Welcome to (almost) winter!!!

As we approach the shortest day of the year I hope you are taking time to rest and nourish and enjoy the slowing down phase of the year. As the cold weather creeps in and dark days deepen... our bodies and our brains become more quiet, internal, cozy, comfort seeking. We instinctively begin to seek a slower pace, hearty foods, warmth, comfort, fire, light in the dark.

And like so much of our experience as humans, our society/culture is in conflict with our natural needs and desires. Many people find the upcoming holiday season to be stressful and busy. Whenever, however you can, take moments to honour the slowing down. To enjoy some comfort and warmth and quiet introspection. One great way to do this is with the assistance of our plant allies!

One of the first things I get asked is how to add herbs into everyday life? And what herbs to use?

I am of the opinion that herbs help us heal ourselves, they are not a pharmaceutical drug used to alleviate symptoms, but instead are living beings that can assist us in healing ourselves. We can improve our health naturally. Our bodies are made to heal themselves. And yes, there is a time and place for pharmaceuticals/western medicine, ABSOLUTELY. And also... we can look after our own health, whatever that means for us, through a holistic approach that may include: nourishing foods, exercise, nature, therapy, and certainly herbs, etc.

**As always, this is NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. Please speak to a health care professional about any medical concerns.**

My top 5 ways to include herbs into everyday life:

1. Fresh or Dried "Culinary" Herbs. Probably the easiest, and tastiest way to add herbs into your life is through food. Culinary herbs are packed with micronutrients, antioxidants, and have countless health benefits. Rosemary is rich in antioxidants that prevent cell damage, and has brain boosting compounds that can help keep us sharp. Thyme is high in Vitamins C and A, and manganese, as well as flavonoids that are amazing antioxidants. Sage is known for its anti-inflammatory properties-- it contains flavonoids that may help prevent cell damage.

2. Herbal Teas. One of my personal favourites are herbal teas. There is something so soothing about a warm cup of aromatic herbs. Teas can be used to help soothe the digestive system, calm nerves, aid in sleep, boost energy and more. Try nettle and mint for an afternoon pick me up, or the Soothe My Frazzeled Nerves blend for when you need to wind down and chill out.

3. Herb Infused Oils. These oils (I exclusively use organic extra virgin olive oil) are a luxurious and soothing way to add herbs into your daily routines. I recommend trying body oiling. Which is just as it sounds, rubbing herbal oils all over your body, letting it soak in for 10-20 minutes and then enjoying a warm shower or bath. Body oiling self massage is amazing for our lymphatic system, for reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep, calming the nervous system and boosting skin health and more. Herb infused oils I recommend trying for body oiling include: calendula, rosemary, mugwort and rose.

4. Oxymels. These are a mix of apple cider vinegar and honey infused with herbs. Oxymels are an excellent way of extracting the nourishing and medicinal properties of herbs without using alcohol. They are tangy and sweet. Add a spoonful into sparkling water, water, tea, cocktails, or add into a salad dressing or drizzle over roast veggies or meat. These are versatile, tasty and potent. One amazing oxymel for the winter season is Fire Cider, this spicy-sweet-sour and savoury potion is a powerhouse of herbs, spices, garlic, horseradish and more-- made for boosting the immune system, aiding digestion, clearing congestion and fighting colds and flus.

5. Tinctures. I love tinctures. They are a simple and very concentrated herbal medicine. There are as many tinctures as there are herbs. And many uses for them depending on the herb or combination of herbs tinctured. I use tinctures for everything from helping stop nosebleeds (Yarrow Tincture applied topically), to relieving menstrual cramps (Willow Bark and California Poppy tinctures), to calming my nervous system (Milky Oats Tincture.

What are five go-to herbs I would recommend for most people?

1. Peppermint. Aids digestion, can help relieve gas, soothes the nervous system, can help with headaches. It tastes great and most people find it easy to enjoy. Use as a tea or add to food... tastes great added into salads.

2. Stinging Nettle. This plant gets a bad rep for its stinging self-defence mechanism. However, nettle is an AMAZING plant.

Nettles are a nourishing herbal food very high in iron, calcium, magnesium, proteins and more An excellent remedy for anemia, low blood pressure and general weakness Nettles help build healthy blood, bones, joints and skin. Nettles have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic properties, and can help alleviate seasonal allergies.

Fresh leaves (handle with gloves) can be steamed or boiled, once cooked there is no more sting. Eat as you would spinach... but tastes better! Nettle tea is another crowd favourite. Nettle tincture is an easy to take allergy support.

3. Calendula. I love calendula infused olive oil. As an oil or a salve it is used topically to treat countless skin issues: dry skin, eczema, rashes, minor wounds, burns, and more. Calendula is my most used herbal oil.

4. Scullcap. This herb is in the mint family, and is a gentle nervous system herb (nervine) that is suitable for all. Scullcap helps calm the nervous system. Helpful for insomnia and chronic stress. A good remedy for tension headaches. It is a herb that I like to add to tea blends such as Soothe my Frazzled Nerves, or to take as a tincture.

5. Cinnamon. This is a common culinary spice that I believe is undervalued for its healing properties. Cinnamon is warming to our constitution. It is useful as a digestive and circulatory stimulant. Perfect for the winter season. Helps the body manage blood sugar levels. It also has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties and can help reduce inflammation. It is super easy to use as a spice... add it to smoothies, your morning coffe or tea, sprinkled on yogurt etc.

Bonus:

--Any and all culinary herbs!

-- Any herbs that you intuitively feel drawn to might be exactly what you need... of course always do your research and speak with a herbalist about herbs that you are unfamiliar with.