Cooking with Math and Science

 

Masai and I decided to use our math and science time to cook today! We copied my pizza recipe from my vegan cookbook. Interested you can find it in our store https://sunnis-holistic-delights.square.site/product/our-books/79 . Cooking is literally numbers,chemistry,and biology. Not only does cooking result in something tasty,it also teaches some very important life skills such as..

1. Food hygiene(hygiene is one of our spelling words this week🤭). 

2. Math

3. Creativity

4. Literacy 

5. Reading Comprehension 

6. Time Management 

7. Teamwork 

8. Communication 

#BlackHistory365

#Doing4Self

#Passingdalegacy

John Mercer Langston

 Did you know Langston Hughes uncle was the first Sunkissed lawyer!?!? Our history is amazing ❤️🖤💚. 

John Mercer Langston, the youngest of four children, was born a free black in Louisa County, Virginia on December 14, 1829. Langston gained distinction as an abolitionist, politician, and attorney.  Despite the prominence of his slaveowner father, Ralph Quarles, Langston took his surname from his mother, Lucy Langston, an emancipated slave of Indian and black ancestry.  When both parents died of unrelated illnesses in 1834, five-year-old Langston and his older siblings were transported to Missouri where they were taken in by William Gooch, a friend of Ralph Quarles.

At fourteen Langston began his studies at the Preparatory Department at Oberlin College. Known for its radicalism and abolitionist politics, Oberlin was the first college in the United States to admit black and white students.  Langston completed his studies in 1849, becoming the fifth African American male to graduate from Oberlin’s Collegiate Department.

In 1854, Langston married Caroline Matilda Wall, an emancipated slave from North Carolina.  She and Langston had remarkably similar backgrounds.  Both had been born into slavery and were freed by their slaveowning fathers who provided for them financially.  Once freed and sent north, they were able to obtain an education.  When Wall was a young girl, she and her sister, Sara, were sent to Ohio by their father, Colonel Stephen Wall. Under the guardianship of a wealthy family friend, the sisters were brought up in an affluent Quaker household. Like Langston, Caroline Wall also attended Oberlin, graduating in 1856.

In 1855 Langston was elected town clerk of Brownhelm Township in Ohio, becoming the first black elected official in the state.  In addition to his law practice and activities as town clerk, Langston and his brothers, Gideon and Charles, participated in the Underground Railroad.  John Mercer Langston caught the attention of Frederick Douglass, who encouraged him to deliver antislavery speeches.  During the Civil War, Langston recruited black volunteers for the Massachusetts 54th Infantry Regiment, officially the country’s first African American military unit.

In 1868 Langston moved to Washington, D.C. to help establish the nation’s first black law school at Howard University.  He became its first dean and served briefly as acting president of Howard in 1872.  In 1877, President Rutherford B. Hayes appointed Langston U.S. minister to Haiti.  He returned to the U.S. in 1885 and became president of Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute (now Virginia State University).

In 1888 John Mercer Langston ran for a seat in Congress as an Independent against a white Democratic opponent.  The election results were contested for 18 months.  Langston was finally declared the winner and served the six remaining months of his term.  Langston lost his reelection bid in 1890.  Partly because of his prominence, the Oklahoma Territory town of Langston, and the college created in the town, Langston University, were named after him.  John Mercer Langston died in Washington, D.C. on November 15, 1897 at the age of 67.

Happiest Hoodoo All Saints Day!

HOODOO🙌🏾

Many people have asked me what are my religious beliefs,because of my often giving praises and homage to the Ancestors/Moma Earth and Universe. So here is a brief description of the practice of Hoodoo(but most definitely not limited 2),that explains the many facets of who I am. Ancestors and Universe forever be praised~Ase’O 

#IAm

#My

#Ancestors 

#Wildest

#Dream

#In 

#This

#Realm

#andLifetime

Hoodoo a system that was developed in the slave plantations of the Southern United States as an act of resistance, and has since evolved to match the ever-changing social climate of African American people. Hoodoo (also known as rootwork) is Southern folk magic grounded in centuries of African American heritage within the southern United States. 

Hoodoo is often known by other names including: conjure, rootwork, root doctoring, laying tricks, working roots or doing the "work". It is important to note, that contrary to what some authors may write in their books, Hoodoo is NOT Voodoo (Vodou). Hoodoo blends together the magical technology of Congo slaves that were taken from Africa in the slave trade, combined with their herbal knowledge,bits of folk magic and Jewish mysticism.

It consists of ancestor veneration, Medicines for physical ailments as well as spiritual ones, divination, conjuring of spirits and different types of "hands" used for helping with all  social aspects of life such as employment, relationships, and the many legal issues and oppressive factors that African Americans were subject to in the time of the Black Codes and Jim Crow.  Hoodoo works to heal the whole person, provide protection and help, and to also harm and rearrange someones life if need be.

Contrary to popular belief, Practicing Christianity is NOT a requirement for practicing the system of Hoodoo....However, as Christianity phased into the lives of early African Americans, Hoodoo, in turn, made it's way right into the Baptist, Sanctified, and AME churches doors! Many Hoodoo influences are still seen in the Black church today, despite the religion's malice toward "witchcraft In many cases Christianity and Hoodoo were used hand in hand...in others, they were used against one another.  

Hoodoo/Rootwork emphasizes the power of natural curios and the practitioner over prayer to deities. This allows Hoodoo to exist outside of a specific spiritual or religious belief system. While rootworkers will pray the Psalms and The Lord's Prayer during their spell work, they see this as a way of God assisting in the work. The work can still take place whether the person prays that specific Psalm or not.

Rootwork is firmly grounded in a very practical approach to magic. Getting results is the most important thing, and most types of spells are based on very common every-day needs like: drawing money, love, protection or dealing with pestiferous people. Unfortunately the prominence gained by Christianity in the Black American community, many Hoodoo traditions faded away into the darkness, merely as whispers of "silly old folk superstition". 

Again Hoodoo is NOT Voodoo (Vodou). Hoodoo is southern folk magic from the United States devoid of any religious ties. It is a magical technology - plain and simple - developed by the Black descendants of African slaves brought to this country. 

However, wypipo knew the deal & the value of the magic of the slaves...so they appropriated it, watered it down with a bunch of bs over the years, and are currently out here commercializing it (Hoodoo Delish) and trying to sell it back to us through books and other Hoodoo related items while also attempting to push ppl of African descent out of our own culture,history,and birthright! 

Here are a few things I use(however not limited 2)in rootwork...

1. Spiritual Cleansing Baths

2. Herbs for Cleansing and Healing

3. Candles 

4. Stones and Crystals 

5. Energy 

6. Meditation 

7. Affirmations 

8. Touch

I Am Light🔥 

©2017 All rights reserved for Sunni da’Light

Basil,Orange,and Blueberries Water

 This is one of my absolute fav thangs to do with all the Basil we grow(or make Wine🤪)! Many of the herbs I grow I do so with the intentions of using them for spells and rituals. Basil also has some of the most amazing healing and spiritual properties. It’s a must just for spaghetti and pesto lol. My Ancestors used what they had to put in this work…so blessed to be able to follow suit. So do a lil magick and drink a lil water…Life and Light✌🏾

Basil,Orange,and Blueberries Water 

Whatcha Need:

2 cups fresh Blueberries 

2 oranges 

1/2 cup fresh basil 

How it’s Done:

1. Wash berries and oranges(I like to keep the skin on). 

2. Slice oranges in slices or chunks 

3. Smash or squeeze basil to release all the goodness. 

4. Fill a pitcher with 64oz of water.

5. Add all ingredients. 

6. Let it sit for a hour or so and enjoy!

 

This blend also makes amazing ice cubes for tea,wines,and the likes☺️.

Stinging Nettles Soup

 Growing up Nettles has always been apart of our family’s FARMacy. We’ve used nettle for just about everything,from breastmilk production,to help increase iron levels,

arthritis, joint pain and swelling. Nettles has been used in many Sunkissed households for generations. Here’s to of my favorites go to ways of getting all the benefits nettles has to offer. 

Nettles Soup

Whatcha Need: 

5 cups nettle tops

1 tablespoon oil

1 teaspoon butter

1/2 cup chopped shallots

1/2 cup chopped celery

1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and chopped

4 cups veggies stock

2 bay leaf

1 teaspoon thyme 

Dash ground black pepper and pink himalayan salt

1 1/2 tablespoons key lime juice

1/4 cup almond milk 

How it’s Done: 

1. Bring 8 cups water to a boil. 
2. Add chopped potatoes. 
3. Cook until tender but not mushy. 
4. Add nettles and cook for 3-4 minutes long. 
5. Strain potatoes and nettles. 
6. Then add all your ingredients to a food processor or blender. 
7. Purée until smooth(I like a little chucks in mines). 
8. Cook mixture on low for a few minutes. 
9. Service warm and enjoy!

Stinging nettle grows wild in temperate regions throughout the world. This dark green nutritive herb has an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, but the leaves and stems have tiny hairs coated in an irritating substance. Accidental contact can result in a painful rash that lasts for hours. Nevertheless, the entire plant serves as a food and has medicinal purposes and has been a staple in herbal medicine since ancient times. Ancient Egyptians used stinging nettle to treat arthritis and lower back pain and a host of other issues soaking nettles in water for ten minutes removes the irritants. Here are 12 evidence-based benefits of stinging nettle.

1. Improve Urinary Tract Health

Nettle root helps maintain urinary tract health or relieve the prostate swelling and discomfort associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia or BHP. Nettle reduces prostate swelling by interrupting the conversion of testosterone into estrogen and increasing levels of free testosterone in the bloodstream. The diuretic effects of nettle assist in flushing out the bladder and urinary tract to prevent infection and kidney stones.

1. Treat Skin Conditions

Dried nettle leaves mixed in a tincture or cream can treat acne and other blemishes by reducing oil on the skin without scarring. The astringent properties of nettle treat eczema, insect bites, and chicken pox. A nettle oil or poultice applied to burns can relieve pain and stimulate healing while minimizing scar tissue.

1. Supply Amino Acids

Amino acids form protein, and the human body needs 20 amino acids to function properly. The body cannot produce the nine amino acids classified as essential, so they must come from food. Essential amino acids assist with energy production, immune system function, digestion, reproduction, and much more. Nettles are an excellent source of all nine essential amino acids.

1. Treat Arthritis

Nettle leaf poultices and essential oils relieve arthritis pain when applied topically at the joint. Oral consumption of capsules or tea also reduces arthritis and lower back pain. Nettles reduce inflammation by interfering with the production of cytokines -- hormones and proteins the body can produce in excess. Anti-inflammatory properties relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders such as gout, bursitis, and tendonitis, and enhance the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory medications.

1. Aid in Reproductive Health

The calcium and iron in nettle leaves increase production and flow of breast milk and increases the new mother's energy after giving birth. The plant's diuretic properties are also helpful during menstruation or in the months following pregnancy and delivery. Nettle has a stabilizing effect on hormone production, helping to ease the effects of fluctuating hormones before and after menstruation or pregnancy. Nettle tea contains potassium and often relieves muscle cramps or discomfort during menstruation.

1. Improve Cardiovascular Health

Nettle lowers blood pressure by increasing the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, so they are wider, thus reducing pressure. Styptic properties of nettle encourage platelet aggregation to slow or stop localized bleeding and nosebleeds. Nettles have very high concentrations of vitamin C and iron for stimulating red blood cell production, which can treat anemia. The potassium contained in nettles is essential for healthy function of the cardiovascular system and the sodium-potassium pump process within cells that produces energy. Nettle tea often relieves muscle cramps or discomfort during menstruation.

1. Lower Blood Sugar

Nettle lowers blood sugar and augments insulin and oral medications that treat diabetes in a variety of ways. The leaves stimulate insulin production by protecting and encouraging the growth of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. There is some evidence of increased insulin sensitivity associated with nettle supplements, and some studies observed slower digestion of carbohydrates. This former activity gives the body time to secrete insulin and break down sugars properly.

1.  Provide Allergy Relief

Nettle contains histamine as well as two neurotransmitters -- serotonin and acetylcholine. The combination of these three substances with the anti-inflammatory properties of nettles results in effective allergy relief. The best way to get this benefit is to take freeze-dried powders in capsules or steeped in hot tea. Nettles relieve symptoms such as watery eyes, sneezing, sinus congestion, and a runny nose without causing drowsiness or other typical side effects of antihistamine medications.

1. Stimulate Healthy Hair

Taking nettle capsules and tea internally can prevent hair loss and stimulate growth at hair follicles. Massaging the scalp with nettle oil is an effective treatment for dandruff. The silica and sulfur in nettles promote shiny, healthy hair and may preserve pigmentation. When used as a regular rinse with cool water, this can reduce the appearance of gray hair.

1. Boost the Immune and Skeletal System

The nettle plant contains flavonoids, carotenoids, and several vitamins that act as antioxidants, which strengthen immune cells and stimulate T-cell activity in the immune system. The extensive variety of vitamins and minerals in nettles provides important components for immune system function that can be ingested easily through a daily cup of tea or freeze-dried powder capsules. Calcium, magnesium, and iron combined with vitamins D and K strengthen bones and teeth while enhancing clotting factors in the blood. Many compounds in the nettle plant increase free radicals, which protect and extend the life of cells in the immune system and throughout the body.

1. May Treat Enlarged Prostate Symptoms

Up to 50% of men aged 51 and older have an enlarged prostate gland. An enlarged prostate is commonly called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Scientists aren’t sure what causes BPH, but it can lead to significant discomfort during urination.Interestingly, a few studies suggest that stinging nettle may help treat BPH. Animal research reveals that this powerful plant may prevent the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone — a more powerful form. Studies in people with BPH demonstrate that stinging nettle extracts help treat short- and long-term urination problems — without side effects. 

However, it’s unclear how effective stinging nettle is compared to conventional treatments.

1. Stinging Nettle and Breastfeeding

Stinging nettle is believed to stimulate milk production and increase the supply of breast milk in breastfeeding mothers. It is generally considered safe to begin taking nettle immediately after giving birth, and it can be continued for an extended period of time.

Contains Many Nutrients

Stinging nettle’s leaves and root provide a wide variety of nutrients, including...

• Vitamins: Vitamins A, C and K, as well as several B vitamins
• Minerals: Calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium
• Fats: Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and oleic acid
• Amino acids: All of the essential amino acids
• Polyphenols: Kaempferol, quercetin, caffeic acid, coumarins and other flavonoids
• Pigments: Beta-carotene, lutein, luteoxanthin and other carotenoids

What’s more, many of these nutrients act as antioxidants inside your body.

Antioxidants are molecules that help defend your cells against damage from free radicals. Damage caused by free radicals is linked to aging, as well as cancer and other harmful diseases. Studies indicate that stinging nettle extract can raise blood antioxidant levels

Stinging nettle may offer other potential health benefits, including:

• Reduced bleeding: Medicines containing stinging nettle extract have been found to reduce excessive bleeding, especially after surgery 
• Liver health: Nettle’s antioxidant properties may protect your liver against damage by toxins, heavy metals and inflammation 
• Natural diuretic: This plant may help your body shed excess salt and water, which in turn could lower blood pressure temporarily. Keep in mind that these findings are from animal studies 
• Wound and burn healing: Applying stinging nettle creams may support wound healing, including burn wounds 

Roasted Watermelon Seeds

 Oven Roasted Watermelon Seeds Recipe

Watermelon seeds are fiber dense and can be roasted like pumpkin seeds. Enjoy this yummy easy healthy snacks! Another of our favorite ways to eat these are with cayenne pepper and cinnamon on our as well. It’s really versatile🍉!

Whatcha Need:

Watermelon Seeds

How it’s Done: 

1. Preheat oven to 375
2. Toss washed and dried watermelon seeds in olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Place on a baking sheet and roast seeds for 15-20 minutes.
4. Cool on paper towels and enjoy with soups, salads or just nibble as a snack.

And if you’re into magick like I am there is also a magical link to watermelon,fertility,and clearing blocked chakra’s!!!! Lol so in other words eats lots of watermelon(with dem seeds)all season.

Watermelon really is in my opinion a superfood! When I was a little girl I use to get summer migraines. One of my mother’s go to ways to help me was making me eat watermelons or juicing them and rubbing peppermint oil on my temples. Always worked like a charm! 

NarrowLeaf Plantain Pizza

 Here’s one of the many ways we use Moma Earth’s Beyoutiful bounty and blessings. Pizza! Yes ya heard me right P-I-Z-Z-A!!! This is our NarrowLeaf Plantain Pizza🤪!

NarrowLeaf Plantain,like dandelion,is a healthy, hardy weed as ubiquitous in the city as broken glass.You know what it looks like,but you might not have known the name. Plantain has a nutritional profile similar to dandelion that is,loaded with iron and other important vitamins and minerals! The leaves are tastiest when small and tender,usually in the spring but whenever new shoots appear after being cut back by a lawnmower. Bigger leaves are edible but bitter and fibrous.The shoots of the broadleaf plantain,when green and tender and no longer than about four inches,can be described as a poor-man's fiddlehead,with a nutty,asparagus like taste.

Pre-made pizza crust(store brought or homemade)

4 Vegan style sausages(cut or diced)

1 small onion, chopped

1 can(15 ounces)tomato sauce(we usually use what we can throughout the year)

3 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 medium green pepper(diced or sliced)

2 cups narrowleaf plantain(chopped)

2 cups vegan or regular cheese(if not vegan)

Assemble pizza add all the love and goodness in. Pop in the oven for 15-20mins at 350 or until cheese is bubbly. Allow to cool for 3-5mins. Cut! Serve! Enjoy! Goes REALLY well with our Dandelion/Curly Burdock Soda😜!!!

#Black2Basics

#Doing4Self

#GrowSumthin