Simple Thrift and Herbs

Saving money, time, energy. And chatting about herbs.

  • Flower Essences 101

    One of the certificates I have is for Flower Essence Therapy. So what is it? FE is a vibrational therapeutic – like homeopathy, sound bowls, or music. They are created from spring water that particular flowers have been infused in, then preserved with brandy. The essence (full strength is called the mother) is further diluted… Read more

  • Skin Care and Surgery

    Because this came up at my house this week, I thought – why not blog about it? The man of the house had to have minor (it’s only minor if it’s not you, by the way) surgery. While we got great pre-op teaching, not everyone does, so here goes: If you are having surgery, things… Read more

  • Herbs for Respiratory Gunk

    In my corner of the world, Flu A is running rampant. Following close behind are COVID, strep, pertussis (whooping cough), and RSV. It’s that time of year. This little blog ‘o mine is NOT a substitute for medical care. If you have an illness that’s not resolving, please see your doctor. Pertussis and strep are… Read more

  • Making Yogurt

    Making yogurt is really easy. So much so that I rarely (except when I need new starter or I have a run of brain flatulence and forget I need some) buy it. From late fall to late spring, this is my favorite yogurt maker: In the summer, it goes in the greenhouse. Between those times,… Read more

  • Isn’t she lovely? Chamomile I think, does not get the respect she deserves. Most people see ‘chamomile’ and think ‘sleepytime tea’. And while that is true (most of the time), it pigeonholes this lovely herb. Chamomile is so much more. Matricaria recutita has a picture that goes with her of the type of people that… Read more

  • Pizza Crust

    I looked at recipes, and tried a bunch, before I found this one. Many recipes for pizza crust are fine, but they make a crust that is limp. You can’t really pick up the pizza and eat it – you have to eat it with a fork. And where’s the fun in that?! Pizza Crust… Read more

  • Baking Mix

    I’ve tried a lot of different recipes for a homemade baking mix like Bisquik. A lot of them just didn’t work – too greasy, too… just not right. This one works! And works really well. I store mine in a cool dry area of my pantry, but if you don’t use it often, I would… Read more

  • OK – sorry about last week. I will try to stay on track this week, but no promises! Meat – my gracious. So expensive these days. Right now, pork seems to be the most economical as far as price. I do know quite a few folks that do not eat pork (religious or health reasons),… Read more

  • We tend to raise or buy most of our meat in bulk, and well, it’s been a minute since I’ve even looked at the price of meat in the stores. Dang, beef prices are scary. I might be OK with them if I knew I was getting great quality meat, and it was coming from… Read more

  • Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus)

    Meet my friend yellow dock (Rumex crispus). They decided a great place to grow would be my front flower bed, and I let them stay. Unfortunately, they invited a TON of relatives to move in, and now they (like my friend Motherwort) are trying to take over my front yard. The brown bits at the… Read more