Holly-Leaf Redberry Harvest

I was so lucky yesterday to have had the opportunity to wilde harvest with my two friends. We went to Descanso area where the heat of the summer day was taking hold. The plants were thriving in their favored environment and bearing fruit that instantly caught the eyes attention.

Holly-Leaf Redberry

Rhamnus ilicifolia

Rhamnaceae/Buckthorn Family

Native to CA, AZ, no.BC.

Chaparral, Woodlands

Traditionally, a decoction of Redberry root and bark was used by Native people as a tonic. This decoction was also used to treat colds, coughs and internal pains. A root decoction increased urination and acted as a laxative. Redberry cured boils and carbuncles, as well as stomach troubles and other internal disorders. The smoke of the burning Redberry was inhaled to relieve headaches and rheumatic pain. The bright red fruits of Redberry were eaten with meat by California Natives and the mashed ripe berries were used to poultice sores.

As for my harvest, I separated the berries and placed them in a zip lock bag, in the freezer, to keep until I have a chance to use them. I think they will be nice shared with some Elder Berry to garnish a meat dish. I will also perhaps try them as a fresh poultice when the need should arise. As for the woody stems, I will sort them, dry some for future decoctions, and use plenty of the fresh in a deep infusion for a very special soap. I'm thinking RedBerry Summer Silk.

Frosted Silk For Your Skin

Naturally soft, and as silky as the finest cloth slipping across your bare skin. This favorite soap is for everyone. With no essential oil's added it is pure soap at it's finest, fit for deeply sensitive skin. No fragrance, other than fresh, natural handmade soap ingredients. Olive Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Jojoba, Shea Butter, Aloe Vera and pure Silk fibers contribute their virtues to this lovely soap. If you haven't found the right soap that works for your skin, give this one a try.

I use the cold process method of soap making. Here is a fresh batch of Frosted Silk in the making. I measure the raw, natural oils and warm them at a very low heat, 105 degrees is typically the temperature I like to use. Once the oils are melted and at the right temperature I turn off the heat.

Carefully, and using appropriate safety gear, pour the lye mixture over the oils.

Using a wooden spoon, stir vigorously until the soap batch becomes thick.

Notice how the color and texture of the batch changes as trace begins to take shape.
Trace is similar to making pudding or chocolate, the ingredients leaves a trail when a spatula is run through it.

At trace it is ready to pour into the soap mold.

Enjoy fresh handmade soap on your skin. Once you try your first bar, there is no going back to detergent bars again. All of the ingredients used to make Following Seasons soap is FDA approved food products. Your skin will notice a huge differnce. Enjoy Your Soap!