Drying Spring Plants for Medicinal Benefits - by Sunscape

It's that time of year again and I have been busy this past week foraging for certain plants. The dandelions were prolific on the back of the property. My husband was kind enough to pick two big bowls full for me.

This batch sat on the back porch to dry out some before I added the flowers to a jar and topped it off with Olive Oil. I have it sitting in window to infuse for a few weeks, then I will be making a balm with the dandelion oil. I will combine it with two other ingredients, purple dead nettle and plantain leaves. This will be a nice balm for reducing inflammation from Arthritis and even helps with dry, itchy skin.

These dandelion petals were dried in the dehydrator, and they puffed quite a bit. I can use these mixed with other herbs in tea to enjoy. I will also make a strong dandelion tea to make some soap at a later date.

I only found a few Plantain leaves to dry so far and then came across some Wild Geraniums growing near the edge of the woods. These will be a nice addition for the healing balm.

I learned something new this week thanks to Pam over @goldenoakfarm. She picked what are called Cleavers around her property and made a #tincture for her sister. It is a wonderful plant to support the immune system, aid digestion, and help with detoxing the body through the kidneys and lymphatic system.

Now, I need to get out and forage for some to make a tincture also. It will be a great holistic addition for our family.

I'm waiting to pick some Mullein leaves to make a tincture for respiratory support. It is fantastic for breaking up chest congestion and mucus. A must have for health support, especially during cold and flu season.

I will be looking through all my herbal remedy books to stay on top of what plants to watch for during the growing season. Does anyone else enjoy learning how to forage for plants to aid their health? It sure is nice to learn how to take better care of one's family naturally.