Rose Cottage

 This morning I decided to make a batch of Elderberry syrup with fresh berries from our black lace Elder mama tree.  Elder tree mother and herbs I looked up several recipe/ tutorials, and decided to add other adaptogens (herbs that protect us from stress and disease) : several large Rose hips, ahandful of Ivan's Belle berries (Rowan/hawthorn cross) ginger, astragalus, Cinnamon and licorice. Adaptogens are tonic herbs which can be used daily, and boost our bodies' general health and immunity.  Elderberries and rose hips Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is high in phytonutrients, vitamin C, flavanoids and fiber, acts as an antioxidant, promotes heart health, lowers inflammation and stress, helps the respiratory system and lungs, boosts the immune system, aids blood sugar and pain management.  Astragalus is an antioxidants that inhibits free radical production, and has long been used in TCM. It can help protect us from colds and influenza, and can help the liver, spleen, k...

  "Not all of us have an Ascended Master living in our neighborhood, but we all have access to flowers. The flowers have never forgotten they are One with the Creator! "Flower essences are problem solving tools for whenever we feel out of balance. They are like  road maps for our electrical systems. " - Molly Sheehan,  Green Hope Farm Essence  Guide. Fascinated by and in love with flowers all my life, I began formulating essences in 1991 after reading about them, & realizing how simple they are to make! The timing was perfect, as I had just moved to work at Breitenbush Hot Springs, and been initiated as a Reiki Master.  While I enjoy making and having single essences, it can be a special treat to 'bottle' the energy of a season of the garden into a bouquet. These essence bouquets can form a sturdy foundation for embracing one's next steps! Some folks wonder about the number that can be combined - in our current age, our energy systems are under constant...