The Earliana heritage tomato was introduced in 1900. Large, red, blemish-free fruits ripen mid-season, weigh
eight to 12 ounces each and are perfect for slicing or canning.

Hippocratic medicine — much still applies today

Plus, a recipe for fried green tomatoes

The green medicine movement continues to advance. Have you ever given consideration to starting your own home green pharmacy medicine chest? “Your food shall be your medicine and your medicine shall be your food” is a time-honoured statement from the Greek founder of Western medicine, Hippocrates, which is as valid today as it was way […] Read more

Longer cultivation licenses, more exemptions and fewer third-party testing requirements will simplify business for hemp growers.

Rules ease up for growing hemp

Legal changes aren’t just for users; growers will also see fewer restrictions

The Cannabis Act is slated to take effect October 17th, legalizing recreational cannabis use in Canada. Those legislative changes will also remove many roadblocks to growing hemp and open up new market opportunities, say those in the industry. The new Act removes hemp from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, says Keith Jones, vice president […] Read more


The reality of Alzheimer’s disease

When a loved one is diagnosed it’s devastating but there may be some ways to help reduce the risk of developing it

Walter* has Alzheimer’s disease — but only his family and close friends know how deeply it affects his life. Walter meets us at the door, greeting us by name. “Good to see you!” He takes our coats and leads us into the living room; we make small talk about the weather; a perfectly normal conversation. […] Read more

Reporter’s Notebook: Health is your most valuable asset

Sickness and injuries, especially concussions, can bring a quick end to your career

I am having one of those winters where I seem to catch every germ that is circulating. Being sick brings out my inner whinger. I hate curtailing my physical activities. Missing work days stresses me out, especially during the busy winter season. I also feel a latent guilt over taking sick days or even getting […] Read more


ground flax seeds

Control blood pressure with flax

Reporter's Notebook: New research shows that eating ground flaxseed can lower your blood pressure

One of the interesting side effects of covering agriculture is that influences my eating habits. I get to hear about the research into food uses and health claims of the crops grown in Western Canada. I eat pulses for the fibre and protein. I use canola oil several times a week. I’m not shy about […] Read more

Man Suffering From Back Pain Whilst Gardening

Low back pain common in farmers

High incidences due to the mix of manual labour and seated positions in most ag jobs

Low back pain — one of the world’s most prevalent musculoskeletal complaints. A study done in 2010 estimated that 21.7 billion people are affected globally per year from some form of low back pain, usually attributed to a work-related cause. The highest relative risk factor, according to the study, was agriculture-related work. Not surprising, given […] Read more


The pros and cons of a head transplant

Hart Attacks: I have my doubts about whether or not this old brain can do a new body justice

As the New Year kicks off, I have been giving some thought to getting my name on the head transplant waiting list — I just have to decide whether I want to be a donor or a recipient. Yes, that’s the new boundary that medical technology dares to be pushing as an Italian neurosurgeon Sergio […] Read more