DID YOU KNOW THAT?
…. it takes 4,000 kg (8,818 lbs) of rose petals (2.5 acres of rose bushes) to obtain 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of essential oil of rose,
…. 150 kg (330 lbs) of flowering tops of lavender to yield the same amount of essential oil?
Please keep this in mind when using essential oils and I suggest that you use them sparingly.
Have a wonderful and happy, healthy week.
Green Blessings,
Gudrun
REASON TO CELEBRATE!
Finally, after another challenging marathon, the 2nd edition of the DVD “Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone” is completed with subtitles in English, French, German and Spanish.
BLOW OUT SALE of the 1st edition while quantities last.
Great timeless gift for birthdays, Easter, Mother’s Day or just as a gesture of friendship and caring for the planet and each other at any time.
$25/DVD or 5 copies for $100 including GST plus shipping where applicable. Regular $52.45.
DON’T MISS OUT!
Call 780.532.2464 or email me to arrange pick-up.
MAIL ORDERS: go to www.herbalinstructions.com
KAMBO
Kambo is a Giant Leaf frog found in the Amazon. Its ?medicine? has a variety of applications but one of the major reasons for its use is the effect it has on the brain and the psyche as a psychedelic substance. It is powerful “medicine” and you can find lots of information on the internet about it.
The other day I was inspired to write a poem (see below) about it because it seems like presently many people feel the need to experience psychoactive substances used by traditional tribes and healers. There is a tendency to believe that these experiences bring a sense of accomplishment, making a person a “better” person, “better” than others. I have reflected upon this phenomena in the context of our ability to live life and decided to share my inspiration with you as food for thought. Enjoy.
KAMBO – Frog Medicine: Illusion or Reality
Still flying high
Soaring high in the sky
Looking at life in a different light
Experiencing all there is from new heights
All the induced reflections
Causing different perceptions
Spirit has so many different forms
It may come and go like a storm
Has it really changed the way things are
Or is it just an illusion from afar
Are you really a different person now
Is different better – if yes how
Life’s challenges are still the same
So are responsibilities – what a shame
The real test is living how
With spirit present in every moment now
Taking responsibility for who we truly are
Leaving behind our desires and ego so far
In service to our soul’s purpose
Is our life’s journey
~ Gudrun Penselin
BIG SAVINGS – FLU SEASON – SPECIAL
The flu season is once again upon us and I heard on the news that free vaccinations are available in Alberta for anyone over the age of 6 months.
How about an alternative that involves healthy lifestyle choices to support the immune system and a preventative approach with a homeopathic regime?
Many people, young and old, have since many years successfully used a treatment protocol that includes the following remedies.
1. Immune system fortifier
2. An anti-bacterial
3. An anti-viral
4. Vitamin D ? high quality drops
(See more detailed information on these products below)
The protocol can be implemented as a preventative measure throughout the fall and winter and stepped up in case of an acute infection.
For infants under the age of 6 months you can apply the anti-viral and anti-bacterial formulas externally. It really works.
Total cost $84 (instead of $110) as long as supplies last. With the purchase of the ?combo? you will receive detailed information and instructions.
Please call 780.532.2464 if you are interested in purchasing the flu season package.
Green Blessings,
Gudrun
IMMUNE SYSTEM FORTIFIER
For all conditions of immune deficiency incl. autoimmune disorders causing an increased susceptibility to infectious disease; rebuilds and regulates the immune system. During the flu & cold season it is best combined with Bio 87 (anti-bacterial) & Bio 88 (anti-viral).
BACTERIAL INFECTIONS
For all bacterial infections including strep and staph infections; stimulates and supports the immune system and prevents imbalances of bacteria in the organism.
VIRAL INFECTIONS
For all viral infections including influenza, cold sores, mono, influenza, Epstein Barr virus; helps to build up natural defenses against viruses and shortens recovery time from acute infections.
VITAMIN D ? DROPS
Vitamin D helps protect a number of important functions in the body including the proper functioning of the immune system. According to some literature it is an effective prevention for the flu; as well it helps ward off many chronic immune related ailments; Also recommended for SAD (Seasonal Affected Disorder) during the winter months.
MAKE YOUR FOOD YOUR MEDICINES & YOUR MEDICINES YOUR FOOD
I just got back from teaching at a herb conference in the Kootenays. A special treat was a one day ?foraging? workshop. We harvested herbs and prepared a real feast from the treasures we found. See menu below.
I encourage you to spend time in nature and benefit from the bountiful menu that Mother Earth provides for us. Start ?grazing? and sample the different plants, get to know some of them, be creative and add them to your cooking.
Feel free to share any of your recipes on this page.
Green Blessings,
Gudrun
FORAGING MENU
- Burdock and Vegetable Soup
- Salad: Cattail root, Heal-All, Red Clover, Chickweed, Miners Lettuce in Field Raspberry Vinaigrette
- Burdock Relish
- Quail eggs on braised Plantain
- Oatmeal dumplings in Elderberry sauce
- Thimble leaf dolmas: onions, quinoa, pennywort, raisins
- Saskatoon berry crisp
- Saskatoon berry and Cattail pollen muffins
SALES BLITZ
?Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone? DVD on sale for 1 week only!
Perfect gift as the Earth is re-awakening and showing herself in all her beauty once again.
The perfect gift idea for Easter and Mothers Day!
Only $30.00 each incl. GST (regular $52.45)
plus shipping if applicable.
Sale is on from Monday, April 7 to Sunday, April 13, 2014.
Plagued by a Persistent Cough?
Here are some tips and simple home remedies to support the body in overcoming this affliction regardless of what causes the cough.
1. Cut out all mucous forming foods, especially dairy and wheat as well as all foods you know you are sensitive to.
2. Change your diet to at least 70% raw and drink lots of carrot juice and green smoothies.
3. Drink lots of good water ? city water is typically full of chemicals and not recommended for consumption on a regular basis.
4. Keep the chest warm with appropriate clothing.
5. Apply poultices to the chest, i.e. onion poultice or castor oil pack (see DVD ?Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone?, Disc 2 for instructions)
6. Cough Syrup ? homemade, simple yet effective:
Cut up an onion, place in glass jar and cover with honey (honey can be hard; the juice of the onion will liquefy the honey).
Let sit for several hours to several days and strain. Take 1 tsp. as needed.
7. Herbs to use are the ones with anti-microbial properties such as Garlic and Thyme and expectorants for example Mullein (Verbascum thapsus), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and Fenugreek seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum).
You can find good combination teas for the support of the respiratory system at the health food stores.
FALL
I am just wondering, do we call this season ?Fall? because the leaves are falling to the ground? Hopefully all of you get to enjoy this amazing time of the year right now, it has been incredible.
Nature, as it is preparing to rest for the next few months, has been an amazing treat this year: the colours of the leaves, the sky, sunsets and sun rises, the wonder of the ever changing clouds, plants that are starting to bloom as if spring and not snow was around the corner…
It has been hard for me to stay focused on work inside when the outdoors is calling and yes, I am listening: time to go for a quick ride in the bush before attending to clients.
ROSEHIPS: This will probably be the last weekend to pick them for use in the winter. I made the most delicious Rosehip syrup ever!
ROSEHIPS and VITAMIN C
Rosehips are from the Wild Rose (Rosa canina).
They are especially high in vitamin C but also contain vitamin A, B1 and B2 in the pulp. Vitamin C was first discovered in Rosehips. Long before the discovery of vitamin C Rosehip tea was used for the common cold and locally for inflamed and bleeding gums.
Most animals are able to manufacture their own vitamin C but because of a lack of a major enzyme in the human liver, the human body is unable to manufacture its own vitamin C. This is why we need to ensure adequate vitamin C intake through our diet or supplements.
Rosehips also help to maintain healthy collagen, the substance that holds trillions of cells together in our body.
ROSEHIP TEA
Following are two of my favourite ways of preparing Rosehip tea:
1. My preference is to make a cold infusion and let it sit over night or at least a few hours before straining it. Cold infusions have the advantage of preserving the mineral content provided by the herbs.
2. Make a cold infusion and then slowly bring the infusion with the rosehips to simmer to make a decoction.
For instructions of the different water extractions such as cold infusions and decoctions I suggest you refer to disc 1 of the DVD ?Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone?.
Release Party
September 18, 2013
Grande Prairie Live Theatre
Program
5-6 pm Hors d?oeuvres (Vegetarian and wheatfree), casual mingling with live music by the Saskatoon Mountain Pickers.
Beverages and drinks available to purchase from the theatre bar.
6:15 ? 8 pm (approximately) Formal presentation including live music in the theatre.
8 ? 9 pm ?Visiting with friends?
R.S.V.P.
Watch for more information to come closer to the event.
See you there!
WORKSHOP: CONNECTING TO THE EARTH ? HERBAL PHARMACY FOR EVERYONE
September 21 & 22
Special Offer! Bring another person to the class and receive $40 off your own registration.
For more information see previous Facebook post (September 6), contact? me at 780.532.2464 or email me at gudrun@rainbowhealing.ca
One-of-a-Kind Opportunity
Great Surprise & Fantastic One-of-a-Kind Opportunity!
Adrian (ND & Traditional Mexican Healer) and I will be co-teaching the following HERBAL PHARMACY class.
Don?t miss out, register early because space is limited.
Also, dates for upcoming REFLEXOLOGY course are listed at the end.
September 21 & 22, 2013 In Grande Prairie
The Power of Plants – Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone
with
Gudrun Gudrun Penselin, M.Ed., M.Phys.Ed.
Clinical Herbal Thera Clinical Herbal Therapist
Guest Speaker: Guest: Adrian de Landa, ND
Traditional Mexican Traditional Mexican Healer
CLASS CONTENTS
- HERBAL PHARMACY ? Creating herbal preparations with readily available herbs and simple, yet effective methods.
- CONNECTING TO PLANT SPIRIT ? Exercises to guide students to experience and communicate with the spirit of plants.
- TRADITIONAL MEXICAN HEALING ? Ancient forms of healing such as the cleansing with smoke will be part of the weekend.
The workshop is practical and experiential which means all of the techniques will be demonstrated and students will be able to prepare and experience some of the applications personally.
DATE: Saturday, SEPTEMBER 21 & Sunday, SEPTEMBER 22, 9 am ? 5 pm
COST: $375 Includes: GST, all supplies & course handouts.
REGISTRATION
Registration Form ?
For more information:
Please contact me via email or phone 780-532-2464.
Space is limited, register early.
Pre-registration with full payment required otherwise space is not guaranteed.
REFUND/CANCELLATION POLICY (No exceptions)
Cancellations up to September 7: 50% Refund
Cancellations up to September 14: 25% Refund
After September 14: NO Refund
UPCOMING REFLEXOLOGY CLASS
Dates: October 11,12,13 and October 18,19 & 20
Watch for more details to come in the next few days.
Fast, Easy, Nutritious & Yummy!
How much better can it get?
Last week?s Herb Walk was another fantastic event. Student?s enjoyed all the activities including the raw foods at lunch time.
Walnut Pate was one of the dishes I served. When I offered the left overs of the spread to Franz at night he finished the entire dish ? and there was quite a bit left!
Walnut Pate
2 cups walnuts
2 stalks celery
1/2 red pepper
3 scallions or 1/2 red onion
1 tsp. salt
(Please note: I am very creative with my cooking, and so as always, proportions and ingredients are different with with each batch creating a new flavour every time around!)
Mix all ingredients together in food processor until soft and creamy.
Eat as spread on nut crackers with sprouts, tomatoes, cucumbers.
NOTE: Watch for exciting news in the next few days!
DVD Release Party
?Herb Walk? in August
“Love is a fruit in season at all times, and within reach for every hand.
Anyone may gather it and no limit is set. “
– Mother Teresa
Enjoy a day in nature while learning about local plants including herbs & weeds, their medicinal and food uses. We will start the day with a ceremony to honor Mother Earth, connect to plant spirit, enjoy raw foods and much more…
LOCATION:? 1/2 hour west of Grande Prairie at our place
DATE:? Tuesday, August 20, 10 am ? 5 pm (rain or shine!)
COST:? $80.00 including GST
Please let me know as soon as possible if you are able to join us in this fun day of learning or if you have any questions. You can contact me via email at info@herbalinstructions.com or phone 780.532.2464.
Once you have registered, you will receive further instructions.
Best wishes,
Gudrun
Mother Nature in Your Home
The abundance and beauty of the Earth at this time of the year in the Peace Country is amazing. I encourage you to bring some of the magic of Mother Earth into your home by adding the wild greens to your food, preparing a cup of tea with fresh plants or harvesting and drying herbs for later use. Goldenrod is one of those amazing herbs you can see everywhere right now.
Goldenrod is a fairly tall plant with beautiful, vibrant golden-yellow flowers. You will find it in dry woodlands, forest clearings and roadsides.
The Latin name Solidago originates from ?solidus? & ?ago,? Solidus, meaning ?healthy and strong,? and ago meaning ?to make whole.? Both of these terms refer to the plant?s ability to heal wounds.
Some common names for Goldenrod from various cultures also give an indication for its medicinal use as a wound healing herb, for example in Germany the herb is often called ?Fastening Herb?. In fact in ancient German history Goldenrod was gathered as a wound herb before engaging in battle, just in case it was needed.
However, the focus today for its use has shifted from a wound healing aid, to a very reliable herb to support the kidneys. It promotes the elimination of urine and is applied for acute as well as chronic conditions of the kidneys and bladder including inflammation. In addition it has been found to support the body during times of upper respiratory infections, especially when dealing with a chronic situation.
For medicinal purposes the leaves and flowers (early flowering stage) are being harvested and may be used fresh or dried. The fresh leaves and flowers can be used for wound healing or made into a tea, which can also be used as a wound wash. The dried herb may be used in the form of a tea as well but also as a tincture. A tincture is an alcoholic extract of a plant and is more concentrated than an herbal tea. The ?crafty? person might want to try to use the flowers as a natural dye.
This summer Goldenrod has been brightening up the landscape in so many places and the quality of it has been superb. Many times you will find it being ?infested? with many small bugs, but this year the only insects I have watched enjoying the bright, yellow flowers are butterflies and bees!
- If you are not sure how to prepare the herbs, remember that the DVD Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone provides clear and easy to follow instructions, teaching a great variety of herbal preparations. Check my website www.herbalinstructions.com for more information.
- Also remember the Herb Walk on August 20 if you would like to learn more about local plants and their medicinal properties.
Disclaimer
This information is not intended for the use of diagnosing any disease, condition or prescribing any treatment whatsoever. The use of any of the herbs and preparations is the sole responsibility of each individual and does not replace the services and advice of a medical practitioner and qualified healthcare provider. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making medical decisions or if you have questions about your individual medical situation. No responsibility is assumed should the information be used in place of a licensed medical practitioner’s services.
Tossing & Turning Instead of Sleeping Peacefully?
“Be happy for this Moment. This Moment is your Life.”
– Omar Khayyam
Many people are complaining about being challenged with sleep these days. Read on for a few useful hints to support restful sleep.
Sleep is complicated.
What works for one may not work for the next person. Also what has worked once may not work the next time.
Checklist
- Eliminate any stimulants such as coffee, black tea, sugar (especially at night)
- If taken at night certain supplements such as vitamin C may have enough of a stimulating effect to interfere with sleep in some individuals
- Peppermint, even though calming for the nervous system, has a stimulating effect on the metabolism and may interfere with sleep patterns in sensitive people
- Allergies/sensitivities to foods and inhalants can be the culprit
- Check your medications for potential side effects
- Treat the underlying cause. Many dis-ease processes may interfere with proper sleep (blood sugar imbalances, adrenal fatigue?)
- Getting up in the night to urinate may be a sign of kidney weakness in women and prostate issues in men
- Minimize stress levels and over-excitement at night
- Ensure adequate exercise during the day
- If you wake up once again feeling like you have been run over by a truck, relax, breathe deeply, take a hot shower and know that you are going to make it through the day okay. Accepting the situation is half the battle, pondering and being upset about it is creating more unnecessary stress
Some HERBAL ALLIES are (alone or in combination):
- Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) ? one of my favorites
- Lemon Balm (Melissa off.)
- Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)
- Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) ? Note: Adverse reactions to Chamomile are not uncommon
- St. John?s Wort (Hypericum perfoliatum) ? especially when (nerve) pain and/or depression are a factor
- Rescue Remedy
NOTE: Commercial herbal sleep blends frequently contain peppermint (too stimulating at night for many) and hops (not recommended for anyone with tendency to depression).
You can create a nice blend of dried herbs with any of the above herbs and enjoy a cup of tea at night or take them as a tincture.
Questions or comments?
Interested in any specific topics or workshops, contact me at 780-532-2464.
?Herb Walk” in July
“Love is a fruit in season at all times, and within reach for every hand.
Anyone may gather it and no limit is set. “
– Mother Teresa
Enjoy a day in nature while learning about local plants including herbs & weeds, their medicinal and food uses. We will start the day with a ceremony to honor Mother Earth, connect to plant spirit and much more…
LOCATION:? 1/2 hour west of Grande Prairie at our place
DATE:? Wednesday, July 17, 10 am ? 5 pm (weather permitting)
COST:? $80.00 including GST
Please let me know if you are interested in being part of the herb walk or if you have any questions. You can contact me via email at info@herbalinstructions.com or phone 780.532.2464.
DVD Trailer & New Website
Finally the DVD trailer is done!
If you are not sure what the DVD is about the trailer will give you a great overview. You can access the trailer from my new website www.herbalinstuctions.com specifically designed for the DVD.
Right now I am working on subtitles in Spanish, French and German for the next edition. Also the appendix of the DVD with precise instructions, all the formulas demonstrated plus additional information will soon be available as an e-book from this website as well.
We are blessed with an abundance of fresh growth of so many plants at this time of the year when Mother Earth is showing its colourful dress once again. Let?s remember to take care of the Earth like we care for our human loved ones. We can make a difference and make this world a better place to be for generations to come.
Blessings,
Gudrun
Herbal Pharmacy DVD Release
Rural Roots Magazine published an an article about the release of the new instructional DVD ?Herbal Pharmacy for Everyone ? A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Own Herbal Preparations?. Filmed in Mexico, this DVD is one of a kind. It shares tools of herbal medicine, the most ancient healing art, and provides all the information required to create your own herbal preparations with equipment found in any home kitchen wherever you live. Anybody interested in this subject matter, be it the newcomer or the experienced homegrown herbalist, will find valuable information and tools in this DVD.
Click Herbal Pharmacy DVD Guide to read the full article.
For more information about the DVD and how to order it, please click here.
ORDER DVD NOW!
JOURNEY TO HEALTH
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