Online store Handcrafted Herbal products, Home ©CrazyCelt:Knitting by Betty Doolittle Tuininga,painting by BJ Tuininga
My name is BJ Tuininga I am a long ensconced in the Arts and the alternative forms of medicine. Herbalism has long been a part of my life, dabbling in what was then known as “forgotten arts’ when my children were young, I enhanced fresh vegetables from my garden with the strength and health of the herbal companions, made culinary herbal gifts, and tried my hand at basic herbal medicine.
Although my life took a new direction for a few years, it was my own health that brought me full circle, with the realization that I needed to rely on more than allopathic medicine to see me through the effects of a very painful accident. I turned to both homeopathy and a renewed interest in herbal medicine. I initially studied with Folk Herbalist Sue Coleman of Nelson NH, learning basic herbal salves and tinctures, combined with meditation which became a very important health benefit in my life.
After my accident, I was fortunate to connect with local Herbalist Raine Ford with whom I have studied extensively. Through her classes I have not only bolstered my knowledge of herbalism, but have renewed my passion for alternative medicine and medicine making. Knowledge in this field like all medicine is ongoing, but there seems to be a growing awareness of herbalism versus the realm of allopathic medicine as our bodies become resistant to traditional treatments.
The products I have prepare are made from the best ingredients available to me. Some of the herbs I have organically raised, while others are wildcrafted locally or from a sustainable organic herb farm in the Northwest.
I continue to learn herbally by taking courses with notables such as Rosalee dela Floret, Aviva Romm, MD., Rosemary Gladstar, 7Song and the myriad of Herbalists that bless our shores here in the USA and who continually offer their knowledge to those of us who believe in the power of the plant!
As to my other products…
I began Aran knitting when my son was born and have provided many baby gifts in the form of “Irish-Knit” sweaters throughout the years. My children have had sweaters at different stages of their lives, and I have made adult sweaters, scarves and hats as well. The patterns difficulty and beauty long attracted me as do the rich Celtic stories that accompany the patterns of our ancestors. Mine hailed from county Clare and while I have many bloodlines of which to be proud, the Irish knitting has been a salvation as I recover from my accident because I have had to retrain my brain in the intricacies of these gorgeous patterns.
I will special order sweaters designed in patterns of your choice or if you would like me to design a sweater or scarf in a particular set of patterns. There is a wonderful selection of yarns in a wonderful array of colors available by special order like pure merino wools, blends acrylic blends, etc. I am happy to work with you if you would like to special order, but I do require a deposit on any special order. Please contact me at [email protected] and I will try to fulfill your request.
