I just came back from Full Belly Farm's Hoes Down Festival. A celebration of the farmers putting their hoes down, reaping in what they've sown and celebrating the harvest! Camped out in the walnut grove, under the stars, belly full of YUM!
Took a walk through Full Belly's herb garden. Pleased to see the lovely Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste Tree Berries, Monk Peppers) in bloom! Seeds getting ready for harvest!
The mature seeds are used. When making a tincture; [1:5, 65% alcohol] 30-60 drops. When making a tea; grind berries measuring 1/2 to 1 Tspn. Let steep in 2 cups of hot water in a covered container for 20 minutes, drink once in the morning and the evening. As it strengthens the progesterone phase of the estrus cycle, it usually works best the two weeks before menses.
A fantastic herb that balances the hormone cascade.
- - - Vitex information adapted from Michael Moore
The mature seeds are used. When making a tincture; [1:5, 65% alcohol] 30-60 drops. When making a tea; grind berries measuring 1/2 to 1 Tspn. Let steep in 2 cups of hot water in a covered container for 20 minutes, drink once in the morning and the evening. As it strengthens the progesterone phase of the estrus cycle, it usually works best the two weeks before menses.
A fantastic herb that balances the hormone cascade.
- - - Vitex information adapted from Michael Moore
Take a walk with me as I explore Full Belly Farm
Walking through the pumpkin patch was such a delight, and then seeing them carved and lighting the way to the evening festivities - magical.
Such a great reminder of where I get my food. Being an urban herbalist the closest I get to a farm, generally, is the farmers market.
Grilled dinner, hay bails, dancing, fall cider, bicycle blended smoothies, local vendors and an early morning cuppa and farm fresh breakfast - this is a good good life.