Shiitake mushrooms, revered in East Asian cuisine, offer rich umami flavours and significant nutritional benefits, including B vitamins and immune-supporting compounds. Cultivated for over a millennium, they thrive on hardwood logs. Various cultivation kits are available for home growers. Always cook shiitakes for enhanced taste and digestibility.… Read More The Remarkable Shitake Mushroom: Flavour, Nutrition, & Tradition
In colder months, a well-stocked cupboard fosters resilience through budget-friendly, health-supporting staples. These ingredients, are ideal for nourishing meals like soups and stews, enhance gut health and digestion. Use this adaptable list as a guide to restock intentionally, honouring personal rhythms while prioritising comfort and sustainability in meal preparation.… Read More sustainable cupboard staples: part of the soft source for living series
Antibiotics have long been essential to modern medicine, but the widespread overuse of synthetic options has raised serious concerns about antibiotic resistance and unwanted side effects. Natural antibiotics—sourced from plants and other natural materials—offers a gentler, and an effective alternative for supporting the immune system and managing mild infections. This guide will show you how… Read More How to Make Your Own Natural Antibiotic: A DIY Guide to Herbal Remedies
Bath salts are a simple, cost-effective way to soothe muscles and relax at home. Making your own allows for customisation without unnecessary additives. Key ingredients include Epsom salts, sea salt, bicarbonate of soda, and essential oils. Personalise blends for relaxation, muscle relief, or energising effects, making them ideal gifts.… Read More Homemade Bath Salts
Medicinal dyes derived from plants and minerals provide both colour and therapeutic benefits. Historical uses include turmeric for inflammation, madder for kidney health, and indigo for skin disorders. Today, these dyes are gaining interest for sustainable textiles and wellness applications. They bridge tradition with modern health, promoting environmental sustainability and individual well-being.… Read More Medicinal Dyes
Rachel Bakewell 