Herb of the week by Lynn Kirkland for
17th August
The sound of rain on the rooftop is occurring
with monotonous regularity at the moment.
It’s funny how that same sound in summer
is greeted with delight as gardeners rejoice
in the natural watering system that brings
life to the garden.
Now we look out at flooding in the garden
and hope that the plants are hardy enough
to survive. In general herbs do not like
wet feet but can cope with the occasional
soaking however raised beds are a must
if you are like us here at the herb farm
and are on clay soil.
A delightful sound in the garden at the
moment is the sound of birdsong. We have
thrushes singing, waxeyes and fantails
chittering and tuis in full voice high
up in the eucalyptus trees.
Tuis love it when the eucalyptus flower
and they pause from their nectar gathering
to give thanks for the food.
Eucalyptus leaves are distilled to make
the wonderful eucalyptus essential oil
which is so useful at this time of year.
Eucalyptus essential oil eases breathing
giving relief to bronchial coughs, head
colds, congested headaches and stuffy
sinuses. It also boosts immunity.
When used in a massage blend eucalyptus
is great for muscle aches and pains. It
is used for tiredness, mental exhaustion,
sluggishness and concentration.
A versatile oil perfect for the winter
doldrums so it is no wonder the tuis are
sensing the praises of the eucalyptus
tree as they gather nectar from the beautiful
red flowers.
Thanks lynn another great
read.
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