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THE TRUE COUNTRY LIVING

3/8/2024

For years, I have collected numerous issues of Country Living magazine. To be honest, my perception of the countryside has been largely shaped by the idyllic stories and photos featured in these publications.

However, I’m almost certain that true country living comes with its fair share of ups and downs. My longing for a peaceful countryside life might be a bit of a wild goose chase—not because moving to the countryside is impossible, but because it might not match the idyllic images painted by holiday stays, magazine articles, or escape-to-the-country TV programs. Yet, whenever I return to the countryside after time away, I seem to focus only on its positives.

There’s nothing better than being woken up by the sound of a rooster, and the constant chorus of farm birds throughout the day is a comforting reminder that you’re in the heart of the country. For me, spending time surrounded by animals and their sounds is incredibly soothing. Unlike the noises of the city, which I often find irritating or overwhelming, the sounds of the countryside help me unwind.

Interacting with animals adds another layer of joy. Whether I’m stroking a soft coat or feeding curious faces, it’s pure bliss—a kind of therapy that words can’t quite capture. Spending time with farm animals not only soothes the soul but also deepens my appreciation for the food we eat and makes me more grateful for the abundance that nature generously offers.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the demands of city life or simply curious about what the countryside has to offer, I encourage you to give it a try. I assure you the benefits of spending time in the countryside are profound, from physical and mental rejuvenation to a deeper connection with nature and a renewed sense of peace. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer retreat, the countryside has something to offer to everyone - even my dog would wholeheartedly agree with that. So why not take a break from the daily grind and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of rural life? You might just find the experience transformative.

TANSY VINEGAR

3/8/2024

I am truly proud of myself this year, as I have finally honed my herbal skills and crafted my very own tansy vinegar. The joy of collecting tansy in sun-drenched fields was an unforgettable experience. The excitement of creating this unique vinegar from scratch, all by myself, is immensely rewarding. With the tansy season in full bloom, now is the perfect time for you to try your hand at making it too.

My own tansy vinegar and some tansy bunches hanging out to dry.

Why should you even think of making your own tansy vinegar?

Well, I read about its advantages and honestly there are too many to list them all here so I am going to name just a few.

Tansy has natural insect-repellent properties. Tansy vinegar can be used to deter insects such as flies and mosquitoes and most probably the most feared ticks.

Tansy vinegar can be applied topically to help alleviate symptoms of various skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it beneficial for reducing redness, inflammation, and bacterial infections associated with acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
Additionally, it can be used for skin care. When diluted, tansy vinegar can be used as a toner for the skin, helping to balance pH and combat minor skin irritations.

If you happen to have a dandruff problem tansy vinegar is definitely your solution. You can use it as a hair rinse and it can help control dandruff and improve scalp health. Its antimicrobial properties can reduce scalp infections, while its acidic nature helps balance the scalp’s pH, promoting healthier hair.

Tansy vinegar can be beneficial for joint and muscle pain, offering a natural alternative to synthetic anti-inflammatory medications. Its ability to calm inflammation also makes it effective in treating bruises and contusions, accelerating the healing process and alleviating pain.

The best place to gather tansy.

How to make your own tansy vinegar?

First of all, I need to say that it is super simple. While I'll provide detailed instructions below, the process can be boiled down to three easy steps: pick tansy, place it in a jar, cover with apple cider vinegar, and let it steep for about two weeks. Here are the detailed instructions to ensure you get the best results:

Harvest Tansy: Gather fresh tansy leaves and flowers. Ensure they are clean and free from dirt or pests.
Prepare the Jar: Sterilize a glass jar by boiling it in water for a few minutes or washing it thoroughly with hot soapy water and rinsing well.
Fill the Jar: Pack the jar about halfway with the fresh tansy leaves and flowers.
Add Vinegar: Pour apple cider vinegar or white vinegar over the tansy until the jar is filled. Ensure all the plant material is submerged in the vinegar.
Seal the Jar: Cover the jar with a non-metallic lid (vinegar can corrode metal) or place a piece of plastic wrap between the jar and a metal lid if that's all you have.
Steep: Let the mixture sit in a cool, dark place for about 2-4 weeks. Shake the jar every few days to help with the infusion process.
Strain: After the steeping period, strain the vinegar through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the tansy plant material.
Bottle: Transfer the strained vinegar into a clean bottle. Label it with the date and contents.

Warning: tansy contains thujone, which can be toxic in large amounts. Use tansy vinegar with caution!

Rosemary & Lavender

THE TRUE COUNTRY LIVING

TANSY VINEGAR

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