Facts
Microgreens are young edible plants harvested just after the first true leaves develop, typically within 7-21 days of germination. They are packed with nutrients and offer intense flavors compared to their mature counterparts.
A remarkable discovery has brought an ancient biblical mystery back to life. A 1,000-year-old seed, believed to be the source of a legendary balm resin mentioned in the Bible, has shown signs of growth.
The seed, known as the ‘Sheba’ seed, was unearthed in the late 1980s from a cave in Wadi el-Makkuk, near ancient Jericho. Weighing just 0.565g and measuring 1.8cm in length, it was found by archaeologists from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Identified as part of the Commiphora species – related to Frankincense and Myrrh – this plant was long thought to be extinct.
Carbon dating places its origin between 993 AD and 1202 AD. In 2010, Dr. Sarah Sallon of the Middle East Medicinal Plant Project planted the seed, which has now begun to sprout. She believes it may be the source of the mysterious ‘Tsori,’ a revered perfumed resin described in the Old Testament.
The resin, mentioned in Genesis 37:25 as ‘balm,’ was historically valued for embalming, incense, and medicinal purposes. As research continues, the revival of this ancient plant may unlock new insights into biblical history and the medicinal knowledge of ancient civilizations.
A common ingredient in herbal tea has been transformed into a powerful biomedical hydrogel, thanks to groundbreaking research from the University of Chicago. The malva nut, traditionally used in Chinese medicine as a sore throat remedy, has now been repurposed for advanced medical applications from wound care to ECG monitoring.
A team of Japanese researchers has captured real-time footage of plants communicating distress signals to their neighbors, shedding new light on the intricate world of plant interactions. Led by molecular biologist Masatsugu Toyota of Saitama University, the study, published in Nature Communications, observed how plants respond to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by others experiencing mechanical damage or insect attacks.
Boosting dopamine levels naturally can enhance motivation, focus, and overall well-being. Dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter, regulates pleasure, motivation, and cognitive function. When levels are low, we may feel sluggish, unmotivated, or even depressed. Developing a personalized “dopamenu” can be a practical strategy to keep dopamine levels balanced and improve daily functioning.
Here’s how you can create one and why it’s beneficial.
Dopamine plays a key role in mental and physical health, affecting mood, motivation, and decision-making. Low dopamine levels can contribute to conditions such as ADHD, depression, and seasonal affective disorder. By actively engaging in activities that stimulate dopamine production, we can enhance our ability to stay focused, motivated, and emotionally balanced.
By intentionally incorporating dopamine-boosting habits, you can maintain energy, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being.
A recent investigation by Mamavation, in partnership with EHN, uncovered concerning levels of phthalates in essential oils. The study tested 22 lavender and peppermint essential oils from 11 popular brands and found that all contained detectable levels of these harmful chemicals.
Phthalates, commonly used as solvents and stabilizers, have been linked to hormone disruption, fertility issues, obesity, developmental delays, and even cancer. This highlights the need for consumers to be vigilant when selecting essential oils.
Finding safe essential oils is crucial for protecting your health from harmful chemicals like phthalates. To avoid phthalates in essential oils, consider the following tips:
The USDA reports that in just one year, the U.S. lost 14,950 farms and 2,100,000 acres of farmland. This continues a decades-long trend, bringing the total loss to 150,000 farms since 2017.
A generational shift is underway. With the average American farmer over 60 and nearly 40% now over 65, farmland is changing hands at an unprecedented rate.
Flowers like marigolds, roses, and hibiscus are more than just decorative – they could play a major role in sustainable food production. While millions of flowers are gifted for occasions like Valentine’s Day, many go unsold and are discarded. But what if those blooms could be repurposed into nutritious food ingredients?
Canned foods are more than just convenient – they’re an essential part of any emergency pantry. Whether facing natural disasters, economic uncertainty, or unexpected shortages, having shelf-stable, nutrient-dense foods ensures you and your family stay nourished.
Here are the best options to stock up on:
Black beans, chickpeas, and kidney beans provide protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. They’re an affordable, long-lasting meat alternative. Rinse before eating to reduce sodium.
Packed with vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, canned tomatoes are perfect for soups, stews, and pasta sauces. Choose “no salt added” versions and add seal salt for better health.
A great source of protein and healthy fats, canned seafood supports brain and heart health, making it a valuable emergency staple. Choose pole and line caught tuna to support sustainability and skip jack light tuna for the least mercury.
Full of fiber and vitamin A, pumpkin is great for digestion and immunity. Add it to oatmeal, soups, or smoothies. Choose pure pumpkin without added ingredients.
Great for curries and soups, coconut milk adds healthy fats and a creamy texture to meals. Choose full-fat for the best taste and health benefits.
With egg prices rising and supply chain issues continuing, many Floridians are turning to backyard chickens for fresh eggs and self-sufficiency. However, raising chickens in Florida’s unique climate requires careful preparation, and inconsistent local regulations add further challenges.
Katie Whalen of Port St. Lucie hopes to add a chicken coop to her permaculture-inspired backyard, filled with fruit trees and edible plants. She sees chickens as a natural extension of her sustainable lifestyle, but city ordinances prohibit her from keeping hens.
While some Florida cities, like Clermont, have legalized small backyard flocks, others, including Port St. Lucie, maintain strict bans. Meanwhile, in unincorporated St. Lucie County, a Backyard Chicken Program has thrived since 2021. Inspired by its success, Whalen has launched a petition advocating for food security and economic resilience.
For those legally allowed to keep chickens, preparation is key. Florida’s heat requires shade, ventilation, and constant access to cool water. Predator protection is also crucial, as raccoons and hawks pose significant risks. Sturdy, predator-proof coops with secure latches and wire mesh help keep flocks safe.
Choosing heat-tolerant breeds like Leghorns, Barred Rocks, and Australorps is important. Hydration, proper nutrition, and hurricane preparedness – such as securing coops and keeping emergency supplies – are essential. To ensure flock health and success, new chicken owners should educate themselves on common challenges, including mites, egg production fluctuations, and overheating.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is urging Americans to help control invasive nutria by adding them to their menus. As part of National Invasive Species Week (Feb 24-28), officials highlight how these rodents, native to South America, have caused significant damage to U.S. wetlands. Originally brought to Louisiana in the 1930s for the fur trade, nutria escaped into the wild and rapidly multiplied.
A single nutria can weigh up to 20 pounds and consume its body weight in vegetation daily, leading to the destruction of nearly 90,000 acres of coastal wetlands annually before control efforts began.
Thanks to hunting incentives, such as $6-per-tail bounties, the damage has dropped to about 5,500 acres per year. However, nutria populations continue to expand along the Atlantic Coast and into California.
While eating rodents may sound unusual, nutria meat is lean, mild, and similar to rabbit. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, including nutria gumbo, tacos, and even smoked or grilled.
Older cookbooks feature dishes like “nutria-bacon rolls” and “macaroni-nutria casserole.” As with all wild game, it’s important to cook it thoroughly to avoid contamination.
If nutria isn’t your thing, National Invasive Species Week also highlights other eco-friendly options, such as invasive carp, feral hogs, and even green iguanas. Yummy!
Susan has been nurturing her gardening tips and advice for over 00 years, it’s fair to say she knows her beans. She’ll be sharing her knowledge from tried and tested methods.
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