Lāʻau Lāpaʻau | Know Your Underground Roots

Crooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs's avatarCrooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs

Underground Stems

The underground stems, by being situated below the surface of the soil, protect themselves against unfavorable conditions of weather and the attack of animals and serve as storehouses for reserve food, and in vegetative propagation. Their stem nature can be distinguished by the presence of nodes and internodes, scale leaves at the nodes, axillary buds in axils of scale leaves and a terminal bud. Further, the anatomy of the underground stem resembles that of an aerial stem. The underground stems are of four types namely rhizome, tuber, bulb, and corm.

Rhizome

A rhizome is a thick horizontally growing stem which usually stores food material. It has nodes and internodes, scale leaves, axillary buds, adventitious roots and a terminal bud. Scale leaves enclosing the axillary buds are seen arising from the nodal points of the stem. Some of the axillary buds develop into branches which grow upwards into the…

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Astrology | Sage Full Flower Moon

Tara Greene www.taratarot.com's avatarTara Greene,Tarot,Astrology,Psychic

SAGITTARIUS Full Flower Moon May 29 @7:19 a.m. PDT/10:19 a.m. EDT/2:19 pm GMT. Sagittarius is the most mature of the three fire signs. He is the Sage or wise wisdom keeper inspirational optimistic truth guide.

The Centaur Flower Moon is sextiled by Mars and the South Node in Aquarius making it easier to detach ourselves from the old mental concepts and anger about being an outsider somehow different weird a black sheep or just plain rejected. Moon-Mars and South Node then forms a YOD or Finger of God aspect to Venus and Athena conjunct in Cancer. These Goddesses one of Love Beauty and Relationships and the other an Amazon warrioress and strategist is where we need to go to for advice on how to nurture and feed those who are our chosen family or mothers. These dynamic aspects bring optimism fiery passion higher thought and truth to the journey we…

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Lāʻau Lāpaʻau | Know Your Herbal Chemistry

Crooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs's avatarCrooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs

A herbalist should be fully aware of details about the pharmacology of herbs, a basic understanding of it is more than enough. Herbs are used for healing the human body, they are considered to be holistic agents, and they are used on a physical and biochemistry level. Many pharmacologists try to find out the constituents of herbs, place them according to their chemical groups and have done numerous research and have found herbs to be very complex in their characteristics. Herbs contain a huge variety of chemicals like water, inorganic salt, sugars, carbohydrates, proteins that are highly complex, and alkaloids.

Plant Acids:

An example of weak organic acids is generally found among plants, lemon is the perfect example of citric acid. Organic acids can be split into those based on a carbon chain, and those, which contain a carbon ring in their configuration, but what both have in common is the…

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Hawai’i’s Endangered Birds | Queen Emma’s favorite Maile Palila

This bird was favored by Queen Emma for its song.  The Palila is only found in the sub-alpine forest of Mauna Kea on the island of Hawai’i. It was one of the original species listed in the Endangered Species Act. Unfortunately this unique bird is still in trouble, and its population has declined precipitously in recent years. Hawai’i is the bird extinction capital of the world which is why American Bird Conservancy has launched a campaign to protect Hawaiian birds.

 

Meet Hawai’i’s State Bird – ‘Elepaio (Endangered Species)

‘Elepaio are one of the most curious and approachable birds in the forest.  They will often follow hikers and come within just a few feet of them.  This bird is from the subpopulation found only in the sub-alpine forests of Mauna Kea.  While ‘elepaio look cute and harmless, males have been known to fight to the death when an intruder enters their territory.  The ‘elepaio’s song is the first heard at daybreak and the last song heard at sunset.  These birds are also an important species for wa’a or canoe builders because these little birds serve as guides helping these craftsmen choose the best koa trees for building the canoe hulls.

The Hawai’i Audabon Society puts out a monthly newsletter keeping bird lovers and bird aficionados abreast of the latest developments in Hawai’i’s fight to save it’s endangered avian friends.

Upload and Read the May/June 2018 edition here.

 

Daily Tarot | Card of the Day – 9 of Pentacles – Monday, May 28, 2018

tarotbycecelia's avatarTarot by Cecelia

Well, just look at you! Happy Memorial Day to all those who celebrate, and a shoutout to all those who made this holiday possible through their sacrifices for our freedom. The message of the 9 of Pentacles is very strong today, and as you look around at all of your accomplishments and accoutrements, you can be proud of the person you are becoming. You have come very far, and your identity has indeed grown; very often we question who it is we will be when we grow up, but, truthfully that person is a lifelong quest. We never stop growing.

The 9 of Pentacles is all about you, your independence and your ability to stand on your own two feet. This does not mean you are meant to be alone, rather it means you are a stronger individual who can maintain their identity when in a relationship and who does…

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Daily Words of the Buddha for May 28, 2018

 

Pāli Word a Day for May 28, 2018 — pamoda— delight, joy
Na tāvatā dhammadharo
yāvatā bahu bhāsati.
Yo ca appampi sutvāna,
dhammaṃ kāyena passati
sa ve dhammadharo hoti,
yo dhammaṃ nappamajjati.

One is not versed in Dhamma
because one speaks much.
One who, after hearing a little Dhamma,
realizes its truth directly
and is not heedless of it,
is truly versed in the Dhamma.

Dhammapada 19.259
The Dhammapada: The Buddha’s Path of Wisdom, translated from Pāli by Acharya Buddharakkhita

Daily Words of the Buddha for May 27, 2018

Pāli Word a Day for May 27, 2018 — kalyāṇamitta — a good friend; a person of wholesome qualities who is a good friend esp. in helping one progress spiritually by his/her example and advice

Evaṃ bho purisa jānāhi:
pāpadhammā asaññatā.
Mā taṃ lobho adhammo ca
ciraṃ dukkhāya randhayuṃ.

Know this, O good one:
evil things are difficult to control.
Let not greed and wickedness
drag you to protracted misery.

Dhammapada 18.248
The Dhammapada: The Buddha’s Path of Wisdom, translated from Pāli by Acharya Buddharakkhita

Daily Tarot | Card of the Day – 4 of Wands – Sunday, May 27, 2018

tarotbycecelia's avatarTarot by Cecelia

Everywhere you look at this time of year, especially in the Northern Hemisphere, there is always a party happening somewhere. There is no shortage of weddings, graduations, retirements, anniversaries, and birthdays to be celebrated. The 4 of Wands can often represent the sheer joy of attending such a special occasion. Not to mention, that here in the United States, this weekend is an extended one, for the celebration of Memorial Day, considered to be the unofficial start to the Summer season.

Currently, Mars is traveling in the sign of Aquarius for an extended stay. This is 11thhouse energy, with an emphasis toward groups, and it is very often in your best interest to be a part of one where you can make positive connections to assist you on your journey. Remember, your vibe attracts your tribe.

See you here tomorrow!

Source: Elf of Heaven Tarot

This card was last…

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Card of the Day – 4 of Pentacles – Saturday, May 26, 2018

tarotbycecelia's avatarTarot by Cecelia

There are a number of ways of looking at this card, and today feels as though any one of them may very well be applicable, depending on your current situation. If Tarot were a Dickens classic, then the 4 of Pentacles represents the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge; if this were to apply to you in any way, it does not necessarily need to be about money. One can withhold many things, including affection, toward others. The 4 of Pentacles is an indicator of an unwillingness to part with, or share in any way, what is yours. If you have been pondering a large purchase, you may choose to heed the advice of this card today as remaining conservative for the moment with your finances and keeping all of your money in the bank. It is not to say that you should never purchase the item, but perhaps the timing is not…

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Daily Words of the Buddha for May 26, 2018

Pāli Word a Day for May 26, 2018 — kalyāṇaputhujjana — a person of good habits etc who has not yet attained sotāpatti, but is aiming at such attainments

Yo pāṇamatipāteti, musāvādañca bhāsati,
loke adinnamādiyati,
paradārañca gacchati,
surāmerayapānañca yo naro anuyuñjati —
idhevameso lokasmiṃ, mūlaṃ khaṇati attano.

One who destroys life, utters lies,
takes what is not given,
goes to another man’s wife,
and is addicted to intoxicating drinks —
such a man digs up one’s own root even in this world.

Dhammapada 18.246, 18.247
The Dhammapada: The Buddha’s Path of Wisdom, translated from Pāli by Acharya Buddharakkhita

These 4 Plants For Your Bedroom Will Cure Insomnia and Sleep Apnea – Healthy Food House

Unfortunately, numerous people nowadays suffer from sleep disturbances, night terrors, insomnia, or sleep apnea. Yet, there is a simple and natural way to improve your sleep and finally get some rest! All you need to do is to place one of the following plants into your bedroom and enjoy the calm and relaxing atmosphere: Snake […]

Source: These 4 Plants For Your Bedroom Will Cure Insomnia and Sleep Apnea – Healthy Food House

Daily Words of the Buddha for May 24, 2018

Pāli Word a Day for May 24, 2018 — dhammapadaṃ — the path of dhamma, truth

Ayasāva malaṃ samuṭṭhitaṃ
tatuṭṭhāya tameva khādati,
evaṃ atidhonacārinaṃ
sāni kammāni nayanti duggatiṃ.

Just as rust arising from iron
eats away the base from which it arises,
even so, their own deeds
lead transgressors to states of woe.

Dhammapada 18.240
The Dhammapada: The Buddha’s Path of Wisdom, translated from Pāli by Acharya Buddharakkhita

Nā Pōhaku Laʻāu | Copper

Despite its red color, #copper is identified with the element of Water.  Its astral counterpart is the planet #Venus … hence, the attribution of this metal to the goddesses associated with the planet Venus, including Ishtar and Astarte.  Today’s magic includes knowledge about the ability of copper to conduct electricity.  For this reason, it is often used to produce wands used in rituals focused on energy management.  This translates into healing magic — especially in the course of these practices, which aims to balance the polarity of the body and remove any disturbances in the flow of energy that could lead to diseases.  It is believed that carrying a piece of copper with you contributes to the overall improvement of your health and prevents diseases.  Another known property of copper is its ability to relieve the symptoms of rheumatic disease and arthritis.

A Japanese Perspective On Life

In Japan, when a piece of pottery breaks, some potters fill the cracks with gold. These potters see the cracks as something beautiful. They know that the unexpected happens. Change happens. They know that nobody gets through this world in one piece. But, that doesn’t have to diminish us, each a cracked teacup. The cracks are part of our history. They will always be with us. They made us better. They made us stronger. They made us something new.

Contemplations …

A recent study found that marriage has actual health benefits. Married people live longer, have fewer strokes and fewer heart attacks than people who are single. Scientific or not, I find that study incredibly irritating. Happily, there are other studies that tell us the real truth about the health benefits of marriage … which is that the benefits have nothing to do with marriage at all … because those studies have shown that staying in an unhappy marriage is the worst thing you can do for your health and for your children. So, better health is a direct result of healthy relationships. You don’t need a spouse. You just need someone you can trust. You need someone you can talk to. You need someone who will celebrate your wins and grieve your losses. You need someone who can forgive you. You need someone who will show up, no questions asked … and walk with you through every unexpected twist and turn life throws your way. What we find in a soulmate, a life partner, is not something wild to tame, but something wild to run with.

Card of the Day – 2 of Cups – Thursday, May 24, 2018

tarotbycecelia's avatarTarot by Cecelia

Connections, we have many. Today has an overwhelming feeling of just that; it is a great opportunity to connect with another, not necessarily in the realm of love, but with anything, where making the right contact can move things forward in your favor. It could be with regard to a personal matter, but, for many of you, I have a feeling this energy is best used on the job front. The Moon will be in Libra, sign of relationships, balance, negotiation, and compromise. Use this energy wisely and weigh the input from both parties equally.

The 2 of Cups is often thought of as a card denoting a love connection, and while you could see progress on that front at some point today, the other possibilities feel to be of far greater importance. It would seem there is something you desire to do, and that pairing up with a particular…

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Hau’ōli lā Pō’ahā

Aloha e Hau’ōli lā Pō’ahā. Mai hō’oni i ka wai lānā mālie. Ō kā maluhia nō me ‘oe.

Greetings and Happy Thursday. “Do Not Disturb the Water That is Tranquil.” When you find yourself not enjoying the peace and quiet of a supposed relaxing day, remind yourself not to interrupt your own peaceful thoughts. It’s not always easy but it sure makes for a refreshed soul when life starts back up again. Peace be with you.

Initial Clinical Trial Finds that a Combination of Indian Frankincense and Lemon Balm May Improve Memory Function in Older Adults

Crooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs's avatarCrooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs

As lifespans around the world increase, age-related health concerns become a growing medical issue. Memory loss and dementia affect many older adults, and prescription and non-prescription treatments for these conditions are commonly used. Of the range of herbal remedies available, limited research has been done on the potential of Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata, Burseraceae) and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis, Lamiaceae) to improve memory. These plants have been used in Iranian traditional medicine for centuries in the treatment of neurological disorders, and individually have been reported to improve memory. Though an animal study reported that the combination was more effective than either plant individually, the authors found no human study that researched the combination for the treatment of memory loss. They conducted a clinical trial to assess the impact of the joint use of the 2 plants in treating memory issues among older adults.

The 30-day, randomized…

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Review of the Uses, Chemistry, and Pharmacology of Lemon Balm

Crooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs's avatarCrooked Bear Creek Organic Herbs

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis, Lamiaceae) is widely used in European traditional medicine and Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) for various diseases, as well as being consumed as a salad vegetable and food flavoring. The authors searched unpublished old texts and several databases of published literature to review the botanical characteristics, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of lemon balm.

Lemon balm, also commonly known as balm and beebalm, is a perennial lemon-scented herb. The Eastern Mediterranean region, Western Asia, Southern Europe, Caucasus, and northern Iran are considered its areas of origin, but it grows worldwide. Its medicinal properties were first documented by Dioscorides (40-90 CE), who recommended a leaf decoction for spider, scorpion, and dog bites, and for amenorrhea, dysentery, mushroom poisoning, scrofulous tumors, and other indications. Paracelsus (1493-1541) prescribed lemon balm for nervous system disorders. Since 1984, it has been listed in the German Commission E monographs…

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