Photo Credits: orestligetka, Bunch of Ripe Elderberries, #382461240, stock.adobe.com
Sambucus nigra - Black Elderberry supports upper respiratory health in colds & flu when correctly prepaared - the flowers are also very useful both topically and internally for acute ailments
Photo Credits: Oleh Marchak, Red Rosehips Berries, #833232139, stock.adobe.com
Rose Hips - several native species of Rosa are found in the Pacific NW, including Nootka, Pearfruit, and Bald Hip. They are all very rich in polyphenol antioxidants, combatting free radicals, are neuro-protective and chronic inflammation reducing in regards to stress-metabolic syndromes. Rose Hips are mucilaginous, moistening the tissues, as well as tannin containing, toning the tissues, so they have a multi-faceted profile that is quite unique. The tart pulp is rich in Vitamin C and synergistic bioflavonoids; they are used both topically and internally but have irritating hairs that can be problematic without careful preparation, as well as removing the seeds.
Photo Credit: Carol J Holland, Crataegus douglasii, Lost Creek Ridge, July 2024
Crataegus douglasii - Black Hawthorn - a native Pacific NW specie - the genus Crataegus is found world-wide and is a classic for supporting both the physical and emotional heart, supporting the endothelial vasculature and modulating nitric oxide. The leaf, flower, and berry are all useful and best when combined to get a full constituent profile.
Photo Credits: Annette Shaff, Young Buck Eating Berries, #462470978, stock.adobe.com
Mule Deer are an integral part of the environment in Bellingham, WA, always competing for the resources as they are voracious herbivores and enjoy novelty and variety as well as playing an important role in seed dispersal.
