Questions: Plant ID and Shelf Life

[Guest guest]

I have two plants that grow here. I was hoping the one was elderberry,

but when I looked up elderberry,it was not the same. Do any of you know

of a website or book that shows pics of plants to look up if you don't

know the name. I'd really like to know what these plants are. The other

one has orange flowers and the stem has liquid in that helps with the

itch of bites and poison.

My next question is about shelf life of tintures and oils. I made some

calendula oil in July and it has been in my frig ever since. I also

tried to make a first-aid salve, but it didn't turn out in the proper

consistency. I have had two jars of that sitting on the counter since

late summer/early fall. It looks nasty, but it doesn't smell bad. So

how long are these things supposed to last?

Any info would be appreciated.

Blessings,

Melanie

[Guest guest]

The second one sounds like jewelweed, its one of my favorite plants! I usually don't store oils in the refriderator because water can condense inside the jar and spoil the oil. I have had tinctures last up to 6 years and oils up to 4 with no problem, Dawn, Herbalist, aroamtharapistwolfprincess68 <jermelkramer wrote: I have two plants that grow here. I was hoping the one was elderberry, but when I looked up elderberry,it was not the same. Do any of you know of a website or book that shows pics of plants to look up if you don't know the name. I'd really like to know what these plants are. The other one has orange flowers and the stem has liquid in that helps with the itch of bites and poison. My next question is about shelf life of tintures and oils. I made some calendula oil in July

and it has been in my frig ever since. I also tried to make a first-aid salve, but it didn't turn out in the proper consistency. I have had two jars of that sitting on the counter since late summer/early fall. It looks nasty, but it doesn't smell bad. So how long are these things supposed to last? Any info would be appreciated.Blessings,Melanie