Newbie

[Michelle Meyers]

Okay so I am committed to change my life and I love everything I see on this site (even though I don't understand all of it). I just bought Alfalfa herb, Red Clover and Oatstraw. I made some infusions but I don't like the taste. Is there any other way to get them in my system and in what dose? Any help is greatly appreciated!!

[Pat Robinson]

Consider making small amounts, instead of a whole Mason jar full. Then just take an ounce of each a day, straight and gradually increase by the same amount each week. (two ounces of each a day for a week, then three ounces... some herbals are an acquired taste.)

OR toss that amount in a smoothie. ;-) It'll be about invisible. And gradually increase the amount.

I prefer the infusions VERY COLD. Consider trying the infusion over ice. Some people prefer them warm with a sweetener, like honey or maple syrup. But, don't heat them too hot, as you lose some of the B-vitamins. Maybe heat a bit of water separately, add the honey to dissolve, then add the infusion.

I crave my infusions, especially Nettles. It tastes very GREEN.

Another alternative, is to gradually increase the duration of the steeping, as the infusion absorbs more B-vitamins (the harsh flavor) and more tannins the longer it steeps. But, you get more vitamins and minerals the longer it steeps, however.

Another option is to mix with coconut oil and raw cacao for a chocolaty-sorta drink. Try a small amount first. You can make this into popsicles too.

Pat

[Pat Robinson]

Here is a Fudgesicle recipe using the infusion, any infusion could be substituted:

1 avocado
1 banana
2t cocoa
1t agave
1/4-1/3 c of coconut milk
1/2-3/4 L of nettle infusion
splash vanilla
pinch of salt

Blend and freeze

(can use maple syrup or honey instead of agave and coconut oil instead of milk,
as desired)

We use raw cacao for cocoa.


Pat

[Michelle Meyers]

Can I do an infusion with the Alfalfa? We do make green smoothies but I need to make it a point to make them everyday. Are the infusions safe for kids? Maybe I could just put it in my portion of the smoothie. I need to get some Nettle...it was out of stock when I was buying. Thanks Pat!

[Pat Robinson]

Yes, the infusions are wonderful for kids. Some are more indicated for menopausal women, some for pregnant women, depends upon the herbs. But, nettles, alfalfa and oatstraw are all fine for kids.

Here are three helpful articles about herbs and infusions. The first is about herbs, rather than infusions:
http://www.susunweed.com/An_Article_Weed_Self-help3.htm
http://www.healthynewage.com/susun-weed.html

And I love this article about the vitamins and minerals in herbs: http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/newsletter/09/January/vitamins.html

Yes, everyone is out of nettles. I'm beginning to wonder if it is my fault, lol.


Pat