7 Amazing Herbs for the Fall & Winter Seasons
“Though I cannot flee from the world of corruption, I can prepare tea with water from a mountain stream and put my heart to rest.” –Ueda Akinari
As the cooler weather returns and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to focus on herbs that can support you and your loved ones through the fall and winter seasons. Whether you are in search of some immune boosting support, herbs to aid in digesting those heavy holiday meals or something to cozy up with through those chilly winter nights, these herbs can help you feel your best all season long.
Peppermint
(Mentha piperita)
Peppermint is a cheerful little herb with a calming presence and many uses. It has been known to ease an upset stomach, aid digestion, ease headaches, calm skin irritation, help with anxiety, clear the sinuses and soothe a sore throat. Peppermint leaves are great to use both fresh and dried in an herbal infusion, check out our Wild Winter Tea for an easy option.
2. Echinacea
(Echinacea spp.)
Echinacea is known for its ability to stimulate the immune system and is most often used at the onset of infections of the upper respiratory track. It works best when taken on the onset of illness and is used to lower inflammation and improve lymphatic function in the body. Echinacea works best in a tincture form but use caution if you are allergic to plants in the Asteracease (daisy) family.
3. Ginger Root
(Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is well known for its warming qualities and is perfect for the chilly winter weather. It is great for helping soothe muscle pain, improving circulation, fighting inflammation and easing digestive upset. Ginger can be used fresh or dried and is a great addition to tea, stews, soups and baked goods.
4. Chamomile
(Matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomile is a happy little herb that can help with fevers, painful cramps, headaches, digestive issues and stress. It is an amazing herb to help with sleeplessness and emotional distress. Chamomile is also useful for skin irritation and encourages healing of wounds, burns and rashes. This diverse herb can be enjoyed in teas, tinctures, herbal honeys and skincare infusions.
5. Elder
(Sambucus canadensis)
Elderberry and elderflower are both useful in easing colds, flu and infections of the sinuses. The berries can be used in a syrup during winter to help with the immune system, help ease discomfort and recover quickly from cold and flu symptoms. The flowers can be used in infusion and tinctures to help with fevers, restlessness and ease inflammation. *CAUTION: Elder bark, leaves, roots, seeds and unripe berries are considered toxic, use caution when using plant and consult a herbalist
6. Thyme
(Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme is an amazing herb when it comes to the conditions of the throat and lungs. It can help with both chronic and acute respiratory problems including coughs and bronchitis. It can also help ease digestive issues, topically fight fungal infections, help clean wounds, ease tension and calm the nerves. Thyme can be used fresh or dried to make tea, added to soups, stews and roasts. Thyme can also be used topically in the bath, foot soak or made into an antiseptic wound rinse.
7. Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettle is a nourishing herb full of vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron and even protein. It is useful for many areas of the body including the urinary tract, liver, digestive tract, reproductive system, and respiratory system. It can be used dried into tea, vinegar infusions and added to dishes.
CAUTION: Nettle must be cooked or dried so that it does not sting, it is also important to harvest nettle before flowering. Use caution when harvesting stinging nettle.
As the colder weather sets in and brings with it chilly nights and runny noses, these seven herbs can be your plant allies in promoting health and wellness all season long. Whether its a warm cup of chamomile tea or spoonful of elderberry syrup, incorporating herbs into your life can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Disclosure
Information offered by AMONG WILD THINGS LLC. on website or social media is for educational purposes only.
We have no medical claim, nor intend to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.
