Although some know it as California ginseng, elk clover, or spikenard, I think Oregon ginseng is quite fitting for a plant that inhabits shady, moist seasonal creeks in deep coniferous forests as well as sandy gravel beds in the dappled sunshine of alder and maple along rivers.  We also grow it in our garden like a vegetable, giving it sunshine, rich soil, and plenty of water in the dry summer, so that the berry-filled stems get to be 6-7 feet tall.

A tincture of the resinous root helps to warm up poor circulation to the extremities, move phlegm up and out of the lungs and sinuses, and supports recovery from adrenal fatigue.  A honey-based syrup of the berries with a little brandy makes an incredible warming winter treat!  If I only had more garden space…