Preparing for the Spring

Seems like an odd topic to present when the weather has already been spring-ish....

... and yet, as a case in point, some of us are starting to feel the stirrings of spring due to the unseasonably warm weather.

Usually, near the end of February, many people begin to feel a sense of restlessness, agitation, irritation, 'cabin fever' as it were... even if there's snow on the ground, the itch to get outside become apparent.

Or the dreaded spring colds and flus start to surface.

It is quite possible that our bodies are feeling the shift in the seasons before our calendars acknowledge it, and this is perfectly natural.

Before the crocuses and tulips become visible in the ground, the bulbs and seeds are stirred into life, summoning great stores of energy accumulated during the late summer and fall in order to sprout through their casings and make their way through frozen ground up to the sunlight.

This same vigorous energy is within our own biology, and it can manifest in different ways for different people - though rarely is it acknowledged for being appropriate and natural.

Oriental medical theories believe that the liver and gall bladder are at their height of activity this time of year, and often why cleansing is recommended, to support the body in releasing the accumulations of the winter season ... spring cleaning, if you will. And it is our inherent 'spring cleaning' mechanism that often brings on whoppers of a head cold, or other illness, in the body's attempt to clean house.

We invite you to join us on Sunday, February 26th as we present a mini-symposium on how to navigate the shift into spring with ease.

Please visit our events page for more details!

Herb of the Month - Dandelion

(This week's post is by Cindy Ayton, of Earthfarmacia)

Herb of the Month

Dandelion (Taraxacum Officinalis)
Parts used- Leaf, Root and Flowers

One of my favorite little herbs!

I believe Dandelion is one of the great tonic herbs of all times. The entire plant is the ultimate spring tonic being both restorative and rejuvenating.

The root is a wonderful digestive bitter - it stimulates the liver, increases the flow of bile,cleansing the system gently. The root is also a very safe and effective diuretic as it tones the kidneys, and gently ridding the body of water. The leaves are high in vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium,iron, vitamin A and C. Adding the leaves to your favorite salad or casserole, is a delicious and nutritious idea, and a great way to reap the benefits of this wondrous little plant.

The roots can be added to stir fries, soups and decocted as a tonic tea. I use the tinctured leaf and root every spring for 4 to 6 weeks for what i call my "spring cleaning".

Favorite Liver Tonic Tea

3 parts nettles
2 part dandelion leaf
2 part red clover
1 part alfalfa
4 Tablespoon of herb per quart of boiling water, steep 20 minutes.. drink 2 to 4 cups a day!

Enjoy!