Showing posts with label flowers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label flowers. Show all posts

Sunday, July 29, 2012

ELDER FLOWER, SHWEPPES GRAPE FRUIT AND LEMON GRASS DRINK


SOFT DRINK COCKTAIL

The yellow brick road cocktail mix- non alchoholic

I found this recipe from the Schweppes collection, which uses elderberry liqueur that contains 20% alchohol-

For my general readers, it will  be more of a non-alchoholic cocktail / drink mix recipe and I have improvised on this by replacing  liqueur with elderberry cordial.

Elderflower teas and cordial are traditionally used in herbal medicine of the Yugoslav region.

The cream colored flower heads are honey scented blossoms that are crisp and somewhat juicy, with a highly aromatic smell and flavour.

These elder flowers are used to make the cordials… a  drink  since roman times.

However, the cheaper canned fizzy "elderflower drinks" and "elderflower sodas" often use a synthetic cheap elderflower flavouring – plus, as well as a real elderflower extract, This is not recommended for this recipe.


The yellow brick road cocktail mix- non alchoholic drink

Ingredients

2 tbsp elderflower cordial
2 mango slices
1 lemon grass sliced  (6- 7 fine slices)
1 chili (half) - optional
500 ml Schweppes Apple and Grapefruit mineral water
1 stalk lemon grass (garnish)

Add all ingredients and leave to infuse for 15 minutes before serving
Serve in a pitcher. Garnish with 1 stalk lemon grass


COMMENT/ TIP from my great blogger friend Jasna -   link here
Beautiful post...In Bosnia (and surrounding countries), Elderflower is used for making syrup for soft drink. 
Its good for respiratory organs. 
Thank you very much for the tip and your generousity Jasna-wan

Sunday, March 11, 2012

SCARLET RED HIBISCUS FLOWER and LEMON AND YELLOW ROSES


    NO COMMENTS PLEASE. THANK YOU AND HAVE A NICE DAY

Thursday, January 12, 2012

ABOUT YLANG YLANG. YLANG YLANG RANKED AS WORLD’S TOP 10 ESSENTIAL OILS

ABOUT  YLANG YLANG.  
YLANG YLANG  RANKED  AS  WORLD’S TOP 10 ESSENTIAL OILS
WORLD TOP 10 ESSENTIAL OILS - Ylang Ylang Extra Essential Oilhttp://www.florapathics.com/affiliate/aw.aspx?B=11&A=1&Task=Get&SubAffiliateID=11301 (Cananga odorata) is listed  in the World’s top 10 essential oils
Use to calm breathing, for high blood pressure  and to treat impotence,  (frigidity). Ylang-Ylang means ‘Flower of Flowers’ and is an exotic, aphrodisiac floral.

RECIPE:
Add 1 or 2 drops only , of Ylang Ylang essential oil into your Lavender or Grapefruit tea/ juice,  (once a day only) for it’s great health benefits
 “Cananga odorata”, commonly called Ylang Ylang  (Ee-lang Ee-lang/  ilaang ilang), fragrant cananga, macassar oil-plant, perfume tree or kenanga (in Malaysia and Indonesia).
Ylang Ylang is derived from the word Ilang-ilan, means “rare” in tagalog,. Ilang means “wilderness”.  Is a native of The Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia. Common meaning is “Flower of flowers” grows as a small tree or compact shrub with highly scented flowers.
 The flower is drooping, long-stalked, with six narrow greenish yellow (rarely pink) petals and yields a highly fragrant essential oil.
Cananga  is a tree valued for its perfume. The essential oil derived through steam distillation of the flowers,  is used in aromatheraphy.
The oil from ylang-ylang is widely used in perfumery for oriental or floral themed perfumes (like Chanel No. 5 ). Ylang-ylang blends well with most floral, fruit and wood smells

The scent of ylang  ylang,  just like jasmine, neroli , rose, passion flower, epimedium, capers, ginger and  saffron (Persian) has long been considered an aphrodisiac.  The so-called aphrodisiac scents - they simply smell wonderful.
MEDICINAL USES AND INDICATIONS
Ylang ylang is thought to reduce anxiety and perhaps even relieve depression. sexual dysfunction or simple lack of interest might be addressed with a cautious use of ylang ylang oil in an aroma lamp or blended in a massage oil. It may also be used in perfume recipes that call for jasmine.

It’s other medicinal uses are to treat malaria, soothe insect bites and generally fight in infections. It antiseptic qualities were valued but it is also recognized as an aphrodisiac and a tonic to the nervous system. In the past, the flowers were mixed with coconut oil to perfume and condition the body and hair.
The herb is available in oil and perfume forms only.

Quality ylang-ylang oil should sell for between us$12 to $18 per 5 ml or so and if you find it for a lot less, then chances are you are not getting the real oil.
Ylang ylang essential oil comes in four grades: ylang extra, ylang I, ylang II, and ylang III. The grades vary based on when the oil is removed in the steam distillation process. The lengthier the distillation, which generally can take up to 24 hours, the lighter the scent of the oil — ylang extra has the strongest scent and ylang III has the weakest. 

Harvest the flowers at sunrise to maximize the strength of their scent
Pick the flowers by hand to preserve their delicate fragrance and avoid damaging them. 
Flowers can also be preserved as fresh for up to a week by spritzing them lightly with distilled water and storing them in the refrigerator in an airtight container or bag
HEALTH BENEFITS-

Anti depressant
This is one of the oldest known medicinal properties of Ylang-Ylang and it comes in its essential oil too. It fights depression and relaxes body and soul, thereby driving away anxiety, sadness etc. It also has an uplifting effect on mood and induces the feeling of joy and hope. It may be an effective treatment for those undergoing nervous breakdown and acute depression after a shock, accident etc.

Anti Seborrhoeic
Seborrhoea or Seborrhoeic Eczema is a dreaded disease which is caused due to malfunctioning of sebaceous glands- resulting in irregular sebum production and consequent infection of the epidermal cells. It looks very ugly as the skin, colored white or pale yellow, dry or greasy, starts peeling off, particularly from the scalp, eyebrows and wherever there are hair follicles. Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil can help  regularize sebum production and treat the infection.

Anti Septic
Any wound from cut, abrasion or burn comes with the fear of the wound getting septic from bacterial infection, virus and fungus. The Essential Oil of Ylang-Ylang might help  avoid both septic and tetanus, because  it inhibits microbial growth and disinfect cuts/ wounds.

Hypotensive
This oil is a very good and effective agent for lowering blood pressure. the Ylang-Ylang oil is a safe refuge, it is natural and has no adverse side effects on health, if taken in prescribed quantities

Nervine
The Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil is a health booster for the nerves. It strengthens the nervous system and restores it from damages.It also reduces stress on nerves and protects them and may heal nervous disorders

Sedative
This oil sedates or calms nervous afflictions, stress, anger and anxiety and induces a relaxing feeling.

Other Benefits
It can be used to cure infections in internal organs such as stomach, intestines, colon, urinary tracts etc. It is also good for people suffering from insomnia, fatigue, frigidity and other stress related factors. It is extremely effective in maintaining moisture and oil balance of the skin.
Some cases of sensitivity, nausea and headache have been observed when taken in excess amount. Otherwise it is non-toxic and non-irritant

The Essential Oil of Ylang-Ylang makes very good blends with those of bergamot, grapefruit, lavender and sandalwood

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

MAGNOLIA HERB TEA. MAGNOLIA ESSENTIAL OILS.

MAGNOLIA

The natural range of Magnolia species is  mainly centered  in east and southeast Asia and a secondary center in  North and Central America, the West Indies and some species in South America.



MAGNOLIA BARK
In China and Japan, the aromatic bark contains two compounds, that has a calming effect s “- “ magnolol” as an anti-depressant  and  “honokiol “:as an  anti-anxiety properties. Magnolia bark also may have been shown to reduce allergic and asthmatic reactions.


The bark of this tree is diuretic, thus magnolia can treat upper respiratory tract infections, bronchial problems, colds, rheumatism and gout


In parts of Japan, the leaves of magnolia obovata “, are used for wrapping food and as cooking ingredients.
Magnolia has attracted the interest of the dental research community because magnolia bark extract,  inhibits many of the bacteria responsible for peiodontal desease. Magnolol inhibits the action of enzyme   in the formation of bacterial plaque.


MAGNOLIA FLOWERS
Scented Teas-  Magnolia flowers are steeped  with green tea, black tea or oolong tea  to make scented tea.
Symbolism- The magnolia symbolizes sweetness, beauty, and love of nature
MAGNOLIA ESSENTIAL OILS

When it comes to fast and almost immediate relief  from  stress, anxiety and depression— nothing compares to Magnolia Extract, which  comes in a perfect form from nature, the magnolia tree.
The sweet aroma of the  magnolia flowers is the best feature of the magnolia essential oil. The essence of this oil is an effective solution to various health problems. It is  absorbed into the circulatory system via absorption through the skin or mucous membranes

A few aromateraphy methods

1 - Inhalation – add  3-4 drops of essential oil to a bowl of steaming hot water. Breathe in the steam for a few minutes with a towel draped over your head and cover the bowl-  to capture the steam with the essences

2-massage – use 15 to 20 drops of pure essential oil in 1 ounce of  any massage oil base. This is one of the most relaxing and therapeutic way to receive the aromatherapy benefits of the oils, along with the detoxification of the body and the stimulation of the entire circulatory system.
Alternatively, you can add 1 teaspoon of golden jojoba or milk as the carrier oil of choice, to protect the skin  from getting  sensitized by the oil.

3-spray – adding 1 teaspoon of essential oils to 7 ounces of distilled water along with ( 90% ) isopropyl alcohol (to emulsify the oils) and then spray on bedding, linens, towels, and use as a room spray to deodorize and disinfect the air


Monday, December 19, 2011

HIBISCUS, ROSELLE AND CALAMANSI TEA RECIPE. ROSELLE LEAVES RECIPE. CALAMANSI RECIPES.

TEA, HERBAL TEA, HIBISCUS, ROSELLE FRUIT AND CALAMANSI

HIBISCUS, ROSELLE AND CALAMANSI TEA RECIPE.

ROSELLE LEAVES RECIPE.

CALAMANSI RECIPES.
TEAS-
Teas are made from the Camellia sinensis leaves. The benefits of tea will be lessened if milk is added to it. There are three types of tea- Green tea, Oolong and Black tea.
Green tea is made by quickly steaming or heating the leaves, to prevent oxidation of catechins and is considered to be the healthiest. Oolong tea, is processed for a longer period than green tea and Black tea is again, a further processing from this, including exposure to heat, light and crushing, thus having  strong flavors due to fermentation.
HERBAL TEAOther than the above, there a many varieties of herbal tea, which are made from herbs, flowers, fruits and plant roots. Herbal tea does not contain Camellia sinensis as in tea leaves.Their benefits depends on varieties used.
HIBISCUS-
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is the national flower of my beloved country, Malaysia and Hibiscus syriacus is the national flower of South Korea
The tea made from hibiscus flowers is known by many names around the world. The beverage drink hot or cold is well known for its color, tanginess and flavor.

HIBISCUS, ROSELLE AND CALAMANSI TEA RECIPE
Ingredients:
4 pieces large roselle fruits OR 1 cup for the small variety
6 pieces red hibiscus- size type as in photo.
6 cups of water
3 pieces calamansi/ lime/ limau kasturi
Sweetener- sugar/ palm sugar/ maple syrup
Steep roselle and hibiscus petals in hot water until the colors are leached from them.  Then add in sweetener. Once dissolves, put off fire and and in calamnsi/ lime juice (which turns the beverage from dark brown/red to a bright red). Serve hot or cold
IMAGE-OF-ROSELLE -FRUITS- LARGE
ROSELLE
The roselle is known as rosella in Australia and Indonesia.  Rosel or asam paya or asam susur in Malaysia..

Roselle, in traditional medicine, is used as treatment for several diseases such as hypertension and urinary tract infections

In Africa, especially the Sahel, roselle is commonly used to make a sugary herbal tea.  .
In Thailand, Roselle is drink as a tea, believed to reduce cholesterol.
In Australia, rosella jam has been made since Colonial times
SMALL-VARIETY-ROSELLE-FRUIT-AND -LEAVES( used for cooking)
ROSELLE LEAVES RECIPE (leaves from the small variety)





 
Roselle leaves produce a sour taste when cooked.Cut off leaves  from stems and clean.

1..Saute 2 pieces garlic. Next add half cube chicken stock , 1 cup of blended fresh corn and 5 cups water  After 15 minutes, add in prawns and 5 minutes later, add leaves and stir until crisp tender.
2.. A light sour appetizer soup made from roselle leaves- Blend leaves with 3 cups of water. Saute 2 pieces garlic and half cube chicken stock. Add the blended leaves and pepper. When cooked, remove immediately from cooking pot, onto a bowl. Serve hot.
 CALAMANSI
Calamansi / lime (limau kasturi) believed to have originated from China and widely  cultivated in the Philippines. It is dark green in its unripened state and ripen into a tangerine orange color. A very versatile fruit, use for making drinks, also as a form of acidic seasonings in cooking.
CALAMANSI RECIPES
1..Calamansi and green tea drink recipe
Three pieces calamansi mix with green tea and hot water is good to treat coughs.
2..Calamansi and black pepper drink recipe
Three pieces calamansi mix with powdered black pepper and warm water helps expel phlegm

Friday, December 16, 2011

IMAGE OF "GARDENIA FIRST LOVE"... "2011 BEEN WITH ME"- COOKING VARIETIES

IMAGE OF "GARDENIA FIRST LOVE"...
 "2011 BEEN WITH ME"- COOKING VARIETIES


FRAGRANT FLOWERS.


As you may have noticed, I frequently post fragrant flowers at my sidebar and my blog is always adorned with beautiful roses.. all in the name of fragrant flowers, which I try to relate them as much as possible to foodies… like  rosebuds and jasmine with honey (mawar dan melur), also finger bowls using wild orchids, ylang ylang (kenanga), and campaca (cempaka) and lately, gardenia jasminoides- another herbal teraphy/ medicine for good health..


GARDENIAS

Gardenias are exotic flowers that are both beautiful and extremely fragrant.
Gardenia plants  with  lovely white or yellowish flowers are fragrant enough for one flower to fill a room with its luscious scent.

Gardenia First Love..  is a variety, with a 3 to 5 inch bloom. A bloom  from Hawai,  that is so perfect ,it almost look artificial.
Year 2011 is coming to an end- out of respect and appreciation to all my blogger friends, cooking-varieties wishes  to give away this digital art image, which I did from the original  GARDENIA FIRST LOVE photo.

Yes,  “Gardenia First love” original color is pinkish.. You can have this image, if you like- my artwork… wan   2011 been with you- cv  < (“you” refers to all my blogger friends)
cv= cooking varieties. The giveaway is not on the other gardenias- but only on “gardenia first love” , because it has my artwork,  year  2011 is my first year of blogging and  finally, because  blogging and digital art has become my number one passion…. hence, is my first love now.

OTHER GARDENIA VARIETIES-..  wiki excerpts-10% only, very concise.
THE TIARE , a gardenia’s  variety, is Tahiti's national flower.
The authentic Tahitian Monoi oil, “Monoi de Tahiti”  is infused oil made from soaking the petals of the tiare, in a semi-wax coconut oil. The Tiare flowers used in are all done hand- picked.
 Monoi (say- Mah-noy) is an ancient Tahitian word meaning "scented oil"  and is widely used among French Polynesian as a “skin and hair softener”.
Coconut Oil - Coconut palm trees, the most utilized Polynesian island tree – produces
coconut almonds from their ripe fruits. These are then sundried, until they shrink and the coprah has lost over 90% of its moisture. It is then pressed into raw coconut oil and finally, undergo more refining process, to remove all impurities.
cooking varieties photo art collection
COMMON USES
Recent manufacturer tests verify that monoi oil is rich in methyl salicylate, a skin-soothing agent. Monoi oil is used :
-Naturally concentrated emollient which penetrates the skin to rehydrate-healthy.
-As a pre-shampoo hot oil treatment, repair and deep condition the hair.
- A few drops in the bath tub, makes you  relax while keeping your skin soft .
-Also used as a massaging oil for sore body parts
-As a pain reliever for sunburn. As a dark tanning oil

Gardenia jasminoides. the most common species, that produces white, highly fragrant flowers-  is a native of China, and is the gardenia most commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine. Chinese herbs should not be taken, either individually or in formulas, unless a practitioner of Chinese herbal medicine is first consulted

Gardenia fruit is used in Chinese herbal medicine, to treat fever, anxiety, depression, insomnia and even liver disorders. It is known for its antibacterial, antifungal and sedative properties. In folk medicine gardenia was used for its diuretic and antiseptic properties. The leaves, roots and fruits were all utilized for medicinal purposes. The leaves and flowers were used to treat abdominal and nervous disorders. The fruit was commonly used to treat cough, fever and even toothaches
GARDENIA HEAVEN SCENT
This hybrid variety is VERY RARE,  has huge double 5-6" flowers, normally semi-double, but sometimes they come in weird shapes. Native to Polynesia. The intoxicating sweet fragrant blossoms are creamy white works of art.
GARDENIA MIAMI SUPREME