Befriending Nettle – Foraging & Cordage Making

By Cherry Crawford May 14, 2023 19 mins read 27 Views

At Belovedsaffron.com, we are passionate about spices, herbs, recipes and organic eating. It is our mission to bring awareness of flavors from around the world and provide access to a full range of spices, herbs and organic food from sustainable farming. I am particularly excited to share my love of saffron with others and help bring the joy of cooking into people's lives.

But it is not simply about providing delicious recipes for saffron dishes – it is also about promoting sustainable eating that respects those from all different cultural backgrounds who dedicate their lives to serving fantastic meals in both family homes and 5-star restaurants across the globe.

If you have a special recipe or would like to contribute an article to our blog section, please reach out as we would love to hear from you at [email protected]. We believe everyone has something extraordinary to offer their taste buds!

For now, love yourself and enjoy this one ...

Enjoy a relaxing rural retreat where you can enjoy a day filled with folklore, craft and foraging.

Ever wondered what stories nettle can tell? What materials, medicines and wisdom are provided by nettles and their plant companions?

Discover the native roots of this ubiquitous and wild material and learn how to harvest it and make cordage.

This hands-on experience will take you on a sensory trip of foraging, folklore, and cordage that will connect us to the life and heart of nettle.
You've probably been familiar with nettle. Perhaps you have fond memories of childhood adventures in the countryside, involving stinging encounters. Or perhaps you learned about dock - nettle’s neighbouring plant.

This plant is used to make cordage, material, food, medicine and craft materials. It also teaches us about adaptability and modern indigenous culture.

'Emma & Myrtle are excellent tutors. They explained the idea and processes of both practices in a superb manner. I had a wonderful day and would not hesitate to do it again!

If you are interested in learning more about the course, this is the right course for you.

Spending a day in the woods is a great way to relax.
You want to improve your knowledge about foraging and folklore
Would you like to know the basics of cordage production?
You want to connect with nature more deeply
Learn how to relax and rejuvenate using nature-based techniques.

The tutors were incredible and very knowledgeable. They shared their knowledge generously.

When and where can I find you?

Saturday, 22nd of July 2023
Time: 10am-4.30pm.
Cost: 85 PS (includes wild handmade refreshments). Bring your own lunch to complement these.
Location: Dartington Estate, Devon.
Click Here to Book

You accept these Terms and Conditions by booking this course.

Please note that I will only be able contact you if the email address is active.

I think that these courses are more effective than therapy. I look forward to my next adventure.

Myrtle Cooper

When I was a child, the worlds of EnidBlyton's Faraway Tree and Tolkien's Ent's as well as the Hungry Caterpiller's journey through food to metamorphosis enchanted me.

As I climbed to the tops of trees to discover hidden worlds, my imagination imagining their stories. The freedom and possibilities I felt in the wilderness were amazing.

In 2011, I discovered this desire for stories again and started searching to find the enchantment once more. The old lore, the language of plants and the way our human story is interwoven with plants are all things I learned.

My studies and work in permaculture and regenerative foods systems, as well as horticulture, led me to write a thesis for an MSc. This brought together my interest in plant intelligence, eco-therapy and passion for wild plants.

As I sat with the trees, an invisible veil started to fall from my eyes. The greens of the hedgerows began to take on new meanings: wisdom, food, and medicine.

It was then that my practice of plant-connection began. This is a practice that has the greatest impact on my mental and emotional wellbeing.

Foraging for wild foods and exploring the world through new eyes and enhanced senses has become a way to explore it.

Emma Capper

Emma is a ANFT Certified nature and forest therapy guide. She's also an artist, basket maker, and workshop facilitator. She has over 25 years of experience facilitating workshops in the expressive art.

I love to walk in the woods to gather flexible stems and branch to weave small vessels, baskets, and simple pieces of woven artwork. As I honour their and my life by feeling into the fibres' flow, my senses are alive.

She founded Creative Journeys In Nature in 2013, combining her love of nature and art to create workshops and forest therapy walk for people from all walks.

She views her work as an eco-activist. Holding a sacred yet playful space in nature to connect, heal

Plants have a lot to say about each other

Myrtle was a wonderful facilitator and host. The experience is a fairytale, full of new techniques and plant friends. This is a magical experience and a great way to spend time with other people. "Thank you Myrtle".
Tracy

Myrtle's passion for plants is filled with light, joy, and mischievous delight. Her knowledge is impressive, and I appreciate her gentle manner.
Holly

This work is more important than ever. You are retelling the ancient tales of our ancestors about our land and our natural world, which we have forgotten. You are gently retelling these stories, bringing us back to the wild woodland creatures that have waited patiently and eagerly to see us again. I thank you. These stories I will share with my children. You've inspired me to go back to what I enjoy and what keeps me going. You've given me the path to return. Thank you. "I am thankful and excited, and open to the wonderful wonders of wood."
Katy

Thank you for today. "My mum and I had a great day. We found it inspiring and calming, to be in nature and listen to your incredible knowledge."
Jo

The post Befriending Nettle – Foraging & Cordage Making first appeared on EATWEEDS.

By: Robin Harford
Title: Befriending Nettle – Foraging & Cordage Making
Sourced From: www.eatweeds.co.uk/befriending-nettle-foraging-cordage-making
Published Date: Sun, 14 May 2023 07:35:03 +0000

Frequently Asked Questions

Is basil good for kidneys?

The answer is yes. Basil is an excellent food for kidney health. It contains potassium which helps reduce high blood pressure. It also contains vitamin K, which is essential for bone strength. As well as this, it is rich in antioxidants which help protect against heart disease.

Basil is great for digestion too. It contains digestive enzymes that break down protein and carbohydrates. This makes it easier to absorb nutrients from your meals.

Basil is a wonderful addition to any diet. Try sprinkling some over pasta dishes, salads, soups, and sandwiches. Or add little stir-fried vegetables, chicken, fish, meat, and tofu.

It's delicious in pesto sauce and fresh in salad dressings. You'll find many recipes online where you can learn how to cook with basil.

Try making basil oil by adding a few drops of pure olive oil to a jar filled with chopped basil leaves. Let it steep overnight, and then strain out the leaves. Use the oil as a massage oil or rub it onto your skin.

It will leave your skin soft and smooth.

How is basil used for medicinal purposes?

In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.

Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.

Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.

The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.

What are the side effects of basil?

Basil is an herb that originated in tropical regions of India, Africa, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.

The plant is easy to grow in most climates and requires little maintenance. Basil also thrives in poor soil conditions and is very drought tolerant.

As for the health benefits, more than 200 known compounds are found in basil, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, polysaccharides, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, depression, eczema, insomnia, infections, migraines, osteoporosis, psoriasis, respiratory problems, stress, and ulcers.

Basil is also a culinary spice and is often added to tomato sauces, soups, salads, pasta dishes, rice dishes, dips, casseroles, pizza toppings, pesto, chicken wings, and popcorn.

However, like all herbs, basil should be consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is not good for you. For example, eating large amounts of basil could lead to stomach upset. And if you have sensitive tummies, avoid consuming basil during pregnancy.

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.

You should only take one type of supplement at a time. If you take other medications, make sure they do not interact with each other.

You should never use herbs while on medication unless directed by your doctor.

Some people experience allergic reactions when using herbs, especially those allergic to ragweed. Symptoms include hives, swelling around the mouth or eyes, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.

Some people who take certain medications may develop an allergy to basil. These drugs include:

Antacids (like Alka Seltzer)
Anti-anxiety medicines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, etc.)
Beta-blockers (like Propranolol)
Blood thinners (like Coumadin)
Calcium channel blockers (like Amlodipine)
Cholesterol-lowering drugs (like Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, and Pravachol)
Diabetes medicine (like Glucophage)
Diuretics (like Lasix)
Heartburn medicines (like Prilosec OTC)
Hormone therapy (like Premarin, Tamoxifen, Femara)
Insulin (like Humalog, Lantus, Novolin R)
NSAIDs (like Aleve, Motrin, Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen)
Oral contraceptives (like Ortho Evra, Yasmin, Loestrin, Ovrette, Yaz, and Seasonale)
Pain relievers (like Aspirin, Celebrex, Vicodin, Percodan, Darvocet, Dilaudid, Fiorinal, Tylenol 3s, Naproxen, Motrin, Tramadol, Ultram, Voltaren

What are the disadvantages of using herbs?

Herbs are a great way to keep your body healthy because they contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, amino acids, phytonutrients, polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes, essential oils, carotenoids, sterols, and sterolins. Some even contain cannabinoids.

But there are also lots of side effects associated with herbal remedies. For example, taking too much herb could cause liver damage or even death. Herbal supplements may interact with prescription drugs, which means that they might affect how well the drug works.

Some herbs can interfere with blood clotting, while others may increase bleeding when taken with anticoagulants (blood thinners).

There are also safety concerns for pregnant women and children.

The bottom line is that herbs aren't safe for everyone. If you're considering trying them out, do your homework. Look up each product's side effects and warnings and read reviews online.

Why do some love coriander and others don't?

Some people hate coriander, while others love it. But why?

Coriander is an herb that grows in warm climates throughout the world. It is native to both North America and Europe.

The leaves of the plant are used in cooking and can also be found in condiments such as salad dressings and dips. When added to food, coriander provides a spicy flavor.

Many people love its taste because it adds a fresh flavor to dishes without overpowering them. Others dislike the smell and taste of coriander because they find it too strong.

But there is more to coriander than meets the eye. There are two types of coriander – sweet and hot. Sweet coriander is milder and sweeter tasting compared to hot coriander.

Sweet coriander is usually grown for its seeds, often called cilantro. This type of coriander is easy to grow and is very low maintenance.

Hot coriander is most commonly used in Indian cuisine. Hot coriander gives a rich flavor to curries and sauces, making it popular among Indians.

Some people say that hot coriander tastes better than sweet coriander. However, the opposite is true for those who prefer sweet coriander.

There are many reasons why people enjoy different varieties of coriander. For example, one person may love the taste of coriander, while another enjoys the aroma.

Whether you like sweet or hot coriander, you might be surprised to learn that you can buy both types of coriander online.

Statistics

Studies have shown that cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugars by 10-29% in diabetic patients, which is a significant amount (9Trusted Source10Trusted (healthline.com)
Herbs are among the most popular and widely used medicinal remedies. According to a survey conducted by the National Institutes of Health, herbs were used by over 38% of adults in the United States.

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How To

What to look for in herbs?

Herbs contain natural compounds that may help treat various conditions. In addition, herbal remedies may provide relief when used along with conventional treatments.

Herbal remedies include teas, capsules, tablets, ointments, creams, lotions, oils, and topical applications. Some of these products are meant to be taken internally, while others are applied externally.

The most common uses of herbal remedies include relieving minor aches and pains, treating cold symptoms, reducing fever, controlling coughs and sore throats, easing digestion problems, soothing skin irritations, alleviating menstrual cramps, and providing general health benefits.

When buying herbs, look for the following:

Freshly picked plants. Avoid dried herbs unless they've been stored in a cool place. If possible, buy herbs directly from farmers' markets.
Pure extracts. These are made by extracting the active ingredients from herbs using alcohol or water. Look for 100% pure extractions.
Certified organic herbs. Organic herbs must meet strict standards set forth by the USDA.
Natural flavors. Many herbs have strong scents that can overwhelm other foods. Adding flavorings such as vanilla, almond, or orange helps mask their smell.
Potency. The amount of active ingredient per unit weight varies depending on the type of herb.
Packaging. When purchasing herbs, check the packaging to ensure that it's clean and free of chemicals.