Hawthorn tree belongs to the Crataegus genus, medicinally the tree species is Crataegus monogyna. The flowers, leaves and berries are all used medicinally to improve heart function, improve circulation, lower blood lipids, calm inflammatory response and act as vasodilators – relax contracted blood vessels. The rich red colour of the berries indicate the presence of Polyphenols a group of antioxidants that help neutralise unstable molecules called free radicals. The arrival of the white flowers and the fresh green leaves that cover the hawthorn tree in spring indicates the start of the harvest season and red berries indicate the end of the harvest season. From the Phytofarm manufacturing kitchen we produce hawthorn vinegar and a tisane.
autumn
A favoured season as the days can still be sunny and warm with the autumn colours to enjoy from the deciduous plants and trees. The harvesting of the hop flowers, gingko leaves, rose hips, elder & hawthorn berries has been completed and are on the drying room racks. The manufacture of autumn tonic vinegars from the roots of Inula helenium – elecampane, Taraxacum officinalis – dandelion, Cochlearia Armoracia – horseradish, these plants have been dug, harvested, cleaned, chopped and added to vinegar. The crowns were divided, re-planted and mulched ready for a new season of growth.
Other root crops of Symphytum officinalis – Comfrey, Valeriana officinalis – Valerian & Echinacea purpurea- Purple Cone Flower have also been harvested at this time. Althea officinalis – Marshmallow still has green leaves so a few more cold nights needed for the tops to completely die off before harvesting this root. Looking at the autumn garden it is a time to cut back perennials, replenish the soil with worm vermifuge, compost and mulch to protect plants and soil over the winter months.
The main point about “living with the seasons” is the encouragement of living in the moment, as every season of every year is different. This year elderberries came early and then due a fairly wet February everything else seem to come at once!
our tisanes
seasonal tisane
An aromatic, cooling, decongestant tisane. A refreshing summer blend to enjoy hot or cold.
sleep well tisane
Drink this tisane for the benefits of all these wonderful quietening, calming and sedative plants that help empty the head and prepare you for sleep.
lung health tisane
Drink this tisane to strengthen and warm with mullein, hyssop and thyme. Marshmallow provides valuable mucilage for the lungs, especially for dry coughs.
pick me up tisane
Drink this refreshing tisane as a caffeine substitute for those low energy moments. With Kawakawa, a versatile plant pharmacy in itself.
herb of the season
hawthorn
products
Enjoy our luscious herbal body butters and creams, delightful tasting teas, infused medicinal oils, tonics and healing salves.
medicinal oils
Our signature range of rich and colourful infused medicinal oils from carefully selected plants.
workshops
Seasonal workshops and tours designed to explore the changes in the garden and use of plants to make fabulous products.
apprenticeship
This programme offers a thorough instruction in the growing, harvesting, processing & manufacture of herbal products.
events and dates
2022 Autumn Well Being Workshop Programme: LEARN
In autumn, the workshop will focus on the value of roots and how berries provide valuable medicine.
• Sunday 1 May 2022 FULLY BOOKED
• Tuesday 10 May 2022
• Thursday 19 May 2022
In autumn, the workshop will focus on the value of roots and how berries provide valuable medicine.
• Sunday 1 May 2022 FULLY BOOKED
• Tuesday 10 May 2022
• Thursday 19 May 2022
2022 Winter Well Being Workshop Programme: INDULGE
In winter the workshop will focus on looking after yourself, it can be a vulnerable time with colds, flus and viruses. We will make products that warm and nurture you.
• Thursday 9 June 2022
• Saturday 25 June 2022
• Sunday 3 July 2022
• Tuesday 12 July 2022
10am – 2pm each day. Other times for workshops and garden tours can be negotiated. Please contact Valmai or Andrea to discuss.
our favourite
phytofarm kitchen garden book
The principles for exploring plants as food and medicine, a valuable collection of recipes and ideas. Starting with the Spring & Summer Edition, there will be new sets of pages in the future, keeping you updated with the latest additions from the Phytofarm kitchen.
$ 49.00
hand sanitiser
A fragrant moisturising hand sanitiser without damaging chemicals! 100 ml $ 12.00
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