Bob Verkoeyen shared his knowledge of the medicinal properties of plants to a large group of guests and members of the Horticultural Society at the meeting on Feb. 15th.

Bob’s grandmother lit a passion in Bob for gardening, nature and forests. He became a self-taught learner as he experimented and read many books and articles on everything to do with plants.

Bob and his family create condensed Tinctures and Oils for their personal use and also sell to the public. Bob clearly noted that any information in his presentations is not to replace a doctor’s advice.

So, how is a tincture different from an oil? Tinctures are alcohol based so they may not be appropriate for some people. All of Bob’s oils are made with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Many plants that we label “weeds” have medicinal properties. Common Mullein can treat ear infections and eczema. You can boil the leaves and inhale the steam to help with sinus and throat irritations.

Comfrey, also called Boneset, can actually help set broken bones and help new skin cells grow. This pollinator’s root is quite deep so it pulls in many nutrients from the soil. Comfrey is only to be used externally!

The seed and leaves of Broadleaf Plantain are useful for many purposes. It can be made into a tea to soothe sore throats and relieve coughing. It acts as an expectorant which helps to clear mucus from the chest. This plant is also used to draw out poisons, treat bee stings, spider bites and snake bites. A handy plant to have close by!

Most of us have seen the brilliant red flower heads of Sumac along the highway or county roads. I knew it had a lemony scent as I have purchased it for my spice cabinet and use it on fish. Since it is costly, and I have new knowledge from Bob, I may harvest my own next Fall!

Other than ground as a spice, a poultice of Sumac is useful for treating skin rashes. It can be chewed for sore gums and rubbed on sore lips.

Bob and his wife make a Sumac-ade drink which guests were able to taste. This pleasant drink helps the Verkoeyen family prevent colds in the winter.

Note: If you are allergic to mangoes, cashews or pistachios, you may be allergic to sumac as they are from the same family.

This article is just a sampling of the information we learned from Bob. If you are curious for more, you can have a read of their Facebook page – Bob and Elle’s Half Acre Homestead.