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April 19, 2026

From “Weed” to Wonder: The Many Uses of Dandelion

The Role of Dandelion Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) The dandelion is a hardy perennial plant in the daisy family – Asteraceae. The dandelion clears the blood of toxins and waste material through strengthening the liver. It has a tonic effect on the blood/lymph systems, helping to detoxify all three (especially the liver & gallbladder). The Flower: Rich in polyphenols (antioxidant-rich plant compounds). The flower has much more polyphenols than the root. Packed with vitamins A, C & E, which promote healing for topical skin conditions, reducing redness & soothing irritation. I use the flowers for making my dandelion wine, and I...

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Comfrey Root - December 10, 2022

The Fall - Brings Root Medicine

Why do we call October the start of “Root Medicine Month”? It’s when all the energy starts going back down to the roots of the plant. It’s when the cycle of the herbaceous, or the deciduous perennials is finished blooming. They die back beginning in October or the first frost, bringing all the plant's energy back down their roots. In this blog, you’ll learn about the history and folklore of Comfrey and its many therapeutic actions. Let’s take a look at what’s in Andrea’s Garden that she digs to make tinctures and other herbal medicines out of. Comfrey Valerian Horseradish Marshmallow Burdock...

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Comfrey Root - December 05, 2022

Testimonial: The Miracle of Comfrey by Mary Crinnin

I have been a busy Shiatsu practitioner in Albany NY since 1997. In 26 years I've never had an issue till this past January when a painful growth developed on the palm of my left hand. Shiatsu involves a lot of compressions and for a while, I compensated till the pain got worse. I finally saw a hand surgeon who was sure it was a bulging vein needing surgery and he sent me for a specialized ultrasound. The Ultrasound Dr thought it might be a cyst but still needed surgery to remove it. The surgery was scheduled for mid-March. I was...

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August 18, 2022

Yoni Steaming: Everything You Wanted To Know

What is Yoni Steaming? Yoni steaming is a practice that originated in Africa. It is believed that the steam can help improve a woman's fertility, reduce menstrual pain and aid in the release of toxins from the uterus. Yoni steaming involves sitting over steam from herbs such as rosemary, wormwood and basil for 15-20 minutes, once or twice a week. The herbs are generally mixed with water in a pot and placed on top of a stove or hot plate so that they release the vapors into the air. According to Wikipedia: "Yoni Steaming is an alternative health treatment whereby...