Central Florida summers can be intense—thick with humidity, surprise thunderstorms, and blazing sun. But even in the swelter, some of the most powerful healing plants quietly flourish in backyards, ditches, and garden beds. These are the unsung heroes of July: the blooming weeds and herbs offering everything from skin relief to stress support. It doesn’t … Read more
(All can be grown or foraged in Central Florida) Before modern filters and purification tablets, communities across the world relied on local plants to improve the flavor and safety of their water. While we now know to boil or filter all wild water first, the practice of steeping herbs after purification remains both a wise … Read more
Tucked into woodland edges and sun-dappled clearings across the southeastern United States, the American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) stands out with its vivid clusters of purple berries. More than just eye-catching, this native shrub carries a legacy of folklore, healing, and resilience—rooted in centuries of use by Native American tribes and early settlers. A Native Treasure … Read more
If you’ve ever hiked a trail in Florida or wandered a sandy roadside, you may have spotted the prickly pear cactus—its flat, paddle-like pads jutting out like green mittens, often crowned with vibrant yellow or magenta blooms. This humble cactus, Opuntia spp., is more than just a spiny survivor of dry, open landscapes. It’s edible, … Read more
Herbal-infused honey is a delightful and healthful way to incorporate the benefits of medicinal herbs into your daily life. Combining the healing properties of herbs with the natural sweetness of raw honey, this recipe is as versatile as it is effective. Whether added to tea, spread on toast, or taken by the spoonful, herbal honey … Read more
Central Florida’s sunshine and warmth make it the perfect place to grow medicinal herbs right in your backyard. These green powerhouses aren’t just good for cooking—they bring a little wellness boost too! Here’s a lineup of the best medicinal herbs you can grow and why they’re garden MVPs. Aloe Vera: The Soothing … Read more