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Sacred Trees: Hawthorn Folklore, Medicine & Food

Hawthorn (Crataegus) is rich in magical lore and medicine. The name Hawthorn reflects the berries (haw) and thorns found on this tree. It’s a small tree with big thorns that will remind you if you’re being too greedy harvesting the flowers, and later in the summer, the berries.  

 

Superfood 101: Tapereba (Hog Plum)!

Tapereba is a member of the family Anacardiaceae or Sumac family of the genus Spondias L. or mombin, containing the species Spondias mombin L. or yellow mombin. The tree is native to tropical America and grows throughout the tropical regions of the world. It is a tropical plant that does well in warm climates and does not tolerate frost. It is also known by the nomenclatures Yellow Mombin and Spondias mombin.

Superfood 101: Guava!

Guava is a member of the family Myrtaceae, commonly known as the Myrtle family of the genus Psidium L. or guava P, containing the species Psidium guajava L. or guava P. The plant is thought to be native to Mexico and Central America but it is not certain because of the widespread and longtime seed disbursement by man and animals.

Superfood 101: Gulupa!

Gulupa is a member of the family Passifloraceae or Passion-flower family of the genus Passiflora L., commonly known as passionflower P, containing the species Passiflora edulis Sims or purple granadilla P. The plant is native to Brazil and flourishes in tropical America. It is also known as purple passion fruit, chulupa, and galupa culupo.

1 Ingredient, 4 Recipes: Butternut Squash

When you’re trying to eat healthy, one of the smartest things you can do is meal plan.  Part of meal planning includes choosing dishes that can use the same ingredients so you don’t end up wasting food or having just a little bit of one thing left over.

Superfood 101: Galia Melon!

Galia melon is a member of the family Cucurbitaceae and is a hybrid of the muskmelon. The plant was developed in Israel at the Ne´ve Yaar Research Center of the Agricultural Research Organization in the 1960s by melon breeder Dr. Zvi Karchi and was ready for commercial production in 1973. Within ten years it gained popularity throughout western Europe.

Superfood 101: Endive!

Endive is a member of the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the Aster family of the genus Cichorium L. or chicory P that contains two species that include cultivated endive P and chicory P. The plant has three main varieties: the Belgium endive, the curly endive, and the broad leaf endive. It is native to Asia Minor but is now found growing in North America and Europe.

Spinach For Every Meal!

Popeye had it all figured out: spinach makes you strong and healthy, equipped to tackle the day. Readily available all year round, this accessible and affordable green leafy vegetable, a member of the amaranthaceae family, is a durable and nutritious addition to almost any meal: breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as an afternoon snack. While spinach may not always top the charts as a superfood, it warrants a place at the table.

Here’s How To Make Your Own Rose Water—& Use It

“What’s in a name,” Shakespeare said. And call a rose whatever you want, it will still smell as sweet and be as healthy. So here’s to making your own rose water, and using it for beauty and health…

Superfood: Apricots & Their Amazing Health Benefits

Apricots are a member of the family Rosaceae, commonly known as the Rose family of the genus Prunus L. or plum P. Its species names is Prunus armeniaca L. or apricot P. The nomenclature apricot is said to be derived from the Italian word “albercocco.” The fruit is considered a dupe and is related to the cherry, plum, nectarine, peach, and almond.