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SUSTAINaBILITY & THE ENVIRONMENT
HERB COMPOSTING
Many plants benefit from the use of used herbs as compost. The organic matter and nutrients in herbs can enrich the soil and support plant growth. Here are some plants that generally respond well to the addition of used herbs in compost:
- Vegetables: Most vegetable plants appreciate the nutrient boost from composted herbs. These include tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, leafy greens (spinach, lettuce, kale), herbs (such as basil, parsley, cilantro), and root vegetables (carrots, radishes, potatoes).
- Herbs: It's a great practice to use leftover herbs after infusing a tisane to enrich the soil for other herb plants. Common herbs like rosemary, thyme, mint, oregano, and sage can benefit from the addition of composted herbs.
- Flowers: Many flowering plants thrive with the nutrient-rich content of composted herbs. Roses, marigolds, daisies, sunflowers, and zinnias are examples of flowers that generally respond well.
- Fruiting Trees and Shrubs: Fruit trees and shrubs can benefit from the nutrients in herb compost. For example, citrus trees, apple trees, berry bushes (strawberries, blueberries), and fig trees.
- Ornamental Plants: Ornamental plants, such as ferns, hostas, lilies, and hydrangeas, may benefit from composted herbs as well.
Composting used herbs is a great way to recycle and reduce waste while providing nutrients to your plants. It is important to create a well-balanced compost mixture by combining the herbs with other organic materials such as vegetable scraps, yard waste, and brown materials (e.g., shredded biodegradable paper or dried mulched leaves). This helps maintain a healthy composting process and provides a broader range of nutrients for your plants and bedding.
CAMELLIA SINENSIS TEA LEAF COMPOSTING
Globally we consume approximately 3,000.000 tonnes of Camelia Sinensis tea leaves in one year! Tea leaves can be used as a organic fertilizer, an excellent way to reuse. Simply add them to a compost bin. This organic manure can be used during the vegetative growth of a plant. Tea leaves contain 4% nitrogen, 0.25% potassium and 0.24% phosphorus. It is also important to know that not all plants like tea leaves. as the tannic acid can lower the soil's pH and increase its acidity.
SUSTAINABLE TEA PRACTICES
Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water. With increased commercialization, unsustainable practices evolved. For example, wasteful packaging, exploitation of tea workers, and environmental destruction. Loose-leaf tea considerably decreases the carbon footprint as it cuts outs the production for the use of tea bags. However, NASA Corporation launched NeoSoilon® in January 2020, a mesh filter for teabags made from 100% non-GMO sugar cane, establishing the world’s largest stable supply system of non-GMO plant-based filters.
CULINARY TEA
COOKING WITH TEA
Culinary tea, also known as "culinary herbs," refers to the use of tea leaves, herbs, and botanicals in cooking, baking, and beverage creation beyond what we know as 'traditional tea preparation'.
Below, are some advantages of incorporating culinary tea into your culinary endeavours:
Unique Flavours: Unique and diverse flavour's may include delicate floral notes to earthy and spicy undertones, these flavours can add complexity and depth to your dishes and beverages.
Aromatic Enhancements: The aromas of culinary tea can elevate the sensory experience of your creations. The scents of herbs like lavender, rosemary, and mint can provide a pleasing and aromatic dimension to your cooking.
Natural and Organic: Free from artificial additives, making it a natural and organic choice for enhancing the taste of your dishes. This appeals to those seeking healthier and cleaner ingredient options.
Infused Liquids: Infuse liquids like broths, oils, and syrups with the flavours of culinary tea. This process imparts subtle or intense tea and herb flavours, depending on the length of infusion time.
Balanced Health Benefits: There are so many culinary herbs used in tea that are associated with health benefits. For example, using herbs like ginger or peppermint can contribute to digestive well-being, while Lavender and Chamomile can aid in relaxation and sleep.
Versatile Applications: A wide range of recipes include soups, salads, marinades, desserts, cocktails, and more. Its versatility allows you to be creative in the kitchen.
Aesthetic Appeal: Culinary tea can enhance the visual appeal of your dishes, such as edible flowers and herbs, for example nasturtiums, courgette flowers, chives, mint, parsley, add vibrant and eye-catching colons to your plates and drinks.
Explore Cultures: Incorporating culinary tea from different countries allows you to explore and appreciate various culinary traditions and cultural flavours.
Reduced Sodium: Tea can serve as a natural flavour enhancer. By using culinary tea, you can reduce the need for excessive salt, which is beneficial for those looking to lower their sodium intake.
Gluten-Free and Vegan-Friendly: Gluten-free and suitable for vegan diets, making it an inclusive ingredient for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Sustainability: Sourcing sustainably and locally, aligning with the principles of environmental responsibility and supporting local producers.
Educational Opportunities: Exploring culinary tea can be an educational journey. There is so much to learn about various herbs and their uses can expand your culinary knowledge.
Culinary tea opens up a world of creative possibilities in the kitchen, offering an opportunity to experiment with a wide variety of flavours, scents, and culinary traditions. Whether you are enhancing the taste of your favourite recipes or creating entirely new dishes and beverages, the journey can be a delightful.
THE LANGUAGE OF HERBS, ROOTS,FLOWERS, FRUIT & FLOWERS
HERBS FOR THE COLD AND FLU SEASON
Herbs play a significant role in supporting well-being during the cold and flu season. Here is why they are important:
Immune Support: Many herbs are known for their immune-boosting properties. They contain compounds that can help strengthen your body's natural defense mechanisms, making you less susceptible to colds and flu.
Symptom Relief: Herbs like ginger, eucalyptus, and peppermint can provide relief from common cold and flu symptoms. They can help ease congestion, soothe sore throats, and reduce fever.
Antiviral Properties: Some herbs, such as echinacea and elderberry, have antiviral properties that may help inhibit the replication of cold and flu viruses in the body.
Anti-Inflammatory: Herbs like turmeric and liquorice have anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for reducing the discomfort associated with cold and flu symptoms.
Rich in Nutrients: Herbs are often rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Consuming them regularly can provide your body with essential nutrients.
Natural Remedies: Herbs offer a natural and holistic approach to health. They are generally safe and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to alleviate cold and flu symptoms.
Tea Blends: Many herbal teas are designed specifically to support well-being during the cold and flu season. These blends often combine herbs with complementary properties to address a range of symptoms and boost the immune system.
Comfort and Relaxation: Sipping on a warm herbal tea can provide comfort and relaxation when you are feeling under the weather. It is a soothing and nurturing ritual that can help ease the stress of being unwell.
Personalized Wellness: Herbs allow for personalized wellness. You can choose herbs and blends that align with your specific needs and preferences, tailoring your approach to well-being.
Incorporating herbs into your diet, whether through herbal teas, culinary herbs, or supplements, can be a valuable strategy for maintaining well-being and resilience during the cold and flu season.
However, it's essential to consult with a GP before starting any herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
TEA & MEDITATION
Meditative Tea Practice
"Drinking tea is as sacred as doing Yoga. Sleeping silently, relaxed, is as sacred as prayer. Looking at a tree, talking to a friend, walking early in the morning, working in the factory or in the office, is as holy as anything else. This is the understanding that is needed for Tao to happen.
" Osho - The Secrets of Success "
It is indeed a radical act of love just to sit down and be quiet for a time by yourself
"Jon Kabat-Zinn"
Tranquil Lullaby Herbal Tisane
A naturally relaxing tisane with a wonderful, sweet blend of herbs and flowers, that may soothe the nerves and relieve anxiety.
Caffeine-free, with the added combination of Apple pieces, Vitamin C in Orange Blossoms, Mallow Blossoms, and Blackberry Leaves. Together with Lemon Balm for the immune system, Lavender, and Rose Petals for peace and comfort. A welcome tisane for relaxation and sleepless nights.
MOTHER EARTH
OUR PLANET
"Mother Earth," often referred to as Mother Nature, is a personification of the natural world and the environment.
It represents the interconnected web of life on Earth, including the ecosystems, landscapes, and all living beings.
For nature and people, Mother Earth is nurturing and a benevolent force, symbolizing the planet as a living entity. She is the embodiment of the land, sea, sky, and the rich biodiversity that thrives within her. She comprises, mountains, rivers, forests, deserts, oceans, and all the flora and fauna that inhabit these diverse landscapes.
The importance of Nature:
Ecosystem Harmony: Mother Earth is the foundation of all ecosystems, where every organism, from microscopic bacteria to giant redwoods, plays a unique role. She ensures the harmony and balance of life on Earth.
Resource Provider: Mother Earth provides essential resources like clean water, fertile soil, and a stable climate, which are crucial for the survival and prosperity of countless species.
Biodiversity: Mother Earth hosts immense biodiversity, her ecosystems provide habitats for a wide array of species, contributing to genetic diversity and ecological resilience.
Cycles and Balance: Mother Earth governs natural cycles such as the water cycle, carbon cycle, and nutrient cycling, which are essential for sustaining life and maintaining equilibrium in the environment.
Renewal and Regeneration: Mother Earth possesses a remarkable natural capacity for regeneration. Even when her ecosystems are disturbed or damaged, she has the ability, if given the chance to recover and heal over time.
Importance to People:
Sustenance: Mother Earth is the source of our sustenance. She provides us with food, clean water, and resources essential for our survival.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Across cultures, she holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Interestingly, indigenous and traditional belief systems regard her as sacred and hold ceremonies to honour her. This should be adopted worldwide.
Recreation and Beauty: Mother Earth offers unbelievable, breath-taking landscapes, providing spaces for recreation, inspiration, and relaxation.
Medicine and Healing: Many of the herbs, plants, and minerals derived from her ecosystems are used in traditional and modern medicine for healing and well-being.
Environmental Stewardship: Recognizing the importance of Mother Earth, people have a growing responsibility to be stewards of the environment. The conservation and protection of natural habitats and species are so vital to preserving her health and well-being.
Climate Stabilization: Mother Earth plays a crucial role in stabilizing the global climate. By reducing emissions and conserving forests and wetlands, we collectively can help her regulate the Earth's temperature and weather patterns.
Sustainable Living: Embracing sustainable practices and reducing our environmental impact is a way to respect and protect Mother Earth for future generations.
In essence, Mother Earth is the very foundation of our existence, providing the essential elements for life while offering inspiration, beauty, and a sense of wonder. Recognizing and appreciating her significance and taking 'action' to protect and preserve her is essential for the well-being of both nature and people.
THE UNIVERSE
Look out into the universe and contemplate the glory of God.
Observe the stars, millions of them, twinkling in the night sky, all with a message of unity, part of the very nature of God.
" Sai Baba "