We are having a cold snap and it is not fun. My fingers are getting cold while doing chores and we are keeping the animals as comfortable as possible. The rabbits are getting a little corn at evening chore time, the chickens are all cooped up, and Pixi my mare is getting all the hay she wants.
I've been keeping myself motivated with a few projects this month. Remington has been going ice fishing and we've enjoyed a couple meals of fresh crappie.
This last month I made lotion and healing salve. I added the wild crafted Heal-All (Self-Heal) infused Olive Oil into both and they are lovely and healing for this time of year. I finally bottled up the Wild Rose Elixir into spray bottles. The elixir is incredibly useful; amazing on burns, wounds, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, astringent and great for rashes, poison ivy and other skin irritations. It is also an internal "Rescue Remedy" for trauma, panic, fear or stressful situations for children, adults and pets. I added this to my daily regiment.
My intentions are not to sell to the public, but available for family and friends.
However, I do want to provide simple self-care remedies that are easy to make yourself. Everyone can make their own natural "First Aid Kit" from what Mother Nature provides in your own back yard or neighborhood.
Here is the recipe for the Wild Rose Petal Elixir. I have transplanted throughout the years; wild roses that are growing on the edge of our woods and driveway. But it wouldn't take long to collect enough by wild crafting near where you live. Cultivated roses will work, but they don't provide the stronger aroma of the Wild Rose.
Pick enough rose petals to fill a Mason jar. I use a half gallon.
Fill the jar 3/4 with vodka/brandy/Everclear. I prefer to make a 50% solution with water and the alcohol of choice. Fill the rest of the jar with vegetable glycerine or raw honey. Glycerine is not as sticky as honey, but honey tastes better.
Cover your jar (I use the screw on plastic covers for Mason jars). Shake well and let sit for 3 to 6 weeks, shaking regularly.
Strain at the end of time, and it's ready to use. You will be amazed at the wonderful scent of your Elixir.
I'm looking forward to spring when my bushes are in bloom!
Blessings, Terri
