Onions

Onions

From the family Liliaceae

These plants are widely distributed throughout the world. The onion goes back to a time before historians, and has been in cultivation so long that its country of origins are now uncertain although most agree that it originated in Central Asia. It was probably introduced to Europe by the Romans. The name seems to have been derived from the Latin word 'unio' meaning a large pearl.
In the middle Ages it was believed that a bunch of onions hung outside the door would absorb the infection of the plague, saving the inhabitants. From this came the scientific recognition that its sulphur content acts as a strong disinfectant. The juice of the onion was used to heal gunshot wounds and burns caused by gunpowder.

Species

There are many, many varieties of Onion; the following information concerns the two that have herbal qualities.

Allium fistulosum

Welsh Onion

Also known as Japanese Leek. Evergreen hardy perennial. Ht60cm-90cm (2-3ft). Flowers of second year's growth greenish yellow in early summer. Leaves, green hollow cylinders. This onion is a native of Siberia and extensively grown in China and Japan. The name Welsh comes from 'walsch' meaning foreign.

Allium cepa Proliferum Group

Tree Onion

Also known as Egyptian Onion, Lazy Man's Onions. Hardy perennial. Ht 90- 150cm (3-5ft). Flowers small greenish white appear in early summer in the same place as its bulbs. It grows bulbs underground and then, at the end of flowering, bulbs in the air. Seeing is believing. It originates from Canada. It is very easy to propagate

Cultivation

Propagation

Seed

Welsh onion seed loses its viability within 2 years, so sow fresh in late winter, early spring under protection with a bottom heat of between 15°C (60°F) and21°C (70°F). Cover with Perlite. When the seedlings are large enough, and after a period of hardening off, plant out into a prepared site in the garden at a distance of 25cm (9in) apart. The tree onion is not grown from seed.

Division

Each year the Welsh onion will multiply in clumps, so it is a good idea to divide them every 3 years in the spring. Because the tree onion is such a big grower, it is a good idea to split the underground bulbs every 3 years in spring.

Bulbs

The air growing bulbils of the tree onion have small root systems, each one capable of reproducing another plant. Plant where required in an enriched soil either in the autumn, as the parent plant dies back, or in the spring.

Pests and Diseases

The onion fly is the curse of the onion family especially in late spring, early summer. The way to try and prevent this is to take care not to damage the roots or leaves when thinning the seedlings and also not to leave the thinning lying around, the scent attracts the fly.

Another problem is downy mildew caused by cool wet autumns; the leaves become velvety and die back. Again, too warm a summer may encourage white rot. Burn the affected plants and do not plant in the same position again.

Other characteristic diseases are neck rot and bulb rot, both caused by a Botrytis fungus that usually occurs as a result of the bulbs being damaged either by digging or hoeing.

Onions are prone to many more diseases but, if you keep the soil fertile and do not make life easy for the onion fly, you will still have a good crop.

Maintenance

Spring: Sow the seed; divide 3-year-old clumps of Welsh and tree onions. Plant bulbs of tree onions.
Summer: Stake mature tree onions to stop them falling over and depositing the ripe bulbils on the soil.
Autumn: Mulch around tree onion plants with well-rotted manure. Use a small amount around the Welsh onions.
Winter: Neither variety needs protection.
Garden Cultivation
Welsh Omens
These highly adaptable hardy onions will grow in any well-drained fertile soil. Seeds can be sown in spring after the frosts, direct into the ground. Thin to a distance of 25cm (9in) apart. Keep well watered throughout the growing season. In the autumn give the area a mulch of well-rotted manure.

Tree Onions

Dig in some well-rotted manure before planting. Plant the bulbs in their clusters in a sunny well-drained position at a distance of 30-45cm (12-18in) apart. In the first year nothing much will happen (unless you are one of the lucky ones). If the summer is very dry, water well. In the following year, if you give the plant a good mulch of well-rotted manure in autumn, it grows to 90-150cm (3-5ft) and produce masses of small onions.

Harvest

Welsh onions may be picked at any time from early summer onwards. The leaves do not dry well but can be frozen like those of their cousin, chives. Use scissors and snip them into a plastic bag. They form neat rings; freeze them.
The little tree onions can be picked off the stems and stored; lay them out on a rack in a cool place with good ventilation.

Culinary

Welsh onions make a great substitute for spring onions, as they are hardier and earlier. Pull and use in salads or stir fry dishes, chop and use instead of chives.
Tree onions provide fresh onion flavor throughout the year. The bulbils can be pickled or chopped raw in salads (fairly strong), or cooked whole in stews and casseroles.

Pissaladiere

Serves 4-6
4 tablespoons olive oil (not extra virgin)
20 tree onions, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 dessertspoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper 360g (¾ lb) once-risen bread dough
250g (½ lb) ripe tomatoes, peeled and sliced
60g (2oz) canned anchovy fillets, drained and halved lengthways
16 large black olives, halved and pitted
Heat the olive oil in a heavy frying pan, add the onions, cover the pan tightly and fry, gently stirring occasionally for 15 minutes. Add the garlic and the thyme and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the onions are reduced to a clear puree. Season to taste and leave to cool. Pre-heat the oven to 200°C (400°F, Gas mark 6).
Roll the bread dough directly on the baking sheet into a circle 25cm (10in) diameter. Spread the pureed onions evenly over the dough, put the tomato slices on the onions and top with a decorative pattern of anchovy fillets and olives.
Bake for 5 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 190°C (375°F, Gas mark 5) and continue to bake for 30 minutes or until the bread base is well risen and lightly browned underneath. Serve hot with a green herb salad.

Other uses

The onion is believed to help ward off colds in winter and also to induce sleep and cure indigestion. The fresh juice is antibiotic, diuretic, expectorant, antispasmodic, so useful in the treatment of coughs, colds, bronchitis, laryngitis and gastroenteritis. It is also said to lower the blood pressure and to help restore sexual potency which has been impaired by illness or mental stress.

Container growing

Welsh onions can be grown in a large pot using a soil-based compost, and make sure it does not dry out. Feed regularly throughout the summer with a liquid fertilizer. Tree onions grow too tall for containers.

Lady’s Mantle

From the family Rosaceae.

Lady's mantle is a native of the mountains of Europe, Asia and America. It is found not -A only in damp places but also in dry shady woods. The Arab 'alkemelych' (alchemy) was thought to be the source of the herb's Latin generic name, Alchemilla. The crystal dew lying in perfect pearl drops on the leaves have long inspired poets and alchemists, and was reputed to have healing and magical properties, even to preserve a woman's youth provided she collected the dew in May, alone, in full moonlight, naked, and with bare feet as a sign of purity and to ward off any lurking forces.

In the medieval period it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary, hence Lady's Mantle was considered a woman's protector, and nicknamed 'a woman's best friend', and was used not only to regulate the menstrual cycle and to ease the effects of menopause, but also to reduce inflammation of the female organs. In the 18th century, women applied the leaves to their breasts to make them recover shape after they had been swelled with milk. It is still prescribed by herbalists today.

Alchemilla conjuncta

Lady's Mantle Conjuncta Hardy perennial. Ht 30cm (12in), spread 30cm (12in) or more. Tiny, greenish-yellow flowers in summer. Leaves star-shaped, bright green on top with lovely silky silver hairs underneath. An attractive plant suitable for ground cover, rockeries and dry banks.

Species

Alchemilla alpina

Alpine Lady's Mantle Known in America as Silvery Lady's Mantle. Hardy perennial. Ht 15cm (6in), spread 60cm (24in) or more. Tiny, greenish-yellow flowers in summer. Leaves rounded, lobed, pale green and covered in silky hairs. An attractive plant suitable for ground cover, rockeries and dry banks.

Alchemilla mollis

Lady's Mantle (Garden variety) Hardy perennial. Ht and spread 50cm (20in). Tiny, greenish-yellow flowers in summer. Large, pale green, rounded leaves with crinkled edges.

Alchemilla xanthochlora (vulgaris)

Lady's Mantle (Wildflower variety) Also known as Lion's Foot, Bear's Foot and Nine Hooks. Hardy perennial. Ht 15-45cm (6-18in), spread 50cm (20in). Tiny, bright greenish/yellow flowers in summer. Round, pale green leaves with crinkled edges.

Cultivation

Propagation

Seed

Why is it that something that self-seeds readily around the garden can be so difficult to raise from seed? Sow its very fine seed in early spring or autumn into prepared seed or plug trays (use the cardboard method), and cover with Perlite. No bottom heat required. Germination can either be sparse or prolific, taking 2-3 weeks. If germinating in the autumn, winter seedlings in the trays and plant out the following spring when the frosts are over, at a distance of 45cm (18in) apart.

Division

All established plants can be divided in the spring or autumn. Replant in the garden where desired.

Pests and Diseases

This plant rarely suffers from pests or disease.

Maintenance

Spring: Divide established plants. Sow seeds if necessary. Summer: To prevent self-seeding, cur off flower heads as they begin to die back. Autumn: Divide established plants if necessary. Sow seed. Winter: No need for protection.

Garden Cultivation

This fully hardy plant grows in all but boggy soils, in sun or partial shade. Seed can be sown in spring where you want the plant to flower. Thin the seedlings to 30cm (12in) apart. This is a most attractive garden plant in borders or as an edging plant, but it can become a bit of a nuisance, seeding everywhere. To prevent this, cut back after flowering and at the same time cut back old growth.

Harvest

Cut young leaves after the dew has dried for use throughout the summer. Harvest for drying as plant comes into flower.

Container Growing

All forms of Lady's Mantle adapt to growing and look very pretty indeed. Use a (following manufacturer's instructions) only occasionally. In the winter, when the plant dies back, put the container in a cold greenhouse or cold frame, and water only very occasionally. Lady's Mantle can be grown in hanging baskets as a centre piece.

Medicinal

Used by herbalists for menstrual disorders. It has been said that if you drink an infusion of green parts of the plant for 10 days each month it will help relieve menopausal discomfort. It can also be used as a mouth rinse after tooth extraction. Traditionally, the alpine species has been considered more effective, although this is not proven.

Culinary

Tear young leaves, with their mild bitter taste, into small pieces and toss into salads. Many years ago Marks & Spencer had a yoghurt made with Lady's Mantle leaves! I wish I had tried it.

Other uses

Excellent for flower arranging. Leaves can be boiled for green wool dye and are used in veterinary medicine for the treatment of diarrhoea.

Anise Hyssop

Also known as Giant Hyssop, Anise Hyssop, Blue Giant Hyssop, Fennel Hyssop, Fragrant Giant Hyssop. From the family Labiatae. Anise hyssop is a native of North America, the Mosquito Plant and A. mexicana 'Brittonastrum mexicana' are from Mexico, and A. rugosa is from Korea. There are few references to the history of this lovely herb. According to Allen Paterson, Director of the Royal Botanical Garden in Ontario, it is a close cousin of the Bergamots. It is common in North American herb gardens and is certainly worth including in any herb garden for its flowers and scent. The long spikes of purple, blue and pink flowers are big attractions for bees and butterflies.

Species

Agastache cana

The Mosquito Plant Hall-hardy perennial. Ht 60cm (2ft), spread 30cm (1ft). Pink tubular flowers in the summer with aromatic oval mid-green toothed leaves.

Agastache mexicana 'Brittonastrum mexicana' (or 'Cedronella mexican')

Half-hardy perennial. Ht 1m (3ft), spread 30cm (1ft). In summer whorls of small tubular flowers in shades from pink to crimson. Leaves oval pointed, toothed and mid-green with an eucalyptus scent.

Agastache rugosa

Korean Mint Hardy perennial. Ht lm (3ft), spread 30cm (1ft). Lovely mauve/purple flower spikes in summer. Distinctly minty scented mid-green oval pointed leaves.

Agastache foeniculum

Anise Hyssop Hardy perennial. Ht 60cm (2ft), spread 30cm (1ft). Long purple flower spikes in summer. Aniseed scented mid-green oval leaves.

Container Growing

Not suitable for growing indoors. However, anise hyssop and Korean mint both make good patio plants provided the container is at least 25- 30cm (10-12in) diameter. Use the bark, peat mix of compost, and a liquid fertilizer feed only once a year after flowering. If you feed the plant beforehand, the flowers will be poor. Keep well watered in summer.

Cultivation

Propagation

A. mexicana can only be propagated by cuttings.

Seed

The small fine seeds need warmth to germinate: 17°C (65°F). Use the cardboard method and artificial heating if sowing in early spring.

Use either prepared seed or plug trays or if you have only a few seeds directly into a pot and cover with Perlite. Germination takes 10-20 days.

One can also sow outside in the autumn when the soil is warm, but the voting plants will need protection throughout the winter months.

When the seedlings are large enough to handle prick out and pot on using a bark or peat mix of compost. In mid-spring, when air and soil temperature has risen, plant out al a distance of 45cm (18in).

Cuttings

Take cuttings of soft young shoots in spring: when all the species root well. Use 50pei cent bark, 50per cent peat mix of compost. After a full period of weaning cuttings should be strong enough to plant out in the early autumn.

Semi-ripe wood cuttings may be taken in late summer, use the same compost mix. After they have rooted, pot up, and winter in a cold frame or cold greenhouse.

Division

This is a good alternative way to maintain a short-lived perennial. In the second or third year divide the creeping roots either by the 'forks back-to-back' method, or by digging up the whole plant and dividing.

Pests and Diseases

Being an aromatic plant, pests keep their distance. Rarely suffers from disease, although seedlings can damp off.

Maintenance

Spring: Sow seeds. Summer: Take softwood or semi-ripe cuttings late season.

Autumn: Tidy up the plants by cutting back the old flower heads and woody growth. Sow seeds. Protect young plants from frost. Winter: Protect half-hardy species (and Anise hyssop below -6°C (20°F)) with either agricultural fleece, bark or straw.

Garden Cultivation

All species like a rich, moist soil and full sun, and will adapt very well to most ordinary soils if planted in a sunny situation. All are short lived and should be propagated each year to ensure continuity.

Anise hyssop, although hardier than the other species, still needs pro-lection below-6°C (20°F).

The Mexican half-hardy species need protection below -3°C (26°F).

Harvest

Flowers

Cut for drying just as they begin to open.

Leaves

Cut leaves just before late spring flowering

Seeds

Heads turn brown as the seed ripens. At the first sign of the seed falling, pick and hang upside down with a paper bag tied over the heads.

Other uses

Anise Hyssop, Korean Mini and Agastache mexicana all have scented leaves which makes them suitable for potpourris.

Culinary

Anise Hyssop

Leaves can be used in salads and to make refreshing tea. Like borage, they can be added to summer fruit cups. Equally they can be chopped and used as a seasoning in pork dishes or in savory rice.

Flowers can be added to fruit salads and cups giving a lovely splash of color.

Korean Mint

Leaves have a strong peppermint flavor and make a very refreshing tea, said to be good first thing in the morning after a night on the town. They are also good chopped up in salads, and the flowers look very attractive scattered over a pasta salad.

Happy New Year! [Don't Forget to Start it With a Green Smoothie Challenge ;)]

I want to wish all of my readers a very happy and healthful New Year!  May the goals you set be fulfilled and may your health improve by leaps and bounds.  May the New Year be filled with warm friendships, loving relationships and a joyful heart. 

To all of you!

vegan Tiramisu

To help you start off the New Year right I have issued a 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse [Challenge]. Go to the link, read all about it and make sure to join the rest of us in it. 

Happy New Year!

Green Smoothie Recipes and Musings

If you have not yet read about the 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse [my Challenge to you], make sure to visit the latest post and join the revolution.  A lot of readers and health seekers have already responded and we will start rocking it out in the next few days.  Don't miss your opportunity to start the New Year off on the right... meal ;)

As I am typing this post I am drawn to the kitchen--my senses are overwhelmed with the most amazing smell of freshly made borsch--a Russian soup gone vegan :)

I am planning to gobble it up with freshly made whole wheat bread [DELICIOUSNESS!].

If you are a raw foodie and still want to taste the goodness of this soup, your prayers have been answered.  I have a raw vegan borsch recipe just for you!  Go to this thread for it. 

I also have to tell you that I am super psyched because I was notified that I won an herb basket from Raw Epicurean--one of my favorite raw vegan bloggers. I even did a little dance in my office chair this morning when I got her e-mail. See the goodies that I am getting: 

There are more goodies coming my way than what you see in the image!  

If you don't yet follow Raw Epicurean's blog, make sure to add it to your feed!

A little too much excitement for one day?!  Nah! I can handle more.  And to share my excitement here are 3 Green Smoothie recipes for all those who love their bodies and want to treat them to the best food out there. 

Orange Ginger Green Smoothie

• 3 cups water
• 3 extra large collard greens leaves
• 1 banana
• 2 oranges, peeled and seeded
• 1 inch of ginger root
• 1 tbsp raw honey

Pear Chard Green Smoothie

• 2 cups water
• 1 banana
• 2 ripe pears, seeded
• 3 large leaves chard greens

Green Warrior Green Smoothie

• 3 cups water
• 1/4 cup George's aloe vera
• 2 pink lady apples
• 1 large head Romaine lettuce
• 1 tsp Blue-Green Algae [by Health Force Nutritionals]
• 1 tbs raw maca root powder
• 2 tbsp hemp seeds

As you can imagine, having had these for the last few days, I am feeling fabulous! I am full of energy, need less sleep and up to a lot of mischief. If you want to feel the same way make sure to join me on the 3-day Green Smoothie Challenge.

3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse [Challenge]

Hello, lovely people. It is me again, and I am up to mischief.

With holidays almost behind us our waistlines are expending and I thought it is about time we I did something about that. So, I decided to challenge as many people as possible to a 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse. Why? To help them get started on a health quest and jump start much needed healing and detox in their [our] polluted bodies!

There was a time in my life when I went from a perfect size body to being over 40 lbs overweight due to stress, lack of sleep and poor eating. You can read about it HERE.  But then I got tired of being tired, not feeling well about myself and sick of being sick, so I took matters into my own hands.  The Transformation was amazing.  Check it out: 

Between the both of us we lost 90 lbs!

Ever since then I have been on a mission to help others do the same thing!

DETAILS: 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse

WHEN: We will kick off the cleanse on Monday, 1/3/2011. 

WHAT: We [all who sign up to participate] will consume ONLY Green Smoothies for 3 straight days!

WHY?

Standard American Diet {SAD} is filled with processed and chemical filled foods. Our bodies become overwhelmed with pushing that junk through and get tired, worn out and backed up. Literally! The chemical waste gets built up in our system making it hard to properly digest even nutritious foods, let alone the junk that feels our tables on a daily basis.

The goal of the cleanse is to loosen up some of that junk and get it out of your system, kick starting it to better digest and process nutritious foods that I hope you will start eating after the cleanse. The cleanse will help you start eliminating properly [to be plain you will have better bowel movements, thus expelling junk out of your body; remember WASTE=WEIGHT]. It will also get some of the toxins built up in our body out and you might even lose a pound or two in the 3 days.

I have done this challenge with many health seekers before. Everyone who participated to date experienced a lot of positive change in their bodies and even their mind--cleaner body means a more alert mind! I am going to include a few of their testimonies at the end of this post.

HOW?

I will be with you all 3 days. No, not in person, of course, but I will stay in touch with all participants via e-mails and videos.

The only things that you will need to participate in this cleanse are:

1. a blender: quality of blenders vary, but for this challenge any blender that can blend fruit and greens will do [more details in the 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse e-guide];

2. a 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse e-guide. The guide will cost you $7 but trust me it's an investment worth making. You can find all details about the guide and testimonies of those who used it HERE. The guide is filled with tips, ingredient lists, and 30 recipes to help you during the cleanse. It will also tell you what to expect during the cleanse. You can click the above mentioned link to read about the guide and get a personal copy, or click on the bottom right below to purchase your own guide. The Guide is available for immediate download, just make sure to follow link in the e-mail you get.

 $7

3. Fruit and green leafy vegetables--there is a comprehensive list in the e-guide that will help you make decision on which fruit and greens to buy.

That's it! Once you make the decision to do it and get equipped [getting items 1-3] I will be in touch with you via e-mail and videos to cheer you on.

I would strongly encourage you to also subscribe to my bi-weekly Newsletter so you can receive exclusive recipes and tips for health and weight loss. You can do it by following this LINK.

Can Anyone Do the Cleanse?

YES! If you have health issues, however, it might be a great idea to talk to your doctor first about concerns you might have. I would also suggest that expecting and lactating mothers avoid cleanses. They can successfully add at least 32 oz or more of green smoothies to their diet and slowly eliminate harmful foods. However, doing a cleanse might be harmful to the baby, because the toxins will be leaving their bodies in concentrated amounts.

Will I Starve?

I can assure you that unless you are skipping meals you won't!! Green smoothies are filled with nutrition and you will get an array of nutrients and vitamins. Details of what to expect during the cleanse can be found in the e-guide.

I like to Work Out, Will I Get Enough Protein on the Cleanse?

Totally!! I actually encourage people to work out during the cleanse, even if moderately, to encourage better oxygen supply. You will get all necessary protein that you need for muscle building.

To read more on the topic of protein read these two Newsletter I sent out my Newsletter Subscribers. They should put your mind at rest.

Myth Buster #1: Protein, Part I

Myth Buster #1: Protein, Part II

[You can start receiving your own bi-weekly Newsletter copy by following this link and filling in your information].

So, Where and HOW do I Sign Up?

1. Get a copy of the 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse e-guide

 $7

2. Subscribe to the Newsletter

3. Send me an e-mail and let me know that you are in

After that I will be in touch with you.

What Can I Expect After the Cleanse

I am glad you are asking. I will be staying in touch to let you know what you can do to continue on the path of health after you jump start your body and get some of the toxins out.

Meanwhile you can also start following this blog: Eat Healthy! Be Happy! Vegan Recipes and Living. You can visit the blog as often as you need--it is filled with recipes, tips and insight; you can also sign up for it to be delivered to your favorite on-line RSS feed reader [such as Google Reader] or directly to your Inbox--you decide.

What Others Said About 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse

I promise you that these people are real and they truly participated in the 3-Day Cleanse :)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I really had an easy time with the 3-Day Cleanse. I felt great!

Recipes were very helpful to get through the 3 days—not much to think about.

2 months later: I am still doing green smoothies. People are saying I look like I’m losing weight and looking younger :-) I really am losing weight!!! I notice that my hair is shinier also. I now have Green Smoothies at least 5 out of 7 days each week! I love it when I'm working, for breakfast and for dinner.

~ Nina M

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I enjoyed the guide—it was helpful. I was already following your 30-day Green Smoothie Cleanse, so this helped me to take it to another level.

I experiences some detox during the Cleanse, but also benefited from a 3 lbs weight drop.

Green Smoothies fit perfectly into my life—so easy to make and take with me in the morning. Not to mention that they are refreshing and tasty—better than my old morning habit.

Now I am beginning to not be able to think of my life without my daily dose of green.

~Kristin

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I enjoyed the Green Smoothie Cleanse and I appreciated your e-guide—it was helpful to know what ingredients to use and what to expect. The guide answered a lot of my questions. It was easy to read; well laid out; lovely bright colorful pictures. I liked the way you explained all the different ingredients.

During the cleanse I felt lighter physically. I felt like I could think more clearly, experiencing less mental fogginess. I felt like I had tremendous energy on day one!

I am now inspired to add more greens to my diet and to eat healthier, because I saw how much energy the greens gave me! And they helped with mental clarity as well.

~Natasha

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I loved the 3-Day Cleanse and found the guide to be incredibly helpful. I have been drinking green smoothies in the morning for breakfast or in the afternoon for lunch pretty consistently for a year. The guide taught me so much more. It added another layer of knowledge. I broadened my ingredient list to my everyday smoothie making.

When I started the Cleanse, I had just come back from a 12 day vacation and the Cleanse was perfect timing. I felt bloated, lethargic and had gained about 5 lbs. The 3 days brought me back to my normal self. Lost the weight and felt great!

Honestly the best thing about the challenge is the effect of the increased knowledge! Thank you.

~Jessica M.

[There are more testimonies inside the Cleanse Guide!]

So Are You IN?

Let me know if you decide to take charge of your health and weight and look and feel fabulous this coming year.

To read the entire story of my health quest visit ABOUT ME page on the blog.

Wishing you a Great and Healthy, Confidence Filled New Year!

Guest Post: Looking for Foods with Unprocessed Vegan Ingredients?

Hi, gang!  Hope everyone is doing well and staying well during the onset of the winter season.  If you have not yet read how I stay well and fight flues and colds, you absolutely MUST to protect yourselves. I promise you that what I talk about is tried and true--I just got over a cold in less than 48 hours myself!  YES, you can beat a cold in 2 days NATURALLY!  You can read following articles to learn the trick of the trade: Comfort Food--Vegan Bread Pudding, Staying Well During the Flu and Cold Season and Treating Colds and Flues Naturally. It is certainly not something your doctor will tell you about, but it sure works like a charm every time. 

Today I would like to introduce you to Cindy Cullen. Cindy is a graduate in Restaurant Management and also a formally trained chef, who created the site CulinaryArtsCollege.org to share her graduate life experience. As students couldn't find the right Culinary college for themselves while trying to make a career in Hotel Industry, so Cindy created this site to inform them about the educational process, their degree options, some pitfalls to watch out for, and what to expect when attending a culinary arts college. As a well trained chef she is acquainted with different cooking styles and recipes of different regions. She also has the passion to write about different culinary art colleges , foodie people and food available around the world.

Cindy contacted me a few weeks ago and we started to talk about her writing an article about Unprocessed Vegan Foods--a theme right up my alley.  It was very refreshing to hear a mainstream chef understand vegan diet, so I wanted her to write an article and offer a scrumptious recipe to my readers, which she was excited to do.  When I read the article I was tickled pink--Cindy shares same views on eating unprocessed whole foods as I do!  So, without further ado, here is Cindy. 

Looking for Foods with Unprocessed Vegan Ingredients?

Some people are born vegans, and for some it’s a choice they make as they grow older and assume responsibility for their well-being and health. I belong to the second category – I took the vegan route soon after college. It was more a decision based on health reasons than a conscious effort on my part – I was a near-vegetarian all my life, and when I became allergic to dairy, I decided to become vegan. However, turning vegan did not really improve my overall well-being, simply because I was eating too many foods that were processed. 

The trouble with processed food is that:

• They’re stripped of all or most of their natural nutritional value

• Additives like salt, sugar are included, both of which are not good for your body

• Preservatives and chemicals are used to increase the shelf life of processed goods

Most of us buy processed food because they’re convenient; they save us the trouble of cooking full meals, and they’re delicious because of all the additives. But if you’ve sworn off processed food and are a vegan, don’t worry that your food choices are limited. There’s much you can do and much you can make:

• For starters, don’t look for ways to spice up the taste of your food – if you’ve sworn off dairy and meat, don’t go searching for dressings that purport to be “creamy” yet “dairy-free” and soy that’s processed to taste like “meat”. You’re only fooling yourself into thinking you’re eating healthy. 

• Avoid buying ready-to-eat foods, even those that have the vegan sign emblazoned on them. Cook all your meals at home where you’re in control of all the ingredients. And if you don’t have the time to cook every day, make large batches every weekend and freeze them in smaller sized portions. 

• Choose organic, local or seasonal vegetables and fruits – they may be a more expensive, yet they’re fresh and free from pollutants and chemicals that are as bad as the chemicals in processed food. 

• Don’t eat out unless you’re sure your food is completely vegan – some dishes have butter, cream or grated cheese added to them, and these are dairy products as well as processed food. 

• Add spices like turmeric, sage, rosemary and thyme to your food and reduce the amount of salt – a dash of lime is tasty too and much healthier than salt. 

• Learn how to make sauces, gravies and dressings from scratch – it’s easy once you start making them, and you avoid all the preservatives that are present in the store-bought alternatives. 

• Don’t buy ready-made juices and soft drinks – make your own smoothies at home from fresh fruit. 

• Browse the web for innovative recipes that don’t use processed or non-vegan ingredients, and don’t be afraid to experiment. When it comes to food, anything goes as long as it’s edible and healthy.

Just to help you along, here’s a simple vegan salad recipe that’s made out of unprocessed ingredients. You will need:

• One cup cooked wholegrain pasta (if you don’t want pasta, you can replace it with boiled chickpeas)
• Four cloves of garlic
• Two cups of chopped basil
• A few walnuts
• Two chopped ripe tomatoes
• Six to eight ounces of silken tofu
• Salt to taste

Mince the garlic and nuts in the blender; add the tofu, basil, salt and a few tablespoons of water and blend thoroughly. Toss the pasta (or chickpeas), tomatoes and the sauce, sprinkle a few nuts and chopped basil on the salad, and serve.

When you boil the chickpeas, don’t throw away the drained water – instead, use it to make vegetable stock that you can add to your soups and to thicken your gravies. 

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I don't know about you, but I am salivating just reading this recipe.  I will have to make it this week for sure!

Thank you, Cindy!

Folks, Cindy welcomes your comments under this post. 

Merry Chrismas, Y'All!

I want to wish all of my dear readers a wonderful Christmas!  May it be centered around the person whose birthday we will be celebrating--Jesus.  May we not forget in all the hustle and bustle what this holiday is about.  Remember to share your joy with others and spread good cheer to all. 

My hubby and I decided to stay home this Christmas and enjoy each other's company.  He requested THREE (!) desserts :

• apple pie
• upside down apple cake
• and tiramisu

This is a recent photo taken at a Christmas party. We reconnected with our college friends.

There will also be a salad, green smoothies in the morning, and a main dish will be vareniki [sort of like potato ravioli, aka pirogi]. 

I know it does not sound very traditional, and it is not.  When it comes to food, although I strive to honor tradition when appropriate, I tend to go by what we feel like eating that special day. 

I was thinking that if I get done making all delicious meals early tomorrow I might be up for a last minute, before Christmas giveaway.  I am thinking about giving away a few copies of my Delicious Guilt Free Vegan Desserts e-book and the 3-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse.  What do you think?  But I do have to get done with all of my cooking first :)!

Learn Easy Steps For Facial At Home.

Materials: Herbal cream, face pack, rose water, cotton, facial belt, napkin, astringent, camphor lotion, steamer, blackhead remover, sponge, water, plastic bowl.
Theory: Cleansing should be done before facial. 
             Facial is done according to the age limit.
             30 & above---within 15 days
             18 & below 30 ---within one month.
             Facial is done after 18 years of age.
Presure Point: It means a little pressure with your ring finger and rotate thrice.
             Facial creams for different skin types.
            Oily skin---Sandal
             Dry skin---Almond
             Normal skin---Herbal
Herbal face pack suits all skin types. Apply thick layer in summer and thin layer during winter.

Massage steps for different face parts: Apply cream in the form of dots and then spread evenly all over the face and neck.
CHEST: With the help of fingers massage in circular manner on the chest with a pressure point on the clavicle.
COLLAR BONE: Hold the collar in between the first and second finger and massage it.
NECK: Massage with both the hands in upward direction.
DOUBLE CHIN: Keep both the thumbs on the center of the chin and with the help of fingers and massage in circular manner upto the ears.
CHIN: Hold the chin in between the first and rest fingers and massage.
UPPER LIPS: With the help of thumbs massage in circular manner starting from the centre of the upperlips to the centre of the chin.
CHEEKS: With the help of fingers massage from chin to ear, then ear to lips and finally from lips to the temples with end with a pressure point.
NOSE: Massage with thumb on the top of the nose to the temples ending with a pressure point.
EYES: Massage with fingers first in clockwise and then in anticlockwise direction.
EYEBROWS: Hold the eyebrows in between the thumb and the first finger with a little pressure to the end of the eyebrows.
FOREHEAD: First massage with the first finger in a zig zag manner. Then with the fingers in circular manner all over the forehead starting from the centre of the forehead.
Then tap lightly all over the face. Wipe off the cream with cotton. Take steam and remove blackheads. Apply pack for 15 minutes and then wash it off. Finally apply toner.

Chamomile

Chamomile From the Family Compositae

Chamomile grows wild in Europe, North America, and many other countries. As a garden escapee, it can be found in pasture and other grassy places on sandy soils.

The generic name, Chamaemelum, is derived from the Greek Khamaimelon, meaning 'Earth Apple' or 'apple on the ground'.

Species

Chamaemelum nobile

Roman Chamomile

Also known as Garden Chamomile, Ground Apple, Low Chamomile and Whig Plant Hardy perennial evergreen. Ht 10cm (4in), spread 45cm (18in). White flowers with yellow centres all summer. Sweet smelling, finely divided foliage. Ideal for ground cover. Can be used as a lawn, but because it flowers it will need constant cutting.

Chamaemelum nobile 'Flore Pleno'

Double-flowered Chamomile

Hardy perennial evergreen. Ht 8cm (3in), spread 30cm (12in). Double white flowers all summer. Sweet-smelling, finely divided, thick foliage. Good for ground cover, in between paving stones and lawns. More compact habit than Roman Chamomile, and combines well with Chamomile Treneague.

Chamaemelum nobile 'Treneague' (Anthemis nobilis Treneague')

Chamomile Treneague

Also known as Lawn Chamomile Hardy perennial evergreen. Ht 6cm (2.5in), spread 15cm (6in). Non-flowering. Leaves are finely divided and very aromatic. Ideal for ground cover or mow-free lawn. Plant in well-drained soil, free from stones, 10-15cm (4-6in) apart.

Anthemis tinctoria

Dyers Chamomile

Also known as Yellow Chamomile Hardy perennial evergreen. Ht and spread lm (3ft). Yellow daisy flowers in the summer. Leaves are mid-green and fern like. Principally a dye plant.

Matricaria recutita

German Chamomile

Also known as Scented Mayweed, Wild Chamomile Hardy annual. Ht 60cm (24in), spread 10cm (4in). Scented white flowers with conical yellow centres from spring to early summer. Finely serrated aromatic foliage. The main use of this chamomile is medicinal.

Cultivation

Propagation

Seed

Dyers, Roman and German chamomiles can be grown from seed. Sow onto the surface of a prepared seed or plug tray. Use a bark, grit, peat compost. Cover with Perlite. Use bottom heat 19°C (65°F). Harden off and plant out or pot on.

Cuttings

Double-flowered chamomile and Chamomile Treneague can only be propagated this way. Take cuttings in the spring and autumn from the offsets or clusters of young shoots. They are easy to grow as they have aerial roots.

Division

All perennial chamomiles planted as specimen plants will benefit from being lifted in the spring of their second or third year and divided.

Pests and Diseases

As all the chamomiles are j highly aromatic they are not troubled by pests or disease.

Maintenance

Spring: Collect offshoots, sow seeds. Fill in holes that have appeared in the chamomile lawn. Divide established plants. Give a liquid fertilizer feed to all -established plants.

Summer: Water well. Do not allow to dry out. In the first season of a lawn, trim the plants to encourage bushing out and spreading. In late summer collect flowers from the Dyers chamomile and cut the plant back to 6cm (2in) to promote new growth.

Autumn: Take cuttings. Divide if they have become too invasive. Cut back to promote new growth. Give the final Iced of the season.

Winter: Only protect in extreme weather.

Garden Cultivation

All the chamomiles prefer a well-drained soil and a sunny situation, although they will adapt to most conditions.

As a lawn plant, chamomile gets more credit than it deserves. Chamomile lawns are infinitely less easy to maintain in good condition than grass lawns. There is no selective herbicide that will preserve chamomile and kill the rest of the weeds. It is a hands-and-knees job.

Prepare the site well, make sure the soil is light, slightly acid, and free from weeds and stones. Plant young plants in plug form. I use a mix of double-flowered and Treneague chamomile at a distance of 10-15cm (4-6in) apart. Keep all traffic off it for at least 12 weeks, and keep it to the minimum during the first year.

If all this seems daunting, compromise and plant a chamomile seat. Prepare the soil in the same way and do not sit on the seat for at least 12 weeks. Then sit down, smell the sweet aroma and sip a cool glass of wine. Summer is on hand . . .

Harvest

Leaves

Gather in spring and early summer for best results. Use fresh or dry.

Flowers

Pick when fully open, around mid-summer. Use fresh or dry. Dyers chamomile flowers should be harvested in summer for their yellow dye.

Companion planting

Chamomile has the unique name Physician's Plant because, when planted near ailing plants, it helps to revive them. Roman Chamomile can be planted next to onions to repel flying insects and improve the crop yield.

Chamomile Infusion

Bring 600ml (1 pint) water to the boil. Add a handful of chamomile leaves and flowers. Cover and let it stand for about half a day Strain.

Spray it onto seedlings to prevent 'damping off. If there is any liquid left pour it onto your compost heap. This acts like an activator for decomposition.

Container growing

I would not advise growing chamomiles indoors, as they get very leggy, soft and prone to disease. But the flowers can look very cheerful in a sunny window box. Use Chamomile 'Flore Pleno', which has a lovely double flower head or the non-flowering C. Treneague as an infill between bulbs, with a bark, grit, peat compost.

Cosmetic

Chamomile is used as a final rinse for fair hair to make it brighter. It should be poured over your hair several times. Pour 1 liter (l34 pints) boiling water over one handful of chamomile flowers and steep for 30 minutes. Strain, rover and allow to cool.

Medicinal

German chamomile's highly scented dry flower heads contain up to 1 per cent of an aromatic oil that possesses powerful antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Taken as a tea, it promotes gastric secretions and improves the appetite, while an infusion of the same strength can be used as an internal antiseptic. It may also be used as a douche or gargle for mouth ulcers and as an eye wash.

Oil for skin rashes or allergies can be made by tightly packing flower heads into a preserving jar, covering with olive oil and leaving in the sun for three weeks. If you suffer from overwrought nerves, add five or six drops of chamomile oil to the bath and this will help you relax at night.

Chamomile tea

1 heaped teaspoon chamomile flowers (dried or fresh)

1 teaspoon honey slice of lemon (optional)

Put the chamomile flowers into a warm cup. Pour on boiling water. Cover and leave to infuse for 3-5 minutes. Strain and add the honey and lemon, if required. Can be drunk either hot or cold.

Other uses

Dyers Chamomile can be used as a dye plant. Depending on the mordant, its color can vary from bright to olive/brown yellow.

German and Double-flowered Chamomile are best for herb pillows and pot pourri.

Herbs and Supplement

The herbs are traditionally used in various countries either in cooking, in some diseases and others. The herbs are commonly called the plants that are valued for their qualities like medicinal properties, flavor, and scent.

The herbs are quite useful as some people use it for medicinal purposes while some are used for culinary purposes. In various parts of the world, there are various types of herbs that grow. Today, most of the people are in favor of using herbs, and herbal treatments and in some cases the herbs are used for spiritually too.

The best think about the herbs is that it has no side effects and so people mostly prefer it. In case of medicinal herbs the shrub or woody plants are used while the culinary herb is the non woody plants. Mostly the roots, flowers, seeds, root back, inner back, berries, and sometimes the pericarp and leafy parts are also used. There are so many sites that offer information various herbs that are used for medicinal spiritual or culinary purposes. The bets thing is ask any expert before using the herbs as it is better to be careful. Some herbs are used in making some fermented beverages too.

There are so many books that are written about various herbs and their uses. The proper knowledge is very important whenever you plan to try any herb. The aroma of the herbs and the flavors are used for so many purposes. Doe che

One can also find the list of the various popular herbs on the web and even about their qualities. he use of herbs is considered as one of the bets alternative treatment. In asian culture the use of herbs is quite common in culinary and cooking. Whenever you plan to buy any herb, make sure that you are getting what you actually want.

The herbal products are also in high demand these days, take for example of herbal shampoos and herbal beauty creams and now even the herbal toothpastes. Most people prefer these herbal products as they want to avoid the use of harsh chemicals which can have harmful effects. Due to increase in the demand of the herbal products more and more companies are offering their range of herbal products especially in the category of beauty. You will find so many herbal beauty soaps, herbal hair and skin products and much more. Some of these products are homemade too, and some people use their own methods to utilize the herbs.

Take for example the aloe vera which is a leafy plant, the gel inside its leaf is used in making various products. Some people apply it on burns to get rid of the burnt scars if applied properly and regularly. Similarly, some people grow some herbs in their own garden and use then in cooking too.

There are some sites that offer information on how to use the herbs in various forms. Always make sure that whenever you plan to buy the herbal products make sure that you are getting really the best quality. There are some companies that offer good quality herbal products while some also offer bad quality herbal products to. The best nail polish brands out there are OPI nail polish as well as Creative Nail.These brands are perfect for women who want creative nail designs for their elegant fingers because these are quality polishes.

Here some Popular Herbs:

• Chamomile
• Anise Hyssop
• Lady Mantle
• Onions
• Garlic
• Chives
• Bugle
• Aloe Vera
• Lemon Verbena
• Marsh Mallow
• Dill
• Angelica
• Chervil
• Horseradish
• Arnica
• Southernwood
• Wormwood
• Tarragon
• Orach
• Black Horehound
• Borage
• Calamint
• Incense Plant
• Marigold
• Caraway
• Balm of Gilead
• Good King Henry
• Chicory
• Lily of the Valley
• Coriander
• Pinks
• Foxglove
• Horsetail
• Vipers Bugloss
• Salad Rocket
• Meadowsweet
• Fennel
• Wild Strawberry
• Sweet Woodruff
• Liquorice
• Curry Plant
• Sweet Rocket
• Hops
• Henbane
• St Johns Wort
• Hyssop
• Elecampane
• Iris
• Juniper
• Bay
• Lavender
• Lovage
• Honeysuckle
• Mallow
• White Horehound
• Lemon Balm
• Mint
• Pennyroyal
• Bergamot
• Sweet Cicely
• Myrtle
• Catmint
• Basil
• Evening Primrose
• Oregano and Marjoram
• Poppy
• Scented Geraniums
• Parsley
• Jerusalem Sage
• Poke Root
• Solomons Seal
• Jacobs Ladder
• Cowslip
• Primrose
• Prostanthera
• Self Heal
• Lungwort
• Rosemary
• Sorrel
• Rue
• Sage
• Elder
• Salad Burnet
• Cotton Lavender
• Soapwort
• Skullcap
• Savory
• Houseleek
• Goldenrod
• Betony
• Comfrey
• Alecost
• Pyrethrum
• Tansy
• Feverfew
• Dandelion
• Wall Germander
• Wood Sage
• Thyme
• Nasturtium
• Nettle
• Valerian
• Red Valerian
• Vervain
• Heartsease
• Violet
• Tropical herbs
• Propagation
• Planning your Herb Garden
• Herb Gardens
• First herb garden
• Herb bath garden
• Aromatherapy herb garden
• White herb garden
• Salad herb garden
• Medicinal herb garden
• Cooks herb garden
• Natural dye garden
• Potpourri garden
• Roman herb garden
• Herbs in Containers
• Harvesting
• Herb Oils Vinegars and Preserves
• Herbal Medicine
• Healing with Herbs
• Value of Using Whole Plants
• Aromatherapy Soothing Scents
• Bach Flower Remedies

Head Massage Steps For Healthy And Shiny Hair.

Materials: Hair oil (Castor, Olive, Coconut), Coton, Plastic Bowl, Steamer, Hair Comb.
Procedure: Take a little amount of warm oil in a bowl. Heat it gently. Take middle parting with the help of a comb and apply oil with the help of a cotton. Make partings and apply oil with the help of cotton. Make partings and apply oil on the whole head.
               Once oil is applied comb the hair. Starting from the center of the forehead massage the forehead with the help of the fingers in the form of circles towards the end of the eyebrows with a pressure point at the end of the eyebrows. In the same way massage the whole head with a pressure point. Each step is to be done for three times.

              Then take a small strand of hair, roll it in clockwise direction and stretch it or pull it for 3 times with one hand.i.e left one holding the head. Then roll it in anticlockwise direction and stretch it in the same manner for 3 times. Perform the same step for the whole head and comb.
              Next is soothing step. Move the tip of your fingers in circular direction all ober the head. Now add a little oil on the top of the head and tap with the help of your palms.
              Join your hands, hold in upward direction and with the help of your little fingers tap on all over the head. Next, with your two thumbs massage the back neck in the circular manner in both upward and downward direction.
             Massage upto the end of upper arm. Punch the back lightly. Now, take steam with the help of a steamer. Instead of a steamer a hot towel can also be used. Then comb your hair. Steam is used to open the pores and let the oil in. Hair can be washed after 2 hrs minimum or a day.
             Head massage provides better blooc circulation, prevents hair loss and headache, promotes hair growth and offers sound sleep.