The Codfish Apothecary

04/21/2026

So, I've been testing a new face cream and I personally love it!! Saffron Tallow Face Balm is my newest creation, and product, that I'm ready to share with all of you!!

It's a lightly whipped tallow that has saffron-infused jojoba oil, beeswax, and vitamin E oil - nothing more, nothing less - and as a bonus, no scent is being added!

Why saffron? It's a powerhouse for skincare! It's a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and brightening agent due to active compounds such as crocin and safranal. It can help protect against UV damage, reduce hyperpigmentation, help treat acne, and promote a radiant complexion. Seriously, Google the benefits of "saffron for skincare" - it's crazy!!

I'm going to offer this in 2oz tins only for $22. This stuff goes a VERY long way; I'll show you tomorrow how much I use. I made myself a 4oz jar, only to realize it's probably going to last me a year!

Questions, want to order? Let me know!

04/20/2026

I've been working on a new tallow product to be used specifically for your facial skincare routine.....I'm kinda excited and will share details tonight! Happy Monday 😊

04/18/2026

This could damn near be my dream medicinal and flower garden 💕

04/16/2026

Marvelous mullein 🌿

This plant is beneficial in so many different ways. You can drink it in tea, tincture it, make an oil with it or even smoke the leaves...I've even heard of people putting the leaves in their shoes to help with foot pain.

Here are the primary benefits associated with the plant:
Respiratory Support
Soothing Demulcent
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Ear Health
Skin Care
Relaxant Qualities
Lymphatic Support

Personally, I have this as a tincture and will take it when I have a cough that just won't go away. Tinctures are easy to make and easy to take...just take them in juice, they just taste awful! Interested in learning more about mullein, feel free to reach out!

04/14/2026

Tincture Tuesday....yup, I make and take these too!

According to Merriam-Webster, a tincture is primarily a solution of a medicinal substance dissolved in an alcoholic solvent.

I take tinctures every day, specifically one for allergies. This time of year, the stinging nettles are starting to pop and it won't be long before I'm wandering around our property, gloves on of course, scissors and a bag gathering up my "medicine". I chop them up, fill a mason jar, cover them with an 80 proof alcohol (typically vodka), let them sit in a dark area for about 6 weeks, shaking the jar every so often. Once done, strain it off and you now have an alternative to taking a pill. As a disclaimer, tinctures taste like sh*t...I put mine in juice and drink it like a shot. Also, I'm not a medical expert, this information is not intended to replace a medical diagnosis, always seek advice from a medical professional with any questions you may have.

Anyone else take tinctures??

04/12/2026

I'd like to thank everyone who came out to OTTER CREEK MEATS yesterday and for buying and trying my products!

And thank you to Miller's BBQ and Catering for making our dinner, it was SO good!

04/11/2026

Getting everything ready for tomorrow! Thank you to OTTER CREEK MEATS for having me be part of their day tomorrow 😊
Come see me, them and check out Miller's BBQ too!

04/10/2026

This! And dandelions should be added as well. Friday fact, every part of the dandelion is edible 🌼

🌱 What Your “Weeds” and Garden Plants Are Actually Doing for You

Most people walk past these…
Some spray them…
A few of us know better.

Here’s what these plants have been traditionally used for, with proper names so you can stop guessing and start knowing:

🌿 Succulent (Sedum spp.)
Traditionally used on minor cuts and burns. The fleshy leaves hold moisture and soothing compounds.

🌿 Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)
Traditionally used to support circulation and cognitive function, especially memory and focus.

🌿 Fern (Dryopteris spp.)
Used historically in very specific preparations, including traditional anti-parasitic uses. Not for casual use.

🌿 Bamboo (Bambusoideae)
Naturally rich in silica. Used in some traditions to support bones, skin, and connective tissue.

🌿 Holly (Ilex aquifolium)
Used in folk practices for fevers and inflammation. Requires caution due to potential toxicity.

🌿 Orchid (Orchidaceae)
Certain species have been used traditionally to support vitality and overall wellness.

🌿 Catkins (Salix spp. and others)
Willow catkins contain salicin, a compound related to aspirin, traditionally used for discomfort support.

🌿 Poppy (Papaver rhoeas)
Traditionally used as a mild calming herb for coughs and rest.

🌿 Pansy (Viola tricolor)
Often used to support skin health and gentle internal balance.

🌿 Iris (Iris germanica)
Root used historically in very small, carefully prepared amounts. Not recommended without proper knowledge.

🌿 Tulip (Tulipa spp.)
Limited traditional use. Sometimes used externally in historical practices.

🌿 Clover (Trifolium spp.)
Traditionally used to support lymphatic movement and overall balance.

🌿 Sage (Salvia officinalis)
A classic herb used for digestion, throat comfort, and general cleansing support.
I’m obsessed with sage, by the way. If you’ve been wanting to try it, this is the oil I’ve been using: https://amzn.to/3OcKSkU

🌿 Grass (Poaceae family)
Young grasses like wheatgrass are nutrient-dense and used for chlorophyll and mineral intake.

🌿 The truth?

Half your yard isn’t a nuisance…
It’s an unlabeled apothecary.

⚠️ Always do your research before introducing into your diet, especially if you have any underlying or pre-existing conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications.

04/09/2026

Lip balms are probably my least favorite product to make BUT it is one of my absolute favorite products that I use! Just finished making 54 tubes!

2 kinds...one is tallow with sweet almond oil, lavender, lemon and frankincense. The other is vanilla bean infused tallow with sweet almond oil and lavender.
$3 each

04/07/2026

This Saturday, I'll also be at OTTER CREEK MEATS! I'll have products to sell and sample and will answer questions about any of the products I currently sell. Stop out and see me and grab a sandwich while you're there!

Help us spread the word and get rewarded! 💛
👉 Share this post
👉 Be entered to win a $25 gift certificate to Miller’s Bbq!! 🍽️
We appreciate all the support—good luck everyone!”

🔥 BBQ IS BACK! 🔥

Make your plans for Saturday, April 11th and come hungry!

Miller’s BBQ & Catering will be serving up some mouthwatering favorites at Otter Creek Meats from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (or until sold out!) 🍖

📍 17368 254th St, Zwingle, IA

👉 On the menu:
• Pulled Pork & Prime Brisket Sandwiches
• Ribs Meals
• Loaded Nachos
• Delicious sides like mac & cheese, baked beans, coleslaw & more

⭐ NEW ITEM ⭐
Beef & Pork Hot Link Sandwich loaded with sautéed onions, peppers & “the sauce” – you don’t want to miss this!

Bring your appetite and your friends — it’s going to be GOOD! 😋
Cash, Venmo, and card accepted (fees may apply)

04/04/2026

One of today's projects is infusing dried yarrow in oil 🌿

The yarrow was harvested from our property and has been hang drying since last summer. The next step is to let it infuse for the next 6-8 weeks. After that I'll put it to good use making salves.

Traditionally, yarrow has been used as a styptic to help stop bleeding. As a salve it helps with wound healing, burns, skin irritation, soothing bug bites and SO much more. Personally, when I had my neck surgery last year, I used this salve on the incision. While you can see the scar, its definitely not very noticeable.

I have 2oz tins available for $12 or 4oz jars for $20. I can deliver locally or ship for an additional cost. Message or email me to order!

04/03/2026

Anyone ever find and eat these??? I'm super curious!

Here's a good cheat sheet since they should be popping up anytime!! 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻🌿😋
www.healthprimitive.com