Gotu Kola

     Growing up in America, I have been well acquainted with a little rhyme that teaches us how important our fruits and vegetables are. “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” My family, and a few school teachers, used that rhyme to encourage me to always eat my veggies (which I usually never had a problem doing). However, as an adult studying herbalism, I ran across a little leaf that might work better than apples at keeping us healthy, happy, and long-lived. Gotu Kola, Centella asiatica, is a tiny little leaf with HUGE health impacts. And the best part is that it is also found, abundantly, here in Florida!

     Every time I walk near fresh water ponds, lakes, or streams, I find this little plant. I also find a plant that gets confused with Gotu Kola. Dollarweed, Hydrocotyle umbellata, is often mistaken for Gotu Kola. While both plants are edible and used in similar ways, they are not the same and correct identification should be made. Both plants like to get their feet a bit wet, but Dollarweed prefers to be in super soggy or completely waterlogged soil. Gotu Kola likes things to be a bit dryer than that, while keeping things nice and moist. Often times I'll find both plants around the same pond, but Dollarweed will be in the pond, and Gotu Kola will be just beside the pond. Granted there will be areas where both are perfectly happy, this is usually one of the major differences. There are also physical differences. Dollarweed's stem protrudes from the center of the leaf. This leaves the leaf mostly round. And it's about the size of an old silver dollar (which is where it get's it common name). Gotu Kola's stem comes out the bottom of the leaf, which makes the leaf tend towards an arrowhead shape.

     Once correctly identified, this amazing little plant is super useful. The most commonly used part of the plant is the leaf. Not only does it have amazing health properties, but it's also edible. Several herbs I find can be described as a pot herb (you cook it in a pot before eating), and while this makes a great little pot herb, it's also super tasty raw. Add it to your salads, soups, and teas. There are even sodas made out of Gotu Kola, mostly I've found these in Asian Grocery Stores, but I have also run across them in little mom-and-pops around town as well. Such a super nutritious, healthy, and tasty herb deserves to be in each and every meal!

Medicinal Uses:

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as either Lou de da or Ji xue cao. In China, this herb is often called the “Fountain of Life” after a folktale about a man who extended his life by over 200 years just by consuming a single Gotu Kola leaf a day. This herb is typically used to clear heat, and dry dampness. Most often used for gastrointestinal disorders related to damp heat. Also useful to help stop bleeding, and clear heat from the liver and eyes.

Ayurveda- Known as Brahmi or Mandukaparni. Ayurvedic medicine works to bring the three doshas (http://www.eattasteheal.com/ayurveda101/eth_bodytypes.htm) into balance. Most herbs work on one or two doshas. Gotu Kola, however, works on all three. It's often used to help improve mood disorders, enhance intelligence, regulate blood sugar, and as an anti-convulsant.

Adaptogen- This herb has a wonderful balancing effect on the mind and body. Helping the body to adapt to every-day stress, and to balance out moods.

Brain and Memory- Gotu Kola consumption has been linked to an increase in cognitive abilities. It not only stimulates the circulation of blood in the brain, but it also stimulates brain function and memory. There is major promise that it can help slow down the effects of Alzheimer’s and dementia in elderly patients. While most herbs that improve cognitive function are purely stimulants, Gotu Kola is more centering. Which makes this herb a good ally in cases of ADHD, as it improves cognitive function and concentration without being over stimulating. In certain parts of the world, teachers give children a single Gotu Kola leaf before starting their classes, to help them concentrate.

Skin and Wounds- Gotu Kola, when used on wounds, stimulates circulation specifically around the wound. This helps to speed the healing process and prevent infection. It also helps to reduce the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and blemishes. It's also an amazing antioxidant which helps keep the skin looking young.

Poisons- In Thailand, Gotu Kola is used to detoxify patients with Opium poisoning. Other places use Gotu Kola to remove other toxins from the blood.

Anti-Aging Tonic- Along with it's benefits to the brain, Gotu Kola also helps to improve immunity and reduce the appearance of aging by improving the skin and circulatory system. It's also a powerful antioxidant and is currently being studied for it's use in treating certain cancers.

Hair and Nails- Gotu Kola has been shown to increase hair growth, and in some cases to even help repair hair loss.

Varicose Veins- Gotu Kola strengthens the walls of the blood vessels, helping to improve the circulatory system in general, but also helping to reduce the appearance of varicose veins.

Anxiety- Several recent studies have shown that Gotu Kola has a beneficial effect on patients with General Anxiety Disorder (GAD). It has been shown to reduce the frequency and duration of anxiety attacks.

Summary of actions- Alterative, antibacterial, diuretic, febrifuge, nervine, rejuvinative, and adrenal purifier. Used for eczema, epilepsy, insanity, hypochondria, intermittent fevers, hair loss, immune boost, longevity, memory, nervous disorders, psoriasis, senility, chronic skin conditions, tetanus, convulsions, and bowel disorders. Improves circulation. Rejuvenates brain cells and nerves, promotes intelligence.

Cautions and Contraindications- May be harmful to your liver if taken too long, or if you have a pre-existing liver condition. Large doses are not recommended for small children or in pregnancy, however small doses should be safe. It's best if you consult your doctor/midwife/herbalist first. Gotu Kola may interact with certain prescription medications. If you are currently taking sedatives, blood pressure, or any other medications, please consult your doctor and/or pharmacist.

Check out my newest video!

     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing herb. I hope you enjoy hunting for this little powerhouse. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

Refrences:

10 Proven Health Benefits of Gotu Kola : Healthy Focus : https://healthyfocus.org/8-amazing-benefits-of-gotu-kola/

11 Interesting Gotu Kola Benefits : Organic Facts : https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-gotu-kola.html

15 Incredible Health Benefits of Gotu Kola : SelfHacked : https://selfhacked.com/blog/gotu-kola-2/

The Benefits of Brahmi : Banyan Botanicals : https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/info/ayurvedic-living/living-ayurveda/herbs/brahmi/

Getting to Know Your Herbal Allies: Brahmi/Gotu Kola : Banyan Botanicals : https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/info/blog-the-banyan-insight/details/getting-to-know-your-herbal-allies-brahmi-gotu-kola-centella-asiatica

Gotu Kola : Indian Mirror : http://www.indianmirror.com/ayurveda/gotu-kola.html

Gotu Kola : Herb Wisdom: http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-gotu-kola.html

Gotu Kola : Acupuncture Today : http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/herbcentral/gotu_kola.php

Gotu Kola Health Benefits : Easy Ayurveda : https://easyayurveda.com/2013/02/04/gotu-kola-health-benefits-uses-dose-side-effects-ayurveda-details/

Gotu Kola Leaf : Chrysalis Natural Medicine : https://www.chrysalisnaturalmedicine.com/gotu-kola-leaf-centella-asiatica/

Gotu Kola: The Many Benefits of the Ancient Herb of Enlightenment and Longivity : Concious

Lifestyle Magazine : https://www.consciouslifestylemag.com/gotu-kola-benefits-of-the-herb-of-enlightenment/

Ji Xue Cao : Yin Yang House Theory : https://theory.yinyanghouse.com/theory/herbalmedicine/ji_xue_cao_tcm_herbal_database

Secrets of Longevity : http://www.secrets-of-longevity-in-humans.com/gotu-kola-facts.html

Passionflower

     One of my favorite things about living in Florida is the plant life. We have amazing plants growing everywhere. There are beautiful vines and flowers on every fence in my neighborhood. Most people have at least one tree somewhere on their property. Even the weeds growing in the sidewalk or pavement can be extraordinary. However, there is one flowering vine that sticks out for it's unique beauty.

     Passionflower is a Florida native and has been used medicinally by Native Americans for centuries. When the Spanish came to America, they used this flower to help teach the Native Americans about Christ and the crucifixion. These missionaries are where we get the name Passionflower from, as they named it after the Passion of Christ. The 10 petals represent the disciples that were present for the crucifixion. The three stigma represent the nails, while the five anthers represent the wounds of Christ, and the fringes represent the crown of thorns.

     There are quite a few different species of passionflower, many of which have edible fruit. Some of these species are purely ornamental and not safe for consumption. If you are interested in wildcrafting or growing this plant for either edible or medicinal use, make sure you have one of the acceptable species. Passiflora incarnata is the most commonly used species, and is generally recognized as safe.

Medicinal Uses:

Scientific Name- Passiflora incarnata

Common Names- Passionflower, Maypop, Passion Vine

Parts Used- Leaves, stem, and flowers.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Though this herb is native to America, it has become widely used throughout most of the world. In TCM, it is used to help calm the Qi in cases of overload, as opposed to blockage. It's particularly good for Fire-types who are prone to heart conditions.

Native American- The Cherokee were very fond of using the root. They used a poultice of the root to draw out inflammation in wounds. They also used a tea of the root to wean infants, and for earache.

Insomnia- Passiflora works directly on the nervous system to help lull us to sleep. It's particularly effective for those who suffer from insomnia, as it allows for restful sleep and does not leave one with a “narcotic” hangover. This herb is especially good for people who suffer from circular thinking, acting as an “off switch” for their minds.

Anxiety- Much like it's use as an “off switch” for circular thinking that leads to insomnia, passiflora helps to stop nervous and anxious thoughts from taking hold in our day-to-day lives. It also helps soothe our nerves when overstimulated and overworked.

Nervous System- Passiflora is an excellent herb for the nervous system. Historically it's even been used to calm seizures. It is considered to be a great nervine tonic, which means that it soothes nerves. It helps in cases of insomnia, anxiety, anxietous depression, hypersensitivity to pain, headaches, agitation, transitioning from addictions, nervous tics, PMS, menstrual cramps, and overstimulation. Passiflora also helps those who have a tendency to dissolve into circular thinking, especially when insomnia is involved.

Herpes Simplex Virus- Passiflora helps prevent outbreaks of the herpes simplex virus. It's especially helpful in stress-induced outbreaks.

Summary of actions- Hypnotic, analgesic, hypotensive, nervine, anxiolytic, anti-spasmodic, and antidepressant.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications- Passiflora is a strong, natural sedative and has great potential to interact with certain drugs. Please use caution if you are taking any sedatives, antiplatelets, anticoagulants, tricyclic antidepressants, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors. For most other people, this herb is considered safe for regular use, however pregnant or nursing women should exercise caution and check with their doctor before use.

     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing herb. I hope you have learned a new appreciation for how amazing passionflower is. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

Refrences:

Acupuncture Today: Passion Flower : http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/herbcentral/passion_flower.php

Alternative Nature Online Herbal: Passionflower Herb Uses and Medicinal Properties: https://altnature.com/gallery/passionflower.htm

Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine: Passionflower-Ecology Cultivation Botany and Medicinal and Edible Uses: https://chestnutherbs.com/passionflower-ecology-cultivation-botany-and-medicinal-and-edible-uses/

Henriette's Herbal Home Page : Passiflora-Passionflower : http://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/passiflora.html

Herb Rally: Passionflower: http://www.herbrally.com/monographs/passionflower/

Modern Herbal: Passion Flower: http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/pasflo14.html

Sama Ayurveda: Passion Flower: http://samaayurveda.com/passion-flower/

University of Maryland Medical Center: Passionflower: http://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/passionflower

Nothing Says “I Love You” Like Damiana

    Valentine’s Day is just around the bend, and it just so happens to be put right into one of the more stressful times of the year (tax season), which means some of us may need a little help getting “in the mood.”  Damiana, Turnera diffusa, is one of those amazing herbs that provides a bit of relaxation and stimulation in just the right ways.  It also has a few other benefits that make it worth looking at for those few who don’t need the aforementioned help. 

Herb Overview:

Family: Turneraceae

Genus: Turnera

Species: diffusa, aphrodisiaca

Common Names: Damiana, Mexican Damiana, Mexican Holly

Parts Used: Arial Parts (everything above the ground)

Properties and Actions: Increase libido, relieve depression, reduce blood sugar, calm nerves, reduce spasms, dry secretions, stimulate digestion, antiseptic, kidney tonic, energy tonic, general tonic, increase urination, and mild laxative.

     Damiana is native to Mexico, Central and South America, and the West Indies.  It was used by the Aztecs as an aphrodisiac, by Mexican women to stimulate lovemaking, and is commonly included in herbal remedies for prostate health.  Science has not determined its usefulness yet, but traditional medicine has made this herb the go-to for most sexual issues for both men and women.  Some people have also recorded that they experienced a mild euphoria after consuming damiana, almost like the effects of cannabis.  The euphoric effect and the sexual stimulation make this a great herb to use in place of alcohol as well.  Some people have also reported that after taking damiana, their alcohol cravings have been reduced. 

     All playfulness and speculation aside, what does damiana actually do?  Traditional medicine uses damiana as a sexual stimulant and to treat both erectile dysfunction and anorgasmia.  This is most likely due to the fact that damiana increases circulation to the sexual organs in the human body, and increases their sensitivity as well.  Damiana is also a great hormone balancer and is used quite often to help women who suffer from premenstrual tension (PMT) as well as women who are going through menopause.  It is a natural anti-anxiety and anti-depressant, the effects of which can be most clearly witnessed when you are actively feeling down or out of sorts before drinking the tea.  In many cases, the feeling of well-being will be almost immediate.  Many people have smoked damiana in order to wean themselves off tobacco, and with a great degree of success.  Since damiana is both antiseptic and diuretic, it is often used in the treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs).  Many traditional medicine systems also use damiana for bronchitis and asthma. 

Cautions and Warnings:

     As with all herbs, respect should be given and caution should be used.  Damiana does tend to increase libido as well as fertility in women, and sperm count in men.  Consume this herb with family planning in mind.  Some people have reported erotic dreams shortly after beginning regular consumption, however these tend to dissipate after a week or so.  Damiana also has a history as an abortifacient herb (can cause abortions), so please do not use damiana while pregnant.  There is a chance that, with prolonged use, it could interfere with the body’s ability to absorb and use iron.  But this usually only happens when consumed more than 3 days a week for long periods of time.  However, this is definitely an effect that should be monitored if you are prone to anemia.  Also, since damiana does have the effect of lowering blood sugar, if you are diabetic you should exercise caution with this herb.  Avoid it if you are hypoglycemic or taking medications to lower your blood sugar.  This effect is only a concern when consuming the tea, tinctures should be safe, but your blood sugar should be monitored just in case. 

     I hope everyone has a wonderfully romantic Valentine’s Day this year!  If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below!

Resources:

Annie’s Remedy: Damiana: http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail201.php

Happy Herb Company: Damiana: http://happyherbcompany.com/damiana

Henriette’s Herbal: Properties and Uses of Damiana: http://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/bios/bios-king-damiana.html

Herbal Resource: Damiana – A Medicinal Herb: http://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/damiana-herb.html

Herb Wisdom: Damiana: http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-damiana.html

Mayo Clinic: Anorgasmia in Women: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anorgasmia/basics/definition/con-20033544

Mayo Clinic: Erectile Dysfunction: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/erectile-dysfunction/basics/definition/con-20034244

Raintree: Damiana: http://www.rain-tree.com/damiana.htm#.WJfu31MrJ1s

Food For Thought: The Connection Between Diet and Mental Health

     Comfort food.  We’ve all heard of it.  We’ve all had those days where we just want something familiar and comfortable to eat.  In many instances, just the smell of these dishes cooking is enough to lift our spirits.  In some cases, they are a crutch for us in our darkest moods.  These instances leave no room for doubt that food can affect our moods.  However, comfort food isn’t the only food that can do so, and in many cases our choice of comfort foods can actually hurt our mood later on.    

     In recent years, there seems to have been a major increase in the occurrence of mental illness and mood disorders.  With this increase, researchers have begun looking more and more into causes and new treatments.  One thing that has seemed to come from this is a deeper look into the connection between your gut and your brain.  Most of us have heard of the Central Nervous System (CNS), the brain and spinal cord, or the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), nerves and gray matter.  However, there is another nervous system that most people never learn about.  That nervous system is the Enteric Nervous System (ENS).  The ENS lines our gastrointestinal tract and help to digest our food by controlling blood flow and secretions.  While this seems pretty straight forward, this nervous system is so complex that many people refer to it as our “second brain.”  Our gut communicates with our brain in many ways, so many that science is still trying to figure out what it’s all about.  One thing that we do know is that our gut is connected to mood disorders and autism. 

     In 2013, there was a major study done on mice that had the same behavioral pattern as humans with autism.  These mice were introduced to a certain strain of bacteria that changed the balance of bacteria in their guts.  When this change occurred, these mice showed a remarkable change in behavior as well, becoming more social and less anxious.  Similar studies have been performed since, studies that have changed how doctors view both mental illness and digestive disorders.  This change has led to a trend where doctors are prescribing depression medicine to patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in a hope to improve the communication between their gut and their brain. 

     This connection between our nutrition and our mental health makes even more sense when you consider the fact that our brains are always working, and like every other organ or system in our body, our brain needs fuel.  We know that proper nutrition provides the right kind of fuel for our body to work, but what is proper nutrition for our brain?  There have been a number of studies on this subject as well, and most of them agree that processed foods and foods high in sugar are the worst foods for your brain.  Diets high in these foods can lead to mood disorders, such as depression, as well as impaired brain function.

     We also have to remember that our brain is made up of 60% fat, and uses fat as its primary fuel source.  This means that we need to keep a decent amount of healthy fat in our diets for proper brain function.  This is a primary example of why “low fat” foods can actually be dangerous for us.  Many of the foods that are labeled “low fat” in the grocery store are actually loaded down with sugar and trans fats to make them taste better, to encourage repeat purchases. 

    

So what should we avoid to keep our brains healthy? 

·         Sugary Drinks

·         Excessive Caffeine

·         Refined and Sugary Foods

·         Trans Fat – fried foods, margarine, baked goods, processed snack foods

·         In some cases, Dairy

Ok, now what should increase to provide our brains with the right fuel?

·         Omega 3 Fatty Acids – oily fish (salmon, trout, and mackerel), walnuts, flax, olive oil, eggs, and dark leafy greens

·         Whole Grains (in some cases people feel better leaving these out as well)

·         Fruits and Vegetables

·         Organic and Home Prepared Foods are best!

     I hope that I have given you some “food for thought” in this entry.  If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below in the comments! 

Resources:

Dr. Axe: The Gut-Brain Connection: https://draxe.com/gut-brain-connection/

Greatist: How Eating Fat Can Make You Smarter: http://greatist.com/eat/healthy-fats-best-foods-for-brain-health

Harvard Health: Nutritional Psychiatry: http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626

Mental Health America: Healthy Diet: http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/conditions/healthy-diet-eating-mental-health-mind

Mental Health Foundation: Diet and Mental Health: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/d/diet-and-mental-health

Psychology Today: The Gut-Brain Connection: https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/evolutionary-psychiatry/201404/the-gut-brain-connection-mental-illness-and-disease

Safe Harbor: The Role of Diet in Mental Health: http://www.alternativementalhealth.com/the-role-of-diet-in-mental-health/

Wellness Mama: Can Your Food Affect Mental Health?: https://wellnessmama.com/31032/food-mental-health/

Sage, the Scent of Thanksgiving

     November is a month of gatherings.  When we gather together this month, we are asked to think about things we are thankful for (at least that’s always been my family’s tradition).  Even though the origin of Thanksgiving may not have happened the way we have all been taught in school, it has come to represent a time of family and friends, of thankfulness and of blessings.  What the holiday has become is a wonderful tradition for families and a great celebration of the things in life that we may take for granted throughout the year. 

     As we do gather together over a bountiful table, certain aromas tend to be present.  The smell of the turkey and dressing are, of course, the most prominent.  Now, each family has their own recipes.  Being from the South, I don’t believe oysters have any business in my dressing (supposedly this is common in certain areas, and is even supposed to be an ingredient in the first Thanksgiving dressing recipe).  However there are certain spices that make themselves into every dressing recipe I have ever encountered.  One of these is sage.

     Sage Salvia officinalis is one of the many, many cooking herbs that are also amazingly beneficial to our health.  It’s in the Lamiaceae family, which is commonly referred to as the Mint family.  Plants in this family are characterized by a square stem and distinctive flowers that have petals fused into an “upper lip” and “lower lip,” which is why this family was originally referred to as the Labiatae (labia is Latin for lip).  The Lamiaceae family is also where you find Basil, Mint, Lavender, Thyme, Rosemary, and Savory, so this is a family known for its culinary delights.  When it comes to culinary herbs, I have a pet theory that they were originally added to food because most of them help aid digestion in some way.  However, it may be a “chicken and egg” situation.  Do we know that they help with digestion because they were added to food? Or were they added to food to aid with digestion?  Hmm… 

     Sage has been used in most cultures as a medicinal and culinary favorite (I use it in my Pumpkin Sage bread).  The ancient Romans actually revered this herb so much that they created a special ceremony just for the gathering of sage.  The Greeks and Romans both used this herb to help preserve meat (science believes that this is due to its high level of antioxidants).  Arab physicians in the 10^th century believed that sage promoted immortality.  14^th century Europeans used sage to protect themselves from witchcraft.  It was also prized in 17^th century China for the flavorful tea it makes.  Today, sage has become one of the most commonly burnt herbs for smudging, which is a practice that comes from the Native American use of burning herbs to cleanse one’s self and space, as well as to connect to nature and spirits.  The actual herbs used in this way by Native Americans varied among the tribes (some of them are very secretive about what herbs the used) and were typically not burnt in a bundle, but instead in a bowl or shell.  But the current practice is beneficial (even for you healthy skeptics), as sage smoke helps us to de-stress and fights the bacteria in the very air we breathe.

     I have used a strong sage tea as a mouthwash and gargle to fight gingivitis and heal a sore throat.  Sage tea can also be used to fight fevers, to calm nervous anxiety, to stimulate digestion, improve liver and kidney function, as a wash for the skin (makes a great toner and helps fight acne), as a hair rinse (makes hair super shiny and helps to darken hair if left on for an extended time), helps reduce excessive sweating, is a natural deodorizer (great for body and home), helps relieve hot flashes in menopausal women, helps deal with feelings of grief and depression, helps protect against cardiovascular diseases, and can help improve brain function and memory.  You can also use sage as a steam inhalation to help with asthma.  Sage poultices can also be beneficial in first-aid situations where antibacterial action is needed.  There are many more benefits of sage and I could probably write a small book on the subject! 

     For all of you new moms, and mom-to-be’s out there, you should avoid taking this herb in medicinal doses, or even at all.  It stimulates menstrual flow which could cause complications in the early stages of pregnancy.  It also dries up milk flow, so breastfeeding moms should avoid this herb until it’s time to wean your baby (at which point it could be very helpful).  It could also cause a minor allergic reaction in people who are allergic to other plants in the Lamiaceae family.  You should also use caution with this herb if you are prone to epileptic seizures. 

    

Parts Used: Leaves, small stems, flowers

Medicinal Actions: Analgesic, Antibacterial, Anticancer, Antifungal, Antihydrotic (refrigerant), Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Antiviral, Aromatic, Astringent, Carminative, Depurative, Emmenagogue, Estrogenic, Nervine, Vermifuge

    Thank you all for reading this.  I hope you enjoy sage as much as I do and if you have any questions or comments, please leave them down in the comments below!

Resources:

Annie’s Remedy – Sage: http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail52.php

Botanical.com/A Modern Herbal – Sages: http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/s/sages-05.html

Health Beckon – 20 Amazing Benefits of Sage Herb for Skin, Hair, and Health: http://www.healthbeckon.com/sage-herb-benefits/

Herbalpedia – Sage, Not Just for Thanksgiving: http://www.herbalpedia.com/blog/?p=156

Herb Wisdom – Sage Herb: http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-sage.html

History – The History of Thanksgiving: http://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving/history-of-thanksgiving

Manataka American Indian Council – The Real Story of Thanksgiving: https://www.manataka.org/page269.html

Organic Facts – Health Benefits of Sage: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/sage.html

Spirituality and Health – The Ancient Art of Smudging: http://spiritualityhealth.com/articles/ancient-art-smudging

World’s Healthiest Foods – Sage: http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=76