Winter Coming

Winter is soon to come. The roots have been dug, garlic planted, wood stacked and ready. this is the "going within" time of year at least after the holiday season. I love to research and study and play with make new formulas.
But it is a time of stillness. And there are plants that specific nourish that quiet inner strength in us, that gives us the ability to stand on our own feet while still staying in relationship. this is a good time of year to gather strength and cultivate ourselves, just like the seeds waiting in the earth for spring's emergence.

​Here are a few of my favorite go to plants in my winter. Not so much for just staying immune strong but  as also to keep me calm and truly well in body, heart and mind.

Ashwaganda because it is strenthening but calming and tension relieving. it aids sleep which I think is so important in this season of renewal.
Reishi mushrooms ( and the other medicinals also ) are useful for calming the spirit and bringing it home to the heart.   
Chaga is a great immune strengthening plant, particularly keeps me warm outside. I feel stronger when I drink it.
Maybe that is because of its association with Russia where it is a common winter tea at least in rural areas.
​Nettles are my first wild plant in spring but I drink it all winter like it was a nourishing, chlorophyll rich nutrient concentrate. I feel like it builds blood which wupports healthy energy.
Shatavari and Marshmallow are also nourishing kidney nourishing herbs that help keep us juicy inside and lubricate. sometimes I add Oats, a wonderful nerve tonic.
Cinnamon, Ginger, Turmeric, Cardamom and Licorice keep us warm but also spark our senses with their aroma and taste. Too much time indoors can slow me down and make me tight. these herbs lift the spirit because they are spicy, colorful and tasty and they certainly help keep things loose and lively. 

if you have other herbs you love for winter, please email and share your thoughts.
Be Well,
​Bonnie