As we move into the colder months of the year in North America, immunity and mental wellness are top of mind. The days are shorter and preparing for the holidays can sometimes prove more stressful than exciting. Incorporating these grounding herbs and habits for winter wellness can support you throughout the season.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your health care practitioner before adding any new herbs to your wellness routine.
Herbs for Winter Wellness
Reishi
This functional mushroom is a nerve tonic and adaptogen. This means that it supports the nervous system by calming us down and helping us feel grounded. Reishi also has immuno-modulating properties. It fortifies our immune system by soothing inflammation.
Astragalus
Astragalus has been used medicinally in China for over 2,000 years. Its immuno-modulating, antibacterial and antiviral properties make it a top preventative choice for colds and respiratory infections. Astragalus is also a potent adaptogen that helps our bodies better adapt to physical and emotional stress.
Find Reishi and Astragalus in our Immune Depth tincture blend.
St. John’s Wort
This herbal ally has a history of use dating as far back as Ancient Greece. It’s packed with antioxidants and contains antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Herbalists prescribe St. John's Wort for a variety of ailments ranging from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) to seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This makes it a great herb for the colder and shorter days of winter.
Find St. John’s Wort in our Uplifted Spirits tincture blend.
Warming Spices
Some of our favourite spices do more than just remind us of the approaching holiday season. Cinnamon, Cloves, Ginger and Turmeric have a warming effect on the body. They can support circulation and digestion while easing inflammation.
Find Ginger and Turmeric in our Golden Mylk Herbal Latte.
Habits for Winter Wellness
Daily Movement
Keep your body moving this winter to support circulation, digestion and mental wellness. Even if it’s a gentle stretch or walk around the neighbourhood, aim for at least 30 minutes per day! If this feels like a lot, try breaking it up into three 10-minute segments throughout the day.
Stay Connected
This habit can look different for everyone. Extroverted folks might hate missing opportunities to get out and be social, while introverts might thrive on staying home. Whether you prefer to meet up with friends for a hot cocoa or video chat with family, staying connected is a big key to mental wellness during this season.
Enjoy Downtime
Don’t forget to rest! Hibernation isn’t just for animals in the wild. The shorter days of winter call for slowing down our routines and focusing on extra self-care. Getting cozy with your favourite Harmonic Arts Herbal Latte and a good book can help you recharge between holiday gatherings.
Broths & Vitamin D
Many of us are deficient in Vitamin D, especially during the winter months. Taking a supplement can give your immune systems a boost while supporting mood and mind.
Sipping on nourishing broths can give your digestive system a break from richer meals. This supports gut health by soothing inflammation. Try our tasty broth recipe below!
Herbal Immunity Broth
Try this plant-forward broth with medicinal herbs, seaweed and immune-boosting mushrooms.
What You’ll Need
- 1 Onion, roughly chopped
- 1 Leek, roughly chopped
- 1 Head of Garlic, sliced in half
- 3-4 Carrots, chopped
- 4 Celery Stalks, chopped
- 1 TB Peppercorns
- Handful Fresh Thyme
- Handful Fresh Sage
- 3 Bay Leaves
- 1 Cup Shiitake Mushrooms
- 1 TSP Harmonic Arts Reishi Mushroom Powder or 3 Reishi Mushroom Slices
- 1 TB Harmonic Arts Sea-Veg Blend
- 1-2 TB Astragalus Root
- 1-2 TB Stinging Nettle
- 1-2 TB Burdock Root
- 2-3 Inches of fresh Ginger Root
- 1-2 Inches of fresh Turmeric Root
- 1 TB Apple Cider Vinegar
- 4 Litres Filtered Water
- Optional: For a bone broth version, add bones of your choice.
How to Make Your Herbal Immunity Broth
- Scrub veggies clean, halve onions and garlic bulb, and chop celery, carrots and shiitake mushrooms into small chunks.
- Add all ingredients to a large stock pot and cover with 4 litres of water. Cover and bring to a boil. Once boiling, turn temperature down to medium heat to simmer for 1-2 hours.
- Remove from stove and allow to cool. Once cool, strain through a sieve into another pot.
- Pour into sterilized glass mason jars, cap and refrigerate. Store in the fridge for 1-2 weeks or freeze for up to a year to enjoy through the winter. Note: if freezing, fill glass jars ¾ full to avoid glass from breaking.
Curious to discover more products for building immunity and resilience through winter? Check out our Immune System Collection here, and our Stress Support collection here.
