Alchemilla or Lady’s Mantle from the Rose family has a common name that best describes her “dewcup”! A morning walk in the herb garden always has me checking out the shimmering diamonds in the cupped leaves of Alchemilla. The word alchemy is derived from this revered plant hearkening back to the sixteenth century where it is said that the dew captured in the leaves contained hidden feminine powers. Medicinal plant research reveals a plant ally useful for childbirth and postpartum conditions and helps to stabilize depressive moods. High in tannins Lady’s Mantle has become popular in bitters formulas where you can enjoy this magical plant in a cocktail or digestive. The frothy lime green blooms are sweet in floral arrangements too. Think I’ll be sipping dew directly from the cup today! #drinkingfromthedewcup #alchemilla #ladysmantle #plantsofinstagram #herbalmedicine

Bundles of Vietnamese mint tied up and ready to be hung up for drying. This lovely is slightly less pungent than peppermint with a goodly amount of leaf and just the right amount fragrant minty..ness. It doesn’t knock your socks off! #mintyfresh #herbalife #tea #cottagegarden #cottagelife #panthercreekcottage

Gah! The Nettles in my secret patch in the woods were just perfect today! I use gloves because I don’t love numb fingers that much. Although many herbalists feel the tingly fingers are a tribute to the season. Cheers to Spring and Stinging Nettles. Our Nettle Soothee tea blend is chock full of Nettles and other beautiful herbs to nourish your body. Find Nettle Soothee and other unique herbal tea blends at the link in our bio. Happy Spring! #stingingnettle #worththesting #herbaltea #woodswandering #foraging #panthercreekcottage #lifeisgoodinthewoods #pnw

A day in the Big City, well.. big in the eyes of this country mouse. 😳 Took in the lovely and tranquil Japanese Garden plus a bonus Japanese Tea Ceremony. This art and recognition of the beauty in our taking of tea, of offering tea, is truly a gift of the heart. Afterwards a hike through Forest Park, Trillium still blooming along with wood violets, Oregon grape, and cleavers herb. But sadly, the dense noxious English Ivy is a scourge and has a monstrous stronghold. Paths are cut into it making for sharp unnatural edges. But GREEN?! Oh my yes, a sweet spot for Portlanders to grab some nature time in the midst of of the City. #forestparkportland #springgetaway #countrymouse #citymouse #myoregon #walkinthewoods #saynotoenglishivy

The Queen of @mcminnvillezerowaste Recycled Arts Festival! Amazing gown and scepter cleverly created from disposable items. Great show! #trashtotreasure #recycledart #reducereuserecycle #zerowaste #zerowasteliving #mcminnvilleoregon #visitmcminnville

Happy Resurrection Day! 🌿🌸🌱🌼🌿🌻 ~with @alissa_hardesty @katjfitz #easter #heisrisen #allelujah #peacelikeariver