Five Common Herbs for Winter Wellness

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the concept of living in harmony with the seasons is key to wellness. Winter is naturally Yin, and the cold dark energy of this season beckons at us to slow down. It is because of this, that we have the innate desire to go within. It is a time for introspection, resting and allowing yourself the space to rejuvenate. This contraction allows us to be prepared for the natural burst of energy that is needed come springtime.

 As we draw inward, Winter is also an important time to work on strengthening your immune system so that you can fight off external pathogens when they come knocking. In order for your body to have the energy to protect itself from an external pathogenic invasion, there are some key habits that you can focus on to make sure you have the Qi (energy) to keep yourself from getting sick. For example, make sure that you are getting plenty of sleep, keep your stress levels down and washing your hands regularly. However, if you find yourself feeling like you are coming down with a cold, here are a couple of common Chinese herbs that can help kick it to the curb in no time.

Cinnamon (Gui Zhi)

Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants that help to naturally boost your immunity. In Chinese Medicine, this herb is used to release the exterior and push out potential invading pathogens. It is also warming to help with those winter chills and is specifically used on people who get sick easily to strengthen the immune system.

Ginger (Sheng Jiang)

In studies, ginger has been shown to effectively treat nausea and vomiting. In Chinese Medicine, this herb warms the lungs to help with coughing.  Ginger’s main active component is gingerol, a substance that has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. 

Black Pepper (Hu Jiao)

In Chinese Medicine, black pepper belongs to the category of herbs that warm the interior and expel cold. It is one of the hotter herbs in nature and will literally push the cold right out of you! Black pepper also contains a chemical called piperine that reduces inflammation and pain to help with breathing difficulties.

Clove (Ding Xiang)

Cloves contain a treasure trove of anti-inflammatories which can be helpful for treating sore throat, cough, cold and sinusitis. Chew on raw cloves or make a clove tea to help unblock nasal passages and cool the nasal cavity and throat.

Nutmeg (Rou Dou Kou)

Got a belly ache? Nutmeg can help with that! Nutmeg warms the middle, regulating qi in that part of your body to help with stomach pain. It can also help to reduce insomnia to support you in getting a restful night’s sleep so that your body can take the time it needs to recover.

Recipe: Winter Wellness Chai

Combine all of the above ingredients to make one incredible herbal concoction to boost immunity and kick your cold to the curb!

· 1 whole cinnamon stick

· 6-8 green cardamom pods

· 1 tsp whole black peppercorns

· 3-4 whole cloves

· ½ tsp grated nutmeg

· 2 ½ cups water

· 2 Tbsp grated ginger

Preparation:

1. Combine the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, pepper, and cloves in a mortar and pestle to slightly crush the spices.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine all of the ingredients and bring to a boil over high heat.

3. Reduce to medium heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Let slightly cool and strain.

5. Add your choice of milk and honey to taste. Personally, I like to add coconut milk and a little honey or stevia to sweeten.

Relax and enjoy as the herbs work their magic!

Bonus Herb: Peppermint (Bo He)

Have a sore throat? Make some mint tea with honey! This herb will also help to alleviate your cough, headache, and help to move your Qi to relieve irritability. Also, the cooling nature of peppermint has been shown to reduce fever. Studies have been conducted displaying peppermint’s power to soothe the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Combine all this with the fact that peppermint has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, and we get one very important herb to keep around the kitchen this winter.

Short on Time?

The holiday season presents the challenge of balance, as we continue to push forward with our daily lives but also make time to slow down and appreciate loved ones. If you find yourself busy juggling priorities, I recommend you take a look at my Boost Me! Essential Oil Blend (available in clinic and through our online shop). Containing all of the same ingredients as the winter wellness tea, the Boost Me! roll on is a perfect alternative for anyone trying to stay on top of their self-care while also saving some precious time.