Oregano – An A to Z Challenge Post

O is for Oregano

Brought by the returning WW II soldiers from Italy, oregano comes in two varieties – the Mediterranean version being milder than its Mexican counterpart. It is almost inseparable from any Italian dishes, but should be used with caution when adding to foods, as it tends to overpower other herbs and spices.

Matches well with: lamb, mushrooms, paste, peppers, pizza, tomatoes, zucchini and eggplant

Healing properties: treats indigestion and heartburn, also known to have a beneficial effect on yeast infections. Its diluted oil (50 %) can be used to treat athletes foot if applied daily. Do not use oregano oil internally!

Magical properties: add energy to your life, used whenever you need a boost of joy, strength and vitality

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Nettle – An A to Z Challenge Post

N is for Nettle:

This herb is a powerhouse both culinary as well as medicinal, that is often overlooked by the general public. Nettles, or stinging nettles should be pre-cooked, unless you use them as a tea, and be handled with gloves at all times. The younger the leaves, the more tender the result, which will be similar to that of spinach.

Matches well with: cheese, cream, tomatoes, eggs and onions

Healing Properties: In Germany, this herb is valued highly for its healing powers, sold there as an herbal drug to aid in the relief of rheumatoid arthritis. Its power lies also in relieving symptoms of allergies, without all of the side effects that standard medication brings with it. External uses include skin problems, gout, neuralgia, and hair problems. I drink this tea personally to prevent symptoms of my chronic anemia.

Magical properties: strengthens willpower. If sprinkled around the home, it wards off negativity.

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Juniper Berries – An A to Z Blogging Challenge Post

I am a little behind on the challenge this week, so I will post two times today, once more in the afternoon to get caught up. My daughter is getting ready for an out-of-state prom, and I am sending her half way across the US today. Lots of stuff had to be done. (Who thought it could be so tough to find matching shoes, to fit her designer dress?)

But let’s get back to herbs and spices:

J is for Juniper Berries

Juniper Berries are actually not berries but part of a specific pine cone, that take up to two years to mature. Used widely in cooking, this spice has to be removed from the finished meal, similar to the Bay Leaf.

An essential ingredient in the creation of gin.

Matches well with: game, rabbit and hare. Use sparingly

Healing Properties: One compound of the spice contains terpinen-4-ol which stimulates kidneys and works as a diuretic. Because of its antiseptic properties, juniper aids in healing urinary tract infections, and bladders tones. It also lowers blood sugar.

Magical Properties: burn for magical protection. Juniper oil works well in workings that supposed to increase money and prosperity

Enjoy!

Bay Leaf – An A to Z Challenge Blog Post

B – Bay Leaf

There are two different types of bay leaves, the more narrow-leaved California, and the broader, more oval shaped Turkish version of the plant, the latter being the stronger one in flavor.

Matches well with: beans, lentils tomatoes, soups, risotto and shellfish

Healing properties: Infusions of this herb  can soothe the stomach, relieve flatulence as well as colic pain.

Magical uses: used  to enhance psychic ability, often added to a dream pillow. Also used in exorcism and for banishing, as well as for getting people out of your life, that you need to let go off.

Happy Release Day Everyone! 

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