Gemini Zodiac Bath Blend - Bath Blend of the Month

Gemini is an Air sign ruled by Mercury, associated with communication, curiosity, and a light, energetic spirit. A bath blend for Gemini should be mentally refreshing, gently uplifting, and soothing to help ground their often-busy minds.

♊ Gemini Zodiac Bath Blend

Purpose: To refresh the mind, relax the body, and bring clarity and calm to Gemini's energetic spirit.

• 2 Tbsp Gemini Zodiac Herb Blend
  (Includes herbs lemon balm, lavender, dill, marjoram, and licorice root—aromatic, stimulating, and clarifying.)

• 1/4 cup Epsom salts
  (Relieves muscle tension and supports magnesium levels for relaxation.)

• 2 Tbsp baking soda
  (Softens water and soothes the skin.)

• 1 Tbsp dried chamomile flowers (optional)
  (To calm the nerves and enhance the soothing element.)

• 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
  (Balances Gemini’s energy and promotes peaceful thoughts.)

• Muslin bag or reusable tea sachet

Directions:

Combine the Gemini Zodiac Blend, Epsom salts, baking soda, and (if using) chamomile in a bowl. Add essential oil drops and mix well. Spoon 3 Tablspoons of mixture into a muslin bag or sachet. Store remaining in a tightly lidded jar. 

To Use: Hang the bag under the faucet as you fill the tub with warm water, allowing the herbs to steep and release their fragrance. Soak for 20–30 minutes. Breathe deeply, relax, and let your thoughts float like the air sign you are.

Making your own Citrus Bitters - How to

Bitters are a special ingredient in cocktails that lends a tang to a drink and are great in drinks based on gin, vodka or whiskey.  Bitters are also a digestive aid and these two recipes made with citrus are high in anti-oxidants and can assist with keeping blood sugar levels, well level.

Citrus Bitters

The bright flavor these lend to your ginger ale, seltzer, sparking water or spirits is amazing and unique; you may find you cannot live without it.

What you need to make these:

• 
  1 750-ml bottle of plain (unflavored) vodka
  
• 4 oranges, zest only from the entire orange
• 2 lemons, zest only from entire lemon
• 1 Tbls fennel seeds
• 1 3-inch cinnamon stick
• ½ tsp whole cloves
• ½ tsp coriander seed

Steps:

Peel the zest from the lemons and oranges, getting all the orange and yellow peel, but none of the white pith underneath.  

Add the citrus peels and the fennel, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves in a 1-quart mason jar.  

Pour in the vodka until the jar is full

Seal tightly and give it a shake to blend and get everything wet. Label the jar with date started.

Place the jar in a cool, dark area for 4 to 8 weeks shaking every other day or so.

Once infused, strain the bitters using a fine mesh strainer

Transfer the liquid to 4-ounce amber dropper jars for long term storage at room temperature. 

Recipe makes 6 4-ounce jars.

Recipes using bitters:

Old-Fashioned Cocktail

• 1 1/2  oz. Bourbon Whiskey
• 3 Dashes Citrus Bitters
• Pinch of raw sugar
• Slice of orange
• Cherry to garnish

Mixology:

In a rocks glass, muddle the sugar and bitters. Add ice and orange, then pour the bourbon on top. Stir gently to mix. Garnish with a cherry.

Bitters Mayonnaise Drizzle

This has a tangy, creamy, and slightly citrus-bitter flavor that would pair beautifully with a variety of dishes.

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp. grated pecorino Romano cheese or a tangy Parmesan
• 1 tsp. grated lemon peel
• 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp. citrus bitters

Whisk together mayonnaise, cheese, lemon peel, lemon juice and bitters. Set aside.

To serve, warm up mayonnaise in microwave for 15-30 seconds; stir well. Drizzle over hot vegetables (see recipe below).

🥔Great over potatoes: Roasted fingerling potatoes, crispy smashed baby potatoes, grilled sweet potato planks, herbed potato wedges

🐟 Fun on Seafood: Especially mild, flaky fish: Grilled or baked cod, halibut, or tilapia;  seared scallops, drizzle on shrimp skewers; Add as a topping or side dip to crab cakes

🍗 Chicken & Poultry as an aioli to serve on grilled or baked chicken breasts or thighs; roast turkey sliders, or chicken skewers with herbs

🥗 Salads & Grain Bowls can be enhanced with a warm dressing or finishing drizzle

 

Roasted Vegetables

• 1-2 lbs. asparagus spears, green beans, broccoli raab, rapine or Chinese broccoli (or a combination)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp. citrus bitters
• Makes 4 - 8 servings

Directions:

Rinse vegetables and drain well. Break off tough ends from asparagus. Remove stems from green beans. Whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, 1 Tbsp. lemon juice and 1 tsp. bitters. Brush liberally on vegetables; let stand 15 minutes.

Heat a large iron fry pan over medium heat. Place vegetables in pan in a single a layer. Cook about 5 minutes or until lightly browned. (The time depends on how thick the vegetables are.) Turn and cook 3-5 minutes more or until tender. Cook in two or three batches, if necessary.

Cheese Crostini with honey bitters

• 1/2 cup local light honey
• 1/2 tsp. citrus bitters
• French style baguette
• Tangy cheese (soft goat cheese, blue cheese, blue stilton, Gorgonzola, or brie)

Directions:

Stir bitters into honey. Pour into a squeeze bottle, if desired.

Thinly slice baguette and toast lightly; cool. Top each piece with cheese. Drizzle bitters honey. Serve immediately.

🌟 Introducing Zodiac Herb Blends: Herbs Written in the Stars 🌿

We have not created a whole line of products like this since the beginning of our herb catalog in 1994, so this launch of 12 new blends took some time and effort, but we are very excited to share a line of Zodiac Herb Blends -- one for each sign.

Ever wondered what herbs match your zodiac sign? Whether you’re a fiery Aries or a dreamy Pisces, the stars may have something to say about your herbal preferences—and your energetic needs. That’s exactly what inspired me to create Zodiac Herb Blends, a brand-new collection from Backyard Patch Herbs.

🔮 What Inspired Zodiac Herb Blends?
Astrology has always held a special fascination for me—not just as a fun personality guide, but as a system rich with symbolism and tradition. Pair that with my decades-long passion for herbs, and you’ve got a recipe for something magical. Herbs, like celestial bodies, have been revered for their energetic properties for centuries. Many plants are linked to specific planets and elements, echoing the same traits we find in the zodiac signs. I wanted to explore this connection deeply and create something that speaks to both the soul and the senses.

🌿 How I Chose the Herbs for Each Sign
Each zodiac sign carries its own flavor—energetically, emotionally, and sometimes even literally! I dug into classic herbal texts and cross-referenced planetary influences, ruling elements, and the core characteristics of each sign. Then came the fun part—blending. I selected herbs that harmonize with each sign’s vibe, whether that’s the invigorating warmth of rosemary for Aries or the calming sweetness of chamomile for Cancer. Each blend is carefully crafted not just for flavor, but for balance and energetic support.

🌟 More Than Just a Cooking Blend
These are not just seasoning mixes. They are deeply versatile blends meant to integrate into your life however you need them. Brew them into tea for reflection, stir them into soups and stews for nourishment, infuse them into oils for ritual or massage, or sprinkle into a bath for self-care. I wanted each blend to be an invitation—to savor your sign, connect to your nature, and maybe even discover a little stardust in your everyday.

♈ Example: Aries – Bold & Bright
Let’s take Aries as an example. This sign is ruled by Mars, the planet of action and energy, and is known for boldness, initiative, and a zest for life. The Aries blend reflects that spark with invigorating herbs like cayenne pepper and rosemary, balanced with thyme and basil to keep that fire from burning out. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for those born under Aries—or anyone needing a burst of courage.

♋ Cancer – Gentle & Nurturing
In contrast, Cancer, ruled by the Moon, is all about nurturing, emotional depth, and intuition. Its blend is soothing and restorative, with herbs like lemon balm and chamomile that promote calm, sleep, and heart-centered connection. It’s like a gentle hug in a cup of tea.

🌿 Is Your Own Sign the only one for you? Not at All!
One of my favorite things about astrology is its depth. Your sun sign might be your anchor, but your moon, rising, and even Venus signs tell a bigger story. I encourage you to explore beyond your primary sign—let your intuition (or your taste buds!) guide you. Each blend was crafted to resonate, but they’re all grounded in flavor and wellness, so feel free to mix, match, and make them your own. We even made a post with detailed suggestions for other matching signs: Moon and Rising sign suggestions.

✨ My Personal Favorite?
That’s the hardest question of all! I truly love them all, but if I had to choose, I’d say I have a soft spot for my own sign, Virgo. The combination of parsley, basil, rosemary, chives, thyme, and fennel is so vibrant, grounding, and kitchen-ready—it’s a go-to in my own spice cabinet.

🛍️ Ready to Find Your Herbal Match?

I’m thrilled to announce that the Zodiac Herb Blends are now officially available! Visit the Zodiac Collection on the Backyard Patch Herbs website to discover the blend crafted for your sign—or the one that calls to you most. Whether you're drawn to astrology, herbalism, or just love a good kitchen experiment, there's something here for you.

Let the stars guide your herbs—and may every blend bring a little cosmic joy to your day!

Edible Flower and Thyme Shortbread Cookies - How to

• 14 Tbsp (2 sticks minus 2 Tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
  
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 Tbsp lemon juice (optional, but use 2 more Tbsp butter in its place)
• 1 Tbsp lemon zest (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder (or cornstarch)
• 3-4 Tbsp minced fresh edible flower petals (calendula, nasturtium, violets, pansy, borage, lavender, or any other edible herb flower in a mix or singly)
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh thyme
• pinch salt

Steps:

Cream together the butter and sugar.

then add the egg yolk, lemon juice and lemon zest (if using) and stir to combine. 

Then add the flour, arrowroot, flowers, thyme, and salt.  

Gently stir everything together until the dough barely holds together. It will seem a bit floury.  

Take the dough out of the bowl and form it into a log shape. 

Wrap it tightly with parchment paper, twisting the ends to help hold it all together. 

Put in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes, or until firm. 

When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 300°F. Unwrap the log and slice the log into 1/4 inch rounds. 

Put them on a parchment lined baking sheet, about an inch or so apart. 

Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check them closely after 25 minutes. 

Take them out when only the edges just barely start to turn golden. The centers will still be fairly soft. 

Let them cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. They will firm up as they cool.

Here are the directions grouped together:

Directions:

Cream together the butter and sugar, then add the egg yolk, lemon juice and lemon zest (if using) and stir to combine. Then add the flour, arrowroot, flowers, thyme, and salt.  Gently stir everything together until the dough barely holds together. It will seem a bit floury.  Take the dough out of the bowl and form it into a log shape. Wrap it tightly with parchment paper, twisting the ends to help hold it all together. Put in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes, or until firm. You can store the dough for several days in the fridge, or for several weeks in the freezer, if need be. When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 300°F. Slice the log into 1/4 inch rounds. Put them on a parchment lined baking sheet, about an inch or so apart. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check them closely after 25 minutes. Take them out when only the edges just barely start to turn golden. The centers will still be fairly soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. They will firm up as they cool. Recipe adapted from www.growforagecookferment.com

Aroma Balm Solid Perfume - Bath Blend of the Month

This is a wonderful item to make for yourself or as a gift. The essential oils in the blend give an aroma that help with anxiety, stress, and tension. If you are making only a couple for yourself, cut the recipe down to ¼ the original size. For the full recipe, you need 12 to 14 round 1-ounce tins or heat resistant jars to pour the liquid into.  It is best to warm the base ingredients in a double boiler or a bowl over water, rather than directly on the stove.

Base --

• 1 ½ cup almond oil
  
• ½ cup grapeseed oil
• 1 tsp vitamin E oil
• ½ cup beeswax pastilles or grated beeswax

Essential oil blend –

• 20 drops clary sage
• 20 drop sweet marjoram
• 20 drop vetiver
• 10 drop juniper
• 10 drop lavender

Directions:

Mix essential oils together in a glass bottle and roll between the palms of your hands to combine.  Set aside.

Using a double boiler, gently warm carrier oils over medium heat.  Add the beeswax and stir together until completely melted to liquid, but do not boil.  Remove from heat and immediately pour into 1 oz, containers.  Drop 6 drops of essential oil blend into each tin and screw lids on tight.  Makes 14.

Taurus Zodiac Blend - Bath Blend of the Month

On May 20, 2025 we will be launching a new line of herb seasoning blends with a blend for each sign of the zodiac.  Because we are in the middle of the time for Taurus, we decided to share a bit about this one blend that will be part of the series. (SEE BOTTOM FOR DETALS)

Zodiac Herb Blends: Spotlight on Taurus

Taurus season (April 20 – May 20) is a time of grounded energy, indulgence, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. As an earth sign ruled by Venus, Taurus is drawn to comfort, beauty, and stability. In our Zodiac Herb Blend for Taurus, we’ve captured these qualities using a selection of herbs that align with the sign’s essence: mint, lavender, thyme, and basil.

The Taurus Herb Blend: A Harmony of Earthy Comfort

Each herb in this blend is chosen for its connection to Taurus’s traits—soothing, nourishing, and enhancing both relaxation and enjoyment. Let’s take a closer look at how each herb plays a role in supporting Taurus energy:

• Mint – Refreshing and invigorating, mint represents Taurus’s steady but sensual nature. It soothes digestion and promotes mental clarity, helping Taurus balance their love for indulgence with well-being.

• Lavender – Known for its calming and restorative properties, lavender is the perfect match for Taurus’s need for relaxation and tranquility. It promotes restful sleep and a sense of inner peace.

• Thyme – A grounding and protective herb, thyme embodies Taurus’s resilience and reliability. It supports respiratory health and adds warmth and depth to any dish or tea blend.

• Basil – Symbolizing prosperity and abundance, basil enhances Taurus’s love of luxury and good food. It’s uplifting and adds a fresh, aromatic quality to this blend.

  

Ways to Use the Taurus Blend

Taurus thrives on sensory experiences, so this blend is designed to be as versatile as the sign itself! Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Aromatic Bath Soak: Add 2 Tbls of the dried blend to a muslin bag and let it steep in warm bathwater for a luxurious, stress-relieving soak.

Until the blend is available combine equal amounts of mint, lavender, basil and thyme

to create a bath sachet.

To Use: Place sachet under the faucet and fill the bath with warm water.  Use the bag as a scrubber to exfoliate and reguvinate the skin. If using in the shower, add a few small pieces of soap in the bag and rub until it lathers.

• Taurus Tea Ritual: Brew a soothing cup by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of the blend in hot water for 5-7 minutes. The combination of mint and lavender will relax the body, while thyme and basil provide a comforting earthiness.

• Culinary Indulgence: Sprinkle the blend over roasted vegetables, stir into soups, or infuse it into olive oil for a delicious Taurus-approved drizzle.

• Homemade Herbal Sachets: Place a couple Tablespoons the blend in small cloth pouches to tuck into drawers or under pillows for a gentle, relaxing aroma.

Embracing Taurus Energy with Herbs

Taurus season invites us to slow down, savor the moment, and surround ourselves with things that bring comfort and joy. Whether you're a Taurus yourself or simply want to channel some of this earth sign’s steady, sensual energy, incorporating these herbs into your daily life can help cultivate a sense of peace, pleasure, and well-being.

♉Starting May 20, you can pick up the blends in person at the Lombard Farmer's Markets or preorder on our website beginning today.

Seven Herbal Gift Ideas for Mom - to make and buy

There are many gift ideas for Mom that incorporate herbs. Here are a few perfect examples, several of which you can make yourself:

1. Herbal Tea Set: Give your mom a collection of her favorite herbal teas, along with a beautiful teapot and a set of tea cups. This gift is perfect for mothers who love to relax with a cup of tea after a long day. Teapot Gifts and Tea Gifts.

2. Herbal Bath Salts: Herbal bath salts are a great way to provide relaxation and rejuvenation. You can make your own bath salts using dried herbs such as lavender, rose petals, and chamomile, or you can purchase pre-made herbal bath salts.

We shared this recipe on the blog back in May 2023, but here is a quick blend of salts to pamper skin.

Pampering Bath Salts

• 1 1/2 cups Epsom salts
•  3/4 cup baking soda
• 3/4 cup herbs (finely ground)

Combine everything in a jar and shake well.  Add 2 to 4 Tablespoons directly to the bath or place in a mesh or organza bag and swish to dissolve the salts.

3. Herbal Soaps: Another great gift for mom is herbal soaps. Especially soaps made from natural ingredients and infused with essential oils and dried herbs, providing a pleasant aroma and gentle cleansing.  I get my herbal soaps from Soapy Roads here in Lombard and you can order online too!

4. Herbal Body Oils: Herbal body oils are a great way to nourish the skin and provide a relaxing massage. You can make your own body oils by infusing carrier oils with dried herbs such as lavender, rose petals, and chamomile or you can just use essential oils in a carrier oil.

Essential oils like lavender, lemon, and eucalyptus come with benefits. But other oils—like black pepper, clove, and peppermint—can irritate the skin, so choose carefully. To make a safe, DIY bath oil blend five to 20 drops of an essential oil with one tablespoon of a carrier oil (like grapeseed, jojoba, almond, or argan oil). Add the oil right before you're about to get into the bath to keep it from evaporating.

5. Herbal Sachets: Herbal sachets are small bags filled with dried herbs, which can be placed in drawers or closets to provide a pleasant aroma and natural pest control. You can make your own sachets using herbs such as lavender, rose petals, and chamomile. RECipe

Romantic Evening Dreams

• 1/2 cup rose petals
• 1/2 cup rosemary
• 1/4 cup lavender flowers
• 2 lemon verbena leaves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon mint
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 small piece of cinnamon stick, 1 inch long, broken up

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a large jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake to combine.  Allow to meld for at least 2 days before placing in a sachet.

For a simple pillow, fill a 3- to 5-inch drawstring bag with 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chosen herbs; draw strings and tie closed.

TO USE: place the sachet inside the pillowcase or under the pillow and inhale deeply as you fall asleep.  Enjoy the dreams!

6. Herb Garden: Giving an herb garden can be a great gift for a mom who likes gardening, cooking or both. You can give her a small indoor herb garden or a larger outdoor one.  Try these seed papers or these plant seedlings.

7. Herbal Candles : Herbal candles are a great way to provide a pleasant aroma and relaxation. You can make your own candles using beeswax and essential oils, or purchase pre-made herbal candles or those with pressed flowers.

All these gifts are thoughtful and can be personalized to your mom's preferences and interests, and can be a great way to show her how much you care.