The Threatened Saffron Toucanet

The saffron toucanet (Pteroglossus bailloni) is a South American Toucan belongs to the family Ramphastidae. This bird can find in the Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It is also called Baillon's toucan, banana toucan, saffron-colored Araçari-banana, and yellow toucanet. Despite its distinctive appearance, the bird has not been well studied and very little known about its natural history. The bird is usually seen in the canopy of humid and second growth forests in small groups, occasionally descending to visit feeding stations.

They are habitually quiet, secretive. It has long-tailed toucan with a length of 35 to 40cm. This is uniquely among toucans, overall saffron yellow. The tail is bit olive or darker, but rump, ocular skin. The patches on the basal half of the greenish horn bill are red with iris is pale yellowish. In Brazil, they mostly occur in lowland and montane regions mostly on slopes and besides streams.

Both, male and female have distinguished appearance. The appearance is so distinctive that traditionally classified in the monotypic genus Baillonius.  An adult male bird has golden head and breast, olive mantle with red rump. The male is also modestly sized toucan, with green, blue grey, and yellow grey color. Whereas, a female adult bird is same to male but have dark olive and less gold coloration with short bill.

Saffron Toucanet found in the Atlantic Forest of Argentina. It is believed the bird is part of an ancient stock that became isolated in the present Atlantic Forest from marine transgression, which couldn’t adapt and invade the Brazilian Savanna. The bird was found to be endemic and high sensitivity to the fragmentation. It is also observed that Saffron usually nest in abandoned woodpecker holes or other tree cavities.

Saffron Toucanet is a large gape frugivore, hence it has greater ability to carry larger seeds to new locations. This bird normally building nests in October had a cavity depth of 20 to 68cm at a 7 to 24 meters height. They like to build nests on Garapa and Aspidosperma australe.  The male bird courtship display is to involve singing and feeding the female and preen to each other.  

The female bird normally lay 2 to 3 eggs that are incubated by both parents for at least 16 to 17 days. Both parents feed the chicks, and the young fledge after about 6 weeks. The adults continue to feed them for several weeks after fledging. Saffron Toucanet prefers to eat fruit (palmito fruit), figs, and palm fruits, small animals (including smaller birds and their nestlings). The bird is higher risk of extinction due to habitat loss, degradation, hunting and being captured.

Sadly, Toucanet is presently on the threshold of extinction by Birdlife International. Moreover, they are famous bird for illegal bird trade and in danger from hunted by humans. It is imperative to focus on increasing the bird populations as 46 species are under threat of global extinction. Saffron Toucanet beauty is habitually its undoing, as it is captured illegally for the cage-bird trade.

The Blue Hole of Dwerja, Gozo

The Dwejra Gozo Blue Hole is another most popular diving site in Maltese archipelago, in the Mediterranean Sea. This site overlooks the beautiful Azure Window and starts in a fantastic 10m wide inland sea pool which leads into a large crevice and through to the open sea.

One can see a natural rock arch with crystal clear blue waters that is your doorway leading to the open sea. Gozo Blue Hole is a 15 meters deep and 10 meters wide underwater hole connected by a tunnel to the open sea.

Bromeliad – The Most Exotic Houseplant

Bromeliad fascinating plants are among the most exotic houseplants a gardener can grow and also among the easiest. Not a genus in themselves, but a large group of  genera they include Aechmea, Billbergia, Cryptanthus, Dyckia, Guzmania, Neoregelia, Nidularium, Tillandsia and a number of others. Bromeliads come from the jungles of South America.

Some are terrestrial, but many are air plants (epiphytes) living high up in the trees without any soil and taking nourishment only from whatever organic matter washes their way. They are not parasitic and do not draw nourishment from the trees themselves. Tree growing bromeliads catch rainwater in cuplike urns of leaves.

Bromeliads are grown mainly for their spectacular flowers, but the leaves are often particularly handsome too. A typical bromeliad has a rosette of leaves, sometimes soft and green, sometimes stiff and spiky with variegated markings.  A flower stalk usually emerges from the center of the rosette. The showiness of these flowers really lies in the brilliantly colored bracts that surround them, though the tinier flowers are also beautiful.

A plant blooms only once, but the flower is often extraordinarily long lasting, and bromeliad plants readily produce offshoots. You may remove these from the mother plant and report them or cut out the spent mother plant and let the cluster of new ones bloom together.

If you are looking for a bromeliad to start with try Aechmea fasciata. You might find itmarketed under various names such as “urn plant” or “silver vase”, but you will recognize it by its vase of stiff, tooth-edged green leaves, marked horizontally with silver bands. The flower spike has toothed bracts of a bright pink color; little blue-purple flowers nestle among pink spikes.

Best of all, this colorful spectacle lasts about six months. The plant grows 1 to 2 feet tall. Another gorgeous long blooming bromeliad is Guzmania  lingulata, which is about the same size, with long green, strap like leaves sometimes striped with purple and a red-orange cluster of bracts enclosing white flowers from late winter or summer. Bromeliads with stiff, variegated leaves like good, bright light and often will take some direct sun but don’t expose them to strong midday sun in summer those with softer, green leaves are fairly shade tolerant.

They do well under artificial lights. They are happiest in warm rooms 65-75 degrees at night even lower from Aechmea fasciata. Give them humid air and a very light, porous organic soil or soilless mix remembers that May bromeliads are air plants and their roots don’t normally grow in soil. Some gardeners grow the ephiphytic types on pieces of tree branch wrapped in moistened sphagnum moss, but a shallow clay pot will do fine.

You can allow the top inch or so of the pot to dry out between watering (over watering can lead to fungus diseases), but always keep the cup inside the leaves filled with water. Feed lightly a balanced liquid fertilizer at half the suggested strength added to the soil and cup once a month in spring and summer is about right. Propagate by dividing offsets with a knife and re potting them. 

Also Read: How to Grow Gorgeous Cyclamen Flower

BETONY WOOD — (Betonica OJicinalis.)

The common Betony Wood had many leaves rising from the root. Which are somewhat broad and round at the end? It is roundly dented about the edges, standing upon long foot stalks, from among which rise up small, square, slender, but upright hairy stalks. There is with some leaves thereon, to a piece at the joints, smaller than the lower. Whereof are set more than a few spiked heads of flowers like lavender. Hence it is thicker and shorter for the most part, and of a reddish and purple color, spotted with white spots both in the upper and lower part.

Also, the seeds being contained in the husks that hold the flowers are blackish, somewhat long and uneven. The roots are a lot of white thread strings; the stalk perished, but the roots with some leaves thereon, abide all the winter. The whole plant is somewhat small.

It growth is normally in woods and delighted, in shady places.  It flowers comes in July, after when the seed is swiftly ripped, yet in its prime in May. The herb is appropriated to the planet Jupiter, and the sign Aries. Antonius Mum, physician to the Emperor Agustus Ctesar, wrote a peculiar book of the Virtues of this herb.

Use of Betony Wood

It is among other virtue said of it, that it preserved the liver and body of man from the danger of epidemical diseases. It also helps in from witchcraft also and supports those that loathe or cannot digest their meal. Moreover, those who have weak stomachs or sour belching and continual rising in their stomach using it closely either green or dry. Either the herb or root, or the flowers in broth, drink, or meat, or made into conserve syrup, water, electuary, or powder. As everyone may beat frame themselves unto, or as the time or season required; taken any of the aforesaid ways.

It supports in the jaundice, falling sickness, the palsy, convulsions, shrinking of the sinews, the gout, and those that are inclined to dropsy, those that have continual pains in their heads, although it turn to frenzy. The powder mixed with pure honey is no less available for all sorts of coughs or colds, wheezing, or shortness of breath, distillations of thin rheum’s upon the lungs, which caused consumptions.

The decoction made with mead and a little pennyroyal. It is good for those that are troubled with putrid agues, whether quotidian, tertian, or quartan and to draw down and evacuate the blood and humors. That by falling into the eyes, do hinder the sight. The decoction thereof made in wine, and taken, killed the worms in the belly, opened obstructions both of the spleen and liver. It cured stitches and pains in the back or sides.

The torments and griping pains of the bowels and the wind cholic, and mixed with honey purged the belly. It helped to bring down women’s courses, and is of special use for those that are troubled with the falling down of the mother. The pains thereof, and caused an easy and speedy delivery of women in child-birth. It helped also to break and expels the stone, either in the bladder or kidneys. The decoction with wine gargled in the mouth eased the toothache.

It is suggested against the stinging or biting of venomous serpents, or mad dogs, being used inwardly and applied outwardly to the place. A dram of the powder of betony, taken with a little honey in some vinegar, doth magnificently refresh those that are over wearied by travel. It stayed bleeding at the mouth and nose, and helps those that evacuate blood, and those that are bursten or have a rupture, and is good for such as are bruised by any fall or otherwise.

Moreover, the green herb bruised, or the juice affect to any inward hurt, or outward green wound in the head or body. It will speedily heal and close it up: as also any veins or sinews that are cut; and will draw forth a broken bone or splinter, thorn or other things got into. It is no less profitable for old and filthy ulcers; yes, though they are fistulous and hollow. But some do advice to put a little salt to this purpose, being applied with a little hog’s lard. Further, it helped a plague or sore and other bile’s and pushes.

Betony Wood fume of the decoction while it is warm received by a funnel into the ears, eased the pains of them, destroys the worms, and cured the running sores in them: the juice dropped into them doth the same. The root of Betony Wood is displeasing both to the stomach and taste.  Whereas, the leaves and flowers, are having their sweet and spicy taste, are comfortable both to meat and medicine.

These are some of the many virtues Antonius Musa, an expert physician, for it was not the practice of Octavius Caesar to keep fools about him appropriates to betony. It is a very precious herb that is certain, and most fitting to be kept in a man’s house. So, hence it is both in syrup, conserve, oil, ointment, and plaster. The flowers are usually conserved. 

Read More – Coriander or Coriandrum Sativum ! A Hardy Annual Herb

The grey-backed shrike (Lanius tephronotus)

The grey-backed shrike (Lanius tephronotus) is a species of bird in the family Laniidae. It is found in Bangladesh, Pakistan,Among the shrikes, they breed at the highest altitude. They are partial migrants, with some populations moving south in winter. They breed in summer from late May to early July. The nest is built in a bush and about 3 to 5 eggs are laid. 

The eggs are incubated by the female alone and incubation is begun even before the complete clutch is laid. The chicks hatch after 15–18 days and are taken care of by both the parents until the fledge after about two weeks. India (Uttarakhand), Nepal, Bhutan, China and Yunnan. 

The Hot Arssmart

The hot Arssmart is called also Waterpepper, or Culrage. The mild Arssmart is called dead Arssmart Persicaria, or Peachwort, because the leaves are so like the leaves of a peach-tree; it is also called Plumbago. This has broad leaves set at the great red joint of the stalks; with semi-circular blackish marks on them, usually either bluish or whitish, with such like seed following. The root is long, with many strings thereat, perishing yearly; this has no sharp taste (as another sort has, which is quick and biting) but rather sour like sorrel, or else a little drying, or without taste. It grows in watery places, ditches, and the like, which for the most part are dry in summer.

It flowers in June, and the seed is ripe in August. As the virtue of both these is various, so is also their government ; for that which is hot and biting, is under the dominion of Mars, but Saturn challenges the other, as appears by that leaden colored spot he hath placed upon the leaf.

It is of a cooling and drying quality, and very effectual for putrefied ulcers in man or beast, to kill worms, and cleanse the purified places. The juice thereof dropped in, or otherwise applied, consumes all cold swellings, and dissolved the congealed blood of bruises by strokes, falls, &c. A piece of the root, or some of the seeds bruised, and held to an aching tooth, takes away the pain. The leaves bruised and laid to the joint that has a felon thereon, takes it away.

The juice destroys worms in the ears, being dropped into them; if the hot Arssmart be strewed in a chamber, it will soon kill all the fleas; and the herb or juice of the cold Arssmart, put to a horse, or other cattle's sores, will drive away the fly in the hottest time of Summer a good handful of the hot biting Arssmart put under a horse's saddle, will make him travel the better, although he were half tired before. The mild Arssmart is good against all impostures and inflammations at the beginning, and to heal green wounds.

All authors chop the virtues of both sorts of Arssmart together, as men chop herbs for the pot, when both of them are of contrary qualities. The hot Arssmart grows not so high or tall as the mild doth, but has many leaves of the color of peach leaves, very seldom or never spotted; in other particulars it is like the former, but may easily be known from it, if you will but be pleased to break a leaf of it cross your tongue, for the hot will make your tongue to smart, but the cold will not. If you see them both together, you may easily distinguish them, because the mild hath far broader leaves.

Ginkgo Tree - Traditional Medicine Tree

This family includes a single species, which now survives in the wild in only a small area in China. Ginkgo is a common ornamental in North America. Trees are dioecious with separate sexes, some trees being female and others being male. Sadly, all other species are being extinct. It is found in fossils dating back 270 million years. Ginkgo is practically pest free, defiant to storm damage, and casts dense shade.

This tree was widely cultivated in human history used in traditional medicine and source of food.  Male plants produce small pollen cones with sporophylls, while female plants do not produce cones. It has significant importance in Japanese culture. It is the official tree of the Tokyo, and the symbol of Tokyo is a ginkgo leaf. Even in Thailand Ginkgo seeds are served with boiled coconut flesh as a dessert.

The ginkgo's stubbornness may be seen in Hiroshima, Japan, where six trees growing between one to two kilometers from the 1945 catastrophic atom bomb explosion. Although about all other plants and animals in the region were killed. But the ginkgos, even charred, survived and were soon healthy again, among other hibakujumoku (trees that survived the blast).

Gingko is a durable street tree, which provides sufficient overhead space to accommodate the large size branch or two seemingly forming its own tree on the trunk. But this does not detract from its usefulness as a city tree unless the tree will be growing in a restricted overhead space. Ginkgo tolerates most soil, including compacted, and alkaline.

The tree is easily transplanted and has a vivid yellow fall color which is second to none in brilliance. However, leaves fall quickly and the fall color show is very short. Unlike the species, the tree does not set fruit.

Ginkgo biloba or Maidenhair Tree

The Ginkgo biloba is commonly known as Ginkgo or Maidenhair Tree. It has long been cultivated in China. In some planted trees are at ancient temples are believed to be over 1,500 years old  The Ginkgo’s fan-shaped leaves are unlike those of any other tree. The woody pegs covering the branches identify it in the winter.

Deciduous tree is usually with a single straight trunk, up to 30 m tall and 100 cm diam.; crown rounded or irregular. Bark Gray, with short, irregular furrows. The twig Gray, bearing stubby, woody short shoots protruding up to 1 cm from the branch at regular intervals, each bearing a cluster of leaves and often a pollen cone or seed.

The leaf is slightly leathery, fan-shaped, with a pattern of radiating veins (not seen in any other tree). The blade is 5–10 cm broad, light green turning golden and falling each winter. The Pollen cone Borne on short shoots, catkin- like. Naked seeds are more often than not only developing from a pair of ovules. This can found at the tip of a slender stalk borne on short shoots. They are appearing plum-like, almond-shaped, and yellow to orange, about 2.5 cm long. Thus the outer coating soft and giving off a foul odor are when ripe.

Habitat and Range

Gingko is a common ornamental in temperate climates. Thus many unconfirmed reports of naturalization in the U.S. Millions of years ago members of the ginkgo family were common around the world. But they now occur in the wild in only a small area in China. The name, meaning “silver seed,” is from Chinese.

Various tissues of the plant are toxic or are used medicinally, primarily in naturopathic and Chinese traditional medicine. Ginkgos are popular for growing as penjing and bonsai kept artificially small and tended over centuries.

Apart from being striking landscape trees in general, Ginkgos are very resistant to air pollution and are usually planted in cities. However, the female plants are unwanted, due to the unlikable odor given off by the ripe seeds. The oldest and one of the largest Ginkgos in North America was planted in 1789. This can be seen at Longwood Gardens in Pa.; its trunk exceeds 4 m in girth Seed autumn leaf. If you want to grow Ginkgos then it is easy to propagate from seed.

Health Benefits of Ginkgo Tree

Ginkgo biloba or maidenhair tree sometimes referred to as a living fossil. The modern research primarily focuses on ginkgo extract, which is made from the leaves. These days, Ginkgo supplements are associated with many health claims, mainly focus on brain function and blood circulation. It is used in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease and ’cerebral insufficiency’. Gingko biloba is a pharmaceutical treatment there is the potential to mask active treatment. However, the tree has a characteristic bitter taste that is difficult to mask.

1. Ginkgo biloba contains powerful antioxidants, which fight the harmful effects of free radicals and may be behind most of its health claims.
2. Ginkgo biloba treats Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The chances of it helping seem to increase when used alongside conventional treatment.
3. Ginkgo treats respiratory diseases because of its anti-inflammatory.
4. Ginkgo’s anti-inflammatory gives it the potential to treat depression and may help in anxiety. Though this is likely due to its antioxidant content.
5. Ginkgo has the ability to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation; an effective treatment for some types of headaches.
6. Ginkgo may improve mental performance in healthy people.
7. The supplementing ginkgo may increase blood flow to the eyes but not necessarily improve vision.
8. Ginkgo can increase blood flow by promoting the dilation of blood vessels. This may have applications for the treatment of diseases related to poor circulation
9. Ginkgo has the ability to reduce inflammation caused by a variety of conditions.
10. Ginkgo may help treat both the physical and psychological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.
11. Ginkgo improves symptoms of sexual dysfunction due to its impact on blood flow. 

Potential Side Effects

It’s important to talk to your doctor before including ginkgo in your regimen. The risk associated with taking ginkgo is relatively low but in some cases, it can be caused by serious harm. Here are some possible Side Effects of Ginkgo.

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Stomach pain
• Rash/allergic reaction
• Bleeding, such as subdural haematoma and hyphaema

General Information of Ginkgo Biloba

• Scientific name: Ginkgo biloba ‘Autumn Gold’
• Pronunciation: GINK-go bye-LOE-buh Common name(s): ‘Autumn Gold’ Maidenhair Tree, ‘Autumn Gold’ Ginkgo
• Family: Ginkgoaceae
• Origin: not native to North America
• Height: 25 to 50 feet
• Spread: 25 to 35 feet Crown uniformity: symmetrical canopy with a regular (or smooth) outline and individuals have more or less identical crown forms
• Crown shape: oval Crown density: moderate
• Growth rate: fast
• Texture: medium
• Leaf type: simple
• The margin of Leaf: lobed
• The shape of Leaf: fan-shaped
• Leaf venation: parallel; palmate
• Leaf type and persistence: deciduous
• Length of Leaf blade: 2 to 4 inches
• Leaf color: green
• Fall color: yellow
• Fall characteristic: showy
• Flower color: green
• Flower characteristics: pleasant fragrance; inconspicuous and not showy; spring flowering
• Trunk/bark/branches: grow mostly upright and will not droop; showy trunk; should be grown with a single leader; no thorns Pruning requirement: needs little pruning to develop a strong structure
• Breakage: resistant Current year twig color: brown; gray
• Current year twig thickness: medium; thick
• Light requirement: a tree grows in part shade/part sun; the tree grows in full sun
• Soil tolerances: clay; loam; sand; acidic; Foliage of ‘Autumn Gold’ Maidenhair Tree. occasionally wet; alkaline; well-drained
• Drought tolerance: high
• Aerosol salt tolerance: moderate
• Soil salt tolerance: poor
• Roots: surface roots are usually not a problem
• Winter interest: the tree has winter interest due to unusual form, nice persistent fruits, showy winter trunk, or winter flowers
• Outstanding tree: the tree has outstanding ornamental features and could be planted more
• Invasive potential: little, if any, the potential at this time
• Verticillium wilt susceptibility: not known to be susceptible
• Pest resistance: no pests are normally seen on the tree

How to Grow Ginkgo Tree?

Ginkgo may grow very slowly for a number of years after planting. But after that, the tree will then pick up and grow at a rapid rate, particularly if it receives an adequate supply of water and some fertilizer. Make sure you do not overwater or plant in a poorly-drained area. Get grass away from several feet around the trunk to help the tree become established.

The ginkgo tree is very tolerant of urban soils and pollution, Ginkgo could be used more in USDA hardiness zone 7 but is not recommended in central and southern Texas or Oklahoma due to summer heat. It is adapted for use as a street tree, even in confined soil spaces. Some early pruning to form one central leader is essential.

Read More - Spectacular Golden Chains of Laburnum
Source: - 1, 2, 

The black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus)

The black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus) is a widely distributed very long-legged wader in the avocet and stilt family (Recurvirostridae). The scientific name H. himantopus was formerly applied to a single, almost cosmopolitan species. It is now normally applied to the form that is widespread in Eurasia and Africa and which was formerly regarded as the nominate subspecies of Himantopus himantopus sensu lato. The scientific name Himantopus comes from the Greek meaning "strap foot" or "thong foot".Most sources today accept 2–4 species. It is sometimes called pied stilt, but that name is now reserved for the Australian species, Himantopus leucocephalus.

Five Important Spices of Life

You are stressed out and the nasal congestion troubles you, your tooth aches and indigestion plagues your system. You are definitely feeling out of sorts but not sick enough to visit the doctor, you feel; or perhaps you want to give good, old fashioned herbal therapy a chance. Fear not; relief may be as close to hand as your kitchen cabinet. The spices that add taste, color and aroma to your food are potential healers that can provide excellent cures for the worst of our physical troubles.

Clove

A strong analgesic property makes cloves a reliable home remedy for toothaches, earache, and sore throat; it also helps decrease infection due to its antiseptic properties. To sooth, an aching tooth put a couple of whole cloves into y our mouth and bite on them gently to release the oil. Now move them to the painful tooth and keep for 10-15 minutes. A glass of hot milk poured over four crushed cloves and steeped for 10 minutes can be consumed as an instant antidote for cold and flu.

While chewing a clove with a crystal of rock salt eases expectoration and relieves irritation in the throat. Regular use of cloves stimulates sluggish circulation and hence promotes digestion and metabolism whereas the anesthetic action of the spice helps in dealing with stomach pain and stops nausea. Clove is also an anti-fungal, so add it to a foot bath for athlete’s foot.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the most powerful of healing spices. It contains an antimicrobial substance, which makes it useful for treating respiratory infections. Tea mode with half a teaspoon of cinnamon, a pinch of black pepper and honey delivers a soothing effect on a sore throat and chronic cough. Taken along with ginger, it works wonders in vomiting and diarrhea. Just add a stick of cinnamon and freshly grated ginger to a cup of hot water, stir strain the mixture and drink for immediate relief.

 

A compound in cinnamon, like those found in cloves, also appear to improve insulin function, significantly lowering blood sugar. The sweet spice contains antioxidants that help lower levels of bad cholesterol and can even help prevent blood clots the reason it is good for our heart. High in fiber, cinnamon reduces heartburn, increases digestive fluid secretion and alleviates intestinal gas. More good news for women; including this spice in your diet will also ensure less painful cycles.

Black Pepper

Black Pepper, often called the “king of spice” is rich in antioxidant and antibacterial properties, making it beneficial for digestive disorders. To ease indigestion or bloating, take one-fourth teaspoon of pepper powder in a cup of warm milk. Finely powdered pepper and salt may be massaged over the gums to relieve inflammation.

Tea, prepared with a few finely ground peppercorn and some sugar candy can be helpful in the treatment of influenza and fever; a three-day course of 20 grams pepper powder boiled in milk with a pinch of turmeric powder can bring relief from the chronic cold. Combination of onion juice, black pepper, and honey is an effective home remedy for asthma patients and one of the most effective ayurvedic asthma cures while adding a tablespoon of pepper powder and a pinch of turmeric in a cup of hot milk is a good aspirin alternative for headache. And last but not least, have a cup of green tea with a slice of lemon and a pinch of black pepper to reduce a high temperature.

Turmeric

The benefits of turmeric include a long list of treatments for different health conditions such as infections, fever stomach disorders, jaundice and liver problems. The golden spice has unique pain relieving qualities paste prepared from turmeric and lime is commonly used as an antidote for swelling due to inflammation.

Traditionally turmeric is considered a cleanser for the entire body and is believed to increase energy and help metabolism. Turmeric is a natural antibiotic and an effective remedy for colds and throat irritations. Half a teaspoon of fresh turmeric powder mixed in 30ml of warm milk, taken once or twice daily, is a useful prescription for these conditions.

Gargling with half a teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of turmeric added to a glass of hot water helps relieve inflammation in the throat whereas one teaspoon of honey mixed with a half teaspoon of turmeric can help ward off pharyngitis. In case of a cold, smoke from burning turmeric may be inhaled to provide relief from nasal congestion. Besides being employed as antiseptic for cuts, bruises, and scrapes, turmeric is also used to improve skin tone and reduce tan by grinding it into a paste and rubbing it on the skin.

Cardamom

Basically a warm spice, cardamom also helps in cleansing the body thanks to its detoxifying properties. Good appetite stimulant, it aids digestion, relaxes spasms and relieves acidity. Green cardamom has a unique taste and rich flavors, which kills the germs and bacteria that cause bad breath; just peel off some pods, and eat the seeds to freshen up your mouth.

Its larger black variety is a proven remedy for gastrointestinal problems or diarrhea is toddlers; cook some cardamoms, mint leaves and anise seeds in water and give the decoction to the child (these are also the basic ingredients of gripe water).

Cardamom can be beneficial for those suffering from respiratory allergies. When you have a sore throat, try the following recipe; cook six cardamoms, four cloves, half teaspoon of water for five minutes, add a glass of milk, bring to boil and sweeten with honey. This drink works wonders in relieving cold, flu and even fatigue.

The Honduran Emerald (Amazilia luciae)

The Honduran Emerald (Amazilia luciae) is a little-known hummingbird in the family of Trochilidae. The bird is endemic to dry forest of Honduras. The bird natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forest and subtropical or tropical dry shrubland. Monroe the Birds of Honduras, summarized what was then known about the species and nothing has been added since. So far, eleven specimens have been collected at various localities from Santa Barbara in the west to Catacamas.

It is speculated that A. luciae was apparently a forest inhabitant and maybe common locally. Honduran Emerald is threatened by habitat loss and deforestation. The hummingbird restricted distribution in dry forest fragments and increasing human pressures on this habitat. The species was originally described in1867by George Lawrence.

In 1983, the AOU Check-list of North American Birds gives the habitat of A. luciae as Unidentified, localities usually in the humid lowlands. Though, plotting the collecting localities on a habitat map of Honduras reveals that all sites where A. luciae has been taken lie in or close to arid and mixed scrub and thorn forest. It is common inhabitant of arid thorn forest and scrubs in the upper Rio Aguan Valley Department of Yoro.

Like other hummingbirds it is a medium-sized hummingbird. It has a straight bill that is only slightly decurved. Normally the bill is blackish above and red below with a dark tip. The plumage pattern is simple, green upperparts that become more bronze toward the tale, blue throat, gray belly, forked tail that is bronzy green. Females are like males, but overall duller in coloration.

Approximately six kilometers west-northwest of Coyoles there were at least six emeralds found in one hour. As few flowers were evident, and all emeralds appeared in response to imitations of Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl calls. The Honduran Emerald seemed slow to respond and frequently appeared well after a mobbing band of other birds. This is mainly White-bellied Wrens and White-lored Gnatcatchers had formed. Emeralds normally perched 1.5 to 8 m up in bare trees and bushes and sat for up to 30 sets before losing interest.

There was a pygmy-owl did appear one emerald stayed with it for more than a few minutes. Moreover, the other bird species at the site included Cinnamon Hummingbird Black-headed Trogon, Elegant Trogon, Northern Beardless Tyrannulet, Brown-crested Flycatcher, and Green Jay.  At that site, emeralds were seen on the morning of 8 June 1988. At least 12 to 15 individuals Emerald were present in a small of area 200 x 200 m. However, at the second site, emeralds fed at numerous flowering plants.

Numerous birds also made prolonged insect-catching flights, mainly around the trunks of organ pipe cacti. One bird which was forty minutes strongly defended territory of about 10 x 10 m against the two other emeralds which infrequently came by to feed on Pithecelobium. Also, other bird’s characteristic of the Olanchito site included those listed for Coyoles, plus Thicket Tinamou, Spot-bellied Bobwhite, Striped Cuckoo, Lesser Ground-Cuckoo, Fork-tailed Emerald, and Arremonops sp., referred to Green-backed Sparrow by Monroe in1968.

At both sites, we found arid conditions like the upper Aguan valley. Therefore, most thorn forests had been cleared for grazing and what little remained was very dry and with few birds of any species apparent. From close-range observations of at least 15 emeralds, that A. luciae is slightly smaller than A. rutila and in posture and habits varies little from other Middle American Amazilia. Nevertheless, sexes appear to differ only slightly, mainly in the intensity and extent of the gorget. Honduran Emerald is considered solitary, like most hummingbirds. Individuals congregate in areas with a high density of nectar resources.

In life the maxilla is blackish, the mandible pinkish-red with a dark tip. The bill appears relatively long and slightly decurved. A white post-ocular spot and smaller pre- ocular spot lend the species a characteristic facial expression. The upperparts are deep emerald green and the upper tail-coverts and the tail is bronzer with a blackish sub terminal band on the outer rectrices.

Remiges are dark brown. Seen in the right light, the gorge flashes solidly turquoise but most of the time the underparts appear pale grayish, with dark mottling on the throat and upper chest. At rest, the wings fall slightly short of the distinctly cleft tail. Feet are dark gray. One bird (apparently singing) appeared in very fresh plumage.

A second, relatively dull female bird had the outer two primaries and several secondary’s very worn and faded in contrast to the newer and darker remiges; no rectrix molt was noted on any birds. The most commonly heard vocalizations were a hard, slightly metallic ticking call, often steadily repeated “chik, chik-chik, chik, chik. Also, a hard slightly buzzy chattering given in flight ‘zzchi’ and ‘chik chi zzhi’ reminiscent of the calls of Chestnut-collared Swift.

On returning to a perch, an emerald defending its feeding territory often uttered a dry, quiet gruff warbling, possibly the song, or at least a whisper song. During intra-specific chasing we heard a hard-buzzy chatter ‘chirr-rr-irr-rr-rr-rr-rr’ and a high sharp ‘siik’ given in pursuit. Moreover, an association with arid interior valleys explains the restricted range of A. luciae.

Hence, the given the pressures to convert much land to agricultural practices, A. luciae may be a threatened species. The actual distribution of the Honduran Emerald is still partly known. Within dry forests, the bird species has only ever been seen from interior valleys on the Caribbean Slope. An estimated population of 250 to 999 individuals is speculative, but the source is unknown.

Useful Herbal Remedies

It is very important for everyone to know how to make a first aid box with useful Herbal Remedies. You may find, as many others have, that herbs become an enthusiasm. Gradually but surely, they take over the entire house. First, it’s only a small space in the bathroom closet; then, a cupboard in the kitchen is cleared.

Next, the entire basement is given over to your herbal wares; and abruptly, the cars are parked in the driveway because the garage is filled with bottles of odd-looking preparations. About this time, your family may be saying, “No more.” But let’s suppose you’re a long way from there and you just want to organize a small kit of useful Herbal Remedies.

What Do You Need for Herbal Remedies?

To make herbal remedies first aid kit, assess the needs of yourself and your family, and any situations that could arise requiring first aid. Do you have young children? What maladies are people in your family prone to? A good kit consists of items that can be used for a variety of purposes. The most basic first aid kit will include the following:

• All-purpose/burn salve (burns, sunburns, cuts, wounds)
• Aloe vera gel normally burns, sunburns, cuts, wounds
• Antifungal salve (cuts, wounds)
• Cold care capsules (colds, sluggish digestion, infections)
• Echinacea tincture (boosting immunity, colds, flu, infections)
• Eucalyptus essential oil (congestion [added to steams], achy muscles, insect repellent, cuts and abrasions, warts, cold sores)
• Garlic oil (ear infections, parasites, colds)
• Green clay powder (splinters, disinfecting wounds, poultices for poison oak/ivy, skin infections)
• Kloss’s Liniment (splinters and slivers, poison oak/ivy)
• Lavender essential oil (headaches, minor burns, and sunburn, insect bites, congestion)
• Licorice root tincture (sore throats, bronchial inflammation, herpes simplex I and II)
• Garlic–Mullein Flower Oil (ear infections, pain)
• Peppermint essential oil (digestive problems, burns, mouthwash, stimulant) 76 Making Your Own First Aid Kit
• Rescue Remedy flower essence (trauma, both emotional and physical can be used externally and internally for adults, children, and pets
• St. John’s wort salve (burns, sunburn, swellings, pain, bruises, achy muscles)
• St. John’s Wort Oil (burns, pain, nerve damage, depression, anxiety)
• Also, tea tree essential oil (congestion added to steams], achy muscles, insect repellent, cuts and abrasions, warts, cold sores, toothaches)
• Valerian tincture (pain, insomnia, stress and nervous tension, achy muscles)

Many of herbs work nicely for minor emergencies. Moreover, to your preferred medicinal teas, stock an assortment of powdered herbs for diverse purposes. Also, they are easy to mix for poultices and to encapsulate as required. Hence, keep your herbal first aid kit in a place that’s readily available to you and your family.

Further, the baskets, sewing boxes, small suitcases, travel pouches, cosmetic bags, and fishing tackle boxes make immense containers for first aid kits. Hence, be sure everything is clearly labeled so that others can use it. You might even wish to create a small first aid book that you keep near your remedies so that others can decipher what to use.

Herbal Remedies from Your Kitchen

Though not everyone has a medicine chest full of medicinal herbs, everyone does have a kitchen. And, generally, that kitchen is filled with medicinal plants. Indeed, many of my favorite medicinal plants have sneaked into the household via the kitchen door, ushered in by the Mistress of Spices, their healing spirits camouflaged in culinary garb.

Most of your favorite kitchen herbs double as well-known healers, respected throughout the ages by various cultures. Many are still used in herbal remedies and even pharmaceutical preparations. Think of how we tend to associate the flavor of certain herbs with assured foods basil with tomatoes, cloves with meat, horseradish with German food. Actually, these herbs were most often used with those foods for medicinal reasons, not for flavor.

For example, basil aids with the digestion of the acids in tomatoes; cloves and other spices helped preserve meat in the days before refrigeration and prevented flies from laying eggs in it. Further, horseradish, long associated with rich, oily cuisine, stimulates the digestion of oil.  Following is a cornucopia of kitchen medicines. See other useful and medicinal kitchen herbs and spices.

1.   Basil

A much-loved tonic for melancholy and low spirits, basil has antispasmodic properties that make it useful for headaches. It is commonly used to treat stress-induced insomnia and tension and nervous indigestion, and it is a well-known aphrodisiac.

2.   Black pepper

Considered one of the great tonics in traditional Chinese medicine, black pepper is warming, energizing, and stimulating. It is indicated for slow circulation, poor digestion, and “cold type” problems such as flu, coughs, and colds. Some people find it an irritant. Jethro Kloss, a famous herbalist of the early 1900s, publicized it as a toxic substance. However, most people tolerate it well.

3.   Cardamom

With a divinely sensual flavor, cardamom, which belongs to the same family as ginger, stimulate the mind and arouses the senses. It has long been careful an aphrodisiac, in part because of its irresistible flavor. In Ayurvedic medicine, cardamom is considered one of the best digestive aids. It is frequently combined as an anticatarrhal (combating inflammation of the mucous membranes) in formulas for the lungs.

4.   Chives

Chives are alike to garlic, though not as potent, so people sensitive to garlic can often like chives’ medicinal and culinary offerings. Like garlic, chives have antiseptic properties, and they also help in the digestion of rich foods and protect the respiratory system.

5.   Cinnamon

Highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine as a warming and stimulating herb, cinnamon is used to boost vitality, stimulate circulation, and clear congestion. It is a well-respected digestive aid, has powerful antiseptic actions as well, and is indicated for poor digestion, colds, and flu. With its pleasingly spicy flavor, cinnamon is often used in medicinal formulas to mask the flavor of less tasty herbs.

6.   Cloves

Clove oil is most famous as an analgesic for toothaches, but the entire clove bud, powdered and applied directly to the gum, is as effective. Aside from its analgesic properties, clove is stimulating, warming, and uplifting. It is used for sluggish digestion and nausea.

• Dill

Dill is one of the most well-known of traditional English remedies for infant colic, extolled in medicinal writings and nursery songs alike. Dill’s warming and comforting qualities are indicated for gas and colicky digestion. This herb is also an old folk remedy for hiccups.

7.   Horseradish

What better natural remedy is there for sinus congestion and head colds? This is my number one favorite. The root is rich in minerals, including silica, and in vitamins, including vitamin C. Its warming antiseptic properties make it the herb of choice for asthma, catarrh, and lung infections. Horseradish is also prized as a digestive aid and is especially useful as a complement to heavy, hard-to-digest meals.

8.   Marjoram and Oregano

This is very calming and soothing herbs. Both marjoram and oregano are used for nervousness, irritability, and insomnia due to anxiety and tension. They are great to drink as a tea either in combination or singly when you’re feeling edgy or to calm butterflies in the stomach. These delicious herbs also have antispasmodic properties that can be used advantageously for digestive and muscular spasms.

9.   Parsley

This superb garnish should never be left slighted on the side of a platter. It may be, in fact, the most nourishing item on your dinner plate. Also, it is rich in iron, beta-carotene, and chlorophyll. Parsley is used to treating iron-poor blood, anemia, and fatigue. It will enhance immunity and is indicated when you are prone to infections.

The main herb for bladder and kidney problems, it is a safe, effective diuretic. Parsley is used for serving to dry up a mother’s milk during the weaning process. Also, it is effective as a poultice for mastitis or swollen, enlarged breasts. Because of this, you should not use parsley in any quantities when nursing, as it may slow the flow of milk.         

10.                Rocket (Arugula)

Imagine the delight when you discovered that arugula, one of much favorite salad green, was a famous sexual stimulant and tonic. I’m not sure whether to indulge more or be more temperate in my servings.

11.                Thyme

This is the best herb we have for stimulating the thymus, a major gland of the immune system. Thyme is a great pick-me-up when you have low energy. Its antispasmodic properties are useful for lung problems and for convulsive coughs, such as whooping cough.

It’s an excellent remedy for sore throats (combined with sage), head colds (combined with horseradish), and stiffness related to chills. Thyme also helps stimulate the body’s natural defenses and, combined with echinacea, boosts the immune system.

12.                Turmeric

This is one of the best herbs for immune health. It is often overlooked because of the huge popularity of echinacea. But, for many centuries, it has upheld its reputation for its immune-enhancing properties and is highly regarded for its anti-tumor and antibiotic activities. In East Indian medicine, it is valued as a blood purifier and metabolic tonic.

Turmeric is used to regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve cramps, reduce fevers, improve poor circulation, and relieve skin disorders. Though, it is highly valued as a first aid treatment for boils, burns, strains, swelling, and bruises. Also, Read - Herbs and Foods