Every year, NEHA publishes our annual journal that contains articles written by herbalists, the treasured 'Ask Goldie' column (a question & answer column), a Mystery Herbalist quiz, conference & retreat reviews, herbal recipes, and more.
By becoming a NEHA member, you will receive your journal copies that are sent in the mail and will also have unlimited access to digital copies of all of our older journals. Join today to begin getting your journals! |
TEA THAT MAKES FRIENDS OUT OF ENEMIES
Spice Bush, Lindera Benzoin (L.) Blume by Dr. Jody E Noe, MS, ND "In the autumn time of the year when all the leaves are off the trees and we are preparing for winter, there is one little tree that gives the last bit of color to the forest. This little tree is the last to lose its leaves. That last bit of yellow color in an otherwise brown homogeneous forest is our friend, the Spice Bush tree. Spice bush is a dicotyledon in the Laurel family (Lauraceae) that is a perennial which can grow either in a shrub or tree form. It ranges from north to south over half the United States - all the way to Texas! For the Cherokee people this is a plant with wide versatility. It is used as an everyday household medicine for colds, flus, and any upper respiratory disease. It is also used to make peace between two people, parties or clans, as well as a tea that is used to open a conversation, a dialogue or a gathering. The literal translation means “Tea that makes friends out of enemies”. Once you have tasted the tea made from this plant, you will soon realize that it is a friendly tea... " |