Week 8: Medicinal Concoctions

Hello Class!

We have spent all week talking about medicinal plants, and on Thursday we got to make medicinal salves and creams. For this week, I would like for you to research a plant based medicinal concoction that you would like to make in the future. This can be a different type of salve, or a tea, tincture, poultice, or cream that acts as a remedy/treatment. Please research one that you haven't made before, but would like to make in the future. Tell us about it - what it is made from, and what it remedies. Please post a recipe of how to make your plant based medicine.

-Sam

Week 7: Food Plants

Dr. Velásquez Runk mentioned that we wouldn't be talking about food much - but it is hard to resist after seeing all the appetizing foods made from plants at the Dekalb Farmers Market. So, for this week I would like for you to tell me about some delicious food made from a plant that you found at the Farmers market. In addition, I would like some information on the culinary traditions/history of your plant in different cuisines. I will start with something I purchased - Brussels Sprouts.

Brussels sprouts are one cultivar of the species Brassica oleracea. Other cultivars of this species are cabbage, broccoli, kale and collard greens. Brussles sprouts were first grown in Northern Europe in the 17th century. It is commonly believed that Brussels sprouts originated from cabbages. Brussels sprouts became widely popular in Northern Europe - places like The Netherlands, France and Brussels (hence the name). By the 18th century French immigrants had carried them to North America. Most commonly the buds are removed from the stalk, and then either steamed, boiled, or roasted. I like to pan fry them with butter and garlic.

Week 6: Midterm Exam

There will be no blog assignment this week, so that you can study for the midterm exam on Monday. Good luck studying, and feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Week 5: Return to Sit Spots

Hello Everyone!

It has been about a month since our first sit spot assignment, so for this week I would like for you to return to your sit spot. Please describe the spot, focusing on changes that the warmer weather brings. Remember to sit quietly and focus on observations and impressions.