10-11T20:58:00.000-07:00

Many of the herbs we use today had Greek myths surrounding them, and mint was no exception. According to legend, Minthe, a nymph, was Hades' lover. Persephone, Hades' wife, found out about Minthe and turned her into a low-lying plant to be tread upon. Hades could not undo her spell and whenever anyone stepped upon Minthe, the air would fill with a sweet perfume.

This myth and many others as well as legends and folklore and their roles in society will be the topic of discussion at the October 18th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts. Crystal Hayes, who will delight members with more tales of Persephone, has her degree in Journalism from Southern Oregon University, and is a food in history columnist for the South Lincoln County News. She resides in Yachats and says she is the happiest when researching the history of anything. She will discuss man’s relationship with herbs and plants and how they identified them for their uses. “For example, if a plant looked like a lung, then it must cure a lung,” she explained. “I will also introduce my special guest, which is Autumn itself, and the different names it has from around the world. Autumn is the season that prepares the earth to go to sleep and I will discuss the fears people felt as the earth grew cold, barren and dark and the myths that sprang from these fears.”

For more fun, participants will get to select an herbal potion from a basket. Crystal will then explain the history and folklore of each herb and tell of its very potent magic. “This will enable me to tell quite a few fascinating tales relating to that particular potion,” she explained. So, come join us to learn more about the myths and magic of herbs.

Mark the Date

2007-09-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

Join us October 18th
Crystal Hayes will
share myth, legend and
folklore about autumn

Congratulations

2007-09-20T22:09:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Lori Grender, who won the worm bin!

Thank You To

2007-09-20T22:07:00.000-07:00

Joanne Nelson for the scrumptious blueberry scones, fresh blueberries and refrigerator jam enjoyed by all at the September meeting.

and Thank You Pat Stutzman for the worm bin that was raffled.

September 2007 Newsletter

2007-09-20T22:05:00.000-07:00

Herbalist Marti Galione has been practicing for more than 25 years. After moving to the Pacific Northwest from upstate New York she quickly established herself in the herbal community and was our guest speaker last April. Everyone enjoyed her so much she was invited to share about Flower Essences in August.*When Bach Flower Essences conducted it's only training in America Marti was there! She completed a six month internship and has been benefiting from flower essences and sharing their benefit with others since her training.*Flower essences are the blossoms of plants prepared from a sun infusion in a bowl of water, then further diluted, potentized, and then preserved with brandy. These preparations embody the distinct imprint, or energetic pattern of each variety of flower. The living forces of nature collected, prepared, and placed in liquid stock and dosage bottles are used in healing our physical, etheric, astral, and spiritual bodies . The essences enjoy a reputation of being highly effective and very safe to use.*Flower essences are not cure-alls.....they are intended to be our helpers in aligning our life energy toward healthy growth and development. Marti has been creating her own flower essences for 22 years. To order call (541) 5474263

July 2007Thyme Garden3rd Annual Field Trip

2007-08-29T22:45:00.000-07:00

On July 19, seventeen members enjoyed the third annual field trip to Thyme Garden. In addition to the tour of the pond and garden, we enjoyed a gourmet herbal luncheon. As always, Janet and Rolfe were the quintessential host and hostess. Our luncheon included Rooibus & Red zinger tea with stevia; Jamaica with lemon verbena syrup and lavender lemonade.Our entree of Crumbed Chicken Breast stuffed with 3 varieties of mushroom, feta cheese and olives was accompanied by Fresh Fettucini & Sauteed Vegetable Medley. Of course their famous eye-pleasing Herb Flower Salad was enjoyed by all. We also enjoyed the homemade bread and spreads and desserts to die for!

We'll continue the tradition next year, so mark your calendar & plan to attend.

June 2007 Meeting

2007-08-29T22:31:00.000-07:00

In June we welcomed back Tiffany Allen as our guest speaker. Tiffany represented Oregon Coast Garden Center which is located 2 miles south of Waldport off Highway 101. Visit their website at: http://www.casco.net/~ocgc/

Tiffany shared many valuable tips for us to control wanted and unwanted critters in our gardens. One of the best things about living in Oregon Dunes National Park is that our sand drains so well we don't have to worry about root rot or fungus. Did you know that basil is a mosquito repellent? (you can rub it on your hands and neck) or that scent is the #1 factor in repelling pests such as deer, elk and cats. Cocoa hull mulch is a great deterrent for slugs, but it is not good for dogs. You can use diatomaceous earth to get rid of carpenter ants, but avoid breathing the dust.

Mary Eriksen, owner, generously donated several items as door prizes. Congratulations to the winners: Joyce Loftis, Michelle Mazon, and Joyce Thomas. Tiffany recommended Bug, Slugs, & Other Thugs: Controlling Garden Pests Organically by Rhonda Massingham Hart to learn more about keeping your garden healthy. If you missed Tiffany's informative presentation, please visit Oregon Coast Garden Center and learn more while you shop for more herbs, the beneficial plants!

We greatly appreciated the refreshments provided by Michelle Mazon and Chizuko Lampman.

The lucky raffle winners were: Joyce Loftis~~Seed Assortment; Michelle Mazon~~ Sluggo; Joyce Thomas~~ Animal Repellent.

Sushi, sushi, sushi!

2007-03-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

The March 15th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, will feature Chizuko Lampman who will delight participants with a demonstration of how to make Inari sushi and discuss the many herbs used in Japanese cooking. Chiz is a member of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, who learned the art of Japanese cooking and the use of native herbs from her mother.

*Come join us for a tasty trip to the Orient to learn more about Japanese herbs and watch Chizuko demonstrate the art of making sushi, which will be available for sampling.

See you at 10:00 AM, Thursday, March 15, in the Clubhouse at Coast Village!
Please carpool if you can.....parking is limited.

**There will be a raffle for an authentic Japanese dinner prepared in your home!**

Vermiculture!

2007-01-30T22:23:00.000-08:00

What will weed, feed and water your garden and take care of your garbage? No, " the ideal teenager" is not the answer. It's vermiculture, compost with worms, that crumbly, sweet-smelling stuff left after organic material has decayed. Let worms eat your organic waste and they will happily turn it into some of the best fertilizer on earth. Worm composting is a fun and easy way to recycle your organic kitchen waste. It requires very little work, produces no offensive odors and helps plants thrive. "Worms like to eat many of the same things we eat, only they aren't so picky. Stale bread, apple cores, orange peels and coffee grounds are just some of the foods they love. A compost pile is not a garbage pile, and one way to clearly differentiate between the two is with an enclosure---a compost bin," explains Pamela Jackson, a Master Gardener, and member of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, who earned her certificate from Eugene's Lane County extension program in 2006. She resides in Mapleton where she has plenty of room to plant gardens and collect materials for her compost.

At the Feburary 15th meeting of the Florence Herb Enthusiasts, Pamela will bring a working compost bin ready for harvest to show and will discuss what organic materials are typically used. She will also share plans for making a bin so people can make them at home. "Start with a good bin and take the time to get the right balance of ingredients in your compost.The ideal mix for your compost is a balanced diet of both nitrogen-rich and carbon-rich materials. The result will be a rich, dark-brown mixture with a pleasant, woodsy aroma. The best kind of worms for composting are red worms, or 'red wigglers'. These worms have big appetites, reproduce quickly and thrive in confinement. They can eat more than their weight in food every day," she explains.
So, come join us to learn how to return our waste to nature and get back nutrient-rich organic matter in the form of compost. Raffle tickets will be sold with the lucky winner taking home Pamela's compost bin!