Genus of plants

Toxicodendron is a genus of flowering plants in the sumac family, Anacardiaceae. It contains trees, shrubs and woody vines, including poison ivy, poison oak, and the lacquer tree. All members of the genus produce the skin-irritating oil urushiol, which can cause a severe allergic reaction. The generic name is derived from the Greek words (toxikos), meaning "poison," and (dendron), meaning "tree".[2] The best known members of the genus in North America are poison ivy (T. radicans), practically ubiquitous throughout most of eastern North America, and western poison oak (T. diversilobum), similarly ubiquitous throughout much of the western part of the continent.

The genus is a member of the Rhus complex, and has at various times been categorized as being either its own genus or a sub-genus of Rhus.[3] There is evidence which points to keeping Toxicodendron as a separate monophyletic genus, but researchers have stated that the Toxicodendron and Rhus groups are complex and require more study to be fully understood.[4]

Plants in the genus have pinnately compound, alternate leaves and whitish or grayish drupes. They are quite variable in appearance. The leaves may have smooth, toothed, or lobed edges, and all three types of leaf edges may be present in a single plant. The plants grow as creeping vines, climbing vines, shrubs, or, in the case of lacquer tree (T. vernicifluum) and poison sumac (T. vernix), as trees. While leaves of poison ivy and poison oaks usually have three leaflets, sometimes there are five or, occasionally, even seven leaflets. Leaves of poison sumac have 713 leaflets, and of Lacquer Tree, 719 leaflets.

The common names come from similar appearances to other species that are not closely related and to the allergic response to the urushiol. Poison oak is not an oak (Quercus, family Fagaceae), but this common name comes from the leaves' resemblance to white oak (Quercus alba) leaves, while poison ivy is not an ivy (Hedera, family Araliaceae), but has a superficially similar growth form. Technically, the plants do not contain a poison; they contain a potent allergen.

The resins of certain species native to Japan, China and other Asian countries, such as lacquer tree (T. vernicifluum) and wax tree (T. succedaneum), are used to make lacquer, and, as a byproduct of lacquer manufacture, their berries are used to make japan wax.

In East Asia, in particular in Japan, traditional candle fuel was produced from Toxicodendron vernicifluum (synonym: Rhus verniciflua) and Toxicodendron succedaneum (synonym: Rhus succedanea), among other sumac plants in the genus Toxicodendron, rather than beeswax or animal fats. The sumac wax was a byproduct of traditional Japanese lacquer manufacture. The conical rousoku candles produced from sumac wax burn with smokeless flame and were favored in many respects over candles made from lard or beeswax during the Tokugawa shogunate. Japan wax is not a true wax but a solid fat that contains 10-15% palmitin, stearin, and olein with about 1% japanic acid (1,21-heneicosanedioic acid). It is still used in many tropical and subtropical countries in the production of wax match sticks.

For specific information on prevention and treatment of Toxicodendron rashes, see Urushiol-induced contact dermatitis.

Originally posted here:
Toxicodendron - Wikipedia

Species of plant

Tabernanthe iboga (iboga) is a perennial rainforest shrub native to Central Africa. An evergreen bush indigenous to Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Republic of Congo, it is cultivated across Central Africa.

In African traditional medicine and rituals, the yellowish root or bark is used to produce hallucinations and near-death outcomes, with some fatalities occurring.[3][4] In high doses, ibogaine is considered to be toxic, and has caused serious comorbidities when used with opioids or prescription drugs.[3][5] The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) lists ibogaine as a controlled substance of the Controlled Substances Act.[3]

Iboga is native to tropical forests, preferring moist soil in partial shade.[3] It bears dark green, narrow leaves and clusters of white tubular flowers on an erect and branching stem, with yellow-orange fruits resembling an olive.[3]

Normally growing to a height of 2m, T. iboga may eventually grow into a small tree up to 10m tall, given the right conditions. The flowers are yellowish-white or pink and followed by a fruit, orange at maturity, that may be either globose or fusiform. Its yellow-fleshed roots contain a number of indole alkaloids, most notably ibogaine, which is found in the highest concentration in the root-bark. The root material, bitter in taste, causes a degree of anaesthesia in the mouth as well as systemic numbness of the skin.[6]

Tabernanthe iboga was described by Henri Ernest Baillon and published in Bulletin Mensuel de la Socit Linnenne de Paris 1: 783 in the year 1889. The plant even though was discovered and used long before in central Africa as a cultural plant.

The genus name Tabernanthe is a compound of the Latin taberna, "tavern"/"hut"/"(market) stall" and Greek: (anthos) "flower" giving a literal meaning of "tavern flower". On the other hand, it may equally well have been intended (by way of a type of botanical shorthand) to mean "having a flower resembling that of plants belonging to the genus Tabernaemontana " (q.v.). If the first conjecture is the correct one, the name could also have been intended to suggest that the plant is cultivated near huts, sold at market stalls or even that like the beverages sold at a tavern the plant is intoxicating, all of which alternatives would constitute apt descriptions of an oft-cultivated and popular psychoactive plant. The specific name iboga is simply one of a number of similar names given to the plant in its native Gabon.[7]

The first (probable...and confused) reference to Iboga is that of Bowdich in chapter 13 of his "Mission from Cape Coast Castle to Ashantee..." of 1819

The Eroga, a favourite but violent medicine, is no doubt a fungus, for they describe it as growing on a tree called the Ocamboo, when decaying; they burn it first, and take as much as would lay on a shilling.

If this is indeed a reference to the drug derived from Tabernanthe iboga (Eroga appears to be a variant form of the names iboga and eboka) it is, of course, grossly in error in its assumption that iboga is not a plant but a fungus. Notable however is the observation of the potency of the drug effective in small quantities. The description of the plant as growing on a tree is puzzling: Tabernanthe iboga does not usually grow as an epiphyte if at all.[8][9]

The ritual use of iboga in Africa was first reported by French and Belgian explorers in the 19th century, beginning with the work of French naval surgeon and explorer of Gabon Griffon du Bellay,[10] who identified it correctly as a shrub belonging to the Apocynaceae as recorded in a short essay by Charles Eugne Aubry-Lecomte on the plant poisons of West Africa, published in the year 1864.

Parmi les plantes rares ou nouvelles rapportes par le docteur Griffon du Bellay, la famille des apocynes contient encore deux poisons; l'un, nomm iboga, n'est toxique qu' hautes doses et a l'tat frais. Pris en petit quantit, il est aphrodisiaque et stimulante du systeme nerveux; les guerriers et chasseurs en font grand usage pour se tenir veills dans les affts de nuit; de mme que pour le M'boundou, le principe actif rside dans la racine qu'on mche comme la coca.

[ Translation: Among the rare or new plants brought back by Dr. Griffon du Bellay, the plant family Apocynaceae contains two further poisons; the first of these, called Iboga, is only toxic in high doses and in the fresh state. Taken in small quantities, it is an aphrodisiac and stimulant of the (central) nervous system; warriors and hunters make considerable use of it in order to stay awake during their night vigils; as with the (plant) M'boundou, the active principle (of Iboga) resides in the root which is chewed like coca (leaf) ].[11]

Indole alkaloids, which make up about 6% of the root chemical composition of iboga,[3] include:

The Iboga tree is central to the Bwiti spiritual practices in West-Central Africa, mainly Gabon, Cameroon and the Republic of the Congo, where the alkaloid-containing roots or bark are used in various ceremonies to create a near-death experience.[3] Iboga is taken in massive doses by initiates of this spiritual practice, and on a more regular basis is eaten in smaller doses in connection with rituals and tribal dances performed at night. Bwitists have been subject to persecution by Catholic missionaries.[3]

In lower doses, iboga has a stimulant effect and is used to maintain alertness while hunting.[12][13]

Anecdotal reports of self-treated opioid addicts indicated a reduced desire to sustain opiate abuse following iboga ingestion.[3] Since 1970, iboga has been legally prohibited in the United States following several fatalities.[3][4] Iboga extracts, as well as the purified alkaloid ibogaine, have attracted attention because of their purported ability to reverse addiction to drugs such as alcohol and opiates.[3]

Ibogaine is classified as a schedule 1 controlled substance in the United States, and is not approved there for addiction treatment (or any other therapeutic use) because of its hallucinogenic and cardiovascular side effects, as well as the absence of safety and efficacy data in human subjects.[3][5] In most other countries, it remains unregulated and unlicensed.[14]

Independent ibogaine treatment clinics have emerged in Mexico, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa, and New Zealand, all operating in what has been described as a "legal gray area".[14][15] Covert, illegal neighborhood clinics are also known to exist in the United States, despite active DEA surveillance.[13] Addiction specialists warn that the treatment of drug dependence with ibogaine in non-medical settings, without expert supervision and unaccompanied by appropriate psychosocial care, can be dangerous and, in approximately one case in 300, potentially fatal.[3][15]

Iboga is outlawed or restricted in Belgium, Poland, Denmark, Croatia, France,[16] Sweden, and Switzerland. In the United States, ibogaine is classified by the Controlled Substances Act on the list of schedule I drugs,[3] although the plant itself remains unscheduled.

Non-profit organization Freningen fr hollistisk missbruksvrd is trying to convince the Swedish government to start up clinical investigations of its anti-addictive properties, loosen up the prohibition law against ibogaine, and allow the creation of treatment facilities in Sweden.[17]

Exportation of iboga from Gabon is illegal since the passage of a 1994 cultural protection law.[18]

While little data is available on the exploitation and existing habitat of the iboga plant, the destructive effects of harvesting and slow growth could have already severely damaged the wild iboga population.[19]

Plant in fruit: fusiform-fruited form.

Read more:
Tabernanthe iboga - Wikipedia

Charlotte formerly worked as an editor of a garden channel and has extensive knowledge of plant care.

What's wrong with my maple tree?

When I worked as an editor of a gardening channel, people often asked me how to identify and address common maple tree pests, diseases, and problems. While maple trees can suffer from a number of general problems, verticillium wilt seems to be the most common and dangerous disease plaguing maple tree owners.

The fungi that cause verticillium wilt affect the tree's vascular system and cause symptoms of wilting and yellowing leaves that are concentrated in one particular area. Failure to control verticillium wilt can kill your tree, so it is important to correctly identify the disease and quickly remedy the problem.

Whether you don't have any idea what anthracnose is or you don't know how to identify lichen, you'll find all the common issues below to help you understand what's plaguing your tree and how to treat the problem.

Maple tree tar spot

Black spots and discoloration on leaves

Low (cosmetic)

Fungi

Late summer and autumn

Clean up leaf debris around the tree's base

Anthracnose

Leaves that curl around a dead-looking brown spot, tan or brown spots near the leaves' veins, cankers, dying young branches, and premature leaf loss

Low (cosmetic)

Fungi

Late spring to early summer; especially prevalent during wet periods

Keep tree from sitting in moisture; rake leaf debris; prune affected branches

Sooty mold

Powdery black mold covering leaves

Low (cosmetic)

Fungi, or plant and insect secretions

N/A

May require treatment of bugs that carry the fungus; can be brushed off

Lichens

Appearance is all over the place and can be dictated by region, weather, and other factors

Low (but can indicate more severe diseases)

Composite organism made of fungi and algae

N/A

Can usually just lift lichens off of the tree; may also prune branches that have it

Verticillium wilt

Wilting or yellowing leaves, often concentrated to one area or side of the tree

Moderate to severe (can kill tree)

Soil-bound fungi

July and August, particularly seen after a dry and hot summer

Plant resistant strains, remove the diseased tree, and/or fumigate the soil

Root rot

Symptoms vary wildly; often looks like mushrooms, can be cankers

Severe (usually lethal)

Mold

Wet seasons

Call an arborist immediately. The tree likely needs to be removed and destroyed.

Sapstreak

Dieback generally around the crown; external signs appear long after the tree has been infected

Severe (affects tree's innards)

Fungi

Late spring and early summer

Try to prevent the roots from getting damaged or wounded; some trees recover for no apparent reason

Phyllosticta mimima (maple leaf spot)

Ten to brown spots with a purple or red center

Low (cosmetic)

Fungi

Spring

Remove leaf debris. General tree maintenance. Plant resistant strains.

Powdery mildew

a fine powder-like mildew that covers leaves; white-ish in color

Low (cosmetic)

Fungi

Summer; thrives in greenhouse-like conditions (humid and hot)

You can brush the mildew off or apply horticultural oils.

Scorch

Dry, brown leaves

Low (cosmetic)

Weather conditions such as low moisture, high temperatures, and dry wind

Summer

Ensure that tree is well watered; apply mulch to help with water retention

Maple mosaic

White to yellow discoloration that's often kaleidoscopic looking

Low (cosmetic)

Virus

Summer (thought to be spread by the whitefly, whose population peaks in the summer)

There are no treatments. In fact, some people cultivate for this.

Pear thrips

Winged brown insects that are about the size of a nickel or smaller

Low (usually only damage foliage)

Insects

April through May

No known treatments.

Galls

Large number of varieties; usually look like black, red, brown, or green abnormalities such as a pimple or a needle

Low (cosmetic)

Mites

Seasons vary by type and mite

Some people have claimed to have success with pesticides and miticides, but this remains to be scientifically proven.

Two examples of tar leaf on a maple.

The maple tree tar spot is fairly easy to identify. It's caused by a fungal pathogen in the genus Rhytisma. While this affects maple trees in general, it especially targets Norway, silver, and sugar varieties. Tar spot will not kill your trees, but it's unsightly and can cause them to drop their leaves before the fall season.

The spots first appear as small yellow spots in June. Then, they progress to the black spots on the leaves you see above. Their size ranges from one-eighth of an inch to an inch or more in diameter on the Norway Maple. The spots can also appear on the seeds (samaras).

The fungus winters over on fallen leaves. If the leaves are not raked up in the fall, the fungal spores will reappear in the spring and spread to nearby trees. Treating the trees is usually not effective because the spores can travel from a neighbor's tree onto yours.

If your tree has these spots, which then causes leaves to curl in mid-July, it may have a different disease called Anthracnose.

Anthracnose on Maple Leaves

Charlotte Gerber

Anthracnose is commonly mistaken for tar spot. However, it inflicts much more extensive damage because it affects both the leaves and the branches. You'll find many more spots on the leaves that are typically smaller than the 1/8" tar spots.

This condition typically occurs when trees experience long periods of cold, wet weather. The affected areas may show small, dark spots and irregularly-shaped leaves with dead or brown areas. The leaves usually fall off in the early spring, followed by a second set of leaves which also die off. The branches can also develop cankers, which often strip them of their bark and kill them.

The disease continues when fungal spores over winter in dead leaves and infect trees during a prolonged wet spring. Once a tree is infected, the disease survives the winter in infected branches and then spread when the wind carries its spores to surrounding trees.

Anthracnose can be controlled by removing dead leaves from the base of your trees in the fall. You can also apply fungicide, but you may need a commercial application depending on the size and number of trees that may be affected. You can call your local Cooperative Extension office to see what fungicides are legal in your state.

While sooty mold mainly affects plants and trees that honeydew-secreting insects love, the mold can also effect maples.

Scot Nelson

Sooty mold feeds on the sticky honeydew left by aphids and scale insects, which can sometimes be found on maple trees. You'll know it's this mold if it rubs off easily on your fingers when you touch it.

The good news is that sooty mold won't kill your tree and can be easily treated. Try using a gardening mix that works to protect plants. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and apply it at the base of the tree to ensure the roots absorb the mix ingredients. This method should also prevent reinfection for up to one year.

The University of Hawai'i has created an amazing PDF that explains the mold's lifecycle and is complete with many photos of the mold.

Lichens on a Maple Tree

Read the original post:
13 Common Maple Tree Problems and Diseases - Dengarden

Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India, is full of natural remedies for both health woes and beauty needs. One of the many versatile Ayurvedic herbs is haritaki.

Technically the fruit of the deciduous myrobalan plum tree, haritaki is considered an important herb in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine, both forms of indigenous medicine in India. The fruit itself is small, oblong, and less than an inch in size.

The fruits are often collected when theyre still green and raw and then dried until golden brown or black. Theyre then powdered and made into Ayurvedic remedies. The fruits potency is based on where the fruit was collected, its color, and its shape.

Haritaki is also known as:

In Tamil, its referred to as kayakalpa, a rejuvenator of the body that balances all dosha, or humors. Its often referred to as a life-giving herb.

Haritaki is prized in Ayurveda for its versatile health applications.

Vrinda Devani, OB-GYN and Ayurvedic practitioner of Banyan Botanicals and Ayurprana says that haritaki balances all the elements, especially ether and air. The combination of ether and air is known as Vata dosha, which is said to cause 80 percent of all diseases in Ayurveda.

Devani notes that haritaki is also high in:

Practitioners of Ayurveda include it as part of treatment for a host of ailments, including both short-term and chronic health concerns.

Haritaki is one part of the trifecta of the beneficial Ayurvedic blend, triphala, along with bibhitaki and amla, or Indian gooseberry.

To pacify the air element (Vata), take it with ghee, or clarified butter, says Devani. To pacify fire and heat (Pitta), you can take it with a little sugar. To pacify water and earth (Kapha), you can take it with a little rock salt.

Its important to always consult a qualified herbalist before you add any herb, including haritaki, to your health regimen.

According to a 2018 study, Ayurvedic researchers note that each of the different seven types of fruit are prescribed for specific ailments.

According to Devani and 2014 research, haritaki is beneficial for:

Haritaki is beneficial for a number of illnesses, says Devani. One of the unique things about haritaki is that as [] an herb that rejuvenates and nourishes all organs and tissues, it also supports immunity. It can support reproductive challenges like libido and fertility.

A 2017 pharmacological study of the extracts of the myrobalan fruit suggests that it contains several helpful compounds that support its application as an:

These also play a part in heart health, wound care, and digestive support.

Older 2013 research supports haritakis application in hemorrhoids, but more studies are needed.

As a rejuvenating and regenerative herb with antioxidant properties, haritaki is believed to have the potential to improve the health of the skin, hair, and nails.

According to 2019 research, haritaki may help address a variety of skin ailments classified by Ayurveda.

Devani recommends using it for day-to-day skin health.

Use it externally by making a paste with some water or rose water, she says. If its a little drying, add a few drops of oil.

In a 2014 study, a haritaki paste created with haritaki powder, ghee, and water helped alleviate cracked feet.

A 2021 study notes that classical Ayurvedic texts include formulations for hair dyes using haritaki powder, noting these formulations have been used for generations with no adverse effects. The research also notes that haritaki not only darkens but softens hair.

A 2019 study noted that haritakis antimicrobial properties may be helpful in alleviating nailbed infection, though more high quality research is needed.

Haritaki is available in many forms in the marketplace. In addition to the versatile and popular powdered form, a haritaki paste and a jam-like preparation made with ghee or sugar syrup are also available.

Depending on the ailment, Haritaki may also be prescribed in tablet form or as an herbal oil. Different forms are prescribed based on the individuals needs.

Banyan Botanicals offers high quality powdered haritaki as well as haritaki tablets.

According to ancient Hindu scriptures called the Vedas, a drop of nectar fell from the celestial cup of Lord Indra and sprouted the haritaki tree.

The name haritaki can be interpreted as that which embodies Hari, or Lord Shiva, one of three Hindu gods responsible for the creation, upkeep, and destruction of the world.

As a cleansing and restorative herb, its included in holistic health care to address dosha imbalances. Many believe it plays a role in spiritual balance as well.

In Buddhism, haritaki is called Big Golden Fruit and represents a connection to the Buddha. Its believed to embody the core value of Buddhism, compassion.

Haritaki is valued for its regenerative potential as a cure for many ailments. The Medicine Buddha, an important icon in Mahayana Buddhism, is depicted as holding a haritaki fruit in both hands.

Although haritaki is generally considered safe, some people should avoid it. Dont take haritaki if you:

Even if you arent experiencing one of the above, always talk with a qualified herbalist before taking haritaki.

Want to learn more? Get the FAQs below.

Haritaki may positively impact short-term conditions like respiratory ailments, digestive, or skin conditions through topical applications. For more chronic conditions, it may take a few weeks for Haritaki to be impactful.

Herbal medicine isnt a one-and-done type of practice. Dont expect herbs to work like taking an aspirin or antibiotic. Theyre meant to work slowly over time with consistent use at proper dosages.

The amount of time it takes for herbs to take effect will vary depending on the dosage, issue being treated, and lifestyle factors.

Generally speaking, haritaki is considered safe for everyday use, especially when taken in small doses and blends such as triphala.

Still, you should never take herbal medicine without consulting a qualified herbalist and your healthcare professional.

When you should take haritaki depends on your specific needs.

According to Devani, when using haritaki as a rejuvenating supplement, its best consumed in the morning.

If taking it as triphala, some prefer taking it at night to let the herbs do their work and prepare the digestive system for waking. For cleansing benefits, night is preferred, says Devani.

However, you should always speak with a qualified herbalist and your doctor about when and how much to take.

Although there isnt scientific research to support it, Ayurveda indicates that haritaki may help support the livers role in eliminating toxins from the body.

Still, always consult a qualified practitioner before taking haritaki for your liver.

Pregnant women, recent blood donors, and individuals taking anti-glycemic or anti-diabetic drugs should avoid taking haritaki.

You should also avoid it if youre excessively fatigued, have diarrhea, or are dehydrated.

Haritaki is an ancient Ayurvedic herb with a rich history that can be easily incorporated into modern health regimens. It may help with digestion and detoxification as well as a number of health issues.

Always talk with a qualified herbalist and your healthcare professional before you begin taking herbs.

Nandita Godbole is an Atlanta-based, Indian-origin food writer and author of several cookbooks, including her latest, Seven Pots of Tea: An Ayurvedic Approach to Sips & Nosh. Find her books at venues where fine cookbooks are showcased, and follow her at @currycravings on any social media platform of your choice.

See the original post here:
Haritaki Benefits, Uses, Types, Spirituality, and More - Healthline

Carob powder is a common ingredient in desserts and baked goods and can act as a substitute for cocoa powder. High in fiber and low in fat, carob powder contains calcium and antioxidants.

The carob tree, native to the Mediterranean, is a flowering evergreen shrub. It produces carob pods, which contain both sweet pulp and inedible seeds.

People use the pulp to make carob powder, which has an earthy taste similar to chocolate.

Read more about carob powders uses, benefits, and potential risks.

Carob powder comes from the sweet, ripe pulp of carob pods. People dry, roast, and grind the pulp to produce a fine powder or flour.

It has a rich, nutty taste that is somewhat similar to caramel.

People often use it in place of cocoa powder or chocolate. Although it has a milder, slightly bitter flavor, it can act as a substitute in some cases.

Carob powder can be either raw or roasted. Lightly roasted is sweeter than dark-roasted powder, which has a more bitter, intense taste.

There are various ways to use carob powder, and it is particularly common in healthier recipes. These include recipes for baked goods, drinks, and no-bake treats.

Although carob peaked in popularity during the 1970s health food trend, it has come back into fashion in recent years.

Carob is sweeter and less bitter than cocoa, so people may need to use less sugar when using it as a substitute. This makes it a useful ingredient in foods such as pancakes, oatmeal, and milkshakes.

Additionally, people can use carob chips in place of chocolate chips.

Examples of desserts containing carob powder include:

Carob powder contains notable amounts of calcium, potassium, and fiber. These are all important nutrients, and people should aim to consume adequate amounts of each through food.

Additionally, carob powder is low in fat, so it is ideal for people who are trying to reduce their fat intake.

It is also caffeine- and gluten-free. This makes it a good choice for people who choose to avoid these ingredients and those who may be allergic or sensitive to them.

Although there are many health claims surrounding carob, the evidence to support them is limited.

Some people claim it aids weight loss. One small 2019 study of young athletes notes a slight reduction in weight for those who consumed carob instead of the placebo. However, they did not have a notable decrease in fat or increase in muscle mass.

Other common claims state that carobs antioxidant content can fight harmful cells, such as cancer.

A 2016 review article notes carobs valuable qualities. While researchers may be able to use carob to make new medicines and treatments, this does not mean that eating carob powder will give the same results.

People who want to use carob powder in recipes should choose it for its taste, texture, and nutritional value.

Carob powder is safe for most people in small amounts. Although carob allergies are rare, they are possible.

People often use carob in place of cacao. While the two foods are similar, they also have several key differences.

Carob powder is slightly sweet and has a nutty, caramel-like flavor, whereas cacao has a bitter taste. It is virtually fat-free, which makes it a good option for people who want to consume less fat.

Cacao, the unprocessed form of cocoa, has a deeper, bitter taste. It contains caffeine and theobromine, an alkaloid that has effects similar to caffeine.

It also contains an amino acid called tyramine, which is linked to migraine headaches. Carob powder does not contain tyramine.

Carob powder is common in various desserts, baked goods, and beverages. It is naturally sweet with a nutty, earthy flavor.

People often use it as a substitute for cocoa powder. Carob does not contain gluten or caffeine, making it a suitable choice for people who are sensitive or allergic to these ingredients.

Carob powder is ideal for people who want to avoid the stimulating effects of cocoa or reduce the amount of sugar in certain recipes.

People who are sensitive to gluten can use carob powder in place of rye, wheat, or barley flour for bread and baked goods.

It is also a good replacement for hot caffeinated beverages, such as hot cocoa or coffee.

Read the rest here:
Carob powder: Nutrition, benefits, and more - Medical News Today

Functional workwear that doesnt compromise style.

Technician and trades jobs are traditionally male-dominated workplaces, and while those industries and the attitudes around them are shifting to become more inclusive, trying to find suitable workwear for those occupations as a femme bodied person can be tough.

Beyond wanting to look professional and feel confident at work, manual labour jobs require dynamic performance wear which needs to fit right, feel comfortable and be durable enough to withstand whatever work you need to do.

For more fashion news, shoots, articles and features, head to ourFashionsection.

When it comes to trades jobs, ill-fitting workwear isnt just a nuisance its a safety hazard. Everyone deserves to feel good about themselves in what they wear. So, to help you look and feel your best on the job, weve put together a list of some of the top workwear brands for women who dont work in an office.

Designed by women to suit all shapes and sizes, Sk Workwear proves functionality and flattering fits neednt be mutually exclusive. Its range includes ass-hugging pants, high-waisted shorts, boiler suits, overalls, and tops all of which look good enough to wear off the worksite.

skworkwear.com.au

Dickies has been a leading workwear brand in its homeland, the US, for almost a century, but its been embraced much more recently here in Australia. The brands masculine, androgynous pieces suit all genders and its tough, made to last designs cater to various lines of work.

dickiesaustralia.com

Founded in the back of a house in Brunswick, Melbourne, and derived from the Aboriginal word yakka, which means work, Hard Yakka is now one of Australias biggest workwear brands. Its no-frills range is built for comfort, performance and durability.

hardyakka.com.au

Carhartt has been making workwear since the 1800s and branched into its WIP offshoot in the mid-90s before launching its first collection for women at the turn of the century. Simple, sturdy, comfortable and cool, its designs are the perfect intersection of street fashion and workwear. In fact, if youve ever set foot in a vintage store, youve most likely come across its iconic two-tone Detroit Jacket, a favourite since the 50s.

carhartt-wip.com.au

Family-owned and based in Tasmania, Blundstone are work boot connoisseurs. Made from premium, water-resistant leather in a selection of neutral colours and various styles, its range will have you covered no matter the job or the weather. Built for comfort, you wont be dying to kick off your Blunnies by the end of the day.

blundstone.com.au

Made from industrial hemp, recycled polyester, and organic cotton, Patagonias range of workwear is a sustainable option thats still strong and suitable for hard work. The range includes a T-shirt, shorts, pants and overalls in a subtle palette of earthy hues.

patagonia.com.au

Bisley is at the forefront of innovative work, protective and safety wear. Its range includes inbuilt anti-bacterial treatment, sun protection, insect barriers, static and moisture control, and flame and water resistance, all without compromising aesthetics or comfort.

bisleyworkwear.com.au

Created by Laura Madden and Juanita Mottram, the directors of Brisbane-based all-female construction company Eve Renovations, Eve Workwear was born when the pair became fed up with the endless struggle of trying to find workwear for women that fitted well and looked good. From painters whites and neutrals to bold brights and flannels, its got it all.

eveworkwear.com.au

Established in Sydney in the 1920s, KingGee has come a long way over the last hundred years. Adapting to suit the ever-evolving way we work, KingGees modern collections are designed to be breathable, flexible and keep you cool on the job. Its pants come in two types of fits, straight and curved, to best suit different body types.

kinggee.com.au

Offering off the shelf and custom uniforms, Worktones is a Sydney-based brand specialising in workwear for the foodservice industry. Its minimalist collection includes overalls, aprons, and caps, all of which can be customised and embroidered or screen printed to include your company branding.

worktones.com

Founded in Geelong out of the same frustrations that birthed the majority of female workwear brands, Green Hip was created to fill a gap in the womens workwear market. Its range of versatile workwear was designed to look good and fit well on a range of female bodies, plus for every garment sold, the brand plants a native grass, shrub or tree.

greenhip.com.au

For a brief history of workwear, head here.

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A selection of the best workwear brands for Australian women - Fashion Journal

New years bring new opportunities in life and in the life of your garden. What will you do this year? Plant a vegetable garden? Add fruit trees? You can create the landscape of your dreams.

When theres rain, be sure your irrigation system is on pause. Theres no need to water when the soil is already saturated. Leave the water off until the soil is dry at least to your second knuckle when you stick your finger into the soil.

Treat newly planted water-wise gardens the same way. For established water-wise gardens, wait until the soil is dry about 4 inches deep.

If theres been no rain, continue irrigating on a reduced winter schedule.

In January, the new crop of bare root fruit trees, vines and shrubs arrives in the nursery. They look like scraggly sticks with a wad of roots at the base, but they are the best way to buy deciduous fruiting plants (the ones that drop their leaves for winter).

This is the best time to shop for:

Now is the ideal time to buy stone fruit trees, such as plum trees.

(Getty Images)

How to select the best fruiting plant for your garden:

How to plant a bare root plant:

Prune and spray established fruit trees:

Harvest citrus:

All native and non-native drought-tolerant plants are best planted now in the cool (and maybe wet) weather.

Add beautiful flowering shrubs to your garden: Grevillea from Australia, conebush from South Africa, native Ceanothus (California lilac), native lemonade berry.

A honeybee collects pollen from blue Ceanothus flowers (California lilac).

(Getty Images)

Heating houses dries out the air, and thats hard on many houseplants. So give your plants a spa day in the bathroom. Fill the tub with a few inches of water. Prop your houseplants on top of empty plant pots (upside down) or other props set in the tub. Allow the houseplants to enjoy the humidity but not sit in water. Leave them for a day or so.

Have your pothos vines grown very long and leggy? Encourage side branches by cutting back long stems to a branching point.

Check houseplants for aphids, mealy bugs or scale. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to kill the critters.

Nan Sterman is a water-wise garden designer and writer and the host of A Growing Passion on KPBS television. More information is at AGrowingPassion.com and waterwisegardener.com.

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Start turning garden dreams into reality with these January tasks - La Jolla Light

Beautiful Botanicals by Joanne Howdle

Early to blossom, blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) is a deciduous shrub or small tree which has clouds of snowy-white flowers in early spring.

Blackthorn belongs to the same genus (Prunus) as almond, cherry and plum trees. The specific epithetspinosarefers to the sharp spines or thorns that are characteristic of this botanical, which is best known for its rich, inky, dark and waxy berries that are used to make a favourite winter tipple sloe gin.

Blackthorn is widespread across temperate Europe and also occurs in the Near East and Northern Africa. It is also naturalised in New Zealand, and eastern North America. Blackthorn often grows in hedgerows or thickets. Mature blackthorn shrubs can grow to a height of around 6-7m and live for up to 100 years.

It is an important plant for wildlife, its spring flowers providing nectar for early emerging insects. The foliage of this botanical is a food plant for the caterpillars of many moths, while birds nest among its dense, thorny thickets, eating caterpillars and other insects from the leaves, and feasting on its fruit in the autumn.

In the past, Highlanders believed that blackthorn was associated with evil spirits. It is said that witches' wands and staffs were made using blackthorn wood and children stolen by the faerie folk were said to have been left under blackthorn shrubs and would grow up to become changelings.

Pricking oneself on a thorn of this botanical was thought to be able to bestow a curse.

Blackthorn wood is very hard and in the past was often used to make the teeth of agricultural implements. Suitable branches were used for making walking sticks and were highly valued for this purpose because of their twisted and interesting shapes.

The bark, leaves and fruits were often used in the Highlands to make dye for clothes and food. The juice from blackthorn bark was used to produce a bright red dye, while the leaves of the shrub produced a green dye. With the addition of vitriol or copperas, the juice from the bark and fruit was used to make blue and black dyes and an excellent ink.

Traditionally, blackthorn flowers and fruit were used in a wealth of remedies including tonics and syrups that cleansed the blood, aided digestive complaints and eased rheumatism.

Blackthorn fruits, known as sloe berries or sloes, made into a jelly was a popular treatment in Scotland for throat problems, while blackthorn flowers were used as a laxative or infused and then applied to the skin to kill off scabies. Today, the pulp of ripened sloe berries is combined with other ingredients to make commercially available face masks said to maintain skin elasticity for younger looking skin.

Sloe berries are astringent when fresh and are therefore not eaten in the same way as those of many otherPrunusspecies (such as cherries and plums). The archaeological remains of sloes have been found on Neolithic dwelling sites and traditionally in Scotland sloe berries were used to make jellies and preserves and as a flavouring for gin, whisky and other drinks.

In the 1820s, sloe berries were often used to adulterate port wine and when tea was a very expensive product, the young leaves of blackthorn were dried and used as a replacement for, or addition to, the more expensive tea.

In modern gin manufacture, sloes are best picked after a frost, as this reduces the tannin content of the fruit. When distilled, sloe berries add a complexity to the gin, imparting a sweet yet tart taste with earthy undertones.

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Witches and faeries give blackthorn a prickly name in the north - JohnOGroat Journal

New York, Jan. 21, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global market for smart irrigation has been foreseen to rise with a 17.1% CAGR, touching a valuation of USD 3,147.29 Million in the year 2027. These systems aid in monitoring soil conditions, weather, water used for plants, and evaporation to adjust the schedule of watering automatically to the actual sites conditions. The market is witnessing a steadfast growth, owing to the farmers and agriculturalists demand towards automating the agricultural process for reducing the water usage. Rapid emergence of renowned institutional farms and the rising popularity of gardens with irrigating landscape are the two major factors fueling the industrys growth.

Conventional methods of watering lead to the waste of 50% of water used because of the inefficiencies in evaporation, irrigation, and overwatering. Moreover, they operate on the basis of a timer, not responding to different weather conditions or the water amount required for a plant. All these factors have elevated the need for smart irrigation, sensors for historical or real-time data for informing routines of watering along with modifying watering schedules in order to enhance efficiency. However, less technical knowledge and the high cost of sensors and controllers of smart irrigation systems are hindering the markets growth. Several farmers in various developing countries are deficient in the skills required for operating these smart systems. Get FREE Sample Copy with TOC of the Report to understand the structure of the complete report@ https://www.reportsanddata.com/sample-enquiry-form/2359

Further key findings from the report suggest

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For the purpose of this report, Reports and Data has segmented the smart irrigation market on the basis of type, component, application, and region:

Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 20172027)

Component Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 20172027)

Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million; 20172027)

Click on the link to read key highlights of the report and look at projected trends for years to come: https://www.reportsanddata.com/report-detail/smart-irrigation-market

Regional Outlook (Revenue in USD Million; 20172027)

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Smart Irrigation Market To Reach USD 3147.29 Million By 2027 | Rise in Awareness about Conservation of Water and an Increase in Investment for R&D...

TREeCOLOGY Team

BEDFORD, N.Y. (PRWEB) December 10, 2020

SavATree, the industry leader in professional tree, shrub and lawn care, has announced the acquisition of TREeCOLOGY, a tree and landscape maintenance company that has provided high quality tree and shrub care throughout the Twin Cities. This local Minnesota company specializes in maintenance of HOAs and townhomes. TREeCOLOGY will be incorporated into SavATrees existing Hopkins, MN branch.

TREeCOLOGY operates with a focus on client education and involvement in the tree and shrub care process. Services include tree and shrub planting, pruning, cabling, removals, mulching, PHC treatments for insects, mites and disease, application of fertilizers, bio stimulants and growth regulators to keep client properties beautiful, safe and protected.

We are thrilled to join forces with an experienced team and tree company like TREeCOLOGY that specializes in working with property managers, said SavATree CEO Carmine Schiavone. We will continue to support our current and new clients while providing an expanded portfolio of services, including professional lawn care and consulting services. We are confident that our combined expertise will further expand our presence in the commercial sector.

TREeCOLOGY owners Chris Romer and Mary Fontana stated, Were very fortunate to have found a company like SavATree that maintains a great reputation with their clients and in the tree care industry. We have an exciting future ahead!

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SavATree Extends Reach in Minnesota Twin Cities by Acquiring TREeCOLOGY - PR Web