Rachel Shackleton's blog

August is a time of frantic activity in the hedgerow.  As the month progresses grasses, flowers, and bushes go into flower ready to develop their fruit and or seeds for dispersion into mid September. 

The theme this month is digestion and common complaints in the digestive system.  The hedgerow is full of plants that are effective for common digestive and gastrointestinal problems that some of us suffer from, such as acid reflux, bloating and flatulence. 

Several of my classmates went on an organized visit and herb tour of Kew Gardens recently.  The gardens are spectacular and currently in full bloom, creating magnificent borders of colour, and filling the air with pungent smells to assault the senses.

June sees the hedgerows growing madly and showing lush depth and beauty.  Just taking a small patch of say one square foot you can see many different varieties of grass all vying for the top position to facilitate distribution of the seeds with the help of the wind, animals, insects or birds.  What a feast for the eyes and how clever nature is!

Following on from my earlier blog, a friend who is suffering from hay fever suggested I cover natural, hedgerow remedies for this condition.  What a great idea I thought!  Lets take a quick look at what is growing in the hedgerows, which in the first place, may be causing the hay fever, but more importantly what can be used to treat the allergic reaction from seasonal pollen and grasses, therefore feeling good and being able to celebrate the sun and spring with the rest of us.

As we leap into spring and I continue with my studies on Herbal Medicine and Naturopathy, I become more aware of how rich the hedgerows are.  How packed they are with energy and natural healing.  Taking a stroll in the countryside at this time of year, firstly what can you find?  Secondly what can it do for you and your wellbeing?