The Mighty Burdock Weed: A Cornucopia of Virtues
Many people are already familiar with burdock. It’s tall and robust, but what makes it stand out the most is its pesky burrs that cling to our clothing after a walk on the roadside, in fields or pastures. It certainly takes some patience to untangle one of the burrs from the dog’s thick coat. While […]
Cannabis and Chronic Pain: The Endorphin Connection
Written by Chris Matich Humans have used cannabis for pain relief for a thousand years, but only recently have we garnered evidence from controlled, experimental studies regarding its efficacy for treating and helping those with chronic pain. Chronic pain is extremely prevalent, both in the U.S. and Canada. According to the National Center for Health […]
Dandelions: Medicinal Weeds of Gold
With many of us now aware of declining bee populations, dandelions are making a remarkable comeback. Their yellow blooms are rich in nectar and pollen and are one of the first sources of food for bees and other pollinating insects following a long winter. Not only for pollinators This fantastic weed is not only excellent […]
Plantain: The Overlooked Medicinal Weed
Sometimes, we cannot see wonderful things that are right under our noses. Many gardeners are looking for plants that are unique and exquisite. This is often the case with medicinal herbs; the exotic, rare, high-potency herb that grows only once in a blue moon is favored over the everyday weed that grows abundantly on the […]
Medicinal Weeds: Stinging Nettle
Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) has an impressive defense system. The stems, leaves, and flowers are covered with tiny hairs called spicules. These spicules, made from minuscule silica needles, are similar to sharp glass; they puncture the skin and cause painful irritation.