Winter Wellness

As the North Wind settles on our mountain for a deep, cold winter, we stock the fires of good health. We want to retain our body warmth as much body as possible so we can use our energy for digestion, circulation and immunity. If we get chilled frequently in the winter, our energy goes to keeping us warm instead of fueling the many other important modes of body function. To retain body heat, take extra care to protect your head and feet; wrap them in wool and keep socks and hats on inside until you feel a little too warm. Focus on keeping warm by boosting digestion and circulation. Prepare all drinks and food warm and include circulatory and digestive spices such chilies, pepper and spices.

The cold and flu are prevalent at this time, which can be taxing on the immune system. To list few of our favorite herbs to incorporate for supporting the immune system below. When sniffles start circulating in our house, I leave a pot on the wood stove filled with thyme and oregano because the volatile oils help to cleanse the air and keep us breathing deeply of perpetual health.

Here are a few of my favorite herbs for winter:

Oregano

Anti-Viral + Anti-Bacterial

Supports Digestion + Circulation

Oregano is a powerful anti-viral and anti-bacterial for the cold and flu season. It is a potent boost for digestion and increases circulation. Check out our Savory Herb Spice blend for a daily dose of cooking with oregano. Our Homemade Ravioli is an excellent winter recipe using oregano.

Thyme

Anti-Viral + Anti-Bacteria

Eases a Dry Cough

Increases Circulation

Thyme is the strongest anti-viral + anti-bacterial herb and is one of my favorites to use during the cold and flu season. Thyme has volatile oils that are excellent at easing a dry cough and they help to clear mucus from the nose. Throw thyme in your soups or in a pot to boil on top of your wood stove to cleanse the air. This herb helps us keep our body warm by increasing circulation and boosting digestion. Check out my Bone Both Recipe for a winter wellness ritual.

Chili

Boosts Metabolism

Decreases Inflammation

Tis’ the season for the spice of life! Chiles and peppers are best consumed in the winter months. They boosts metabolism and circulation which keeps the blood flowing with warmth. Chiles are high in antioxidants which decrease inflammation and relieve pain. Check out my Golden Masala Pepper Sauce Recipe to get inspired.

Curious about a more rarely used herb for winter?…. read the Mystic of Mistletoe below.

Mystic of Mistletoe

Read more here!