🌿 My Top 3 Herbs for Preventative Health: Holy Basil, Lemon Balm & Chives

 

 Hello and Welcome to Lion Soul Homestead's Blog:

---

🌿 Top 3 Herbs for Preventive Health: 

Holy Basil, Lemon Balm, and Chives

Lately, I’ve been learning more about how herbs can keep us healthy before we ever get sick. Herbs are amazing little plants that help support our bodies in many ways. Today, I want to share a bit about three herbs for preventative health — Holy Basil, Lemon Balm, and Chives. 

---

🌸 Holy Basil

Tulsi (Holy Basil) | Seen @ Jaya's Garden | Thangaraj Kumaravel | Flickr

Holy Basil (also called Tulsi) is one of the most powerful herbs for overall wellness.

🌱 Growing Tips

If your zone is under 8, it’s best to start it indoors or wait for early spring unless you can control the temperature. If you live in zones 8–9, grow it in spring or fall. In zone 10 or higher, you can grow it year-round.

💚 Health Benefits

Holy Basil helps the body in so many ways:

Supports your heart and blood vessels

Helps with stress and anxiety

Keeps blood sugar levels steady

Aids liver detox and weight management

Boosts your immune system

Keeps skin clear and may help with acne

Promotes oral hygiene and eye health

Has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory powers

Is a good source of vitamin K, which supports healthy bones

Some people enjoy Holy Basil tea for relaxation and daily health support. I’ve heard Jess from Roots & Refuge talk about how much she loves Holy Basil tea. I recently got my own seeds, and I’m excited to grow it next spring!

---

🍋 Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm | Will be making tea with this soon. Very good fo… | Flickr

Lemon Balm smells fresh and citrusy, and it’s one of the most calming herbs you can grow.

🌱 Growing Tips

Lemon Balm grows well in zones 3–9.

Spring: Start seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before your last frost, then move them outside.

Fall: In warmer climates, you can plant in early fall for a cool-season harvest. 

Winter: It can survive mild frost in zones 4–9.

💚 Health Benefits

Lemon Balm supports both body and mind:

Helps with sleep and relaxation

Calms stress, anxiety, and depression

Boosts your immune system

Supports brain and memory health

Eases cold, cough, and sore throat

Supports digestion and gut health

Can help balance blood sugar

Offers pain relief and anti-inflammatory benefits

Supports oral health (even for cold sores)

Can help improve skin and energy levels

Lemon Balm can be used in tea, but also in cooking. Some people add it to roasted chicken, homemade soap, or even salad dressings. You can also make lemon balm syrup to add to lemonade or lip balm!

---

🧅 Chives

Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/shallow-focus-of-purple-flowers-533297/

Chives are easy to grow and add flavor to so many meals!

🌱 Growing Tips

Chives can handle light frost and even stay partly green in winter if you live somewhere mild. They’re perfect for fall planting and don’t need much water.

💚 Health Benefits

Chives might seem simple, but they’re packed with nutrients:

Support a healthy heart

May help prevent cancer

Strengthen bones

Aid digestion

Support blood sugar balance

Boost mood and memory

Help with detoxification

They are rich in vitamins and minerals

In our home, we love adding chives to mashed potatoes or using them as a garnish. I’ve never tried adding them to tea, but I’m curious — have you? (Let me know in the comments! 😉)

---

☕ Mixing and Using Herbs

You can mix Holy Basil and Lemon Balm for a calming and immune-boosting tea. I’ve heard this combo is both tasty and soothing. As for Chives, maybe skip the tea and stick to cooking — unless you’re feeling adventurous!

---

🌿 Final Thoughts

Learning about these herbs has really opened my eyes to how powerful nature can be. Whether you grow them for tea, cooking, or natural health, each of these herbs offers something special for your body and mind.

Thank you for stopping by, my friends! 🌼
I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Have you used any of these herbs before?

Stay healthy and take care! 💚

Pros and Cons of raising Meat Goats and Dairy Goats

 

Hello and Welcome to Lion Soul Homestead's Blog:

Photo by Vladimir Srajber: https://www.pexels.com/photo/goat-herd-grazing-in-croatian-countryside-34075170/

Today, I'd like to dive into the pros and cons of raising Goats for Meat vs. dairy, or potentially both.

Photo by Andreas Ebner: https://www.pexels.com/photo/goat-standing-in-a-field-14688313/

Meat Goats: Pros 

• Generally, they are more capable than dairy goats at birthing and raising their babies without assistance.
• 
  
• Some meat goats, like Boers, can be roughly 200lbs, give or take. That's a pretty good return on investment, even if feeding store-bought feed.
• 
  
• Males are, of course, larger and usually the ones used for meat. If you tend to get more males, you get more meat per year.
• 
  
• Meat breeds tend to have fewer issues in general, such as needing hoof trimming, deworming, other illnesses, or diseases. 
• 
  
• *Always test for issues regularly to make sure they do not need treatments such as deworming* 
• 
  
• ~ Just because they are less likely to need medication, it doesn't mean they never will~
• 
  
• Goats used for meat can give you about 40-50% meat based on their weight.
• 
  
• If you're comfortable with waiting 2-3 years, you can get a high yield of meat per goat.
• 
  
• Keeping male goats longer means they could breed your does so you don't need to outsource.
• 
  
• You can raise them to about 8 - 10 months old

Meat Goats Cons 

• Some breeds produce less meat than others, such as a pygmy, which stays smaller and is better for smaller families or someone not wanting a large meat animal. 
• 
  
• Larger breeds can be dangerous unless well socialized with their owners. However, most try not to interact with meat goats due to it making it harder to dispatch the animals later.
• 
  
• Generally, they are not great for meeting a homesteader's dairy needs. Especially while also raising their babies.
• 
  
• Example, if you raise your goat to 200lbs, you'll get almost 100lbs of meat. Now times that by at least 4, and you have 400lbs of goat's meat. 
• 
  
• While the above example is possible, you'll likely be raising them for 2-3 years, most likely having to give some pelleted feed.
• 
  
• Furthermore, if you're raising multiple males to roughly 200lbs, you'll want to castrate them to reduce fighting, which, unless done by you, can cost extra money. 
• 
  
• Raising most any animal longer for meat, tends to make the meat tougher.

Photo by Apollonia: https://www.pexels.com/photo/portrait-of-a-white-goat-in-natural-setting-33581057/

Dairy Goats: Pros 

• Produce high amounts of milk, and depending on how many kids they have, could produce enough milk for the owner and the kids. 
• 
  
• Larger breeds can produce 1- 3 gallons of milk per day.
• 
  
• Larger breeds (preferably, but any goat) could be used in a dual-purpose way to give your family meat as well.
• 
  
• Nubians (Large Breed) & Nigerian Dwarfs (small breed) have high butterfat, which is desired for many reasons.
• 
  
• Often dairy goats tend to naturally be friendlier, which is nice when you have to milk them twice a day, or help (or just watch) them give birth
• 
  
• Some larger breeds could be used as dual-purpose purpose like dual purpose chickens. This just means that the animal could produce enough meat to be used for meat & milking purposes.

Dairy Goats: Cons 

• Smaller breeds give less milk; Nigerian dwarfs tend to give roughly 1  to 2 quarts per day. 
• 
  
• Larger breeds tend to have less butterfat, which contributes to the taste of the milk. 
• 
  
• Depending on what you want to make with your milk, you might need a certain breed (limited in choices), such as if you want higher butterfat.
• 
  
• Tend to need more maintenance care, such as hoof trimming, deworming, illness, and/or disease. 
• 
  
• Poor breeding practices or just poor genetics can make milking harder, such as small teats (on a large breed), split teat (I would never breed), poor quality udder, which can get worse with age.

I want to go further in depth about some of the statements above, such as poor genetics/breeding. While most breeders are truly doing their best to breed for better offspring, it is not always known until after breeding and raising up the offspring. If the parent/offspring will be worth breeding again, or if they just need to be bred to a better partner. 

Furthermore, when talking about maintenance in goats, just because you buy a meat goat doesn't mean it will be less maintenance, nor will a dairy goat necessarily be higher maintenance. The statements made above about meat goats tend to be less maintenance than dairy goats, which are higher maintenance. Those statements tend to be truer for the purpose of goat (meat or dairy). Just something to keep in mind, especially when researching, buying, and breeding, as a potential issue in all goats, but possibly more likely depending on the purpose goat you're getting. 

I'd like to also add that when talking about using a dairy goat as a dual-purpose goat, you could also use a meat breed for dairy and meat as well. The main point I want to make here is that while it's not as common, especially in America. Then again, eating goat meat is still new-ish to most Americans as well. I'm getting off topic, eating "dairy goats" I feel is more common in breeders. Since you can only find homes for so many Wethers before no one wants to buy because the breeder feels their genetics are not good enough. While I'm glad we have people who try to improve the offspring, sometimes it's just easier to eat them. You can't keep all of them till they pass on, or find pet homes for all of them, but using them to feed your family is definitely a good use of the animals.

Photo by Dr.Vivasayam YouTube Channel: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-goats-in-the-cage-6733517/

In conclusion, any breed(s) of goat can be used for milk or meat or both, but some are just better at their designated purpose.

I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. While I know some of the topics mentioned in this article might be uncommonly talked about, I do hope everyone will be respectful in the comments. These articles and their comments could be read by young readers, and I'd appreciate it if everyone commented in a role model manner. 

Thank you for stopping by, have a good day!!

Planting Fruit Trees and other plants that take a loooooooooooooong time to grow!!

👋 Hello and Welcome to or Welcome back to 

Lion Soul Homesteads blog!! 👋

STOP, don't buy those chickens 🐔 just yet, or start on remodeling projects🏡, there's something much more important to start with.......... 🌴🌳🎋 Trees 🌲🎄 and bushes, plus a few other plants that take a very long time to grow and produce for you.

Unless you don't want to grow any stone fruit, such as Peaches, dates, cherries, and other fruit trees, berry bushes, and some long-term veggies. You will definitely want to get started buying and planting these valuable trees ASAP!! Fruits are not only a great way to get a sweet treat, but they also have many vitamins and minerals our bodies need. some of these fruits can be expensive if you were to eat them more than once a month, or while trying to feed a family, these fruits often. If you grow your own in an amount that will give you or your family enough to harvest, you can not only snack on them but also make delicious jams, jellies, and desserts to enjoy as well!! Plus, many of these fruits and plants can be given to your livestock or pets.

Photo by Ryan Baker: https://www.pexels.com/photo/shallow-focus-photography-of-yellow-lime-with-green-leaves-129574/

🌴List of Fruit & Berry trees: It depends on your climate to which of these you can grow.

• Peaches
• Apple - can be grown in cold climates
• Pear
• Orange
• Lemon
• Mulberry
• Cherry can take 4-5 years before it bares fruit.
• Fig
• Apricot - one of my favorite juices from when I was a little girl!!
• Plum

💚List of Bushes & Other long growing fruits + veggies:

• Blueberries can take about 3-4 years to start producing fruit.
• Avocado - 5-13 years
• Raspberries - 2 years
• Asparagus - 2 to 3 years

Photo by Clément Proust: https://www.pexels.com/photo/hand-with-berries-in-plantation-21906696/

While these are just a short list of examples of how very, very long it can take to get fruit or to be able to harvest edibles from your trees, plants, or bushes. Which is why I think it's incredibly important to start planning your orchard and gardens first, including your livestock's garden if you're trying to be self-sufficient like we plan to be!

What is the approximate cost of buying trees, bushes, and plants? It, of course, depends on who you're buying from, but there is a little more to it than that. Some places do sell much older trees or bushes closer to the bearing fruit stage (more so with blueberries or smaller trees and bushes). The price of a sapling is usually going to cost you way less money than a 2 to 5-year-old mature tree, especially the ones that get over 5ft, such as a peach tree. Other mature plants, such as Asparagus, might not survive being uprooted or transported at an older age. Although I've also never tried, so that would be a question for your local gardening extension or greenhouse. 

💛In conclusion:

• Fruit Trees, Berry bushes, and some veggies take years of growing before they will ever think about producing fruit for you to eat.
• Plan to combat this issue, buy your fruit trees and bushes as well as other take too long to grow plants, as soon as possible after purchasing or moving into your new homestead or farm!!
• Younger trees and bushes will cost you less money, but in some cases, for more money, you could have almost-ready-to-fruit trees and bushes.
• Contacting your local greenhouse or gardening extension is your best way to find out what you can or cannot grow in your area, as well as helpful resources on where to grow certain trees, bushes, and plants on your land.
• Do the best with what you can, try posting to a local Facebook group or on Craigslist, there might be someone nearby giving away or selling what you're looking for. Remember, being frugal can help your homestead or farm flourish more than you ever thought it could! Plus, with all that saved money, now you can buy goats and the infrastructure to keep them, but more about that later! 😉

Photo by Burst: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-holding-blueberries-545040/

Happy Gardening and thank you for stopping by on Gardening Tips Tuesday!! 👩

---

Introduction to Herbalism

What is Herbalism?

Herbalism is the practice of using plants and plant extracts for medicinal purposes. It’s one of the oldest forms of medicine known to humanity and involves the study and application of various herbs to promote health and treat illnesses.

Herbalists often use a variety of plant parts, including leaves, flowers, roots, seeds, and bark, to create remedies. These remedies can come in many forms, such as teas, tinctures, capsules, powders, and ointments.

Herbalism has deep roots in traditional medicine across various cultures, each with its own unique practices and beliefs. Here are a few examples:

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Herbalism is a core component of TCM, which has been practiced for thousands of years. Chinese herbal medicine uses a variety of plants, minerals, and animal products to restore balance within the body. Common herbs include ginseng, astragalus, and licorice root.

2. Ayurveda: Originating in India over 3,000 years ago, Ayurveda employs a holistic approach to health and wellness. It uses herbs like turmeric, ashwagandha, and neem to promote balance among the body's three doshas (vata, pitta, and kapha).

3. Native American Medicine: Indigenous peoples across North and South America have long used herbal remedies for healing. Plants like echinacea, yarrow, and sage are commonly used to treat various ailments and are often incorporated into spiritual practices.

4. African Traditional Medicine: In many African cultures, herbalism is intertwined with spiritual practices and community health. Herbs like aloe vera, moringa, and African ginger are frequently used for their medicinal properties.

5. European Herbal Medicine: Dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, European herbalism has influenced modern Western herbal practices. Herbs like chamomile, peppermint, and St. John’s wort have been used for centuries to treat various health issues.

Herbalism is becoming increasingly relevant today as more people seek natural and holistic approaches to wellness. Here are some key reasons why you might want to try out herbalism:

1. Natural Remedies: Many individuals prefer natural treatments over synthetic drugs to avoid potential side effects. Herbal remedies are often seen as gentler on the body.

2. Holistic Health: Herbalism embraces a holistic approach, considering the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health. This comprehensive view aligns with the growing interest in wellness practices that promote overall well-being.

3. Sustainability: Using herbs and plants for medicinal purposes can be more environmentally sustainable than relying on pharmaceutical products. Many people are drawn to herbalism for its eco-friendly and sustainable nature.

4. Cultural and Historical Significance: Herbalism has deep cultural roots and historical significance in many societies. People are reconnecting with traditional knowledge and practices, finding value in ancient wisdom.

5. Accessibility and Empowerment: Herbs are often more accessible and affordable than prescription medications. Learning about and using herbal remedies empowers individuals to take control of their health and well-being.

6. Complementary Medicine: Herbalism is often used alongside conventional medicine as a complementary approach. Many people find that incorporating herbal remedies into their healthcare routine enhances the effectiveness of their overall treatment plan.

7. Preventative Care: Herbalism emphasizes preventative care and maintaining balance within the body. By using herbs to support the immune system and overall health, individuals can potentially reduce the likelihood of illness.

Overall, herbalism offers a natural, holistic, and accessible approach to wellness that resonates with the growing demand for alternative and complementary health practices. 🌿🌍✨

Herbalism is all about using plants and their extracts for medicinal purposes. It's one of the oldest forms of medicine out there, dating back to when our ancestors first figured out that plants could do more than just fill their bellies. At its core, herbalism is the study and use of herbs to support health and tackle various illnesses.

What makes herbalism so fascinating is the sheer variety of ways it can be practiced. Herbalists work with various plant parts—leaves, flowers, roots, seeds, even bark—to create remedies in forms like teas, tinctures, capsules, powders, and ointments. It’s incredibly versatile!

Herbalism is also deeply rooted in traditional knowledge, often taking a holistic approach to health. It’s not just about fixing what’s wrong but looking at the bigger picture—the body, mind, and spirit working together.

Overall, herbalism offers a natural, holistic, and accessible approach to wellness that resonates with many people as an alternative and complementary health practice. 🌿🌍✨

---

Why Start Learning Herbalism?

Personal Growth and Connection with Nature

When you start taking an herbalist’s approach to health, it’s often because modern medicine isn’t addressing the root cause of your issues—only treating symptoms, sometimes creating new ones in the process. Medications like Tylenol and ibuprofen, while useful, can put stress on major organs like the liver and kidneys. Herbal remedies, on the other hand, tend to be gentler, supporting the body rather than straining it.

By learning about your symptoms, lifestyle habits, and overall health—just as a doctor might—you gain a deeper understanding of how your body responds to different treatments. This journey isn’t just about healing; it’s about self-discovery and reconnecting with nature. You’ll start recognizing what your body truly needs, how it heals, and what supports it best. This knowledge can be life-changing for those managing chronic conditions, giving you the confidence to address your health naturally.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. Everyone’s body is different, so please consult a healthcare professional before making any changes. However, if your doctor refuses to consider herbalism or nutrition as a part of your care, it may be worth seeking a second opinion.

Practical Uses: Teas, Remedies, Skincare, and More

Starting with herbalism can feel overwhelming, but it’s like learning a new recipe. At first, it takes time and effort, and you might wonder why you’re doing it when there’s a more convenient option (like premade meals). But once you get the hang of it, you refine and improve—just swapping store-bought pasta for homemade or choosing real pasture-raised meats.

A phrase I remind myself of in tough moments is: "We have traded our health for convenience." It’s true. It’s easier to throw a frozen meal in the microwave than to grow and prepare herbs for tea or tinctures. But what’s not easy is dealing with the long-term effects of poor nutrition and synthetic treatments. This isn’t about guilt—it’s about awareness. I didn’t grow up with home-cooked, homegrown meals, but becoming a mother made me rethink everything. My journey toward better health has taken 16 years, and I’m still learning. It’s never too late to start!

The key is to think practically. Don’t overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight—small, sustainable changes make the biggest impact. Swap one thing at a time, whether weekly, monthly, or yearly—whatever works for you. If growing herbs feels daunting, start with buying from a trusted local or organic supplier. Tea is a great entry point because it’s affordable and widely available. Once you find a blend you love, you can buy in bulk for quality and savings.

A Sustainable, Self-Sufficient Lifestyle

Long-term, you may want to grow your own herbs for teas, tinctures, and remedies, but that doesn’t mean you have to do everything yourself. Finding a trustworthy supplier for certain items is perfectly fine—it’s about quality over quantity. Herbalism is a journey of self-sufficiency, but it’s also about making informed choices that fit your lifestyle.

My goal is to help those who want to take charge of their health—just as I’m working toward better health for myself and my family. Whether you grow your own herbs, source them locally, or start with something as simple as a cup of tea, every step toward a more natural lifestyle is a step toward greater well-being.

---

Common Myths About Herbalism

"You need to be an expert to start."
We all learn at our own pace. Some people choose to become certified herbalists, and if that’s the path for you, go for it! However, be aware that there’s a fine line between sharing knowledge and being accused of practicing medicine without a license. Herbalism is a natural approach to healing, and because it involves remedies for ailments, some states have regulations about what you can and cannot say. Always do your research and be mindful of local laws when discussing herbal treatments with others"Herbalism is just about tea."

While tea is a common and accessible way to use herbs, herbalism goes far beyond that. Tinctures, salves, infusions, and even cooking with medicinal herbs all play a role. Many herbalists also grow or forage their own plants, learning about their benefits from root to flower. Herbalism is about understanding the medicinal properties of plants and how to apply them in various ways—not just steeping leaves in hot water.

"It’s too complicated for beginners."
Starting anything new can feel overwhelming, but herbalism is something you can learn step by step. There’s a wealth of information available online, in books, and at your local library. Think of it like cooking—when I first tried making homemade pasta, I made plenty of mistakes. If I dried the noodles too close together, they stuck. If I added too much water, the dough became too soft. Over time, I found my own rhythm and even discovered I liked a slightly softer, thinner texture. Herbalism is the same way, you learn by doing.

Start with just one herb or one symptom you’d like to address. Keep a journal, track what works for you, and before you know it, you’ll see how much you’ve grown. Trust me, you’ve got this—I’m learning right alongside you!

Remember, every expert started as a beginner. They made mistakes, learned from them, and kept going. Herbalism is a journey, and if you’re passionate about it, you’ll keep growing, just like the plants you’ll come to love. 🌿✨

---

Key Terms to Know

What is Infusion, and how is it the same or different than decoction?

• Infusion: When you steep herbs (usually delicate parts like leaves, flowers, or soft stems) in hot water to extract their beneficial compounds. Think of it like making tea—pour hot water over the herbs, cover it to trap the steam, and let it sit for 10-20 minutes.

• Decoction: This method uses tougher plant materials like roots, bark, or seeds. Instead of steeping, you simmer the herbs in water for an extended time (15-30 minutes) to extract their properties.

• Difference: The key difference is in the plant part used and the process. Infusions are quicker and gentler, while decoctions involve boiling to draw out the medicinal properties of harder materials.

---

What are tinctures, salves, poultices, and essential oils, and how are they used in herbalism?

• Tincture: A concentrated herbal extract made by soaking herbs in alcohol or glycerin. It’s taken in small doses, usually by drops, to support the body in various ways, like boosting immunity or aiding digestion.

• Salve: A healing ointment made by mixing infused herbal oils with beeswax. It’s applied topically to soothe skin, promote healing, or reduce pain and inflammation.

• Poultice: A paste made from crushed fresh or dried herbs mixed with water, applied directly to the skin and often covered with a cloth. It’s great for drawing out toxins, soothing bruises, or reducing swelling.

• Essential Oils: Highly concentrated plant extracts obtained through distillation. They are used in aromatherapy, massage, or as ingredients in skincare. Essential oils must always be diluted before use on the skin because of their potency.

---

What is Materia Medica, and how is it beneficial to everyone?

Materia Medica is like a personal herbal journal or collection where you document everything you learn about herbs—their uses, how to prepare them, and how they work for you.

• How to Start One:
  Begin by choosing a few herbs you’re curious about. Research their properties, write down how they’re used, and experiment with simple preparations like teas or salves. Include personal notes on your experience with each herb.

• Benefits:

  • It helps deepen your understanding of herbalism over time.
  • You create a resource tailored to your needs and preferences.
  • It empowers you to use herbs safely and effectively, building confidence in your skills.

---

 Beginner-Friendly Herbs to Explore

• Chamomile: Usually made into a tea, drink to help with calming the mind. It's also super easy to grow.

• Peppermint: Can help improve digestion, increase focus, relieve migraines, and freshens breathe. Another easy-to-grow plant and it makes a refreshing tea.

• Lavender: Has many benefits including aiding in relaxation, reducing stress, improved sleep, pain relief, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, mood enhancer, and skincare benefits.

• Calendula: Can reduce inflammation, inhibit microbes, has soothing skin properties, as well as promote wound healing.

• Echinacea: Is an amazing immune support, and can eliminate infections, improve skin conditions, and speed up healing time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Simple Ways to Start Practicing Herbalism

• Growing a small herb garden.

• Making single-ingredient herbal teas or infusions.

• Experimenting with simple remedies like herbal balms or salves.

• Journaling your experiences with different herbs.

• Make sure to not try too many things at once. My rule of thumb is to try one new thing for about a week or more. To make sure of no allergic reactions, or side effects, or to see if it's working for the ailment, you intend it to. 

• Furthermore, some mixes or single items will cause basic issues when used too often. Such as onions are great for cleaning the blood and many other uses but if I eat them too often, I'll get a stomachache and gas that's pretty debilitating within a few days to a week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Safety and Ethical Considerations

• Research herbs thoroughly before use.

• Starting with small amounts to test for allergies or reactions.

• Ethical foraging and sourcing sustainably.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Resources for Learning More

• Beginner-friendly books can be a bit difficult to find since most are a sort of encyclopedia. Personally, I have not used any books to learn, so my best recommendation is to watch this episode of The Honeystead https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=P8ZClovAk_xXnGze&v=N-ePDVWTpAQ&feature=youtu.be   She does an amazing job of talking about the books she uses. In her other videos, I find she doesn't overcomplicate information.

• Local herbalist workshops or online courses could also be a great way to try out herbalism, with a professional. Of course, you'd have to do your own research to find one of these but I believe you'll find what you're looking for in due time.

• Community groups or forums for herbalism enthusiasts, is another great way to advance your knowledge. I'm more of a sit back and observe type of person so in this instance I wouldn't per say take someone's advice or recipe but more read about others who are mixing XYZ for whatever reason and then wait to see what they say about it and then do further research from a book or trusted online source.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Journey as a Beginner Herbalist

I am definitely a woman of procrastination, as well as motivation, contradicting, I know but true, nonetheless. While I definitely have not reached the level of knowledge, I wish I had at this point in my life, I have decided to rededicate myself to learning more. You're never too late to educate. 😉😁The reason I started learning about herbalism, was mostly due to my own health. As a child and even into my teens, my mother was always told by doctors that I was short for my age and that if I had been the "right" height I would be considered underweight/malnourished. you'd think the dr. would recommend certain foods to help, or maybe a nutritionist to help inform my mother of what I lacked. That was not the case, and it never happened even though year after year she and my father would be told the same thing. Once I was closer to 13 give or take not only did, I start having weird stomach issues (unsure then if it even was my stomach or not) as well as now being told I was just short but still kind of thin but that's okay because it's harder to get kids to be on the thinner side. I swear hearing myself say this sounds like they didn't even go to real doctors, but I know they were sadly. Long story short, I have an unnamed gas disorder. My body creates too much gas in one way or another and cannot expel it efficiently or fast enough and it would cause severe, and I mean severe stomach pain. I still have not been able to cure myself, but I am not in that kind of pain anymore. Most of this is not about herbalism it's about diet but that can mesh well with herbalism. What plants can cause gas I would need to use in moderation or choose which ailment needs more help my ..enter issue here.. or the plant causing me gas? Ultimately, I've had a few different similar issues where doctors cannot figure out the issue, or I seem to be the rare case without the "perfect symptoms" or no symptoms, which makes them wonder if I'm crazy or just know myself. I still use modern medicine, and I try to get certain tests done to help me know what I should or do not need to work on such as cholesterol testing and whatnot. I now try to incorporate herbs, and other single-ingredient type foods, specific meals, or just different ways of cooking a meal. I have also grown some herbs, fruits, and veggies that I incorporate into our meals. It's a great way to get more vitamins and minerals. 😀Remember what works for me, might not fully work for you, or work at all for you, we are all different and that is okay. Sometimes talking to like-minded people can help bridge the gap of what you should Try. 

I love that herbalism can help with so much, and yet anyone can learn at any time. There are books, classes, and free resources all over the place. It's so nice we can think up a question and get an answer within minutes usually. However, I prefer the gardening part it feels a lot more relaxing to me. Being outside preferably with a slight breeze, planting seeds or plant starts knowing that in the future it will help with my or my family's needs is a wonderful feeling. I cannot wait to grow more herbs this year, so far, I have 2 types of basil (one of which is purple basil), chamomile, and dill weed. Of course, we have also started some veggies as well, which can have certain health benefits but mostly we just love eating them and want to cut food costs as well as know what is going into growing our food and even more what is Not going into our food or soil. As much as it can be laborious it's also very rewarding to plant from seed and watch it grow and eventually sprout fruit (or veggie 😉) to harvest!

 

I hope you'll also share what you are or want to plant this year (or even started last year). I'd love to know if you have a reason behind what you're planting such as certain health benefits, or if it's a tried-and-true herb or fruit/veggie in a favorite recipe! Feel free to share your herbal recipes as well as meal or snack recipes. If I were to post any recipes of any type I would get in touch with you and credit you and/or whomever the recipe originated from if shared in one of my blog articles.

~ 💝Wishing you the best in your Herbalism Journey, as well as to the Gardners 💝~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In conclusion

• I would start by trying a simple single-ingredient tea like chamomile. If it seems to help or you just enjoy the flavor, then I would suggest you add it to your herb garden plan. 

• I will be writing more articles about Herbalism, Self-sufficiency, Livestock, Gardening, Food Preservation & Cooking, so please follow me to learn even more!

---

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog and I hope you enjoyed what you learned today. 😀

Benefits of starting a garden during the winter

 

Hello and Welcome to Lion Soul Homesteads Blog!! 👋

---

The Benefits of Gardening During Winter

Winter gardening might seem impossible, but it’s far from it! Even in the coldest climates, you can grow plants indoors with the help of grow lights. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, winter gardening can be an incredibly rewarding endeavor.

---

Why Grow a Winter Garden?

Growing a winter garden has numerous benefits. For one, it can mean fewer trips to the grocery store. Let's face it, food prices—especially for items grown far away—can be overwhelming. If you don't have farm stands or local markets nearby, like me, a winter garden can provide a sustainable solution.

Each year you cultivate a winter garden, you gain invaluable insights:

• What crops do you enjoy or use the most.
• What items end up as compost or livestock treats.
• How much of a particular plant you need to grow.

For example, you might not use much of a certain herb one year, but the next year it becomes a staple because you discover a new recipe. Gardening is not just about growing plants; it’s also about personal growth and learning.

To make your next winter garden even easier, take notes! While I’d love to think I can remember every detail, I’ve often found myself growing plants that didn’t work out the year before—only to realize it at harvest time. 😅

---

The Many Reasons to Start a Winter Garden

Winter gardening isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. Some people use winter as a time of rest, while others grow a few simple plants like air plants, which are excellent for improving indoor air quality in tightly sealed homes. But if you’re considering starting a winter garden, here are some compelling reasons:

1. Food Security
   Growing food year-round ensures you always have fresh, healthy options available. Plus, some foods, like leafy greens, taste even better when grown in cooler temperatures.

2. Stress Reduction
   Gardening is therapeutic! Setting and achieving small goals—like growing fresh salads during the winter—can boost your mood and sense of accomplishment.

3. Fun and Rewarding
   Watching plants grow from seeds or starts is both fun and fulfilling, especially during the cold months when life can feel dreary.

4. Improved Indoor Environment
   Indoor gardening enhances your space with beauty, pleasant scents (especially from herbs and flowers), and better air quality.

5. Healthier Eating Habits
   Growing your own produce encourages you to incorporate fresh, nutrient-rich foods into your diet.

---

Indoor Gardening Tips

When gardening indoors, space is often a limiting factor. Focus on smaller, potted plants that can thrive on windowsills, shelves, or in grow trays. For variety, try microgreens—they grow quickly and can be harvested every 10 days or so!

Variety is essential to meet your nutritional needs, especially in harsh winter climates. Even a small selection of fresh herbs or greens can make a big difference.

---

Best Plants for Indoor Winter Gardening

Here are some top picks for edibles that thrive indoors:

1. Herbs: Basil, mint, thyme, rosemary, and parsley add flavor to meals.
2. Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, lettuce, and arugula are nutrient-dense and easy to grow.
3. Microgreens: Radish, sunflower, and broccoli microgreens grow quickly and are packed with nutrients.
4. Tomatoes: Dwarf or cherry varieties grow well in pots with good sunlight.
5. Peppers: Small chili pepper varieties thrive indoors with adequate light.
6. Carrots: Baby carrot varieties grow well in deep containers.
7. Radishes: Quick-growing and easy to maintain.
8. Green Onions: Regrow them from root ends in a container on your windowsill.
9. Beans and Peas: Dwarf varieties grow indoors with support structures.
10. Strawberries: With proper care, they’ll produce fruit indoors.

These plants need good light (either a sunny window or grow lights) and well-draining soil. If you're interested in taking your indoor garden to the next level, consider a hydroponic system, which grows plants in nutrient-rich water instead of soil.

---

Why Not Give It a Try?

Gardening during winter has so much to offer: reduced stress, better eating habits, a prettier home, and even cleaner air. Whether you start with just one plant or create a mini indoor garden, I’m confident you’ll find joy in the process.

---

Let’s Chat!

Are you planning a winter garden? Have questions about specific plants? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and I’d be happy to help! I might even feature your question in an upcoming blog post. Don’t forget—I post about gardening every Tuesday!

Happy gardening! 🌿🍅🍓

---

Let's set Homesteading Goals for 2025!! Checklist included!!

Let’s Set Homesteading Goals for 2025!

As some of you already know, I love talking about homesteading and all the amazing topics that come with it! For us, this year looks very different because we traded our 2-acre homestead for a motorhome and relocated back to Louisiana. Interestingly, we’re now in the same area where we lived in 2018, right before the pandemic hit.

Although we’re currently in an RV park, my homesteading dreams are still alive and well. There’s a community garden here, and we’re excited to contribute and grow what we can. While we can’t have livestock like rabbits here (and certainly can’t process them), I plan to explore indoor gardening with herbs, small flowers, and air plants. We’re also considering 4-H for our kids, provided we can find a place to house their rabbits nearby.

In the long term, I’ve been researching farming loan programs to help us establish a small-scale homestead where we can sell produce, livestock, and cottage products—not at a commercial scale, but enough to support a self-sufficient lifestyle. Ideally, we’d love a property with flexible zoning, the ability to live in our motorhome indefinitely, and enough space for our kids to potentially settle in the future.

Until we find the right place, I’m focusing on what I can do where we are. Homesteading is all about adapting, and this post is dedicated to planning for your own homestead in 2025. Whether you’re starting from scratch or continuing to build your dream, here’s how to set meaningful goals and get started on the right foot!

---

Planning Your Homestead: A 2025 Checklist

1. Map Out Your Property

Start by sketching a layout of your land. If you have a survey or map, even better! Take time to walk the property at different times of the day to observe sunlight patterns, natural shading, slopes, and drainage areas. Use this information to decide:

• The best location for your garden (maximize sunlight).
• Where to house livestock (consider shade and water runoff).
• Where long-term projects, like orchards or storage structures, should go.

A permaculture mindset will help you design a self-sufficient, sustainable homestead that works with nature, not against it.

---

2. Clear and Prepare the Land

Depending on your property, you may need to clear brush, remove debris, or prepare areas for gardening, livestock, or other uses. Winter months might limit outdoor work in colder climates, but that’s the perfect time to plan, dream, and strategize.

---

3. Know Your Gardening Zone

Understanding your gardening zone is critical for planting success. Use tools like the Old Farmer’s Almanac or the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to identify your zone by ZIP code. This will help you select crops, trees, and plants suited to your climate and growing season.

---

4. Plant Long-Term Crops First

Fruit trees, nut trees, and perennials like blueberries or asparagus take years to mature, so plant them as soon as possible. Research ideal spots on your property based on your permaculture plan, and make sure they have the right soil and light conditions. Future you will be so grateful!

---

5. Test Your Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of any successful homestead. Test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels, then amend it accordingly to support your chosen crops. Many county agricultural extensions offer soil testing services, or you can purchase a DIY kit online.

---

6. Get Organized

Moving to a new homestead can feel overwhelming, but taking 30 minutes a day to unpack and organize will make a big difference. Focus on creating designated spaces for tools, seeds, and other essentials to make daily tasks easier.

---

7. Start (or Plan) Your Seeds

Whether you’re planting this season or preparing for the next, organize your seeds now. Store them in a labeled, accessible space, and plan your planting schedule based on your gardening zone and goals.

---

8. Set Short- and Long-Term Goals

A successful homestead requires a mix of immediate tasks and big-picture planning. Break your goals into manageable steps. For example:

• Short-term: Build raised garden beds, start a compost pile, or set up a rainwater collection system.
• Long-term: Establish an orchard, breed livestock, or build infrastructure like fencing or barns.

---

9. Learn and Connect

Homesteading is a journey of continuous learning. Join local gardening or homesteading groups, either in person or online, to share knowledge and resources. Research your region’s specific challenges and opportunities, from pest control to optimal planting times.

---

10. Be Patient and Flexible

Homesteading isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Some projects will take longer than expected, and that’s okay. Celebrate small victories, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to self-sufficiency.

---

My Homesteading Goals for 2025

For our family, 2025 will be a year of transition and growth. While we’re still in our RV, I’m focusing on small, achievable goals like contributing to the community garden, growing indoor plants, and continuing to learn about farming and homesteading opportunities in Louisiana.

My long-term dream is to find a property where we can create a self-sufficient homestead, provide for our family, and eventually pass on a legacy to our kids. Until then, I’ll keep planning, adapting, and doing what I can with what I have—and I encourage you to do the same.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

What are your homesteading goals for 2025? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your plans and help you brainstorm ideas for achieving them!

Thank you so much for stopping by and reading my blog, I hope you have found knowledge or inspiration from this or any of my articles.

 

Wishing you are well ~ Lion Soul Homestead ~

---