Are you following us on Instagram and Facebook? If not, you might have missed our series called Medicinal Plants Monday! Each Monday, we feature a different edible and/or medicinal plant that you can incorporate into your life. It’s like a virtual farm tour!
For example, one of our favorites is beautyberry (also known as callicarpa)! The leaves, branches and roots can be made into a decoction and used in sweat baths to treat anything from rheumatism to malarial fevers. Beautyberry roots can also be used in a decoction to treat dizziness and stomach aches, while the bark from the stems and roots is great for treating itchy skin. (http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/c/callicarpa-americana=american-beautyberry.php)
Most importantly for us out here on the farm, the leaves contain a strong mosquito repellent! They can be harvested and boiled down like a tea and used as a spray, or made into a tincture. It really works! (https://www.motherearthnews.com/nature-and-environment/beautyberry-natural-insect-repellent-zmaz09amzraw)
Remember to check with your physician if you plan on adding medicinal plants to your routine.
