BREEZE BOTANICALS
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Contact Us
    • Media
    • Our Organic Policy
  • Cannabis and Herbs
    • Medicinal Herbs
    • Medicinal Mushrooms
    • Featured Cannabis Farms
    • Cannabis Processing Partners
  • Education
    • Breeze Blog
    • Getting Your OMMP Card
  • Giving Back
    • Access Community Food Drive
    • Compassion Program

The Breeze Blog

New Dispensary Ownership. Goodbye from Brie. May the 4th be with Breeze Botanicals

5/2/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
Dear Valued Customers and Community Members,

I write today to let you know that the Breeze Botanicals’ stores have been sold, and the ownership transition will be effective on May 5th, 2025 and to let you know I will be in both stores to say goodbye this Sunday May 4th, 2025. I will be at the Gold Hill store from noon-3pm and then at the Ashland store from 4pm-7pm.
​
The store will be closed on Monday May 5th for the system change over to the new owner. At this point the stores will open again on May 6th with the original Breeze Botanicals store hours, look, and feel while change starts to begin. You will see the same familiar faces with a few extra new ones.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your incredible support over the past 11 years. It has been an honor and a joy to be a part of the Rogue Valley community and to serve you in Ashland and Gold Hill. I've cherished the relationships we've built and the memories we've made.

It's been a great decade of my life running these stores - it has brought me so much joy to be a part of the fall of prohibition against this great plant and to also bring awareness to some of the medicinal herbs found in Southern Oregon and the many ways to embrace cannabis. We were the first to lift a cannabis moratorium back in 2014 and the first to be licensed in the entire state of Oregon to serve all adults in 2016. We weathered the pandemic, supported many non-profits, and sought to support our region’s farmers. We’ve stayed as true as we can to plant medicine through an ever evolving new cannabis marketplace.

As many of you know I followed the love of my life to the Portland area two years ago and am now a grandmother of two beautiful girls. It is time to transition to a new chapter and leave these beautiful stores I've nurtured over the past decade with a very capable and wonderful cannabis entrepreneur. More to come on that!

In this new chapter of mine I will be focusing on those I love, causes I love, creating art, and will still actively be involved in plant medicine from Oregon.​

Picture
I will take time to know my family and be active in the lives of those I love.
We only have one life to live (as far as we know) and I want to really be present for my aging mother and other relatives, my husband, and help raise my beautiful granddaughters. 
​
I’ve always been a visionary and now the Breeze Botanicals apothecary & dispensary vision is coming to an end for me, but not the end for consumers in the region.  
We are pleased to pass the torch to Jeremy Kwit, who is the owner and founder of Substance, who shares a passion for cannabis and plant medicine. 

Substance delivers a welcoming, design-forward retail experience that combines the ease and variety of a neighborhood market with the personalized care and attention to detail of a high-touch boutique. With a product-intensive approach and thousands of cannabis items to explore, Breeze Botanicals’ customers can look forward to an expanded menu of trusted Oregon brands and new offerings across every category.

Guided by President Jeremy Kwit’s people-centered leadership, Substance has earned a reputation for operational excellence, outstanding customer care, and strong support of Oregon’s craft cannabis community. Jeremy’s focus on creating spaces where guests and staff feel valued, informed, and empowered ensures that Substance remains a trusted resource as it continues to grow and bring even more choice and quality to the communities it serves.

We understand that the Substance team has agreed to hire 100% of our current Breeze Botanicals associates and plans to continue offering Gron, Mule, Benson Arbor, Sun God Medicinals, and many others. Plus a variety of new products. I’m excited to see how Substance Markets will bring fresh ideas to the dispensary to better serve the Ashland and Gold Hill communities.

We wish Jeremy and the entire Substance team all the best and hope you will continue to support BreezeBotanicals.com and Sun God Medicinals in its next chapter. Thank you again for everything and may the 4th be with all of us as we say goodbye and transition in life. 

Sincerely,
Brie Malarkey
Founder and CEO
0 Comments

Federal Rescheduling is Here: After 10 years

5/18/2024

0 Comments

 
I can't believe I've been on this journey for ten years. Just feels like yesterday I was petitioning the city council in Gold Hill to allow me to open my apothecary that would carry local herbs plus cannabis for OMMP patients as well. We finally opened to the public on June 9th, 2014.  

Flash forward to 2024 and after a decade we can now serve all adults and we still carry 40+ other amazing botanicals from Southern Oregon. On Thursday this week the US Department of Justice, under Biden's direction, submitted a proposed regulation to reschedule cannabis to a schedule 3 drug from a schedule 1 drug under the controlled substances Act. Wow, how times have changed. Not exactly sure what this will mean for Oregon's dispensary program in the next decade or if I can hold on for the ride, but it will be interesting.

We wondered back in 2014 if Obama would legalize or if he would stop Oregon's new dispensary law. The Cole memo gave us some hope that Obama was going to allow states to operate a marijuana program as long as certain conditions were met. Was risky for us to support this wonderful plant, but I saw so many people living a better life because of the plant. I was convinced I was doing the right thing. Obama did not make any further move to legalize or reschedule. Then when he left office I wondered if Trump would work to legalize or reschedule as he was a proponent of individual rights and less regulation for business, but that did not happen. However, he seemed to take the stance that Obama took to allow states to develop their own cannabis programs. Now we are finally seeing some action under the Biden administration. This enormous decision represents a crucial period in federal cannabis policy, finally acknowledging the importance of the plant for our health, the economy, and society in general.

The rescheduling is an unknown for the Oregon cannabis industry.  It's just one step on a long journey that will continue as the nation works out what it means for the cannabis industry, the pharmaceutical industry, small business vs large corporations.  Will there be a place for small family cannabis farms or will big ag take over the production of this medicinal herb that historically has been grown by the people, for the people.  Will small herbal product manufactures like our vary own Sun God Medicinals be able to navigate FDA regulation and cGMP regulations?  In the near future, there will be an opportunity for everyone to provide public comments about the proposed rules.  There will be a lot of voices...I'm hoping Americans will stand up for small family businesses as Oregon once did when forming their recreational program.  I believe in small batch, artisan craft cannabis. Hoping America does as well.  

What I know for sure is that in the next two weeks we will be celebrating a decade of serving Southern Oregon.  A decade of generating taxes for our region, supporting Southern Oregon farmers, and supporting organic and natural plant medicine.  Feels good.  Please come celebrate with us at the Gold Hill store Saturday June 8th.  


Public Statements from Oregon’s Congressional Delegation
  • Senator Ron Wyden: “It’s official, the Biden administration has taken a historic step toward ending reefer madness and bringing commonsense to federal cannabis policy. Now it’s time to follow the lead of 24 states and more than half the country by decriminalizing and putting in place smart federal regulations.”
  • Senator Jeff Merkley: “I pushed the Biden administration to address the harms done by the criminalization of cannabis and move quickly to remove cannabis’ Schedule I status, and it’s great to see this action taken. I will continue to work to fully deschedule cannabis.”
  • Rep. Earl Blumenauer: “We are one step closer to ending the failed war on drugs. Marijuana was scheduled more than 50 years ago based on stigma, not science. The American people have made clear in state after state that cannabis legalization is inevitable. The Biden-Harris Administration is listening.”
  • Rep. Suzanne Bonamici: "Rescheduling cannabis is a step in the right direction toward ending a failed war on drugs policy that has ruined too many lives—particularly for Americans from communities of color and low-income communities. I applaud the Biden Administration for this needed action.”
  • Rep. Val Hoyle: “This historic decision is long overdue! Let's keep the progress rollin' to end the failed War on Drugs by fully descheduling and regulating cannabis.”
Here are the official rules and information from the DOJ and White House:
White House Press Briefing on Cannabis Rescheduling
Justice Department Submits Proposed Regulation to Reschedule Marijuana (DOJ Press Release)
DOJ Notice Of Proposed Rulemaking
Office of Legal Counsel Memorandum Regarding Rescheduling Marijuana
0 Comments

Infused Skin Salve Recipe for Spring

5/3/2024

0 Comments

 
Picture
As we look forward to spring, it’s time to take a deep breath and refresh our bodies internally and externally from the cold of winter. Our daily rituals and habits provide us with a luxury moment of serenity, self love, and gratitude. What we nourish externally has the same effect as what we nourish internally.

Salves and Infused Oils are a great way to deliver the power of herbs to the largest organ of the body: the skin.

As the seasons change, so does our skin. Let your skin heal with this super herb skin salve and enjoy the healing power of plants. This beautiful recipe was created to bottle the beauty of spring for nourishing body care and to celebrate the re-awakening of the earth.
​
This is a multi-step, step-by-step, herbal infused oil recipe. Skip step #2 if you have an existing herbal infused oil that you’d like to use. Otherwise, you’ll need to follow the steps outlined below to create an infused oil that’s rich in herbs to promote healthy skin. You can store the infused oil for massages, bath salts, or salt scrubs. Or, you can continue down the line and make a salve out of it, as we have done in this recipe.
Picture
INFUSED SKIN SALVE RECIPE
Makes about: 8 1-oz jars
Step 1: Making herbal infused oils
Materials needed:
  • 8-10 tins or jars with lids: 1-2 oz sizes, depending on your preference
  • Long wooden spoon
  • Grater with large holes (for beeswax)
  • Liquid measuring cup
  • Double boiler (or makeshift double boiler)
  • Cheesecloth
Ingredients:
  • 1.5 cups dried herbs (We used equal parts dried calendula, red clover, plantain, and cleavers). Of course we recommend using the organically grown herbs we have selected at Breeze Botanicals, free of synthetic pesticides or herbicides.
  • 2 cups organic olive oil (or other carrier oil of choice: jojoba, avocado, apricot, etc.)
If you are using your own freshly harvested herbs, they will need to be dried first to avoid the growth of any mold from the moisture of the plants. You can dry herbs in a dehydrator if you have one, or in an oven at low temperature (start at 120°F, then reduce to 100°F after a few hours) to dry them completely. It’s best to process the herbs before drying by removing any large stems or parts that need to be composted. Here’s more information on storing dried herbs.
Directions:
  1. Add water to the bottom pot of your double boiler until half full. Place herbs and oil into the top pot and place above.
  2. Once water is boiling, turn to low heat, and let the herbs and oils infuse for about 60 minutes.
  3. Take care to keep attended and not to get any water into your herbal oil.
  4. Once infused, pour the oil through a cheesecloth into a glass jar.
  5. Once drained, gather the cheesecloth with clean, dry hands and squeeze out the remaining oil, discard the herbs, and retain the oil.
  6. Store in a dry place for up to 6 months, or use as we have in this spring salve.
Picture
Double Boiler
Step 2: Making the salve
Ingredients:
  • ¾ cup infused herbal oil
  • ¼ cup coconut oil
  • 1 oz beeswax
  • Optional: 15-18 drops essential oils of your choice – we used geranium and orange essential oils for a fresh and grounded scent.
Directions:
  1. Add water to the bottom pot of your double boiler, and then pour your infused oil into the top pot and place above. You can also create a ​makeshift double boiler if you don’t have one. The main goal is to provide non-direct and even heat without burning.
  2. Bring your double boiler to low heat and grate in your beeswax; then add coconut oil. Once everything has melted, add your essential oils.
  3. Stir the mixture, and then quickly turn off your burner.
  4. Now you can put this mixture into a liquid measuring cup to make pouring your final product easy. Slowly pour into each tin, and allow the salves to cool for an hour or two.

​When the finished salve has cooled, generously apply the salve to the appropriate body parts needing relief, being careful not to get any in the eyes. To strengthen and cleanse the skin, we recommend rubbing the oil into the skin in circular movements, traveling in the direction of the heart.

Let's embrace our inner and outer beauty and be our best selves!
0 Comments

Women in Cannabis

2/28/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
National Women’s History month is the entirety of March, and we want to highlight some of the amazing women in the cannabis industry. Whether it be starting national brands, aiding in research, or paving the way for the industry itself, the cannabis industry has made an effort to bring female cannabis enthusiasts to the front lines. Women in cannabis are doing everything they can to fight inequality, and one of the bigger issues women face today is the Gender Wage Gap.

When it comes to the wage gap, it is important to look at numbers and which industries and countries are doing their part. Though our overall gap in this country is not as high as countries such as South Korea, at 32.5% we are still in the top 10 at an overall 18.5%. More importantly might be how this number is broken down. In the U.S. 94.6% of CEO’s for Fortune 500 are male. This is an astronomical number because it means women may be working but they are not in positions of power where most of the higher paid positions are. In these same Fortune 500 companies 62.8% of their minimum wage workers are women. These facts lead to the assumption that if you are a woman looking to be in management, Fortune 500 companies are not the place to look for it.

Cannabis experiences a much different but equally difficult battle. First, people must acknowledge that the cannabis industry worker makes less than the average worker in every other industry. Dispensary managers in the cannabis industry make on average about $40k in Oregon, which is half of what men make in company management in other industries. Though a new industry, cannabis is on the forefront of closing the gender wage gap. Unfortunately due to this newness there is not currently good data on where the wealth lies when it comes to men vs women in the cannabis industry.
​
Picture
What there is, is an array of amazing CEO’s, Founders, Managers, and Cultivators who are closing the gender wage gap among cannabis workers. Our own company is founded by Brie Malarkey who’s passion for herbalism and plant medicine led her to open Southern Oregon’s first licensed dispensary. She later expanded and created Sun God Medicinals and Sun God Herbals, both product manufacturing companies and with her roots still at the family farm, Sunna Ra Acres. Our business has been on the forefront of demystifying cannabis and medicinal herbs for years and will continue to be a voice in cannabis for years to come.
Picture
Last year’s Cannabis Cup was to be full of a vast amount of highly educated women invested in the forward momentum of cannabis. For example, Marguerite Bolt is the hemp Extension specialist in the Department of Agronomy at Purdue University. She received her M.S. in Entomology from Purdue University, and her B.S in Entomology from Michigan State University. Bolt’s research has focused on hemp-insect interactions and plant chemistry. Her position is new to the university but allows her to serve as a catalyst to link growers to production facilities and the research community through online resources, field days, and workshops.
Picture
Another amazing woman who was to speak at the Cannabis Cup 2020, is Debby Goldsberry. Goldsberry is the executive director at Magnolia Wellness, an award-winning dispensary in Oakland, California. She is also the managing director of the Berkeley Community Care Center dispensary at Amoeba Music. Goldsberry co-founded the Berkeley Patients Group (BPG) medical cannabis collective in 1999, facilitating its growth for more than 11 years. Goldsberry is also invested in educating people about the cannabis industry as she published her first book in 2017, “Idiot’s Guide: Starting and Running a Marijuana Business.” 
​

Our company is  proud to be among the many cannabis companies that are empowering women. There shouldn’t be a gender wage gap, and a lot of industries are looking for ways to change the current system. Cannabis is doing a great job working towards this change, as seen by the amazing women exceeding expectations that were outlined above. What would have been this year's Cannabis Cup, was geared towards empowering many female voices in the cannabis industry. They have been outlined on their website.  When it comes to breaking the standard, our company is excited to see what the women and men of cannabis will do next to expand the industry and keep forward momentum in closing the wage gap for not only women, but all marginalized communities.

Sources
https://data.oecd.org/earnwage/gender-wage-gap.htm

https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/resources/commemorations/womens-equality-day/
https://www.cannabisbusinesstimes.com/article/international-womens-day-cannabis-conference-speakers-2020/
https://inequality.org/facts/gender-inequality/
https://mjbizdaily.com/regional-state-compensation-differences/
https://www.hempstaff.com/cannabis-jobs-salaries
0 Comments

Beat The Shutdown Blues with These Memorable Valentine’s Day Ideas

2/8/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Valentine's Day is a special time for most couples. It has always been a reason to celebrate love and togetherness. Typically couples enjoy a fancy dinner, a fun night out on the town, or a getaway to their favorite city or rural area. Unfortunately for many, this year's plans are somewhat hindered thanks to COVID-19. Couples will have to change their Valentine's day routine. Despite this restriction, Valentine’s day will still be a time for celebrating intimacy with your partner. How will you adjust?​
Picture
Here at Breeze Botanicals, we want you to have the best “at home” Valentine’s Day possible. We have some suggestions on how changing your way of thinking can provide new opportunities for a memorable day. Consider this: What if you look at the positives of changing the usual routine, instead of just the negatives?

Part of what makes this day special, is the extra thought that goes into how we celebrate our partners. We can still show how much we care in new ways that may be more memorable than a standard yearly date night.
Picture
Consider that you aren’t missing out on that fancy dinner. Perhaps you are missing out on paying for that expensive dinner! Cook an affordable meal from scratch and spend the extra money on a beautiful gift.

Maybe instead of going out, you break out some old nostalgic photos to look at from your life together. What a great way to rekindle the feelings from a time when your relationship was young. Sometimes what we immediately see as loss, is simply an opportunity provided for something new.

Instead of seeing a movie in theatres, rent a movie that means something to you both and re-watch it. Pick a campy not so serious movie from your favorite streaming service to laugh at. Or choose a movie you both loved as kids and watch it again - but together. Creating new memories is easier when you try something outside of the box.

Just because there is a pandemic, it doesn’t mean that Valentine’s day is a lost cause. Make the most out of the 14th, and use it as a chance to relax and spend time with loved ones. Life is too short not to enjoy the little moments!​
Picture
Speaking of little moments, how about a not-so-serious couple’s photo shoot that you make together. Recreate historical photos in a funny way, make cheesy over-posed couples photos that can be used for fun on social media, or simply dress each other as awkwardly as you can, by using clothes that you each select from the other’s closet. Think of it as a fun reverse makeover, where the goal is only to make each other laugh.

As for our last tip, may we suggest Sun God Medicinals hemp massage oils? These luxurious massage oils create an at home spa experience and are formulated with certified organic hemp and aromatic oils. With four scented selections our hemp massage oils each have their own purpose, ranging from mood and relaxation to muscle or body relief. Even if you have never tried exchanging massages, and feel like a beginner; your partner will always appreciate the intimate touch and the thought behind the gift.

If you still want something familiar, that feels a little more traditional to give - check out our infused candies and treats! We wish you a very memorable Valentine’s day, and we hope you truly celebrate the one you love!
0 Comments

Marijuana vs Cannabis: Which term will you use?

2/5/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
​The word marijuana has a unique history here in the cannabis world and many of us choose not to use it for the racial implications it holds in the United States but let us take a look at the whole history. Give it a read and then you tell us, does this history give you pause to use the word marijuana? 

Throughout world history cannabis has been used for a variety of different things from the beginning of canvas to the current studies that are being done for cannabis use as an alternative medicine. In the 16th century during the Italian Renaissance. Venetian painters utilized canvas because it was easier for them to use in a humid environment than frescos or wood panels. Many also used cannabis to make sails as it is a more sturdy material when wet then the previously used cotton. 

During the late 1800’s and early 1900’s we begin to see cannabis become accepted within medicinal practices and treatments in the US and Europe, as pharmaceutical companies started capitalizing on cannabis extracts within medications. Multiple medications were produced that explicitly claimed cannabis aided in things like “restlessness,” pain, and nausea. 

As far as the origin of the word Marijuana is concerned we know that the Spanish brought cannabis to Mexico to cultivate it for hemp. One theory is that Chinese immigrants to western Mexico lent the plant its name as a combination of syllables that could have referred to the plant in Chinese (ma ren hua) later to become Spanishized into "marijuana." Another theory is that it came from a colloquial Spanish way of saying "Chinese oregano", mejorana (chino). Then there is even the history of the word that comes from Angolan slaves and African slaves brought to Brazil by the Portuguese who carried with them the Bantu word for cannabis: ma-kaña, who were allowed to grow crops cannabis to smoke.  Or maybe the term simply originated in South America itself, as a portmanteau of the Spanish girl's names Maria and Juana.

So how did all of this lead to the world we know today?

Simply put before the 1900s, the term “marijuana” simply did not exist in the English language. Prior to this time, the cannabis plant was primarily referred to as cannabis or hemp, with hash also being extremely popular for the upper-class in the late 1800s. Prior to this, as we established, cannabis was primarily utilized within medicinal practices and alternative medicines. The plant’s psychoactive properties were known; however, the idea of enjoying just for fun wasn’t seen frequently in the US just yet. In order to understand why we must first understand the climate of the United States at the time.

Between the 1910s and the 1930s immense change came to the US. During this time there were 4 key things affecting the climate in the US. The Mexican Revolution, the Birth of the Jazz Age, Prohibition, and the beginning of the Great Depression. For starters between 1910 and 1920 almost 600,00 Mexican immigrants traveled from Mexico to the United States, fleeing from the horrors of the Mexican Revolution. Jazz music began to take hold in 1918 as World War I ended and Jazz musicians such as Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Chick Webb began to travel from from New Orleans to major northern cities such as Chicago and New York, leading to a wider dispersal of jazz as different styles developed in different cities. This intern led to the increase in popularity of nightclubs. Women and Churches largely stood on the forefront of Prohibition in 1919 as the rise in evangelical Protestantism brought the idea that along with urban growth, saloon culture is corrupt and ungodly. 

It was during this time that cannabis, and the term marijuana, began to catch on. Some say its emergence was brought about by Prohibition and Jazz while others believed with the arrival of immigrants came an increased idea of enjoying cannabis recreationally. Its recreational use was largely restricted to jazz musicians and people in show business. “Reefer songs” became the rage of the jazz world. There were even some cannabis clubs called tea pads that sprang up in cities like Chicago. These establishments were tolerated by the authorities because marijuana was not illegal and patrons showed no evidence of making a nuisance of themselves or disturbing the community. Marijuana was not, yet, considered a social threat.

This is when we began to see reports that this drug, “marijuana,” caused superhuman strength, violent actions, and even a “lust for blood” incited panic, effectively blaming Mexican immigrants for the introduction of such substance and all brown people for it’s recreational use. Thus, the term “marihuana,” or “marijuana” was born out of hate. A campaign conducted in the 1930s by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Narcotics, now the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, sought to portray marijuana as a powerful addictive substance that would cause some users to become violent. This was largely fueled by a man named Harry Anslinger.
​
It would not be an overstatement to say that Harry Anslinger was one of the primary individuals responsible for creating the stigma surrounding cannabis as he was the first director of the newly created Federal Bureau of Narcotics in 1930. Anslinger launched a campaign against cannabis that would hold steady for the three decades he remained in office. He was known for testifying in front of Congress saying things like “Marijuana is the most violence-causing drug in the history of mankind… Most marijuana smokers are Negroes, Hispanics, Filipinos and entertainers. Their satanic music, jazz and swing, result from marijuana usage.” In another statement, Anslinger stated, “Reefer makes darkies think they’re as good as white men…the primary reason to outlaw marijuana is its effect on the degenerate races.”
 
The term marijuana became a word known by Americans all over the country. Anslinger made a point to use the word specifically when making public appearances and crafting propaganda films such as Reefer Madness. He did this intentionally adding to the development of the herb’s new “foreign” identity. Cannabis was no longer the plant substance found in medicines and consumed unanimously by American’s all over the country. Cannabis was outlawed because various powerful interests (some of which have economic motives to suppress hemp production) were able to craft it into a bogeyman in the popular imagination, by spreading tales of homicidal mania touched off by consumption of the dreaded Mexican "locoweed." Fear of brown people combined with fear of nightmare drugs used by brown people to produce a wave of public action against the "marijuana menace." That combo led to restrictions in state after state, ultimately resulting in federal prohibition.
 
Today we have the clarity of truth, and also enough time has passed since legalization to statistically prove that this plant simply doesn't deserve the stigma, nor do the very people once demonized for using it. In fact, we should truly be thanking the cultures who first championed and helped more people to discover this amazing botanical. As a dispensary with the future in mind we want to make sure that all history is brought to light and that the root for words actions are brought to light. But what do you think about the word marijuana and will you use it now having read why it became popular in the United States.

Sources:
https://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2013/07/14/201981025/the-mysterious-history-of-marijuana
https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/where-did-the-word-marijuana-come-from-anyway-01fb 
https://e1011labs.com/blogs/news/history-of-the-word-marijuana 
https://www.narconon.org/drug-information/marijuana-history.html 
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-ushistory/chapter/a-culture-of-change/
0 Comments

2021 a New Year and a Time to Celebrate

12/27/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
New Year’s Eve will not be the same this year and nor should it be, as we see different parts of the country are still dealing with the ongoing pandemic. Simply put, this year has been a teaching point at every turn and New Year’s will be no different. We will come up with New Year’s Resolutions that we won’t follow, claim that this year will be different, and still try to make up for those experiences lost in the new calendar year. . Even though most of us really are done with 2020, it is important to remember that 2021 will only be better if we behave differently, aspire for more  and honestly treat our bodies better.

That being said, celebration and bringing in the new year on a positive note is essential. Celebration affirms the positive things that you have done by making you feel good, instead of focusing on what we don’t have or what we want in the future. This is something that we all forget from time to time. Think about it. When was the last time you only talked about all the positives that happened in your day without mentioning ANY of the negatives? 

New Year’s Eve should be viewed, this year especially, as a celebration of a year completed and of the year to come. Celebrate the fact we made it through a year with obstacles that no one could have imagined, and we are stronger because of it. This year should primarily be celebrated for the amount of things we achieved through a difficult season of life. Celebrations can also let us reflect on the right path moving forward, and to build confidence for the future by acknowledging what we’ve been able to achieve in the past. Even if everything wasn’t a win, we are here today and there are things that have happened in our year to celebrate. 

Now as a part of our celebration, even though in some places the bars won’t be open, many might still be drinking as it goes with the occasional celebration. We encourage everyone to practice safety and to drink responsibly. As a company who is highly invested in your well being, we want to highlight a few herbs that might help everyone celebrate the new year with some solid herbal support. The following herbs we have listed below are ones that may aid with the after effects of a hangover, and just might help everyone find the new beginning that is so sought after in 2021. 
  • Peppermint 
    • Peppermint has been utilized for its stomach-soothing abilities for centuries- it was discovered in the pyramids of the Ancient Egyptians, and  was recorded to have been used in the thirteenth century by Icelandic pharmacopoeias, and its use was documented by Ancient Greek physicians as well. Peppermint is a renowned herb for digestion. Its menthol essential oils may help to relieve mild nausea and improve clarity and concentration, while sometimes boosting energy levels. There is no doubt that Peppermint has, and will continue to offer an incredible amount of medicinal support.
  • Chamomile 
    • Chamomile is best known for its sweet and floral flavor in teas and the ability to soothe stomach aches while providing gentle, calming effects. As a hangover helper, chamomile may also be helpful with indigestion or a headache. Its uses have dated back to ancient Egyptian times, and this herb was also used throughout the European nations as a common medicine.
  • Dandelion
    • Dandelion has a rich history of medicinal and culinary uses. This herb is well known for the ability to assist an upset stomach and also for detoxification abilities. Do not let the herbs' reputation as a common garden weed fool you- dandelion is a restorative powerhouse that is rich in iron, potassium, zinc, and vitamins A, B complex, and C. Native Americans used dandelion a great deal, both as food and medicine. The flower was considered effective for digestive disturbances, assisting the body with constipation, heartburn, and as a blood cleanser. 
  • Meadowsweet 
    • Meadowsweet has a long and well-documented history as a medicinal plant in northern Europe. This herb has revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry, some say for good and others leave it to question; ever since the discovery of its powerful pain-relieving constituents. Aspirin is the loosely related bi-product of Meadowsweet, and may assist with aches or discomfort. However, there is much more to this herb than we originally thought. Meadowsweet is also known for aiding the mucous membrane of the stomach, balancing gastric acid, and can be beneficial for stomach issues.
  • Lavender
    • Lavender is an herb that is often used for its relaxing properties, and something as simple as spending time outside with lavender may help improve your mood. Lavender is often referred to as the herb of love, offering protection and purification. Its intoxicating aroma has been revered as a go to headache ally for centuries, and is thought to bring peace and tranquility to all those experiencing the floral scent.
  • Rosemary
    • Rosemary is a natural stimulant that is great for feelings of tiredness. For a hangover related stomach upset, rosemary could be used in the bath, inhaled in oil form, or easily used in food. At the beginning of a new year, we want that “fresh start” feeling. For ages, rosemary has been burned to cleanse and purify a space, and through this ritual rosemary brings newness and clarity; allowing  us to look deeper into ourselves and our lives.
  • Turmeric
    • Turmeric is a renowned super spice, famed for its anti-inflammatory and body relief benefits. This herb has been revered for its ability to potentially relieve mild digestive problems. However, some believe that turmeric has a direct effect on liver cells, encouraging their regeneration and repair which may be beneficial after a long night of drinking. 
As a full herbal apothecary we stock many of these herbs in dry and tincture form. We love having both options to share with you. If you are interested in any of these herbs and you want to try them ask about them during your next visit. Our staff loves to show off our amazing selection of dry herbs and tinctures.
References:
https://www.pukkaherbs.com/us/en/wellbeing-articles/9-hero-herbs-to-help-naturally-cure-your-hangover.html
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-24178/beat-your-hangover-naturally-with-these-healing-herbs.html
https://andrewmerle.medium.com/throw-a-party-why-it-s-so-important-to-celebrate-5501ca4c6b74#:~:text=Celebrations%20actually%20boost%20our%20well,we%20want%20in%20the%20future.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/imperfect-spirituality/201512/why-you-should-celebrate-everything
https://earthwithin.com/5-herbs-to-incorporate-into-your-new-years-intentions/


0 Comments

TIRED, SORE MUSCLES? HERBS TO THE RESCUE!

12/14/2020

0 Comments

 
Our bodies are rather amazing and complex vehicles which carry us through life. Like all vehicles, the body requires maintenance to perform at its best. If the body is a vehicle, then our muscles are most certainly the engines which keep us moving. Let’s take a moment to talk about how we fuel those engines.
Picture
While our engines may run on food and water, they also depend on vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in order to truly thrive. It can be easy to forget that our engines can become tired and sluggish when not properly cared for. Mother nature has given us some rather incredible healing herbs which can assist us as we care for our muscles.

The Relationship Between Healing Herbs and Muscles

Many herbs in nature have medicinal properties which we can use to enrich our lives. The herbs we will learn about today were chosen for their ability to assist our bodies with muscle healing and physical recovery. Each one of these herbs is native to the Southern Oregon area, and represents a small portion of over 40 medicinal herbs that are native to our bioregion. 
​​
Our muscles require rest and healing after physical activity and there are some ways you can assist them simply by adding herbs to your daily routine. Some medicinal plants that promote relaxation can help us calm the body and allow muscles to loosen up as we rest, while others with anti-inflammatory properties may help assist our body’s natural recovery process. There are even herbs that may assist our bodies in lubricating joints and tendons.
Picture
Essentially, we should think of herbs as additives to our fuel which help keep our engines on the road, and may even help them to perform at their peak. As any mechanic will tell you, preventative maintenance is the key to a long lasting and happy engine. OK enough car metaphors, here are some examples of how herbs may assist your muscles.
​
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Chamomile Found in wild areas of Southern Oregon, from dry hillsides to rocky shorelines, the Chamomile flower contains 36 flavonoids, which are compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile tea can also help relax sore muscles.*
Milky Oat Tops contain high levels of bioavailable nutrients such as silica, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin B complex and vitamins A and C. Milky oat tops can be found within the Rogue valley, and thrive in the heat of the summer. The herb is high in neurorestorative compounds, which may help lubricate dry tissues including painful joints.*
White Willow Bark was known as the “toothache tree”, and was used to treat a variety of discomfort throughout history. The tree itself can grow up to 80 feet tall, while being found near water sources in Southern Oregon. Now, the herb has the natural compound salicin extracted, and allows for the production of drugs like aspirin. White willow bark works in a similar way, with  anti-inflammatory properties that may help with inflammation and to relieve mild pain.*
Ashwagandha has been referred to for 6,000 years as a “holy herb” that promotes physical and mental health. The herb is uncommon in the wild, but can be cultivated rather easily in the Southern Oregon climate. Ashwagandha may be helpful in working with the body to help minimize the impacts of stress (physical, emotional and mental). This herb may also be  useful in helping your body absorb the stress of a workout or to promote restful sleep.*
Adding Medicinal Herbs To Your Daily Routine

Many of these herbs can be enjoyed in a soothing and relaxing tea; or added to water, coffee and juices using an herbal tincture. Each of these medicinal herbs are available as convenient tinctures through our Ra Herbals line.
 
If you wish for something more hands on you might consider Hemp Topicals and Cannabis Topicals as a way of externally applying these herbs.

At Sun God Medicinals we have crafted many products to help get herbs into your daily regimen. We highly recommend our tinctures for convenience and portability, but nothing beats a good soothing salve or lotion when it comes to physical muscle massage.

With this in mind, we invite you to experience our Hercules product line, designed specifically for those looking to support their muscles in healing or to assist in general muscle relaxation.

​Click here to learn more about Hercules products.
0 Comments

Thinking About A Seasonal Detox?

11/6/2020

1 Comment

 
With the season changing and our minds on the future, it is a great time to think about a seasonal detox. The change from season to season provides us a good reason to start thinking about boosting our immune before cold and flu season is upon us. Assisting your natural immune defense is an investment in your wellness and it begins with removing excess toxins from the body.

Your body has a sophisticated way of eliminating toxins that involves the liver, kidneys, digestive system, skin, and lungs. While this system is remarkably efficient, there are things you can do to assist your body and help it perform at its peak. 

Nature has given us some powerful herbal allies to help

Many herbs have the ability to fortify our bodies and help them keep up with daily life. Certain herbs however, may help your detox plan as they specifically offer support to our natural immune system. Sun God Medicinals uses many of these herbs in their Panacea product line, which is tailored to those looking for detoxification or immune support. Each of the following herbs grows naturally here in Oregon and can be sustainably harvested.
Picture
In the Panacea Detox Tincture they use:

DANDELION ROOT (Taraxacum officinale) - A tonic that may support the digestive and urinary systems. May also support the organs that help rid the body of toxins.* 

BURDOCK ROOT (Arctium lappa) - Potentially ignites the body’s natural detoxification processes and assists in eliminating harmful toxins from the body.* 

NETTLE LEAF (Urtica dioica) - Traditionally used by herbalists as a kidney tonic and to help to flush out waste through the urinary tract.* 

RED CLOVER (Trifolium pratense) -May support the body in detoxification through the cardiovascular and lymphatic system, as well as the liver.*
​

Picture
​In the Panacea Immune Defense Tincture they use:

LEMON BALM (Melissa officinalis) - May provide balance and support to the immune system, as well as the nervous system.* 

HYSSOP (Hyssopus officinalis) - May help the body fight off infectious bacteria and viruses, as well as support the respiratory system.* 

ECHINACEA HERB (Echinacea purpurea) - May provide support to the body’s immune system and may also support the body’s respiratory system.* 

CALENDULA (Calendula officinalis) - May be supportive in clearing out the lymph nodes. It may be useful when an individual feels worse in damp, heavy, cloudy weather.*
Herbs offer us such a wealth of amazing properties and provide us with a solid foundation on which we can build a proper detox plan. We encourage you to try these herbs and see if they work well for your body.
​ 


Your diet matters more than you think

While herbs may be the foundation of your plan, you also must consider nutrition. Most detox regimens will require some dietary changes. The food we eat has a major role in how well all of our body’s systems perform. Vitamins, minerals, and nutrients all come into play as the body eliminates wastes and uses its various systems to keep us well. Giving your body the right fuel allows it to work efficiently. The following foods provide a natural path toward detoxification.

Lemons
Full of the vitamin C, this antioxidant is great for fighting free-radicals which can have a negative impact on the body. Additionally, lemons have an alkaline effect, helping restore the body's pH balance. A slice of lemon in hot water is a simple way to start your detox.

Ginger
Aside from settling your stomach, ginger can aid digestion, and may even reduce bloating and gas. It also contains a large number of antioxidants and provides a good boost to immunity. 

​Garlic
Garlic, despite its strong sometimes off-putting odour, is great for a detox. Garlic contains allicin which aids in white blood cell production and can help protect the body against infections. For maximum benefit, garlic is best consumed raw, so try adding crushed garlic to a dressing for a salad.

Beetroot
Beetroot supports liver detoxification, making it a great detox food. It also provides a great shot of nutrients in one hit as it is full of magnesium, iron, and vitamin C. To enjoy the benefits of beetroot add some to a salad or drink some beetroot juice.

Green Tea
While not strictly a food, green tea contains active ingredients which help support detox and provide additional health benefits. Green tea is packed with antioxidants and can help rid the body of toxins. It has been found to boost the performance of the liver and can protect the liver from diseases. To get the max from green tea drinking, brew it from loose leaves, as this will allow more antioxidants to be released.

Cabbage
Like many cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower, kale, cabbage contains sulforaphane, a chemical which aids the body in the fight against toxins. Cabbage also contains glutathione; an antioxidant that helps promote the live function. 

Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruits are fibre rich and can play a key role in a detox diet. Packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants they can help improve digestion as well as your appearance (including skin and hair). Include in your diet a wide variety of fruit, but especially some of the acid fruits such as grapefruit, pineapples, oranges, and even tomatoes as these are all especially detoxifying. It is easy to include fruit in your diet; you could start your day with fruit smoothie and then snack on fruit when hunger strikes throughout your day.

Watercress
Watercress, perhaps surprisingly, is considered to be one of the healthiest food around and a great detox food. Containing antioxidants and several detoxifying nutrients, including B vitamins, zinc, and potassium.
Include the foods above in your detox plan and set your body up for success.

There are also six lifestyle choices which can hinder our body’s ability to cleanse itself
If you are serious about taking care of your immune and digestive systems, you may want to avoid these common things that prevent your body from performing as well. Falling prey to these common behaviors may hinder your detox efforts. Be aware of how these choices affect your body.
  1. Drinking too much alcohol reduces your liver’s ability to carry out its normal functions, such as detoxifying. Consider limiting your intake or stopping altogether
  1. Staying up too late and not getting enough rest can also tax your body’s abilities. Make getting good rest a priority by limiting caffeine before bed, and planning ahead to give yourself time to sleep. Adequate sleep allows your brain to reorganize, recharge, and eliminate toxins that accumulate throughout the day.
  1. Not drinking enough water causes your body serious challenges when it tries to flush out harmful toxins. In addition to its many roles in your body, water allows your body’s detoxification system to remove waste products from your blood.
  1. Eating too much salt can also have an impact on the body when it comes to eliminating waste. Too much salt increases water retention. This hinders the flushing of toxins and prevents the toxins in your retained water from flowing out of the body.
  1. Lack of exercise does more harm than you may think. One easy way your body rids itself of toxins is through sweat. Without exercise or some form of physical exertion, the body is unable to utilize perspiration as a way to flush itself out. Regular exercise causes the body to perspire, and thus helps the body to remove toxins.
Here at Breeze Botanicals, we love teaching people about the power of herbs and how they can benefit our lives. Each of the herbs referenced above, are also available in single herb tinctures as part of the Ra Herbals line and are available in store. They provide you the ability to try one herb at a time and see how it works with your body and your lifestyle needs.
​

Combining herbs, being mindful of your diet, and avoiding lifestyle decisions like the above will ensure your body has everything it needs to prepare for the seasonal change.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
1 Comment

Herbs For Fall

11/2/2020

0 Comments

 
With cold and flu season here and COVID case numbers on the rise yet again, it is important we gear up and protect our bodies as best we can. Last week we talked about Herbs for Fall from an immune boosting point of view. Now this week let’s have a conversation about some herbs that might be useful if you start to feel a little under the weather. 

As we mentioned last week. Panacea was a goddess of healing by way of curative medicine in Greek mythology. Our Panacea line of teas and tinctures includes not only the Immune Defense products featured in last week's blog but also a Cold and Flu line. These teas and tinctures feature herbs like mullein, echinacea, elderflower, and yarrow.
Picture
​Panacea Cold and Flu Tea a gentle blend is that is a perfect companion for a sick day, as it may help ease the aches and discomfort associated with seasonal illnesses. Herbs like elderflower and mullein have been traditionally used by herbalists to support mucous membranes, while assisting the immune system. This formula may also help to soothe coughs and assist the body’s natural ability to expel phlegm.*
Picture
Like the tea the Panacea Cold and Flu tincture is formulated with ingredients used by traditional herbalists to help fight the common cold, viruses, and allergies.* We think the tincture gives a little bit more instant relief because you may take it orally without waiting to boil any water and steep the tea. These are also great on the go, and this is why many choose the tincture during this time of year.
Picture
Mullein (click title for more information)

Mullein has been noted as the go to ear and lung remedy, especially when pollen is in abundance during those seasonal shifts. Luckily, this herbal ally has been used since ancient Egyptian times and has remained relevant ever since. Mullein provides a multitude of applicable uses, not limited to just respiratory and immune balance.*
​
Picture
Echinacea (click title for more information)

Echinacea, also referred to as Cornflower, is well known for its immune-boosting abilities; having historical relevance in American folk herbalism dating back centuries. Its reputation as a cold and flu remedy is quite common, and has become one of the most available dietary supplements in health and food stores to date.*
​
​
Picture
Elderflower (click title for more information)

The Elder tree has been used by herbalists and healers alike since the fifth century A.D, and has a rich folklore beyond its physical uses. The Elder tree is said to be the doorway to the underworld, inhabited by fairies who both heal and harm, and bring about mystical dreams onto all those who sleep under the canopy. The Elderflower is a powerful medicine with many modern day applications.*
​
Picture
Yarrow (click title for more information)

Do not be fooled by the intoxicating scent or delicate flowers of the Yarrow plant- it has been used for centuries in ceremonies promoting both physical and emotional boundaries to those easily influenced, and also for its eclectic first-aid applications among many. Yarrow is intertwined in folklore and across cultures, all highlighting the variety of therapeutic properties found in this healing herb.*

While strengthening the immune system is important, these herbs and products are here to help should you start feeling under the weather.



(*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Caution: Keep out of reach of children. If pregnant, nursing, or on medication, consult with your health care practitioner before use)
0 Comments
<<Previous

    Authors

    The Herbalist Team at Breeze Botanical's uses our collective educational experiences and on-going thirst for knowledge to normalize the conversation around herbs and to demystify the world of herbal medicine. Join us on this   journey and embrace the plants around you.

    Archives

    May 2025
    May 2024
    February 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019

    RSS Feed

​SUBSCRIBE AND BE THE FIRST TO KNOW ABOUT SALES and herb education and new product releases!

CLICK HERE TO SIGNUP FOR OUR EMAILING LIST

FOLLOW US!


Regions Served: medford, white city, central point, eagle point, klamath falls, jacksonville, talent, jackson county, gold hill, rogue river, grants pass, shady cove.

Breeze Botanicals User-Generated Content Policy
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Contact Us
    • Media
    • Our Organic Policy
  • Cannabis and Herbs
    • Medicinal Herbs
    • Medicinal Mushrooms
    • Featured Cannabis Farms
    • Cannabis Processing Partners
  • Education
    • Breeze Blog
    • Getting Your OMMP Card
  • Giving Back
    • Access Community Food Drive
    • Compassion Program