Homemade Spray Cleaner

I've been making my own spray cleaner for almost 2 years now.  That's how well it works.  So, let's K.I.S.S. (keep it simple, sweethearts!)  Here it is:

1/2 tsp. biodegradable dish soap

1-2 tsp. borax

4-5 drops each: lavender, citronella, geranium, rosemary

fill with HOT water

The lavender is an antibacterial.  Rosemary is anti-parasitic, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral.  Citronella is antiseptic, bactericidal, insecticide, and deodorant.  Geranium is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-bacterial.  The borax is an excellent cleaning agent.  The dish soap cuts grease.  And, the HOT water disolves the borax.  Put it all in your spray bottle and shake it good for a minute or two.  Happy Cleaning, Ladies!  ;)

From the Garden...

I've succeeded in growing a plentiful herb garden this year.  This is second year I've planted herbs.  I must say that having an herb garden is now an essential part of my life.  I love herbal teas and having a garden of them has really expanded my pallet.  If you love teas and you like to spice your meals, growing an herb garden is the way to go.  There's nothing that compares to using fresh herbs that have grown right alongside you.

In my garden this year:  Basil, Lemonbalm, Lemongrass, Angelica, Lovage, Dill, Cilantro, Echinacia, Thyme, Oregano, Sage, Stevia, Fuzzy Mint, Peppermint, Spearmint, Chocolate Mint and Pineapple Mint.  I also have a few blueberry plants in my herb garden, as well as swiss chard and romaine lettuce.

I recently discovered Anne McIntyre's book called 'The Top 100 Herbal Remedies.'  It is one of my favorite books regarding herbal remedies.  Very easy read, and a very quick reference when needing a cure on the spot.

Her report on Basil, "If you are feeling stressed...(headaches, indigestion, muscle tension, nerve pain...)...concentration or memory need a boost...is both antiseptic and cleansing, helping the body to overcome all manor of infection.  Hot basil tea reduces fevers and clears phlem...eases symptoms of colds, coughs, flu, catarrh, & sore throats.  It's relaxant properties extend to both the digestive and respiratory tracts and can relieve colic, constipation, nausea, and ease conditions such as asthma and tight coughs."   Wow, Basil, you are amazing!!

I was feeling a bit out of sorts yesterday and went for a pick-me-up in the garden and came up with this fabulous tea...

Soothing Basil-Mint Tea

2 TBSP. Chocolate Mint Leaves
1 TBSP. Peppermint Leaves
1 1/2 - 3 TBSP. Stevia Leaves (to taste)
3 TBSP. Basil Leaves
1/2 TBSP. Lemonbalm
2 Chamomile Tea Bags
2 TBSP. Rice Milk

Boil Water.  Pour over all washed leaves and tea bags.  Add milk.  Let cool.

This makes a very smoothe, cooling, soothing tea.  Enjoy!