herbs to strengthen fortitude

Nettle leaf

Learning to work with herbs has been one of the biggest sources of support in my life. I truly believe that the earth provides us with near everything we need to live healthfully. This is no knock against modern medicine, as pharmaceuticals and medical care has helped me many times. Herbal and plant medicine, used in conjunction with staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and eating mindfully, is best used for preventative care and long term holistic nourishment. Here are some of my favorite herbal allies that I use on a regular basis.

• Nettle - An all-around restorative, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying herb, powerful and full of nutrients like iron, vitamin C, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins.
• Tulsi (holy basil) - an adaptogen and anti-inflammatory herb great for anxiety and digestion. I drink this pretty much every day - it lifts the spirits while simultaneously calming nerves.
• Raspberry leaf - a nutritive herb full of minerals and antioxidants, raspberry leaf is used for help with digestion and diarrhea. It is probably best known for helping folks with womb health, as it supports the uterus and reproductive action.
• Turmeric - an amazing ally with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Also helps with blood-clotting for those with heavy periods! For best results, take with fat and black pepper
• Ginger - Great for nausea, digestion, circulation, and with dealing with cold or flu symptoms. Antimicrobial and also great for helping with cramps!
• Garlic - For real for real nature’s miracle plant, antimicrobial, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory. Supports the immune system, circulation, and cold and flu symptoms. 

Do you notice that many of the plants mentioned help with digestion? The gut is known as the second brain, and is where most of our serotonin is produced! So being mindful of what you eat is essential to both physical and emotional health. If you have dietary restrictions, chronic health conditions, or a sensitive stomach, be sure to take care to prepare ahead of time by meal planning, scheduling grocery shopping visits (try not to shop when you are hungry/tired/sick), and asking others for help with cooking if you need it! For example, I like to make a big batch of nettle, raspberry leaf, and tulsi tea that lasts me for a couple days so I don’t have to make it every day. Since I’m in the van, I also try to make bigger batches of food when I am at a friend’s place or when I am housesitting so I have access to an oven to make meal preparation easier. 

Please recognize that I am not a doctor, nor do I claim that anything here can cure you of any ailments. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, and/or a certified herbalist before moving forward with any health plan! 

This is by no means an exhaustive list (heck, I could do a whole post just on mushrooms!). Would you like to see more posts like this from me? Leave a comment, and let us know what you think!