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Your Ultimate Guide to Healthy Living
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Menstruum Matters
The menstruum, the liquid used to extract an herb, is not a neutral choice. It plays an active role in what constituents are drawn out. This does not require advanced chemistry, but it does require slowing down and doing a little bit of research.
Laura Van Horn
Jan 65 min read


Staying Well Through Winter
As the weather keeps us indoors more, respiratory infections tend to circulate more easily, and many people notice a dip in energy or motivation once the holidays have passed. While the New Year often inspires wellness resolutions, lasting change is more likely to come from simple, supportive habits that can be sustained over time. Winter offers an opportunity to slow down and choose practices that nourish the body and support overall well-being, both now and in the months ah
Laura Van Horn
Dec 30, 20257 min read


Comfort & Joy: Gentle Support for Winter Wellness
Natural Winter Wellness Remedies As I write this, it is now December, which means we are now in the Christmas holiday season. For many, this season is a season of spending, but for me, it is Advent season . Do not get me wrong, I have had my years of consumer-itis, but over time, I kept asking myself, "to what end?", which led me to re-evaluate the meaning of this season. Symptoms of consumer-itis often include rushing from place to place, losing patience with others, exhaust
Laura Van Horn
Dec 2, 20258 min read


Frankincense and Myrrh
While gold easily makes sense as a gift, frankincense and myrrh might seem like odd choices for a baby. But in the ancient world, these resins were treasures; valuable not just for their rarity, but for their remarkable properties.
Laura Van Horn
Nov 25, 20258 min read


Pain-Relieving Salves
Foot soaks do wonders for my feet, but sometimes I just do not want to put in the effort. That’s when having a pain salve on hand to massage into my feet, or any sore spot, is an absolute blessing.
Laura Van Horn
Nov 18, 20257 min read


Tallow
Tallow is rich and emollient and does not feel overly greasy. It melts on contact with the skin, providing a soft, nourishing sensation.
Laura Van Horn
Nov 11, 20255 min read


Preparations for Fall
Fall is a favorite time of year, with the beautiful colors and cool breezes; nonetheless, along with all the beauty comes an increase in respiratory infections. By bringing in immune-supportive herbs, cozy kitchen remedies, and a few aromatic allies, we can enjoy the season with greater resilience.
Laura Van Horn
Sep 16, 20257 min read


Grocery Store Herbalisms
I used to think you needed special trips to health food stores or expensive supplements to support your family's wellness. Then I realized that some of the most effective natural remedies were already sitting right there in my spice cabinet, just waiting to be put to better use.
Laura Van Horn
Aug 26, 20257 min read


Be Ready for Back to School
School environments create the perfect storm for infections to spread. Meanwhile, the pressure of academic performance, social dynamics, and packed schedules can leave some feeling overwhelmed. But there is hope.
Laura Van Horn
Aug 5, 20259 min read


Digestive Support
Herbs and Essential Oils for Digestive Support Tummy ache waiting to happen Digestion complaints are all too common, ranging from...
Laura Van Horn
Jul 22, 20256 min read


Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is no lightweight; it exudes warmth and strength. In the kitchen, it enlivens. In the apothecary, it stimulates, soothes, and comforts. This is an herb that acts on digestion, joints, circulation, respiration, and the immune system. Keep it on hand, and you will find it meets more needs than you might expect.
Laura Van Horn
Jul 15, 20257 min read


Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil is an enjoyable summertime herb in both the kitchen and the apothecary. European herbalists have long used basil to support digestion, calm the nervous system, and ease respiratory complaints.
Laura Van Horn
Jul 8, 20257 min read


Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)
Peppermint is loved for its versatility and reliability; it is easy to grow, multipurpose, and offers benefits in many forms—from the fresh or dried leaf to the potent essential oil and gentle hydrosol.
Laura Van Horn
Jul 1, 20257 min read


Summer Relief Kit
Summer brings unique challenges when it comes to pain and discomfort. From sunburns, itchy bug bites, muscle cramps due to dehydration, or a tension headache from excessive sun exposure, having a well-stocked natural pain relief kit can make all the difference between suffering through summer or enjoying it.
Laura Van Horn
Jun 24, 20255 min read


Beat the Stink Naturally
When you switch to natural deodorants, you support your body's natural detox process while still maintaining social acceptability. Win-win!
Laura Van Horn
Jun 10, 20255 min read


Comfort & Care
Life has a way of reminding us how small and fragile we truly are.
Laura Van Horn
Jun 3, 20254 min read


Build a Summer Apothecary
Summer brings sunshine, fresh air, county fairs, and fun… along with sunburns, bug bites, bumps, and the occasional overheating. A well-stocked apothecary gives you natural tools to be prepared.
Laura Van Horn
May 20, 20258 min read


Herbal Medicine in Modern Times
Herbs have been used for generations as a practical means of addressing common health concerns. Many people have found relief using herbal preparations for indigestion, sleep, mild pain, or seasonal allergies. Herbs are still widely used today for these purposes. Herbs are not miracle cures, but neither is modern medicine.
Laura Van Horn
May 8, 20256 min read


Natural Support for Pain
Herbs and oils can support comfort and healing, but may not fully resolve chronic pain or gout flares. Pair with lifestyle habits such as rest, hydration, and movement
Laura Van Horn
May 7, 202510 min read


Mother's Day
Mother's Day is a time to celebrate the love, warmth, and care that mothers pour into our lives. A heartfelt, handmade gift can say more than anything store-bought ever could. Here are some simple, beautiful, and natural DIY Mother's Day gift ideas you can put together in just an afternoon, using ingredients you may already have at home!
Laura Van Horn
Apr 30, 20255 min read
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