For herbalists - the Fall Equinox signifies the transition into a new season that is often characterized by harvesting, preparing & medicine making. Fall is the time of year in which we reap all that we have sown, and begin to plant seeds for the coming year ahead. Many herbalists enjoy harvesting and medicine making in alignment with the lunar calendar - the September Harvest Moon is the first full moon of the Fall season and makes an extraordinary time for medicine making.
Fall comes with an abundance - an abundance of plants & herbs, an abundance of opportunities for how we will prepare all that we've grown and an abundance of celebration for all of the work that has been done in the year so far. During the season, as you make your medicine and can or ferment your fruits and vegetables, be sure practice presence and gratitude! After all, it won't be for another year that we get to experience the abundance of harvest.
In Fall it is also important that we take the time to slow down, and a take a deep breath after a year filled with hardwork and anticipation. Between harvesting and medicine making, be sure to find some time to indulge in some deep self care and relaxation. Taking extra special care of our nervous system during this time is of the utmost importance!
Herbal Medicine to Prepare for the Fall Season:
Fire Cider is an immune supporting recipe made from plants such as Horseradish, Garlic, Onions, Ginger & Cayenne! This is a favourite of ours to have on hand during the colder months.
Elderberry Syrup is a natural cough syrup and cold & flu remedy that can be made using the plethora of Elderberries that can be harvested during the Fall season! Add in some warming herbs such as Cinnamon or Ginger for extra flavour and benefit. If you're not quite ready to try your hand at making your own - we've got a small batch of fresh Elderberry Syrup made from locally sourced berries available in the store!
Warming Fall Spice Teas are an excellent beverage to make and consume during the fall! Not only are Fall spices such as Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Cardamom and Anise delicious when brewed as a tea, they are also great for keeping us energetically warm as the weather begins to cool and can help to keep us calm and relaxed. Fall is a reason of rest, and what better way to do so than curling up with a warm cup of tea that exhibits all the flavours of Fall?
Pumpkin Pie Spice is an all-time favourite for many during the Fall - and it's so easy to make at home! Without the added fillers often found in store bought versions, Pumpkin Pie Spice can also be incredibly medicinal! Pumpkin Pie Spice is a simple, beneficial addition to your coffees, baked goods, culinary preparations and more.
Natural Cold & Flu Remedies are a must have as we move into the colder weather, whether it's a tincture or a tea blend having some immune-boosting herbal medicine on hand is never a bad idea! Some of our favourite herbs for cold and flu season are Echinacea, Astragalus, Goldenseal, Propolis and more. Make your own, or come on down to the shop and discover our immense collection of immunity tinctures & teas!
Relaxing Herbal Tea Blends make another great fall beverage! Try creating a blend using nervines such as Chamomile, Milky Oat Tops and Lemon Balm or adaptogens such as Ashwagandha and Holy Basil (Tulsi). This is a simple, delicious and deeply beneficial way to stay warm and care for your nervous system during this wonderful season of rest and relaxation.
We've got all of the dried herbs and materials that you'll need to stock your medicine cabinet with homemade natural remedies in stock at the shop or available online! Happy fall & happy medicine making fellow herbalists.