The natural world has its own seasonal flow of energy that releases what is no longer needed, creates space for growth, cultivates energy, and takes rest after the hard work is done. Alternatively, our modern world can coax us into a cycle of constant productivity, leaving us feeling fatigued and disconnected. Using herbal medicine in a way that aligns with the seasons can help us feel our best while nurturing our connection to the abundance and flow of the natural world that surrounds us.
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.
Winter: Rest and Relaxation
Just as nature lies dormant in winter, we are invited to pause and prepare. Align with this season by prioritizing rest and sleep, giving your body the time and space it needs to recover from a busy year and prepare for the fresh energy of spring.
Hops
Herbalists often describe hops as a plant to counter intense personalities and nervous exhaustion. Hops slow down the mind, shifting it into an easygoing state. This herbal ally also relaxes the body into letting go, promoting deep sleep (1).
Passionflower
Passionflower promotes sleep through its action on the cerebral cortex. This is the area of the brain responsible for reasoning, thought, and perception. By helping to slow down an overactive mind, passionflower nurtures feelings of calm, allowing the body to relax into sleep (2).
Skullcap
Skullcap is a potent herb that can be used for both short-term and long-term sleep troubles. It promotes a calm mind while acting on the entire nervous system. Skullcap relaxes tense muscles, settles an overstimulated sensory system, and eases irritated mental states (3).
These herbs can be found within our Feel Calm Tincture Blend. Explore other soothing products within our Relax + Sleep Wellness Collection.
Spring: Cleanse and Detoxify
The bright energy of spring is known as a time of renewal. We can mirror the natural flow of this season within our own bodies by leaning on herbal remedies that support detoxification and cultivate vitality for the warmer months ahead.
Milk Thistle Seed
Milk Thistle is used in herbal medicine to protect liver cells from inflammation and free radical damage. This herb is packed with flavonoids that stimulate the production of antioxidants (4). In TCM, milk thistle acts as a ‘coolant’ that keeps the liver from overheating while supporting the elimination of toxins and inflammation.
Burdock Root
Burdock is known in herbal medicine for its ability to purify the blood and strengthen the lymphatic system (5). Studies show that it can detoxify the liver against a variety of harmful chemicals and heavy metals by stimulating liver enzyme function (6).
Dandelion Root
Dandelion is a bitter herb that stimulates liver function. It can combat damage caused by free-radicals and prevent fibrosis of the liver from taking form (7). While all parts of the plant can be used medicinally, dandelion roots contain vital nutrients and compounds.
Find these herbs in our Liver TLC Tincture Blend or explore other detoxifying products within our Cleanse Wellness Collection.
Summer: Energy and Vitality
In Chinese medicine, summer is associated with the fire element, which represents Yang energy, light, warmth, and activity. This seasonal shift invites us to harness this vibrant energy for creativity, joy, fulfillment, and manifestation.
Rosemary
The active compounds in rosemary increase neurotransmitter levels, including dopamine, serotonin, and GABA (8). When in balance, these important neurotransmitters maintain feelings of peace and contentment.
Bladderwrack
Bladderwrack is packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Its high mineral content, including iodine, assists proper nerve function and communication (9). Iodine directly supports the thyroid gland, which is responsible for feelings of vitality. It helps to combat fatigue, weakness, depression and overall lethargy.
Eleuthero
Eleuthero contains an active compound that stimulates the release of acetylcholine. This is a neurotransmitter that helps moderate motivation, attention, and sleep (10). This herb gently energizes the body and mind while promoting feelings of clarity and vitality.
These herbs can be found within our Uplifted Spirits Tincture Blend. Explore other mood-boosting products in our Mind + Mood Wellness Collection.
Autumn: Immunity and Resilience
Autumn's falling leaves remind us of the beauty of letting go, and that doing so is necessary for renewal. It’s a time to honour what we have, express gratitude for what we’ve achieved, and to prepare for the rest called in by winter.
Chaga
Packed with antioxidants that act as a defense system, chaga works both preventatively and restoratively to build optimal immune health. The polysaccharides and beta-glucans within chaga work to modulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, and help ward off infection and viruses (11).
Reishi
Reishi has been used for thousands of years within traditional healing systems to fortify immune function. Like chaga, this mushroom works both preventatively and as a restorative tonic for a wide variety of ailments. Reishi gently modulates the immune system over time, helping to boost the body’s natural defenses (12)
Turkey Tail
Turkey tail extracts have been shown to regenerate white blood cells and stimulate the activity and creation of T-cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells (13). The bioactive compounds within turkey tail are anti-pathogenic and anti-viral for a variety of harmful organisms (14).
Find these functional mushrooms within our 5 Mushroom Tincture or explore other immune-boosting products in our Immunity Wellness Collection.
