10/8/14 - I took this picture in the woods at the  farm.  I am not sure if it is ginseng or goldenseal.  

I have been interested in identifying herbs and wildflowers for a long time.  I used to walk the woods and creek banks, Field Guide in hand, when I lived in Friendship.

This Monday I attended a meeting of the Central Indiana Herb Society.  It was an interesting evening.  We had lots of discussions on Pumpkins, i.e. making Pumpkin Pie Potpourri, Pumpkin Recipes, Pumpkin Crafts, Pumpkin an Herb,  Refreshments included Pumpkin treats.  The Pepita Brittle (Pumpkin Seed) was one of my favorites. 

One comment that stuck with me during the "Pumpkin an Herb" segment was that pumpkin seeds are great for arthritis. A lady at the meeting swore they had really helped her.  The fact that they are a great source of Vitamin A was also emphasized.

Lots of pictures taken at the meeting.  Just click on this link:
http://1drv.ms/1rT0kOI  

The Herb Society of Central Indiana website: www.herbsocietyofcentralindiana.org  


Notice the baggies full of little pumpkins.  We all received one, then were allowed to go down the herb laden table to pick some greens to fill our pumpkins.  We all also received 2 tsp of Orris Root which is a Fixative for Potpourri.  Fun stuff.

If you have a desire to make your own Pumpkin Pie Spice, Jim Long (not sure who this is but highly regarded by the Herb Society) furnished the following recipe which he deemed the "Best".

8 TBS cinnamon             2 Tbs cloves
6 TBS nutmeg                 2 Tbs allspice
3 TBS ginger

Use 1 Tbs or to taste, per pie.  Store in a sealed container.