Red Clover ‘Trifolium pratense’

Red clover is a gentle, abundant plant long associated with nourishment, balance and women’s health. This entry explores its role in folk tradition, modern hormonal research, ecological importance and why red clover is best understood as a steady companion rather than a forceful remedy.

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Purple Coneflower ‘Echinacea purpurea’

Echinacea is a plant of readiness rather than routine. Traditionally used at moments of challenge rather than as a daily tonic, this entry explores echinacea’s bold character, its Indigenous roots, modern immune research, and why timing matters as much as preparation when working with this widely known herb.

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Fireweed Rosebay Willowherb ‘Chamerion angustifolium’

Fireweed is a tall, pink-flowered plant known for colonising disturbed ground. Traditionally used as a tea plant - including fermented Ivan Chai - it reflects renewal, abundance and careful seasonal use.

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Birch Polypore ‘Fomitopsis betulina’

Birch polypore is a pale bracket fungus found almost exclusively on birch trees, long valued for its practical, functional role in woodland traditions. Used historically for external applications and simple decoctions, it reflects a relationship built on reliability rather than rarity.

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Pine Cones ‘Pinus spp’

Young pine cones have long been gathered in early summer and preserved for slower use through the year. Traditionally worked with in syrups and honeys, they are valued for their resinous aroma, polyphenol content and seasonal rhythm rather than immediate effect. Pine cones sit firmly within tonic traditions, where patience, gentle extraction and continuity matter more than intensity.

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Lion’s Mane ‘Hericium erinaceus’

A distinctive edible mushroom with a long history of use, Lion’s Mane has been studied for its relationship with cognitive function and nervous system health. This entry explores its identification, ecology, traditional use and human research.

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Hawthorn Blossom ‘Crataegus monogyna’

A traditional hedgerow herb long associated with the heart, hawthorn blossom has a well-documented history in European herbal practice. This entry explores its identification, ecology, traditional use, and the modern research that supports its role in long-term cardiovascular care.

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