Spring is the time of the year when the earth awakens from her winter and new life bursts forward. In nature, this energy is represented by saps rising and blossoms bursting. In the body, similar energies propel humans out of their winter’s cocoon to take part in new ideas, growth and activities. We can feel drawn to spend more time outdoors.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, spring is associated with the wood element and its organs, the liver and gallbladder. A healthy Liver is like a young sapling, growing strong, yet flowing and flexible. The liver controls the smooth flow of energy and blood throughout the body. If there is an imbalance in the Liver, its related symptoms would be more prevalent during spring, such as allergies, eczema, migraines, irritability, PMS, and digestive issues.
Those who feel worse during spring usually have congested livers because in the winter, the natural tendency is to be less active mentally and physically during a much needed period of restoration. However, when in excess, it can create sluggishness and impair the Liver’s detoxication processes. No manner if one lives in cold Alaska or sunny Florida, the key to stay healthy during spring is liver cleansing.
These spring herbs are both food and medicine. Each herb has its unique action, and combined offer the perfect support to cleanse the Liver and revitalize.
Spring Herbal Tonic Recipe
· 1 Tbsp nettle leaf
· 1 Tbsp dandelion root
· 1 Tbsp burdock root
· 1 Tbsp red clover flowers
· 1 Tbsp lemon balm leaf
· Water
Place the dandelion and burdock roots in a sauce pan with 1 quart of water. Bring to a boil and simmer covered for 20 minutes. Turn off the stove and move the pan out of the hot burner. Add the remainder herbs and keep cover for another 20 minutes. Strain. Drink 3-4 cups daily.
Herbs can be purchased from reputable companies such as Mountain Rose Herbs or Starwest Botanicals.
Nettles (Uritica dioica) is an excellent nutritive tonic high in protein, vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and vitamins A, C and K. It reduces allergies and excess dampness and stagnation that often accumulates during winter.
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is also rich in minerals like calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, folate, copper and manganese, and vitamins C, A, E, K, and B6. It cleans the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, and helps detoxy the blood and reduce inflammation.
Burdock (Arctium lappa) is rich in potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and folate. This herb helps improve the function of both the gallbladder and the liver by aiding the secretion of bile from the gallbladder and increasing the processing of oils by the Liver.
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) is also a nutritive tonic, with many nutrients including calcium, magnesium, chromium, niacin, potassium, phosphorus, thiamine, and vitamin C. It helps clear lymphatic congestion and it gently improves blood circulation.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is very high in antioxidants. An antiviral, mild sedative, and calming herb added here to soothe the Liver.
Would you like to receive customized herbal recommendations for your specific needs? Contact us to schedule a new client consultation. We will be happy to help!
Email: info@holisticharmonyll.com
Phone: 239-688-4585 (Call/Text)
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