A friend took me foraging last week! I was able to bring a few plants home for my garden. I cut the plants back to give them the best chance of survival. I will use the flowers and leaves for medicine.
We are a Christian homeschooling family of 9 sharing experiences on our 14 acre farm in rural Virginia. Blog entries could feature anything going on in our lives: our walk with Christ, triumphs and struggles, homeschool, family life, helpful hints, tips for large family living, rural living, herbal medicine, etc. If you enjoyed your visit, please drop us a line at contentmentacres@yahoo.com
Friday, July 25, 2025
Rudbeckia hirta aka Black Eyed Susans for Medicine
Monday, July 21, 2025
Triangle Orache aka Saltbush aka Atriplex spp
Triangle Orache (Atriplex prostrata) grows all over the US and other parts of the world. There are no toxic plants in the Atriplex genus. Atriplex is in the same family (Amaranthaceae) as the more commonly known wild edible, Lamb's Quarters.
Like spinach, the older leaves of Atriplex are high in oxalates, so consuming them with calcium will help prevent absorption. I use stinging and wood nettles, which are very high in calcium, in my green powder mixes to reduce the amount of free oxalates. One could add cheese to a soup or salad to help bind the oxalates.
Atriplex is a good source of Vitamins A and C, magnesium, iron, and calcium. My notes do not have a lot of medicinal information on this plant. I have PDFs of very old herbal texts showing, it has been used to treat digestive and kidney ailments, purify the blood, and has been used externally for bug bites, stings, tumors, etc. What I see is that it has been used mainly for food for humans and livestock.
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Virginia Pepperweed aka Peppergrass
Peppergrass, primarily Lepidium virginicum L. (commonly called Virginia pepperweed), is another plant I use when I can find it. I've been munching on these since I was a child. This one was growing in a planter on my deck. It is a wild edible in the Brassicaceae (cabbage, radishes, cauliflower, broccoli, bok choy, turnip, etc) family. Its leaves, seeds, and young shoots are edible and were foraged by Native Americans and early settlers. The young greens are similar to arugula or watercress and are often added raw to salads or cooked as a pot herb (usually added to food that is cooked in a pot). The seeds can be ground as a pungent spice substitute, resembling a combination of mustard and black pepper. When harvested at the right time, it is tasty! The seeds need to be harvested while green because they lose flavor as they turn tan.
Friday, June 27, 2025
Healthy Boundaries in the Bible
Someone told a friend that her attitude about forgiving but not giving access to toxic people was not very forgiving or loving.
There is a lot of value to the Christian who searches the Bible about things like this. It might seem harsh to walk away from someone who is harmful to be around, whether that is physically, emotionally, or spiritually, but it is what the Bible teaches. The Bible is full of instances of setting healthy boundaries.
What is a toxic person? A toxic person is someone who consistently harms others physically, emotionally, spiritually, or mentally through manipulation, control, deceit, or disrespect. All of these traits are sinful (flesh).It is very Biblical to not give access to people who are not behaving in healthy ways. There are more examples in the Bible we can find to give us guidance, but here are some.
Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared. Proverbs 22:24-25
As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him. Titus 3:10-11
People will be... abusive, slanderous, without self-control, brutal... having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. 2 Timothy 3:2-5
…If they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector. Mathew 18:15-17 (AVOID them!!!)
Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.' I Corinthians 15:33
But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler—not even to eat with such a one. I Corinthians 5:11 Immoral=sinful.
Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. Romans 16:17
A look at the Greek for the terms used on dissensions and hindrances is very eye-opening. Dissensions (dichostasiai) refer to: divisions, factions, separations caused by contentiousness or disunity, can be caused through conflict, drama, or cliques within the church, breaking fellowship and unity. Galatians 5 lists dissensions as a work of the flesh. Hindrances (skandala) refer to: stumbling blocks, traps, or things that cause others to sin or fall in their faith, can be caused through false teachings, legalism, manipulative behavior, or anything that causes believers to stumble spiritually or morally. Skandala is translated to "offenses" in some versions. Again, all of these behaviors are sinful (flesh).
Then we can look at the example Jesus set. While Jesus loved everyone, He didn't give everyone access to Himself. He practiced healthy detachment and spoke truth with grace. He walked away from crowds that wanted to harm him, rebuked people and left them, and let others leave without Him chasing after them.
This is a big topic and one could find more verses and examples, and could do word studies to go deeper. The Bible is very clear: You should not stay connected with those who are consistently harmful to your physical, spiritual, and emotional health. You can still forgive, pray for, and love people from a distance. The Bible teaches that healthy boundaries are not selfish—they are wise and God-honoring. They reflect God’s order, Jesus' example, and protect our ability to love well without being controlled or harmed.
I have followed the instruction in the Bible on this and have seen toxic people go away and godly people fill those spaces. I have seen turmoil and mental anguish leave and peace fill my life. Once one very controlling and manipulative person left my life, my spiritual growth took off in big ways. Until I got away from them, I had no idea how much they were hindering my spiritual life. I learned a valuable lesson through that and made a promise to myself to part ways sooner with anyone who behaved like them to avoid harming my relationship with Christ.
Monday, June 09, 2025
Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata
Garlic Mustard, Alliaria petiolata, is a wild edible you can forage. It should not be confused with look-alikes. It was frequently grown as a pot herb and can be eaten fresh in salads or added to dishes to add flavor. It has been used to treat scurvy (antiscorbutic). Some say it has higher vitamin C than oranges! It is helpful to asthmatics, can be used as an antiseptic, and can be used to treat wounds and bug bites. It can also induce sweating to help cleanse the body's pathways or combat a fever. It is also a vermifuge. You can boil the leaves and stems in water, allow the water to cool, and pour it over where there are earthworms. Because it irritates their skin, they will surface, making it easy for you to collect them and invite me to go fishing! :-D I foraged this plant on a mountain hike while camping in WV. The next morning, this plant went into our omelets along with some Canadian Wood Nettle.
Monday, June 02, 2025
Cleavers aka Galium aparine
Cleavers, Galium aparine, are known for their lymphatic, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory (cooling) properties. Research shows Galium aparine stimulates the transformation of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, indicating potential immune-enhancing and cancer-fighting properties. Cleavers have been used in Western herbal medicine for centuries and are still highly valued.
Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Cliff Notes for Osteoarthritis
A client asked me for some research guidance for her father's OA. This is what I sent her. I am sharing it here to help others. My love to all! -Mama Asbell
Osteoarthritis
Goals: reduce inflammation, improve lubrication, support any remaining cartilage, promote comfort, help cushion joints by improving joint fluids, and relieve pain.
Herbs: Turmeric (reduces cartilage wear), boswellia serrata (reduces joint inflammation, protects remaining cartilage), willow bark, ginger (some studies say ot works as well as ibuprofen), other anti-inflammatory herbs.Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, MSM, omega 3, type 2 collagen, Vit D (deficiency worsens OA) (research how much you can safely take--much, much higher than what we are being told), hyaluronic acid, stay hydrated.
Red light therapy (Amazon), Rezzimax Pro Tuner II (I'm enrolled in a class on this) helps relieve chronic pain by targeting the Vagus nerve and affects pain perception, follow an anti-inflammatory diet, hot cold therapy, joint supporting devices, vibrating heating pad (brings blood flow to area, disrupts pain signals, improves flexibility, relaxes tight muscles, increases lymphatic drainage, etc).
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Alzheimer's: A Physician Caused Disease article
https://www.cachevalleydaily.com/news/local/wallach-alzheimer-s-a-physician-caused-disease/article_dfdc05a2-9297-5c35-bf16-9816d5472d43.html
copy and paste
How to Detox from CT Scan Iodine
It was asked in one of my groups, so I am sharing my answer here:
"Iodine contrast leaves the body in most people within 24-48 hours. In people with kidney issues, it can take two weeks. The iodine is excreted in urine, so plenty of hydration along with herbs that support the kidneys, liver, and lymphatic system. I recently had a CT. I used milk thistle and burdock root. Other good choices would be dandelion root, red clover, nettles, etc. I worked up a good sweat, have been eating plenty of fiber, and have been exercising. You can also treat the symptoms of your reaction (hives/rash-antihistamine herbs like nettle), but you should notify your doctor and let them know you are having a reaction, if you have not done so."
Thursday, April 17, 2025
Update on Brandon and Me
Brandon arrived home safely yesterday. He was very tired and went right to bed, so I did not get to see him. He is still running a fever and still has the pain in his abdomen. The pain is no worse.
While washing dishes yesterday, my rib popped back into place as I stretched to reach a pot. I had the lidocaine patch on, so it was not painful. It was a pop and a shift. It was creepy and cool at the same time. When the patch wore off, there was very little pain. I could move like normal. It was wonderful!
Around midnight, I came fully away very suddenly. The rib had slipped out again!! Oh, it hurt! My groaning woke up Clint. He put another one of those "mercy patches" on me. It wore off at 12 noon. I have a slight pain, so I guess the rib is back in its proper place again.
Since nothing came back on the scans and my blood work and urine was fine, I figured it has to be something mechanical. When I was researching "musculoskeletal pain that feels like gallbladder or kidney stones," it says this slippery rib pain mimics gallbladder, kidney stones, or a broken rib. I have now put those on my list of things to never try. I have "slipping rib" under things to never do again. I've had babies naturally. I've walked around with broken bones in my foot. I have a good pain tolerance. This makes me make noise and grab hold of things to steady myself as I walk.
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
Update on Brandon and me
Brandon started having pain and was running a fever. The pain became more consistent, so he went to the ER yesterday morning. Based on his symptoms, they suspected appendicitis. However, they could not find anything wrong with him.
I started having tenderness under my right ribs on the way home from Minnesota. The pain increased to the point I could not get up and down without crying out. As it progressed, I had to have help getting out of bed. I went to the ER last night and they suspected kidney stones or gallstones. However, everything looked great on all of the tests. They gave me lidocaine patches to help with the pain, which is allowing me to get up and down without grunting and gasping.
After researching this morning, I think I have "slipping rib" syndrome aka interchondral subluxation, caused by twisting in the seat of the suburban as I napped on the way home. It can mimic the pain of a diseased gallbladder or the passing of a kidney stone. I had mentioned the long ride and the pain starting on the way home to them, but they did not consider any musculoskeletal issues.
On the positive note, they said all of my organs look perfect. My blood tests came back great. The only thing they saw was slight arthritis on my hips and spine, which is expected but less than most people my age. I was called "the picture of health." I give God the glory for that because it has to be His blessing me.
As I left, they thanked me for being a good and fun patient. Yep, I was cutting jokes and having fun with them when I wasn't praying for the other patients in the ER. And yes, I took out that IV long before they planned to remove it. I warned them ahead of time that I would do that "and not get a drop of blood anywhere." I've had some experience. One of the nurses told us they knew there was fun in our home because it showed so brightly there.
I am concerned about Brandon's pain and fever. Please pray for him as he drives home from NC today.
It seems strange that we both had strong pain on the same day, and nothing could be found by the hospitals for either of us.
Thank you to all who took the time to check in on us. We love you too! May the Lord abundantly bless you and yours for any prayers you lifted for our well-being.
Monday, March 03, 2025
Cancer and The Concern of Addiction to Opiods
Someone asked me about possible Fentanyl addiction when using it for pain relief, so I am sharing it here hoping it helps someone else.
The brain has two responses to opioids. When no pain is present, it can trigger the euphoria people seek as a high (behavioral-leads to addiction). When pain is present, the opioid effect is bonded to pain receptors and basically "used up" while blocking the pain. There is very little that goes to the pleasure center of the brain.
Because cancer patients are looking to control pain for a better quality of life, the risk of addiction for those in moderate to severe pain is only about 10%. https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/EDBK_100020 The prescribing doctor should have protocols in place to help prevent that from happening. People at higher risk are those with past or current addictions. Chemical dependence is due to a body adaptation. This is where you would need to taper off the medicine to allow the body to compensate. With fentanyl, chemical dependency is expected after several weeks to a few months. Fentanyl makes the body produce fewer endogenous opioids (natural opioids) so if you are on it long-term and decide to stop, you would taper down slowly to allow the body to pick up its production. -WFriday, February 21, 2025
Alternative Cancer Treatment, Cytokine Storm Modulators Thread
On FB, I shared a post from a friend which was a headline of ivermectin, fenbendazole, and menbendazole being used for cancer. I have a feeling it will be flagged sooner or later. So...
I am putting a few of the comments here so people interested in taking charge of their own health can glean from it what they find useful.
One friend commented that is a shame no one told her about this while her boyfriend was fighting cancer. I replied:
"Doctors don't share it. I think it is more the medical industry as a whole than the doctors...the doctors are told what they can and can not use. If one chooses differently than their protocol, they are on their own and have to pay out of pocket. I know many who are going through this right now."
Another friend shared: "Dr. William Makis, MD has a wealth of knowledge on cancer treatments. I wish more people were open to effective alternative treatments." (Wendy's note: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jg6FhqGl7M copy and paste. You can find other videos for Dr. Makis too.)
I responded: "Many aren't open to it. Ever since a few years ago, I have had more and more people seek me out...some who were very closed-minded about any and all forms of alt med."
Another friend shared he has used it in his dogs since the 90s. I replied: "Most people think it is only for animals. It has been used to treat parasites in people since at least the 70s. I read about the history in the 90s and remember Vietnam was mentioned in one article. It was/is used in adults and children. Besides parasites/cancer, it is also effective in calming cytokine storming. For anyone reading along, grape leaves can also calm a cytokine storm."
He stated he used it with the C germ and he was well in two days.
I shared:
"I took it and it helped me.
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C47&as_vis=1&q=ivermectin%2C+fenbendazole%2C+and+menbendazole+cancer+research&btnG= (copy and paste)
You can also search PubMed.
When reading research, it is important to understand WHO, HOW, and WHY. This may be helpful:
Herbal Medicine, Research, and the Risk of Inference Errors: Why Context Matters https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YlUfHcFxho (copy and paste)
Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Endless Probiotics
I am not too keen on paying $46 for one month's supply of probiotics for one person. However, I do not mind paying $46 + milk for an endless supply of probiotics for two people. Not only can you TEST your probiotics by following yogurt-making steps,* but you can keep producing beneficial gut bacteria which can save you a small fortune. I used two capsules of BioGaia Osfortis, Women’s** Probiotic for Strong Bones, Immune Balance & GI Wellness, Contains L. reuteri 6475 to make a quart. It was thinner than I liked when I checked it the first time, so I put it back in the cooler for another 12 hours. Today, I will start more using a couple of tablespoons from the jar to make the next batch.
*I've used the cooler method for making yogurt for over 20 years (maybe 30). It's never failed.
**It is beneficial for men too.
Monday, October 21, 2024
Asters
I spent yesterday morning foraging and the rest of the day preparing what I harvested for drying. I found salt marsh and frost asters at my place. I took a drive to a forest I am allowed to go into and found calico asters on the edges of trails. I was pretty tickled to find that! I harvested over a bushel of four different varieties of asters for making tea from the leaves and flowers. The leaves are full of nutrition and can be eaten in salads or soups. Asters can treat digestive issues, fevers, earaches, and more. The New England Aster is highly sought by herbalists and tea lovers because it is nervine and calmative which can help with anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia.
Wednesday, October 02, 2024
Jewelweed
Jewelweed is mostly used externally by herbalists today. It makes a great salve that can treat skin irritations like insect bites, poison ivy, stinging nettle, hives, sunburn, and more. The cooled water from boiled leaves and flowers not only calms the itch and burning, it also helps the rash of poison ivy heal faster. The Cherokee, Iroquois, Chippewa, and other tribes used it internally and externally for a wide variety of ailments. Mine is being extracted in olive oil along with plantain for a salve I will make in the very near future.
Monday, September 30, 2024
Usnea spp
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Goldenrod Better For You than Green Tea
Today's foraging harvest was goldenrod. My girls learned from me as we harvested and prepared it. Goldenrod is NOT what gives you allergies. It is insect-pollinated (heavy, sticky pollen). It is ragweed and other wind-pollinated plants that cause hayfever, etc. Goldenrod HELPS allergies. It also treats pain, sore muscles, colds, flu, and contains powerful saponins and antioxidants that we need for good health. Goldenrod tea is higher in antioxidants than vitamin C and green tea. The flowers and leaves can be used for tea, linaments, oil infusions, tinctures, etc. The tender leaves in the spring can be used in a salad or soups. Goldenrod is anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and has some antibacterial properties. It has been used for diabetes, enlarged prostates, liver problems, gout, arthritis, muscle strains and sprains, skin wounds, fungal infections, kidney issues, etc. It took us 30 minutes to pick and prepare enough of this natural medicine to last us a couple of years. We made a linament and a tincture. I have more drying in my attic for teas and a salve that I will make at a later date.
Thursday, February 15, 2024
My Menopause Testimony
I was 49 years old and was still having regular cycles on time with no issues. I had been hearing about several friends' horrible times with menopause. It troubled me to see the many issues they were having that required medical intervention.
So, I stopped and prayed for them.
Then I asked the Lord that since starting my cycles, my cycles, conceiving (periods of infertility), miscarriages, stillbirths, and severe hyperemesis gravidarum had been so hard, could He please make my menopause experience easy? He did. I never had another cycle. I had some minor sleep issues a couple of years later, but it has been a cake walk compared to the rest of my reproductive life.
He is gracious and giving. I am very thankful to Him that I had an easier time of it for menopause.