Good Vibrations

I've decided to bring back my "Good Vibrations" tea. It was my most popular tea at the Alternative Healing Arts Fair last Sunday. I originally created this tea for healing work, especially energy healing.

It's a blend of pesticide-free rose petals, wildcrafted white sage and organic lavender plus...a little blessing (all my teas are blessed). Soothing rose petals for love and opening the heart chakra, white sage to clear energetic blockages and prepare the body for spiritual/healing work & lavender to calm and relax.

With the help of a fellow chakra healer and a tea taster, I've tried a little experiment which had an amazing and very positive result: the tea taster was energetically scanned before and after drinking the tea. It appears that her energy level raised by 12%...and she didn't even finish her cup!

Oyle of Rose

I've bought some rose infused oil before, handmade with fresh rose petals infused in (extra virgin) olive oil...Well I wasn't too impressed. I won't deny that the softening, soothing and healing qualities of the Rose weren't in the oil but the scent was so faint that I must have compensated with my imagination to smell the roses.

So I decided to give it a try, it took me 2 months but the result is pretty satisfying. I started on May 31st, on the Blue Moon. I filled a pint size glass jar with fresh rose petals from my very fragrant dwarf rose bush, then I added a few fresh rose geranium leaves (Attar of Rose variety) and a few fresh sprigs of rose thyme. I covered the herbs with a blend of organic extra virgin olive oil and sunflower oil (1 to 1 ratio). I closed the lid and left in on my porch, under the sun for 1 lunar month, shaking the jar from time to time.

On June 30th, at the Full Moon (this one was the Faerie Moon), I strained my oil and decided to reinfuse it. So I filled the same jar with pesticide-free dried rose petals, half pink and the other half red (rosa centifolia) and added a few fresh rose geranium leaves as well as a few sprigs of fresh rose thyme. I covered the herbs with the oil I strained before and left the jar in the sun for another lunar month.

The result was a pleasant lightly scented rose oil, with a velvety texture which leaves the skin soft and not greasy. With both solar and lunar influences...Plus when I use this oil, my husband says I'm glowing ;). Conclusion: if you wanna be a natural beauty queen, ask the Rose.

FOOD FOR THE SOUL

"Like the moon, come out from behind the clouds. Shine!"

Buddha

FOUR SEASON GODDESS CREAMS

Whether you are aware of it or not, your body is not only affected by the sun and the lunar cycle, but also by the seasons. Our wise ancestors, who were knowledgeable about all things natural, knew that fact very well.

We all react to seasonal changes differently. The best way is to find out what your needs are is to observe, eat seasonal food and be in tune with your body.

Your skin also has different needs throughout the year. That is why I created a new line of face creams inspired by the four seasons. I incorporated my knowledge of herbs, teas, seasonal and nutritional herbalism into those creams. For example, in winter your body needs more vitamin C to strenghten the immune system and because winter food is less rich and less varied than summer food so your body needs to compensate for that lack of nutrients. Thus my WINTER GODDESS CREAM contains rooibos which is naturally rich in vitamins and minerals as well as hibiscus which is a natural source of vitamin C. Vitamin C also makes your skin glow with health.

My creams are handmade with infused tea (with spring water), herbally infused extra virgin olive oil, unrefined beeswax and benzoin tincture. They have a natural delicate scent and a lighter texture than the Wise Woman Creams.

-SPRING GODDESS CREAM contains jasmine green tea & extra virgin olive oil infused with nettle, rose petals and/or rose geranium leaves.

-SUMMER GODDESS CREAM contains white lilac tea & extra virgin olive oil infused with elder blossoms, rose petals and/or rose geranium leaves.

-FALL GODDESS CREAM contains vanilla rooibos & extra virgin olive oil infused with calendula, rose petals and/or rose geranium leaves.

-WINTER GODDESS CREAM contains earl grey rooibos & extra virgin olive oil infused with hibiscus, rose petals and/or rose geranium leaves.

I should soon add the Summer Goddess Cream to my Etsy offerings...Thank you for browsing ;).

3 NEW LIMITED EDITION TEAS

I have 3 teas with 3 different and distinct flavors & aromas:

-BRITTANIA, inspired from British brews, reminds a little bit of Earl Grey with a twist and a floral touch. The presence of rooibos tempers the caffeine. Enjoy this tea with or without fog... http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6558162

-FEMME FLEUR is a fairy-like floral blend. Soft, light, slightly sweet and...enchanting. A timeless blend! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6558039

-ZEN COFFEE looks like coffee, smells like coffee and even tastes like coffee but believe it or not, it's a tea! And almost caffeine-free with a hint of spice. If you like tasty surprises, you should give it a try. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6557902

ALTERNATIVE HEALING ARTS FAIR AT THE PATH

My friend Marie hosts an Alternative Healing Arts Fair on:
Sunday August 5th 2007 from 11am to 5pm

At THE PATH
813 Torrance Blvd,
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
(310) 944-3780

Come, learn about and experience Shamanic Healings, Polarity, Qigong, Reiki, Massage, Ear Candling, Aqua Chi, Footbath, Kangen Water...etc

And I'll be there with my teas ;)...

Inspiration from a fellow wise woman...

"I am a medicine woman.
I walk softly on the earth. I walk in balance, feet bared to rushing waters, sharp rocks and soft grasses. I embrace the pleasure and the pain. I am the Mother’s Joy, and the Mother is my Joy.

I am a medicine woman.
I am the guardian and the messenger of the sacred earth. I listen to the songs on the wind And sing them alive. The rocks and the trees, they speak to me. I seek the misty inbetweenness. I journey up, down and around the unseen world to bring healing home.

I am a medicine woman.
The plants are my teachers, and my friends. They show me how to heal and how to help those in need. I am an alchemist.

I am a medicine woman.
I create sacred community- bridging between women and men, the plants, the animals, the earth and the sky. Sing songs of remembrance- songs of the ancestors. I live with the old ways and create the new. I am a medicine woman. I have not forgotten."

by Darcey Blue French (visit her blog http://www.desertmedicinewoman.blogspot.com/)

FAIRY KISSES Artisan Lip Balm

I am currently updating my catalog with new products that I believe, reflect more my personality, my passions and aspirations.

This lip balm is one of the novelties of my catalog. It's handmade with Kalahari Melon Seed oil, unrefined beeswax and honey...Nothing else added, nothing else needed ;)!

This Melon Seed oil has a natural sweet and fruity fragrance and is a very moisturizing, skin quenching oil. Women of the Namib Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, use this oil to keep their skin moist and healthy looking.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6489162

Wild and Wise News #3 : Lammas Celebration

Lammas is approaching slowly but surely and to celebrate the beginning of the season of harvests, some members of the Wild & Wise Collective have expressed their inspiration and creativity through wonderful and unique natural products:

-Night from ShaktiStudios was inspired by Lady Igraine who was a Priestess of Avalon skilled in prophecy, the second sight, healing and also in touch with her loved ones through dreams and projection. Night created a pair of Sterling silver Celtic Knotwork earrings with fiery Carnelian gemstone drops.

-Michelle from violetroseherbals, who just joined us, created some Lammas Cleansing Grains and Face Mask which is an earthy & complex blend of cornmeal, oats, buckwheat, rhassoul clay, kaolin clay, goldenrod, mugwort, yarrow, calendula, marshmallow root, lavender and tea tree oil.

-Piper from WhimsyHollow made some pretty glycerine based cold processed soaps with oats, cornmeal and a nice berry fragrance to celebrate the spirit of the season.

-I blended an organic Lammas tea with green rooibos, oatstraw, rosemary, orange peel and cinnamon. These herbs are ruled by the earth and the sun. I also introduced my first jewelry pieces (Rising Stone Jewelry) that I called MAIZE which are made of embossed red clay with a corn motif.

I hope you'll enjoy our creations and thank you for browsing ;).

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title&search_query=twwc%20lammas

First jewelry pieces...

I thought the Lammas creative challenge was a good opportunity to make my first pieces for Rising Stone Jewelry. Since it is about celebrating the first harvest, my items are very earthy.

I made a MAIZE ring and a pair of matching MAIZE earrings made of red clay embossed with a corn kernel motif. They have been lightly varnished to strenghten the clay and give a little shine. I also added touches of gold and copper paint.

These unique items have been created to celebrate Lammas, the beginning of Harvest. The red clay symbolizes Mother Earth.The corn/maize is a symbol of the Sacred Mother, Giver of Life. The Corn Mother is the provider of abundance and fertility. Corn is also associated with divination, harmony with cycles, life force, blessings and protection.

http://risingstone.etsy.com/

Lammas Tea

I like throwing creative challenges with the Wild & Wise Collective...We usually do that to celebrate the seasons and the wheel of the year. So we currently have a Lammas challenge going on.

I created a Lammas tea with organic herbs ruled by the Sun & the Earth. It's a blend of green rooibos, oatstraw, rosemary, orange peel and cinnamon. Gentle and aromatic with a very pleasant taste.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6406046

Next week I should post the creations of my fellow wise women for this Lammas challenge.

The Meditation Bible by Madonna Gauding

Like many people, I've tried a few meditation techniques before finding which one worked best for me. Personally, the candle flame thing never worked. I enjoyed using a landscape picture and let my mind wander through the landscape. I became advanced enough to feel the wind, smell the earth and even hear animals. The next step was a more mediumnistic technique involving an imaginary place where I would meet spirits...which led me later to my shamanic path.

The great thing about this book though, it that it uses many different techniques for different purposes. These techniques are drawn from various traditions such as Buddhism, Kabbalah, Wicca and Native American just to name a few. The book starts with an introduction to meditation and how to prepare yourself and your sacred space. Then there is a meditation directory covering the following:
-Calming and centering
-Living mindfully
-Healing body, mind and spirit
-Get moving
-Love and compassion
-Problem-solving
-Manifesting your dreams
-Connecting to the divine

Meditation doesn't require any special gift and can help you relax & heal physically and mentally during hard times (from my own experience). Here's an example of vocal meditation called "Healing through Toning" which can help you release tension, uplift your spirit and heal the body. It has an energizing effect:
"Find a place where you are alone and out of the earshot of others.

1/Stand with your feet well grounded and your shoulders and arms relaxed. Begin to hum into your centre; it may be your lower abdomen or your heart area. Gradually feel your hum expand throughout your entire body. Hum into your bones, muscles and internal organs.

2/Allow your hum to open gradually into a full-voiced sound or tone, and continue to feel it resonating throughout your whole body.

3/Ask what needs to be healed. Visualize any toxins being expelled through your feet. Continue toning into any area of your body needing release or healing. Make any sounds your want. Let them arise spontaneously. Imagine that your toning is connected with the vibrations of the entire universe.

4/When you feel ready, end your toning meditation. Stand quietly for a moment and affirm that your body is completely healed and rejuvenated."

Who said meditation was boring? ;)

Rhassoul & Castille Body Wash

This is a head to toe natural body wash, it is so gentle that you can use it on face, hair and body. Very easy to prepare, you only need 3 ingredients: liquid castille soap, rhassoul clay and a floral water of your choice.

Castille soap is made with saponified olive oil, it's very gentle and can be used on sensitive skin. Most commercial soaps and shampoos are drying and abrasive...This is not the case of castille soap which can also be used for washing babies and pets. Rhassoul clay gently exfoliates dead skin cells, softens the skin and is effective for oily hair and dandruff. Floral waters are soothing to the skin and impart a nice natural fragrance which is far from overpowering.

You'll need:
-A 8 oz plastic bottle (easy to grab, shake and squeeze)
-6 oz of (organic) liquid castille soap
-2 oz of (organic) floral water/hydrosol of your choice (I like using rosewater or orange blossom water, but you can also use a fragrant herbal infusion)
-1 tbsp of rhassoul clay
-optional for dry skin/hair types: 1 tbsp of (organic) oil of your choice (my favorites are: olive oil, argan oil, shea oil)
-A funnel
-A whisk

In a bowl whisk the rhassoul with a little bit of castille soap until perfectly blended. Pour the mixture inside the bottle. Add the remaining castille soap and the floral water. Close the lid and...voila!

You may need to shake the bottle before use because the rhassoul tends to go to the bottom of the bottle. Other than that...enjoy ;)!

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Introducing Rising Stone Jewelry...

I have Alchemille's Garden for the teas, Natura Botanica for the body care...I thought it was the right time for a third and complementary line of natural jewelry.

Rising Stone Jewelry is inspired by Nature and the 4 Elements which determine the choice and variety of materials used: from stones, to clay, to botanicals, metals...etc. Rising Stone Jewelry is primitive, ephemeral, wild, poetic...and without pretention.

These earthy jewels can be worn everyday as well as for special occasions but in any case, they won't be unnoticed and will quickly become conversational pieces ;). They will help you reconnect with Nature, the Goddess, the Ancestors...and the Wild Woman within you.

For this new line, I opened a new shop which will soon display my creations: http://risingstone.etsy.com/ ...Thanks for checking!

A Plant at a Time: Rosehips (Rosa spp)

I know it's a little early to talk about rosehips but since I just strained and bottled my rosehip honegar...

Rosehips are one of Nature's gems: they're both edible and medicinal.
The hips are rich in vitamins B1, B2, C, E and K as well as beta-carotene, flavonoids, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, sulfur, zinc, polyphenols, tannin, malic acid, pectin and vanillin.
Their properties are antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, antioxidant, antiviral, astrigent, blood tonic, cardioprotective, digestive, mild diuretic, emmenagogue, kidney tonic, laxative, nutritive, stimulant and tonic.

Rosehips are rich in flavonoids that help strenghten the capillaries of the body. They also improve the body's assimilation of vitamin C. Rosehips have a tart, fruity, sour and sweet flavor. They're often combined with hibiscus in teas. Rosehips can be prepared as herbal tea/infusion, herbal vinegars & honegars, tinctures and jams.

There are more than 10,000 species of roses worldwide. The color and shape of the hips vary from one species to another. When harvesting rosehips, you may either choose wild roses (rosa canina, rosa nutkana...etc) or heirloom/medicinal roses (rosa gallica, rosa damascena, rosa centifolia...etc). Modern and hybrid varieties are not usually recommended. Also make sure that they grow in a pesticide-free area. You can harvest the hips in the fall and the winter, I read that they taste even better after the first frost (it probably concentrates the sugars inside the plant).

How to harvest rosehips? Well, first you want to find some nice red plump hips. The bigger the better, because once you remove the seeds from small ones, there's not much left. So collect your hips at their prime then wash them well and remove stems and dried sepals from the ends. The seeds inside are covered with fine, silvery hairs which can cause digestive problems if ingested, so it's better to cut the hips in half and scrape them clean (rinse if necessary).

If you want to use them right away, you can prepare a rosehip tea by crushing the fruits and steeping them for15-20 minutes in boiling water. Strain and sweeten with honey if you wish. You can also use the fresh fruits in jams (1 part fruit to 1/2 -1 part sugar, honey and/or maple syrup...You may need to add some water though, and a little splash of brandy to preserve your jam). If you're familiar with herbal preparations, you can also tincture them. A little extra vitamin C is always useful in the winter. Otherwise you can dry the fruits for later use. Turn your oven on 150F, place your rosehips on a dish inside the oven and let the oven's door slightly open. It may take an hour or so for the hips to dry, it's good to check them from time to time.

You can also buy organic dried rosehips from Jean's Greens, Living Earth Herbs or Mountain Rose Herbs (see my links).

Rosehips can be used medicinally to treat bruising, colds, cough, diarrhea, exhaustion, flu, gingivitis, hemorrhoids, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, urinary tract infections...and more. Consult your physician along with an herbalist to make the right choices regarding your health.

If you like harvesting wild plants for foods, tea and medicine, I can recommend "Drink in the Wild - Teas, Cordials, Jams and More" by Hilary Stewart

Protection Against Mischievous Spirits

No matter how careful you are and no matter how good you are at protecting yourself and purifying your home, you might still encounter malicious spirits, unfriendly faeries or negative entities who won't leave you in peace unless they get what they want. Don't bother asking them nicely to leave, you're wasting your time...

I've been in that situation recently. A dark elf invited himself in my apartment asking for something I couldn't and wouldn't give him. I managed to cast him out with the help of my spirit guides, nonetheless before he left he had found the way to leave 4 fingerprints behind my back (with a light burning sensation)...Needless is to say that I was kind of scared (no spirit ever attacked me physically before) and that I needed to find a quick and effective solution to keep him from coming back. I don't know any Faery expert and the 2 friends that could have possibly helped me where out of town...

A few months ago I had bought a book about Faery Magick that proved very useful. I tried the first part of a ritual that was very effective. After I was done, the energy inside my apartment was drastically different, even my husband felt how positive, peaceful and comforting the energy became. I will share this simple ritual with you: all you need is salt. I find coarse salt easier to manipulate and it reminds me of crystals.

"Start by calling the Small Folk to your aid while you pour a small amount of salt into the palm of one hand. Say Faery Queen so bright and good, bless this salt with the highest of positive powers.

Then chant:
King and queen of Faery Land,
Relieve me of this troublesome band.
I also call the warrior Fay,
To send the evil ones on their way.

Moving clockwise around each room, sprinkle a few grains of salt into every corner, including closets. Repeat this in every roon until you have blessed the entire house."

Each time I entered a new room, I asked for a blessing over the salt. I also chanted 3 times because the number 3 is a magical number in the celtic tradition, it may have to do with the fact of being heard in all realms. It's very important that you focus and believe in what you are doing.

I found this ritual in "The Ancient Art of Faery Magick" by D.J. Conway

A little bit of humor...

A SHORT HISTORY OF MEDICINE:
"Doctor, I have an ear ache."
2000 B.C.—"Here, eat this root."
1000 B.C.—"That root is heathen, say this prayer."
1850 A.D.—"That prayer is superstition, drink this potion."
1940 A.D.—"That potion is snake oil, swallow this pill."
1985 A.D.—"That pill is ineffective, take this antibiotic."
2000 A.D.—"That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root!"

Oh, Where Do The Fairies Hide?

"Oh, where do fairies hide their heads
When snow lies on the hills,
When frost has spoiled their mossy beds,
And crystallized their rills?

Beneath the moon they can not trip
In circles o'er the plain;
And draughts of dew they cannot sip,
Till green leaves come again.

Perhaps in small blue diving bells,
They plunge beneath the waves,
Inhabiting the twisted shells
That lie in coral caves.

Perhaps in red Vesuvius,
Carousals they maintain;
And cheer their drooping spirits thus,
Till green leaves come again.

When they return there will be mirth,
And music in the air,
And fairy wings upon the earth,
And mischief everywhere.

The maids, to keep the elves aloof,
Will bar the doors in vain;
No keyhole will be fairy proof,
When green leaves come again."

This Poem was written by Thomas Haynes Bayly

Walking Meditation

The following text is part of a "Warrior of the Light Online" newsletter from Paulo Coehlo. Subscription is free and you can choose from several languages, just go to: http://www.warriorofthelight.com/

"1] You have already arrived. So, feel pleasure at each step and do not worry about things that you still have to face. We have nothing before us, just a road to be traveled at each moment with joy. When we practice pilgrim meditation, we are always arriving, our home is the present moment, and nothing more.

2] For that reason, always smile while you walk. Even if you have to force it a bit and feel ridiculous. Get used to smiling and you will end up happy. Do not be afraid of displaying your contentment.

3] If you think that peace and joy always lie ahead, you will never manage to achieve them. Try to understand that they are both your traveling companions.

4] When you walk, you are massaging and honoring the earth. In the same way, the earth is trying to help you to balance your organism and mind. Understand this relationship and try to respect it – may your steps have the firmness of a lion, the elegance of a tiger and the dignity of an emperor.

5] Pay attention to what is going on around you. And concentrate on your breathing – this will help you to get rid of the problems and worries that try to accompany you on your journey.

6] When you walk, it is not just you that is moving, but all past and future generations. In the so-called “real” world, time is a measure, but in the true world nothing exists beyond the present moment. Be fully aware that everything that has happened and everything that will happen is in each step you take.

7] Enjoy yourself. Make pilgrim meditation a constant meeting with yourself, never a penance in search of reward. May flowers and fruit always grow in the places touched by your feet."

On the same topic, I recommend the following book: "The Spirited Walker - Fitness Walking for Clarity, Balance, and Spiritual Connection" by Carolyn Scott Kortge

Four Seasons of Tea

I now offer seasonal tea subscriptions (and yearly too upon request) so that you, fellow tea afficionado, can enjoy each month a different tea, a different taste and a different experience. I will mail 1 tea pouch each month, according to my selection.

WINTER:

-JANUARY: Amber Spice tea, a 100% organic blend of rooibos, orange peel, cinnamon & cloves. Caffeine free. USE SPARINGELY DURING PREGNANCY.

-FEBRUARY: French Romance with organic black tea, organic rooibos with Madagascar vanilla, pesticide-free rose petals & organic orange peel. Black tea contains caffeine which is not recommended during pregnancy.

-MARCH: Cottage Fairy Blend with organic spearmint, organic sweet marjoram, organic lemon verbena & pesticide-free rose petals. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY.

SPRING:

-APRIL: French Riviera with organic rooibos, pesticide-free rose petals, organic lavender, organic rosehips & organic calendula. Caffeine free. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING.

-MAY: Timeless Tea with organic white tea, pesticide-free rose petals & organic lavender. White tea contains a little caffeine which is not recommended during pregnancy.

-JUNE: Tisane de Provence (also known as Wild Provence Tea) , a 100% organic blend of thyme, rosemary, lavender & lemon balm. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY.

SUMMER:

-JULY: Marrakesh Express with organic green tea, spearmint, peppermint & rose petals. Contains some caffeine. USE SPARINGELY DURING PREGNANCY.

-AUGUST: L'Arlésienne (also known as Provençal Nights), a 100% organic blend of lemon balm & lavender. Caffeine free.

-SEPTEMBER: Caravan Chai with organic rooibos, organic cinnamon, organic ginger, cardamom & organic cloves. Caffeine free. USE SPARINGELY DURING PREGNANCY.

FALL

-OCTOBER: Thé du Matin (also known as Morning Tea), a 100% blend of green tea, rosemary, orange peel, rosehips, cinnamon & cloves. Contains some caffeine. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY.

-NOVEMBER: L'Orangerie, a 100% organic blend of black tea, rooibos, orange peel, cacao nibs & cinnamon. Contains some caffeine. USE SPARINGELY DURING PREGNANCY.

-DECEMBER: Thé à l'Eglantine (also known as Rosehip Tea) with organic black tea, organic rosehips, pesticide-free rose petals & organic cloves. Black tea contains caffeine which is not recommended during pregnancy.

All my artisan teas are freshly hand blended upon request. The Summer Tea Selection/Subscription is already available on my shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=36753&section_id=5089549 ;).

Tea Specials on Etsy...

I now offer a "MOON GODDESS Gift Bag" with 1 lunar month worth (28 days) of Luna Teas to help you harmonize yourself and your body with the Moon, its cycle and its influences. With 7 teabags each of Veiled Moon, First Crescent, Bright Moon & Last Crescent teas. For more details, please visit my e-shop:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6105771

I also carry "WOOD ROSE", a limited edition artisan herbal tea loaded with minerals and vitamin C. This blend reminds me of my childhood and vacations with my grandmother in Germany:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6050388

How to make a Honegar

Honegars are a variation of Apple Cider Vinegar tinctures. The nutritive aspect is as important or more than the healing aspect of these home remedies. They are fairly easy to prepare, especially if you're familiar with the art of tincturing "folk medicine" style ;).

I like to use dried plants rather than fresh ones: the reason is that you have a wider range of herbs to choose from and you don't depend on seasons or availability to prepare your tinctures. Yet I understand that the energy and potency given by fresh plant material can be greater if you harvest it yourself and at the right time of the year.

The recipe I'll give is for a 1 cup/8 fl oz container and using dry plant material (feel free to adapt the recipe to fresh herbs if needed). Pick an herb amongst the wide choice of nourishing herbs: the most commonly used are chickweed, dandelion, nettle and dock...Herbs and especially weeds are naturally rich in vitamins and minerals. I chose to tincture rosehips for my honegar. Rosehips are a natural source of vitamin C, combined with the minerals of the apple cider vinegar and the sweetness of the honey, it will be perfect.

In my 8 oz container, I put 1/8 cup of dried organic rosehips on which I poured 1/2 cup/4 fl oz of organic apple cider vinegar. Since vinegar corrodes metallic lids, I added a layer of plastic wrap in between. I will let my rosehips macerate in the vinegar for 1 month, after I'll strain the tincture and I'll add 1/2 cup of (raw) honey to it (you need 1 part herbal tincture to 1 part honey). Stir well and pour in a jar or a bottle. Store in a dark place (or in the fridge). Traditionally Apple Cider Tinctures can be kept for 1 year.

The basic dosage is 1 tablespoon of honegar for 8 oz of water, 1 to 3 times daily. It is delicious, full of nutrition and refreshing!

Luna Teas are back...

It would be foolish to consider the Moon only as a pretty shiny celestial sphere that glows in the darkness of the night. The Moon influences the Earth, Nature and the seasons, the tides, the animals, women's cycles and...each and every one of us on a daily basis. Never wondered why you're feeling energized or exhausted, tense or relaxed? Never wondered why you seem to have trouble sleeping or meaningful dreams during some time of the month? Your ups & downs and emotions evolve with the Moon as it waxes from New Moon to First Quarter and Full Moon, then wanes to Last Quarter and back to New Moon.

We're all made of stardust: the same elements found in the Earth, Stars and Planets are found in our body. How could we possibly deny our connection to Nature and the Universe?

I carry Spiritual, Astrological and Seasonal tea blends (amongst others)...I thought it was the right time to reconnect with Dame Lune and reintroduce my Luna Teas:

-VEILED MOON is a blend of organic green tea, organic dandelion leaves, fennel seeds, cardamom and organic orange peel. A tea to enjoy around and between the New Moon to the First Crescent. This tea has a detoxifying, stimulating and invigorating effect on the body. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY.

-FIRST CRESCENT is a 100% organic blend of green rooibos, nettle, oatstraw, ginger, rosehips and orange peel. A tea to enjoy during the waxing phase of the Moon: between the First Quarter, through the First Quarter and when the Moon is almost full. This tea has a strenghtening and fortifying effect on the body. It also allows for a better absorption of food and nutrients.

-BRIGHT MOON is a blend of organic lemon balm, organic raspberry leaves, organic oatstraw, coriander seeds and organic calendula. A tea to enjoy around and during the Full Moon. This tea has a calming, nourishing and harmonizing effect on the body. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY, BREASTFEEDING AND IF YOU HAVE THYROID PROBLEMS.

-LAST CRESCENT is a blend of organic green tea, organic peppermint, wildcrafted white sage, organic nettle and organic dandelion leaves. A tea to enjoy during the waning phase of the Moon: between the Last Quarter, through the Last Crescent to around the New Moon. This tea has a nourishing, detoxifying and purifying effect on the body. AVOID DURING PREGNANCY.

-BLUE MOON is a 100% organic blend of white tea, lavender, cornflowers and bilberries (European blueberries). A magical tea for a magical time. This tea has a soothing, relaxing and calming effect on the body. USE SPARINGELY DURING PREGNANCY.

You can find my Luna Teas under my shop, I freshly blend them upon request :) : http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=36753&section_id=5096792

Herbcraft...A Few Thoughts

An interesting post from a fellow wise woman for people who wonder about herbs and their uses.
http://summerseaherbs.blogspot.com/2007/05/herbcrafta-few-thoughts.html

Confessions of a Pagan Nun by Kate Horsley

I'm not usually into historical novels but I was naturally drawn to the theme of this book. The story takes place in Celtic Ireland as its tuaths (tribes, clans) are converted to the new faith: Christiany. The old ways being replaced by new ones in order to improve people's lives. We often forget, in our modern comfort, how harsh were the lives of the ones who walked this Earth before us. We forget that they were at the mercy of famines, diseases, floods, harsh winters...etc. These hard living conditions are intertwined with the story told in this novel.
The narrator, Gwynneve, who was brought up in the old ways, has become a nun in a monastery dedicated to Saint Brigit. She is one of few literate women and her task is to transcribe scriptures from St Patrick and St Augustine in the loneliness of her cold and damp clochan (a beehive-shaped cell made of stone). Even though she embraced Christianity, she admits that there were some truths in her old pagan beliefs and questions some things of her new faith that she's seen, read and heard in the monastery (page 22 "I have read and transcribed our bishops' rules that say women must not try to be attractive to men but must scorn the qualities in themselves that cause men to fall from grace. It has puzzled me that men, who claim more and more authority over women, show such fear of those whom they call weak. Perhaps they are hoping that women will come to believe that they need to be protected and dominated, but I cannot imagine any woman being so foolish.").
She misses her freedom as a woman, the teachings of her wise mother who knew about the healing herbs (page 5 "She worshipped not God but what He created, and she knew plants well but not as a scholar. The tonsured men were not yet here to give the plants their Latin names: fraechoga (woodberries), crem (wild garlic) and birer (watercress). When there was sickness in the tuath, many were glad to see my mother's slender feet walk the mud paths between huts with her bundles of herbs."), the knowledge and wisdom of her druid teacher...
I am only half way through the book and can hardly put it down. Some people might think that the style is heavy but it is in the Celtic Nature to be descriptive and poetic at the same time. I can only recommend this novel warmly and will complete this review once I finish the book.

Become Lady Marmelade...

We're slowly moving closer to the summer and already the markets are covered with berries and summer fruits. The garden also provides the first strawberries and a myriad of edible herbs. If you like foraging, Nature is generous to the ones who know where to look...:)

Enjoy everything, fresh or cooked, while you can. Some edibles have a very short growing season. If you align your diet with seasonal produces (what we should all do since our ancestors had no other choice), you know that winter isn't as bountiful. Why not preserve a little bit of spring or summer to enjoy during the winter months? The simpliest way is to make jams and jellies...You too can become Lady Marmelade :).

MORELLO CHERRY & VANILLA JAM

3 1/2 cups sugar (vanilla sugar if you have)

1 vanilla bean

3 lb morello cherries (or any type of cherry available to you)

the juice of 2 lemons or 1 1/4 cups or red or white currant juice

Dissolve the sugar in 1 1/4 cups of water over a low heat, then bring to a boil. Add the vanilla bean and the cherries. (If you have time, pit the cherries and add the buised pits to the misture in a muslin bag). Boil for 15 minutes, then leave to cool overnight. The following day add the lemon or currant juice and boil until setting point is reached. Remove the bag of pits and the vanilla bean, pour the jam into warm jelly glasses, seal and cover.

ROSE PETAL JAM

1 lb (12 cups) red rose petals (grown without pesticide, don't use roses from a flower shop)

1 cup granulated sugar

2/3 cup honey

the juice of 2 lemons

Collect the petals from unsprayed, scented roses and snip off the bitter white heels. They can be collected over several days and stores in a covered jar, sprinkled with lemon juice. Simmer the petals in a little water until tender, then stir in the sugar, honey and lemon juice and cook until the syrup is thick. Pour into warmed jelly glasses and seal.

These 2 recipes where selected from the following book: "The Complete Book of Herbs & Spices" by Sarah Garland

Rose Hand Cream Recipe

This is a simple, naturally scented cream that softens and moisturizes the hands.

You'll need:

1 tsp beeswax

1/4 tsp honey

2 oz/4 tbsp almond oil

2 oz/4 tbsp rosewater

1/Put the beeswax, honey and almond oil in a glass jar standing in a small pan of hot water. Stir until melted and blended.

2/Stir vigorously pouring in the rosewater. Take the jar out of the water and continue to stir gently until the mixture has cooled.

What the recipe doesn't say is that you should pour the cream, when it's still warm, in a 4 oz jar. This is a basic recipe that you can customize using your favorite oil(s), infused oils will do too. Rosewater can be replaced by orange blossom water or any floral water/hydrosol. Be creative and don't be afraid to experiment...This is your hand cream :).

natural body care

For more herbal recipes (natural beauty, culinary or tea), I recommend "The Complete Book of Herbs" by Andi Clevely and Katherine Richmond

Portrait of an Artisan: For the Love of Patchouly

Daphne blends perfume oils. She's been perfecting that art for the past 10 years! Daphne also has a passion for the exotic patchouli and shares her passion for this scent through her creations. But not all her perfume oils contain patchouli...As a matter of fact 2 of my favorite blends don't contain any patchouli (don't be mistaken, I do not dislike patchouli).

I was really impressed by the quality of her fragrances, they stay on the skin all day. I really love Amber (probably my all time favorite) so I was naturally drawn to the exotic KUNDALINI: a rich blend of 3 ambers, frankincense, morrocan myrrh and black opium.

My other favorite is OSHUN, though I'm not too much into light floral scent...My husband seems to like it too :). Oshun is the name of an Orishan water-goddess who reigns over love, intimacy, beauty, wealth and diplomacy. It's a feminine & sexy blend of orange blossom, muguet du bois and Moroccan rose floating on a base of white amber and white sandalwood.

Daphne also has many patchouli blends, one of her best sellers being a unisex scent named HIPPIE LOVE which is an earthy blend of Indian patchouli, white musk, ginger and and amber. There is no limit to creativity and I truely recommend trying her natural and affordable perfume oils, you won't be deceived.

http://patchouly.etsy.com

Chakra Dance Flow: Movement Meditation (bellydance, freestyle, guided meditation)

Chakra Dance Flow is not a traditional workout, no past pace or sweat building repetitive movements. Chakra Dance flow is a meditative dance workout that combines elements of yoga and bellydance and uses the system of the 7 chakras as guidance in energy work.

It is a relaxing and uplifting journey to reconnect with your inner self, the Universe and the Goddess. It will allow you to be aware, unblock and open each of the 7 chakras (individually or all together) and let energy flow. This guided meditation reconnects the physical with the emotional and the spiritual. It helps reawakening energy centers, releasing tension and anxiety and reclaiming inner balance.

I appreciated the fact that elements of meditation and spiritual work were brought up and integrated in the workout, such as : clearing, energizing, centering and grounding. Also energy being the flowing life force within and around us, it was refreshing to see slow, gracious, flowing moves, the integration of sound, the consciousness of breath and the awareness of the elements.

Herbal Recipe: Elderflower Champagne

This is a recipe I've been wanting to try for some time now (just need to buy some nice corked bottles first). Though it's called champagne, it's not a real champagne since it's a non-alcoholic drink. There is a natural substance in the flower heads that makes this drink fizz.

Before starting, you'll need to harvest fresh elderflower heads. Just make sure you know how to identify the tree: any mistake could be toxic if not lethal. Stay away from the cone shaped flower heads of the red elder tree...the flowers and berries are poisonous.

"This delicious, effervescent summer drink has a flavor reminiscent of muscatel wine.

RECIPE:

-4.5 litres/1 gallon/20 cups water (you may want to use good spring water and not tap water)

-500g/1 1/4 lb sugar

-6-8 fresh elderflower heads

-2 lemons, sliced

30ml/2 tbsp white wine vinegar

1/Heat half the water to just below boiling point and add the sugar. Stir to dissolve, add the rest of the water and leave to cool. Add the remaining ingredients and leave to stand for 24-48 hours. 2/Strain into strong glass bottles and cork tightly. The drink will be ready to serve in about six days."

For more herbal recipes, I recommend the following book: "Herbal Tea Remedies - Tisanes, Cordials and Tonics for Health and Healing" by Jessica Houdret

Celebrate Mothers Day under the sign of the Rose...

You may ask why the Rose? Well, Roses and Rosewater have been used through the millenniums for religious ceremonies, as a courtesy to guests, for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. There is no other flower that is so closely associated with love, beauty, health and feminity. The Rose is a flower that is universally appreciated by women for its beauty, its uses and its scent. No other flower has been as celebrated as the rose in art, poetry or even music. My mother likes roses (like most mothers or so I think). Thus I thought it was very appropriate to celebrate Mothers (and Mothers-to-be) with roses in my products. Some of them are brand new and specially concoted just for the occasion:

-Moroccan Rose Face & Body Lotion is all natural and hand blended with Moroccan virgin argan oil, true Moroccan rosewater (distilled with Damask roses), organic aloe vera gel, unrefined cocoa butter and unrefined beeswax. It's non greasy and moisturizes the skin all day long...plus this lotion leaves the skin very silky :). http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5915480

-Mon Amie La Rose Face Cream is hand blended with true Moroccan rose water (distilled with Damask roses), Moroccan virgin argan oil and unrefined beeswax. The texture is much lighter than most of my creams so that it can be used even by combination skin types. With this cream, you'll agree that the Rose is a true friend of your skin. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5914253

-Rose Kiss Balm is handcrafted with organic extra virgin olive oil infused with pesticide-free rose petals and/or rose geranium leaves, unrefined beeswax and honey. Only pure natural goodness for your or your mom's lips...Plus the tin is ornated with a pretty ribbon rose :). http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5817082

-Timeless Tea is one of my favorites. It's a gentle and feminine blend of organic white tea, pesticide-free rose petals and organic lavender. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5765440

-Moroccan Rose is a dreamy and exotic blend of organic jasmine green tea and pesticide-free rose petals. A delight for the senses. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5682975

-Thé à l'églantine aka Rosehip tea is more traditional yet not less tasty than the teas above. It's a blend of organic black tea, organic rosehips, pesticide-free rose petals and organic cloves. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5785258

Please feel free to contact me if:
-You have any question.
-You wish me to list an item specially for you.
-You wish to place an order but not through Etsy.
-You wish me to prepare a special gift bag with some of the items mentioned above and list it (or not) on Etsy.

Alchemille's Spring News #2 "DOWN TO EARTH"

As I said in the previous newsletter there have been lots of changes and novelties that have kept me busy for a while. I named this newsletter "Down to Earth" because most of my new body care items have a Moroccan and African inspiration and contain natural ingredients such as Moroccan Argan oil, Tanzanian Baobab oil, Namibian Melon seed oil or Moroccan Rhassoul clay (what is more earthy than clay?) just to name a few.

My latest creation (that, I must admit, was lingering in my mind for a while) is my wonderful Sultana Body Scrub. It's pure natural goodness, very gentle and naturally scented (no fragrance or perfume oil involved). This scrub is a blend of fine sea salt, organic extra virgin olive oil, Moroccan rhassoul clay, Damask rose powder, ground cinnamon, ground cloves and organic vanilla extract. You can smell the spices but the scent is far from overpowering and I love the fact that a light cinnamon scent lingers on the skin afterwards :).

I am equally proud of L'Aziza Facial Elixir and Sem'sema Skin Elixir. L'Aziza, which means beautiful in arabic, is a blend of Moroccan argan oil and rosehip seed oil infused with pesticide-free rose petals and/or rose geranium leaves (I grow the rose geranium myself since dried leaves are not commercially sold). I recommend L'Aziza for normal to dry and mature skin types. You just need a few drops. It can be used alone or with your usual moiturizer.
Sem'sema is a head-to-toe moisturizer hand blended with the 3 oils I mentioned above. You can use it as a conditioning hair oil, a face oil, a body oil and even a massage oil. Very practical, useful and non-greasy!
If you wish to know more about all these oils, feel free to visit my website's glossary: http://www.alchemillesgarden.com/glossary/

There are people who like oils, those who like creams and those who like lotions. I happen to have a little bit of everything for everybody :) and new items as well. Let me introduce you to my Crème de Sultane Face Cream, a smooth cream and little luxury with Moroccan argan oil and floral waxes...Or my Wise Woman del Morocco Cream with rose-infused Moroccan argan oil.

For those of you who prefer lotions, there's my Wise Woman Herbal Lotion with herbally infused extra virgin olive oil (you pick your herb or flower :) ), unrefined cocoa butter and aloe vera among other ingredients. The beauty of this lotion is that it can be used both on face and body (I love products that have multiple uses)...And my Sultana Facial Grains, my Herbal Kiss Balms...etc

I won't talk about all the novelties, I'd rather let you discover them at your own leisure...Most of them are already listed on my Etsy shop: http://alchemille.etsy.com

Let's not forget about my Artisan Tea Blends to complement your exotic pamperings: whether you need a little change of scene or just the time to daydream and relax while sipping a cup of tea.

Wild and Wise News #2 : Earth Day Celebration

We feel naturally concerned about the health of our planet and we all have a great respect and reverence towards Mother Earth.

As we all make natural, healthy, soothing and healing products, we wanted to honor the Great Mother through our creations for this upcoming Earth Day:

-Xiane created a wonderful Earth Day Ritual Kit including a handmade herbal incense (combination of Rosemary, thyme, frankincense, myrrh, sage and lavender), a lavender soy candle and an herbally infused anointing oil.

-Maggie, who specializes in natural household products, concoted a fresh cut grass scented laundry soap to bring the smell of the outdoors indoors.

-Jeane made a beautiful necklace with a purple wired Brazilian Agate and crystal quartz beads. Agate is said to provide protection, strength and harmony.

-Griselda made 2 handcrafted Gaia/Earth Goddess Shamanic Dolls out of polymer clay combined with other materials. These make wonderful altar pieces and spiritual companions.

-Andra created a nice Gaea stone necklace for the occasion. It's made out of mariposite, turquoise, petrified wood, riverstones and copper. An earthy, calming and protective necklace.

-Lacey, who's been very inspired, has created a few jewelry pieces including beaded fairy bug and Green Man chockers with ribbons.

-Charlotte crafted a Runic Magic Wand out of Hazel Wood and engraved it with the Runic Alphabet. The wand comes with it's own protective pouch and informaiton booklet. A beautiful and powerful tool for magickal use and spiritual practice.

-Night modeled a handsculpted Altar Goddess in the Ancient Nile River Bird Goddess style. She is crafted from leafy green polymer clay with a copper shimmer.

-Lisa made a "Love Mother Earth" clay pendant with a green painted heart which is also the color for the heart chakra.

-Piper crafted a very huggable "Goddess Hugs Herb Pillow" stuffed with a fragrant blend of lavender, geranium, spearmint and orris root. She also made a very natural looking "Wood and Bones Knotted Necklace"...The wooden beads have been rubbed with amber oil :).

-Parul has blended an organic Earth Mother Herbal Tea with Raspberry Leaf, Peppermint and Stinging Nettle. This energy powered herbal infusion is a source of vitamins and minerals.

-Raven put up a wonderful Garden Tea Basket with a bag of SPRING GARDEN tea (a blend of chamomile, lemongrass, hibiscus and licorice), four packets of wildflower seeds, violet candies, a lovely ceramic mug and a luscious herb scented votive candle...Goodness in a basket!

-I created 2 herbal teas: the first one I named JOURNEY TO MIDDLE-EARTH, it's a sweet, earthy and grounding blend of organic green and red rooibos, organic cinnamon, fennel seeds, organic rosemary and cardamom. The second one I named WALK IN THE WOODS, it's a wild tasting organic blend of strawberry leaves, raspberry leaves, blackberry leaves, nettle and rosehips. Loaded with vitamins and minerals from Mother Nature.

If you wish to know more about our Earth Day Creations, go to: http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_query=twwc%20earth%20day&search_type=tag_title&order=&page=1

Or seach for "twwc earth day" on http://www.etsy.com

The Earth is our Mother, she's provided food, medicine, clothes and shelter for us...We should not be ungrateful children!

Nomadic Lights

an

The idea was lingering in a corner of my mind for months because I couldn't find the time to develop the actual product...But what was just an idea has now become real!

It may not have an incredible look but I'm proud of that product. I think I've manage to capture the essence of the Ancestors and a glimpse of their life style through these candles and that's what I wanted. I've been inspired by ancient terracotta oil lamps uncovered from various archaeological sites around the Mediterranean, which were once part of the Roman Empire.

I make these candles with red clay, olive butter, unrefined beeswax and biodegradable cotton twine. I like them as natural as can be, but I know some people like fragrances so I offer the make them scented as well.

I've already listed my Nomadic Lights on Etsy and plan on adding them as permanent item in my catalog and on my website.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5655131

Alchemille's Garden Spring News #1

Spring brings a wind of change, novelty and improvement...

About novelties, I have listed 3 new teas on Etsy (2 of them are currently Etsy Exclusives):

-Morning by the Countryside is a caffeine-free herbal blend that can help you wake up gently in the morning http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5547535

-Faery Magick tea is a very springy and spiritual blend...For those seeking to connect with Fairies :) http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5623325

AND

-Grandma's Favorite that I created with my grandmother's favorite herbs and to help her in my own way. It's a very tasty and special blend. If you wish to find out more: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5609680

I also added (on Etsy and on ny website) 3 natural deodorants the "Wise Woman Deos". 1 is available unscented and the 2 others are scented with organic perfumes oils (essential oils in a blend of jojoba and grapeseed oils).

You can choose from Goddess Spirit with sweet lavender, ylang-ylang, rose attar, roman chamomile and sweet marjoram or Nature Spirit with sandalwood, lavender, cypress, cedarwood, fir needle, sweet marjoram and sage.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5609685

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5622001

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5622070

In the face and body care section, I removed the Featherlight Lotion (I will only add it occasionally on Etsy) and added a 100% natural Wise Woman del Morocco Face Cream with Moroccan Argan Oil http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=5617755 and I am currently working on a Crème de Sultane...:)

I am still switching from fragrance oils to perfume oils and am currently selecting some luxurious, exotic and alluring perfume oils for you, bellydancers, sultanas, wise women and goddesses to enjoy.

Alchemille's products in Florida

For those who are not familiar with Bijouterie (which means jewelry shop in french), Bijouterie is a little shop located in Tavernier, Florida which features handcrafted jewelry by Susan Goracy, who studied interior design.

But Susan is also into natural stuff so she carries natural handcrafted products by little indie crafters like myself. She already sells a good selection of my teas but she will also soon carry my Nomadic Perfumes :).

Here's what she said about my products in her latest newsletter: "These Nomadic Perfumes are truly EXOTIC, as well as "All Natural" made of extra virgin sweet almond oil, beeswax, and fragrance oils. Watch for these exotic scents arrivingfor April: Amber (amber, vanilla, patchouli, sandalwood, musk); Moonlight Shadow (sensual floral blend of lavender, rose, violet, musk); Spellbound Woods - my favorite (amber, sandalwood, vanilla, cedarwood, hint of flowers); Chocolate Decadence (fresh citrus layered over a rich dreamy middle of hot dense chocolate, and cocoa melded with a base of sexy musk & sandalwood - sounds like something to eat, doesn't it?!); Vanilla des Isles (African vanilla beans, sandalwood, shredded coconut, delicate white flowers); Black Amber (rustic amber, Parisian lavender, mysterious black myrrh, vanilla ,Tonka bean, Egyptian musk, clary sage).

Samples of Moonlight Shadow & Spellbound Woods are available to try! Natura Botanica also offers Sacred Oils in a small variety of scents used as massage oils, for rituals, on face & body, or for meditation. If you're interestedin trying, contact me for more info & to order.

Another exciting addition to Alchemille's Garden are Astrological Teas, available by custom order in the Astrological sign of your choice(s). This makes an interesting gift for a unique friend!"

Susan will be at the Goddesses in the Garden Party raising fun and funds for Breast Cancer on Sunday, April 29, 2007 in Key Largo. She will be donating 35-40% of sales made that day to the Breast Cancer Fund. So I invite you to come out and support a very worthwhile cause!

Susan's shop "Bijouterie" is located on 91495 Overseas Highway in Tavernier, FL 33070 .

And here's her website: http://www.e-jewelrybysusan.com/

TWWC celebrates the Spring...

We've been waiting patiently for the Spring to come back with its garlands of green and flowers buds, the first fairies frolicking in the garden and the happy songs of the birds...

Some of us wanted to celebrate this magical time of the year with some special creations that I'm glad to introduce here:

-Lacey, our newest and youngest member, from threepaws created a wonderful beaded necklace on a satin-edged organza ribbon that she named "Spring Fling".

-Rick and Heidi from ParadiseHillDesigns made a pine keepsake box with a wood burned butterfly as well as a beautiful blue eyes grass birch wood pendant. They use reclaimed wood that they collect locally for their creations. A wonderful example of natural art and jewelry.

-Charlotte from AwakeningMoon created a set of 69 printed inspiration cards wrapped in a beaded organza bag. These cards may be used to nurture yourself and to help you in your growth and development. They make a great gift idea too.

-Raven from TeaAndCauldron mades a tea shrine art tin...Open the tin and you'll meet the Tea Fairy herself! A good way to ensure growth, abundance and prosperity to your home and your garden :).

-Night from ShaktiStudios made a Jade and Crystal Quartz Necklace. Another incredible piece worth wearing by the Queen of Fairies herself. It has a pure, refined and crystalline look.

-Griselda from awesomeart made three spring inspired shamanic dolls. You'll find the Wild Moon Equinox Spirit Doll, the White Birch Spring Equinox Doll and the Spring Equniox Moon Goddess Doll. These dolls are very inspiring and may help you on your spiritual path.

-Maggie from MugwortMaggies wants to turn your home into a rose garden :). She created a Wild Rose Laundry Soap. A good way to turn your laundry task into a pleasant and fun time.

And

-I always enjoy a good cup of tea and the Spring brings plethora of good herbs and flowers. I created 3 teas for the occasion: "Morning by the Countryside" which is a caffeine-free herbal blend which wakes you up gently in the morning but can also be enjoyed any time of the day, "Faery Magick Tea" which is a wild herbal and floral blend for those who seek to contact the Fairies and a "Wild Chai", where weeds meet spices and which is naturally rich in vitamins and minerals.

Thank you for browsing and enjoy!

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_description&search_query=twwc%20spring%20creation

Wild and Wise News #1

Dear Friends,
As promised here’s the first newsletter regarding the Wild and Wise Collective featuring Etsy crafters and artists who share an interest and passion for everything natural. There are currently 21 members, including myself with different specialties ranging from teas, to body care, jewelry, pottery, natural household products, paper and even natural home decoration. Here's a little introduction to the products we make and that you can find at our shops:

*Three Ravens*: Xiane makes organic herbal products for bath and body as well as perfumed tinctures and natural incense.

*Whimsy Hollow*: Piper makes luscious natural, botanical and magical products such as soaps, lip balms, candles and wonderful perfume oils.

*Tea and Cauldron*: Raven blends herbal teas the old fashioned way. She has afternoon teas, healing/nourishing teas and even some to chase annoying gremlins out of your house.

*Awesome Art*: Griselda is a talented artist who paint and makes incredible shamanic dolls.

*Shakti Studios*: Night makes jewelry, art, herbal goodies and wonderfully scented perfume oils.

*Healing Herbal*: Healing Herbal offers hand blended herbal teas, bath oils and herbal hair rinses.

*Hecate’s Owl*: Dianne offers handmade jewelry with stones, pagan rosaries, soaps and more…

*Awakening Moon*: Charlotte makes divination tools, stone jewelry and magickal wands.

*Path to Nature*: Lisa offers natural, herbal and healing products such as salves, herbal vinegars, infused oils and Sacrana jewelry.

*Mugwort Maggie’s Apothecary*: Maggie makes natural household products such as laundry soaps as well as soy candles and natural lip balms.

*Natural Herbal / Full Circle Herbs*: Sage makes natural products such as teas, balms and tinctures. Most of her products are for pregnant women, nursing moms, babies and children.

*Summersea Herbs*: Tracy makes organic herbal teas, natural incense blends and flower remedies.

*Black Horse Hill*: Denise makes earthenware products such as sculptures, jewelry and home decoration inspired by leaves and Nature.

*Earth ‘N’ Elements Pottery*: Kathi makes unique Nature inspired pottery items with an organic look.

*Silver Frog Designs*: Andra makes natural stone and pearl jewelry items.

*Paper Planet*: Sher is an eco-artist who makes paper items with fibers and botanicals.

*Paradise Hill Designs*: Rick and Heidi make reclaimed wood creations for home decoration and woodburn engraved jewelry.

*Les Vieux Jours*: Pam makes « reincarnated goods » with used and recycled materials that she turns to art, jewelry, journals and other unique items.

*Raven Wood Herbals*: Heather makes handcrafted and homegrown herbal products. The proceeds of some of her soaps go to Heart of Texas Rat Rescue.

*Hildegard / Healing with Herbs*: Parul makes herbal products such as teas, bath salts and massage oils inspired by Hildegard von Bingen.

And of course...:)

*Alchemille’s Garden*:
I make artisan tea blends as well as natural and herbal body care items inspired by Fairies and Bellydance. I soon hope to add bulk herbs, seeds, natural candles and some art pieces.

If you wish to know more about the Wild and Wise Collective, its members and their shops, please go to (click on the names to be redirected to the shops):
http://team.etsy.com/profilest/twwc.shtml

To celebrate the Spring, some of us have concocted new and exclusive creations that can be seen on Etsy http://www.etsy.com/index.php . Just search for tags and descriptions with “twwc” and “spring creation”.

Blessings and thank you for your support.

Faery Magick Tea

There are times when the veil between the seen and the unseen gets thinner, times when our senses become sharper and our eyes are allowed to perceive for a short time what we usually can only feel if we are a little sensitive.

These special moments can be linked to different times of the day like dawn or twilight, atmospheric changes like the fog or even seasonal changes like the Spring Equinox and other magical days of the celtic wheel of the year.

I created this special Faery tea for those who seek to (re)connect with the Shining Ones either to gain knowledge and wisdom or because it is amongst the Sidhe that the soul is at home.

My tea is a blend of wild thyme (I have it in limited supplies so I might use organic thyme instead), organic rosemary, organic lavender, pesticide-free rose petals, organic violet leaves and organic malva. I make it fresh upon request.

For more details about this tea, the herbs and their use, please visit my shop:

http://alchemille.etsy.com

The Wise and Wild Collective

The Wise and Wild Collective (TWWC) is a group of Etsy sellers and artisans who work with natural supplies and respect the environment, the cycles of Nature as well as the knowledge and wisdom of the Ancestors.

We all specialize in different crafts, you'll find tea blends, jewelry with metal, clay, stone or wood, organic pottery, eco-paper, natural household products, natural bodycare, herbal products, home decoration and shamanic dolls.

By supporting and shopping with the Wild and Wise Collective, not only do you support environmental-conscious crafters but you also support creativity. You'll own a special piece that is either one of a kind or handmade in small quantity sometimes upon your request.

We all put love, knowledge, positive thoughts, wisdom and healing energy into our products, it's almost like they have a soul of their own and you will feel the difference with standard mass produced items. There is that little "je ne sais quoi" that you cannot define but nonetheless vibrates within you.

If you wish to learn more about the Wild and Wise Collective and its members, go to:

http://team.etsy.com/profilest/twwc.shtml

You can also go to http://www.etsy.com/index.php and search by tag and description for "TWWC" or "TWWC Spring Creation". This will lead you to the crafters and their wonderful products.

Thank you for supporting artisans, natural alternatives and the Wild and Wise Collective :) !

The Book of the Month : Healing Teas from around the World

I highly recommend getting "Healing Teas from around the World" by Sylvia Schneider with a foreword by Terry Willard.
This is not just another book on teas or herbs...This book makes you travel through time and space. You'll learn about the history, lore, philosophy, medicine systems (humors, elements...etc) and principal herbs used in China, Japan, India, Tibet, Arabia, the Americas and Europe. You'll also learn how to use these herbs, what they can do for you and there are quite a few recipes for you to try at your own leisure.
I really enjoyed the Europe section where the medieval medicinal tradition is mentioned along with the Witches' and Wise Woman traditions (a clear separation has been made and the materia medica is not the same)....And the alchemical tradition (alchemy deals with herbs too)!
Overall an interesting and useful read...

Circles of Strength

"I imagine and then feel, that when I gather in sacred harmony with one woman or many, gathered with us is the power of all women. I see the circles of women who have come together since the beginning of time and I know I am descendent from this long line of female strength. And even in my weakest and in my darkest moments there is a silent strength that draws me to the light. It is a power within me that calls me to live and it is a power I draw from all women, whose paths have not always been and are not always easy, and yet who find the courage to keep walking.
I keep walking..."

Karen Haffey

Things to do at the Full Moon

Moon gazing is a nice thing to do during the full moon. Ideally from moonrise to moonset...but it depends on how much time you can spend. I particularly enjoy moonsets because of the color changes which vary from a golden honey color to rusty orange and even pinkish red when really low on the horizon. Try to pick a place like the top of a roof, a sandy beach...A place where you won't be bothered either by too much artificial lights or too many people.

If you wish to benefit from lunar energy, wait for the moon to rise just above the horizon. Then stand up and stretch your arms above your head, the palms of the hands facing the moon. Inhale deeply and let the moon fill your body, from head to toe, with lunar energy. Once connected with Dame Lune, feel free to whisper a wish or a prayer for she has a kind, loving nature and is a good listener. She'll shine upon you and your wishes with her blessings.

Don't forget to thank her, then leave a wine glass full of water (you can add a crystal) all night long in her honor. She'll bless it with moonlight on her path. You can drink your moon water the following morning (you can share it with your beloved as well) or pour it into an opaque glass bottle to sip at your own leisure. Your plants may benefit from this moon water too, don't hesitate to splash the roots, stems and flowers of your favorite trees, totem plants and herbal allies.

Celebrate Lammas/Lughnasad...

"...As my own eyes survey the miracle of fruition, I am reminded of the European earth goddess Habondia, her braided hair thick as loaves of oven-baked bread, her arms pliant as dough yet supple and strong from outdoor labor, her long skirts colorful and well-pocketed to carry the bounty of the harvest and share it with all.
The ripening of the barley, the flowering of the goldenrod and the readiness of the corn all come from the generous land embodied by this luxuriant goddess. The purpling of the plums and the reddening blush of the apple fruits mirror the healthful bloom in her cheeks and the swelling of the gourds matches the mounting ripeness of the goddess to womanhood. Habondia's lush physicality teaches us to be proud of abundance in all forms on earth, be it our own ample and curved flesh, the fruits of her joyous labor or the endless river of human imagination which brims its banks, flooding us with poetry, dance, song, story, meal-making and ritual. She invites us to savor, celebrate and create with the gifts of the land and to remember that we are worthy of these gifts.
Habondia's spirit is meant to remind us that abundance is our birthright and that through the act of gathering to ourselves the harvest of nature, we accept and relish this cycle of ripeness and fullness as well as our worthiness to receive treasure. Spilling her vast riches before us, Habondia challenges us to use our creativity to preserve some of the harvest, that it can sustain us through the long winter months. She asks only that we have gratitude for our full baskets and that we share what we have with others through the gift of hospitality..."

"Herbal Rituals" by Judith Berger