Day 281 - If you grew up in the Pacific Northwest you likely know what
ferns are good for: treating stinging nettles. One of the world’s oldest
plants, there are many varieties of ferns, but if you’re lucky enough to spy
the soft, delicate lady fern, grab some and roll it up between your palms into
a rough mash. The juices released will quickly ease stinging nettle burns and
can also ease minor cuts, stings and burns (fresh salt water also works in a
pinch for bee stings). Bracken fern are similar to lady fern and will work, as
well. The rougher, glossier, stiff sword fern and deer fern won’t be as
effective, though. Lady ferns actually grow all over North America but are
common in areas with high rainfall.
Day 282 - Tansy
is an old-world aster and remedy, used ornamentally by florists, as well as for
flavoring beer and stews as well as repelling insects. Rubbing the leaves on
the skin provides an effective bug repellent, but tansy can also be used to
treat worms. It is said to be poisonous when extracted, but a few leaves are
not harmful if ingested.
Day 283 - Famous
for making cats deliriously crazy, catnip has health properties that are great
for humans, too. Catnip can relieve cold symptoms (helpful if you’re on a camping
trip and don’t have access to Nyquil). It’s useful in breaking a fever as it
promotes sweating. Catnip also helps stop excessive bleeding and swelling when
applied rather than ingested. This mint plant is also reportedly helpful in
treating gas, stomach aches, and migraines. Catnip can stimulate uterine contractions,
so it should not be consumed by pregnant women.
Day 284 - Native
to Europe and Asia, sweet violet is cultivated around the world and is a pleasant,
delicate purple color. When brewed into a syrup the plant is effective as a
treatment for colds, flu and coughs or sore throat. However, when made as a
tea, it is wonderfully effective for relieving headaches and muscle and body
pain.
Day 285 – These #Jerseyfresh lovelies
are Teddy Bear Sunflowers. Teddy Bear’s have lots of short, fluffy petals that
are soft to the touch (don’t you just want to pet them?). Golden yellow fully double 6” blooms,
well-suited for mild borders, containers and cut flower bouquets. Uniform
bush-like plants flower mid-summer on. The ripe heads are attractive to birds. Of course, the most famous representation
of sunflowers has to be the Vincent van Gogh series of paintings, some of which
include the Teddy Bear variety!