This time is the in between. The in between can be uncomfortable because we know what is ahead of us, and we want to get there already. The muck of the in between can feel messy. It can feel like one thing after the next, like everything is weighing you down, like it is taking a long time. Instead of propelling ourselves forward into real spring, what if we lingered in the mud a little longer? What if instead of distracting ourselves from anything uncomfortable, we dug our toes a little deeper into the soft Earth to uncover the seeds breaking free from their shells beneath the surface?
In order to “dry up the muck”, we must examine ourselves in an authentic way. Where are our relationships sticky? In what areas of our lives have we gotten stagnant? How can we live more fully in ways that light us up?
We are reflections of the Earth. Time and time again, I see how my physical or emotional experience is mirrored in the expression of the season around me. This is because we aren’t separate from Nature. Our bones are mineral, our blood is river, our skin is soil, our digestion is fire. This is portrayed in traditional medicine systems, from Ayurveda to Traditional Chinese Medicine to Unani Tibb. The understanding is we are made up of the elements, our environments, always seeking balance within Nature’s influence.
Physically, the late winter, early spring, can be a time of increased stagnation. A feeling of lethargy, sluggishness, depression, slow digestion, skin conditions, headaches, infections are all common during this time of the year. The past couple of weeks almost everyone is coming into the apothecary with boggy, thick respiratory conditions. There is a physical representation of “muck” season, which can be likened to the concept of “dampness”.
In Ayurveda, this season is considered Kapha. The doshic/elemental representation of the combination of Earth & Water. We can see this in the “mud”. The qualities of cold and damp are more pervasive than in summer for example, where (especially in our arid climate) the qualities of hot and dry reign. Cold and damp often lead to stagnation and many of the symptoms listed above.
The goal is to help support our bodies in finding balance by emphasizing the opposite qualities as the current season. For this reason, it is typically helpful to avoid cold and damp foods during this time in excess. Examples of cold and damp foods are dairy (unless balanced with the addition of warming spices, think: chai), nut butters, bread/baked goods, sugar, oily meats, cold/iced beverages. Instead, we want to focus on foods that help to stoke digestive fire in order to dry up dampness, and help to break up stagnation. Warm cooked foods, steamed veggies, ample good quality protein, colorful, fibrous foods, pickled veggies & aromatic herbs are great to incorporate.
From an herbal perspective we are looking for herbs that drain dampness, clarify/break up stagnation, and uplift the mind/spirit. Here are some of my favorite allies to lean on during this in between season.
Warming aromatic herbs help to increase circulation, move stagnation, and stoke digestive fire. These herbs tend to be warm and dry, which help to counterbalance the overarching muck. Warming aromatics also have the ability to uplift mood, awaken the senses and bring us more fully into our bodies- what better medicine for this time?
Interestingly, many of these herbs also happen to be seeds, which feel particularly kismet to work with during the time of year when the seeds are just starting to stir underground.
Bitter herbs drain dampness. They help to reduce stagnancy in the liver and digestive system by promoting the secretion of bile to better emulsify fats. When we actually digest our fats, they don’t cause dampness, and this is one of the reasons bitters can be so helpful. The bitter flavor is also extremely grounding. They help bring you into your body with clarity. Bitters tend to be cold, so consider pairing them with warming aromatics, until later in the spring when the weather warms.
Uplifting nervines help to stimulate the senses, elevate mood while also calming and centering us. This is important because while sluggishness or dampness in the mind might look like depression, we don’t want to overstimulate ourselves with harsh stimulants. It is important to stay grounded amidst the seasonal change and the in between. These herbs will help uplift, while also centering you so that you can navigate any of the uncomfortable feelings mud season is bringing up.
Anything that helps to move stagnation will support you during this time. Consider incorporating some of the following:
Hopefully this gives you some direction on ways to support yourself through the mud season. Remember, the Earth absorbs the water only as much as it is able to, and then lets the rest run off into rivers and reservoirs. We can't take all of the water in at once, and the muck that we are in as only ever as much as we can handle. It may feel like a lot, you will get through this! Rest assured, spring will always greet us on the other side.
]]>The herbs that we lean on during an illness are sometimes different than the herbs we use to keep us from getting sick in the first place. Their focus is on boosting immunity and directly addressing the specific symptoms that are presenting.
This is Part 2 in our series on herbs for immune health, your complete guide to the herbs you need when you actually are sick. We cover herbs to use at the initial signs of illness, the various stages of fever, as well as how to address common symptoms like sinus congestion, wet cough, dry cough, and sore throats.
If you are interested in learning exactly what to do to prevent an illness from taking hold in the first place, read Herbs for Immune Support: Part 1-Prevention.
What is the first symptom most of us get when our body is fighting off an illness? That tickle in the back of the throat. Maybe it feels sore when you swallow or rough when you talk. This is the perfect time to work with stronger immune stimulants and anti-virals to nip it in the bud!
Immune stimulants like Echinacea have become popularized and widely known. However, with the mass commercialization of this powerful plant, some of the nuance of when to use its medicine has been lost. Because of its stimulating nature, it is not recommended for long periods of time or daily use… see more on this in Part 1.
If the illness has taken hold for more than 3 days, Echinacea doesn’t do as much for “boosting” the immune system. At this point, later in an illness, Echinacea’s role is to promote lymphatic clearance. It may still help you get over it quicker and may help move congestion or aches from a fever.
Immuno-stim Throat Spray- This throat spray not only has our favorite immune stimulant, Echinacea, but it also contains several antiviral herbs like Usnea, Propolis, Yerba Mansa and Osha to halt the growth of viruses in the throat. It is tried and true by our community, many of whom swear by it to keep them from getting sick at the first signs.
Dosage at onset of illness: 2-3 sprays in throat, 3-8x daily
Immense Defense- Our famous formula for halting or helping you get over an illness quicker. It contains immune stimulants like Echinacea & Myrrh. It also has Milk Thistle, Red Root and Poke Root to support lymphatic clearance to move the virus out of the body quicker and lessen symptoms of congestion, aches and pains.
Dosage at onset of illness: 3 full droppers, 3-6x daily
Dosage after 3 days into an illness: 2-3 full droppers, 3x daily
Ultra Echinacea- If Echinacea is really calling your name and you want the best extraction possible, go for our Ultra Echinacea. Best used at the onset of illness in high doses, this will help boost immunity and action of white blood cells to engulf pathogens. We prepare ours in a double extraction process to obtain not only the alcohol soluble tingly alkamides, but also the water soluble immunomodulating polysaccharides for optimal immune benefits!
Dosage at onset of illness: 3-4 full droppers, 3-6x daily
Okay, so now you’re past the point of the initial tickle in the throat into full blown cold/flu. From a vitalist herbalist perspective, at this stage our main focus is in supporting the body’s innate ability to heal. We do this by addressing symptoms as needed to promote comfort, while you rest and ride it out.
Here are the most common symptoms associated with viral illness and what to do to address them.
While it is never comfortable to deal with the icky sticky sick goo we call mucous, it is an important aspect of the immune system. Mucous contains antibodies and helps to kill and wash away pathogens.
Especially during an active illness like cold or flu, it is best not to suppress mucous with decongestants but encourage its flow. This will not only support the body’s overall immune system and recovery, but it ultimately help you get over the congestion quicker.
Steam Inhalation Treatment: Our Steam Inhalation Treatment is one of my favorite remedies for sinus congestion because it not only helps support circulation to the mucous membranes, but it also delivers moisture through the steam. Antimicrobial essential oils from the whole plants are carried on the steam and are met directly with your respiratory tissues to help kill pathogens in the respiratory system.
Dosage/directions: Bring 6-8 cups water to boil remove from heat, add 4 tbsp of Steam Inhalation Treatment, once the temperature is comfortable, sit over the bowl and trap steam with a towel so that you are breathing in the steam. Once you are finished steaming, you can strain the herbs and drink the remaining liquid as a tea for extra benefits.
Steam 1-2x daily during acute illness.
Marshmallow Cold Infusion: Demulcent herbs like Marshmallow root help our bodies hold onto moisture. When the main goal is staying hydrated during an illness, drinking a cold infusion of Marshmallow can be really supportive.
Dosage/directions: Add 4 tbsp Marshmallow Root (purchase at your local apothecary or call in your order at Dancing Willow Herbs 970-247-1654) to a quart sized mason jar, fill to the top with room temperature water, stir and cover with a lid. Let sit overnight or for at least 4 hours, strain and drink throughout the day.
1 quart daily during acute illness.
Fire Cider: You know how that soup with lots of garlic and spicy chillies tastes especially good when you are sick? Pungent, spicy flavors are typically antimicrobial, immune stimulating substances. They also help to stimulate circulation and help promote movement & flow of mucous… which is our ultimate goal (next to staying hydrated) when sick. Fire Cider can be really helpful at promoting movement of mucous, especially when it feels blocked and congested.
Dosage/directions: Take 1 tsp straight, add to a little bit of water and take it like a shot, or add to hot water, broth or soup.
1-2 tsp, 3-6x daily during acute illness.
Much like sinus congestion, a cough is the body’s innate wisdom at play, designed to expel infectious agents bound up in mucous out of the body. Especially in the case of a wet cough, our goal is to support the body in expectorating and getting the mucus out of the lungs. It is best to avoid cough suppressing herbs (antitussives), such as Wild Cherry Bark, unless the cough is interfering with sleep. When the goal in a wet cough is to support the removal of mucous, antitussives are counteractive… but they may be necessary to help someone sleep. This takes precedence because sleep will ultimately help support the body in healing more than any herb ever could! If this is the case, use Wild Cherry Bark before bed or nap times exclusively.
LNG Ease: LNG Ease is our best formula for when you have a lower respiratory infection. It contains herbs which are powerful expectorants, but it also contains herbs which support lung capacity which can help you breathe deeper and more comfortably when you are ill.
Dosage: 3 full droppers, 3-4x daily during acute illness
Herbal Cough Syrup: An expectorant formula that will help dry up a wet cough, while also soothing the cough reflex. Its antimicrobial nature will support immunity and open lung capacity. Best taken when a wet cough is preventing you from sleeping.
Dosage: 1 tsp before bed or nap times
A dry cough is approached differently, as our main superstar- mucous, is not present. When mucous is present, our goal is to remove it from the body. In the case of a dry cough, respiratory tissues become irritated and trigger the cough reflex.
Calm a Cough Tea: This tea contains Wild Cherry Bark, an excellent antitussive for soothing the cough reflex. It has Marshmallow root, our superstar demulcent to help bring moisture to the lungs/throat and soothe the cough reflex by reducing irritation in the tissues. Paired with lung tonics like Mullein and Coltsfoot, this is our go-to formula for a dry cough.
Dosage: 2 cups of tea, 2-3x daily. Add honey or lemon for extra soothing support.
If your sore throat persists and becomes more than that initial tickle warning sign of illness, some of these herbal strategies may come in handy. Sore throats are more commonly caused by viral infections. However, it is important to distinguish if you have Streptococcus bacterial infection if the sore throat lingers for more than a week.
Throat Ease Tea: Throat Ease is our tea blend designed to address not only the symptoms associated with a sore throat, but also promote localized immunity to help you get over it quicker. Marshmallow and Licorice are demulcents that helps soothe and bring moisture to the throat. Calendula and Sage are both antiviral and enhance immune activity directly in the mucous membranes of the throat.
Dosage: 2 cups of tea, 2-3x daily. Add honey or lemon for extra soothing support.
While fevers are really uncomfortable, from a vitalist herbalist perspective, they really are the body’s innate wisdom helping you get over the illness quicker. There are important phases of a fever, which require varying herbal support.
The first stage of a fever is when you may feel cold, shivery, with an aversion to cold or wind. During this phase, your body closes the pores to prevent sweating and heat loss to elevate your temperature above your typical baseline in order to kill the virus. During this stage, it is important to support the body’s natural inclination. Instead of using herbs or substances that reduce a fever, this is when we want to utilize herbs that will help increase body temperature. Staying warm and bundled with blankets, warm liquids and fasting will help support the body to move through this phase quicker.
Once you break through to a higher temperature and into stage 2, you will notice your skin will become hot and dry. During this stage we don’t necessarily want to reduce the temperature (unless someone is dehydrated), but instead we seek to utilize herbs that will open the pores to promote sweating called relaxing diaphoretics. It is critical to stay hydrated here, consistently drinking lukewarm or room temperature teas or water with minerals.
During this phase your temperature will start toggling back to a normal range. It is critical that you don’t do too much, and keep resting. Be mindful to stay warm, and consider including only easy to digest foods like broths and soups. In traditional cultures, it is understood that the period of recovery should be at least the length of the days of active fever. We will talk more on this in Part 3… what to do to support yourself after an illness, to avoid lingering flu-like symptoms… but rest comes first and foremost here.
With this resource at your disposal, I hope you feel more empowered to trust the innate wisdom of your immune system and use herbs to support the process. If you ever have questions or need support, feel free to call us. We would be happy to put together herbal packages for pickup, or quick shipment during cases of acute cold/flu.
Keep your eye out for Part 3 where we will discuss all things recovery- how to support your body after you have been sick to avoid lingering symptoms.
Stay healthy out there!
]]>With the increased popularity, came confusion & overwhelm, as the sheer amount of herbal formulas for immune support engulfed the marketplace. In our apothecary alone, we have over 15 different herbal formulas that are supportive to the immune system.
But, how are you supposed to differentiate all of these herbs and herbal products? When would you choose to use Elderberry over Echinacea? Medicinal mushrooms or powerful antimicrobials like Goldenseal?
I am beginning a series of blog posts designed to demystify the sea of medicinal herbs for immune support. Once compiled together, these writings will be your complete guide on what herbs to use for prevention, during & after an acute viral illness. This entry, part one, will cover herbs that help us keep the bugs away in the first place!
Prevention is always the best place to start when taking care of your immune system. Building a healthy immune response requires more than taking herbal formulas. A healthy lifestyle, with adequate sleep, appropriate movement, and reduction of stress, while simple, will render the best foundation for your body to prevent viruses from invading your cells in the first place.
In addition to the lifestyle factors, it would be a major oversight on my part if I didn’t mention the importance of protein for immune health. Most people are severely under eating protein. Most modern protein researchers claim that the RDA is a gross underestimate of the protein we actually need to function in a healthy body. The amount of protein I seek to help client’s reach is 1g per lb of ideal body weight. This daily intake of protein takes a conscious effort for most people to reach, but it has changed the lives of my clients and myself in ways you may not expect. In addition to balanced hormones, replenished nervous system, healthier insulin resistance markers like weight, eating enough protein has a deep immunomodulating effect. It helps to not only prevent viral illness, but will help you recover from an illness quicker.
Okay, back to herbs! There are 4 categories of herbs which can best help prevent viral illness- immunomodulating, antioxidant, daily antimicrobials and gentle immune stimulants.
I mentioned this term earlier, but what does it really mean?
An under active immune response may present as the person who gets every bug that goes around, it takes forever to recover, and they have lingering symptoms after most of the illness resolves. An overactive immune response may present as autoimmunity, excessive inflammation, or allergies.
Immunomodulating herbs are generally considered immune tonics. They build the strength of the immune system over time. These are my favorite category of herbs to take on a daily basis for immune health because they help to train and make your immune system stronger without being too over stimulating. They tend to be neutral in their energetics and are deeply nourishing.
Because of their deep action on the immune system, when you take these herbs during an infection they could push the illness deeper into your body. Meaning, it may make your symptoms worse or take longer for you to recover.
Reishi Vitality- This is our go-to formula for people who want to develop and build the strength of their immune system over a long period of time. Dosage: 2-3 full droppers, 2-3x daily. Discontinue if symptoms arise.
Antioxidant herbs are high in bioflavonoids, anthocyanidins, and vitamin C to help protect the cells from being invaded by viruses.
These are great to take on a daily basis because they tend to be food-like and neutral in their energetics. They aren’t distinctly stimulating but building & nourishing. Unlike immunomodulators, these are supportive even when you get a bug. You can increase your dosage at the onset of symptoms and during an illness.
Elderberry Syrup- A delicious daily addition for the entire family! 1 tsp daily for prevention. 3-6 tsp daily at onset of symptoms and throughout illness.
High C Tea- One of our most popular herbal teas. Its tangy flavor makes it great both iced and warm.
Berry Good for You Tea- Another high antioxidant tea, this one is less tangy and a little more sweet with the touch of licorice. It contains nutritive herbs like Nettle in addition to vitamin C rich Elderberry.
The category of daily antimicrobials consists of herbs that many of you can find in your kitchen cabinet. These herbs have antimicrobial constituents, but are generally more safe for daily use than more powerful antimicrobials like Goldenseal. The best application for these herbs would be simply included in your cooking. Season your dishes with fresh or dried herbs for their antimicrobial benefit.
Fire Cider- this herbal staple is an infusion of daily antimicrobials in apple cider vinegar. The mixture is spicy with a hint of sweetness at the end. It is a pungent, medicinal addition to recipes like salad dressing. Taken before meals it will increase digestion & absorption of food. Dosage: 1 tsp, 1-3x daily. Can be taken at onset & throughout an illness.
It is not advised for people to take strong immune stimulants on a daily basis because of the potential for exhausting the system over long periods of time. This can lead to eventual immune depression, or an activation of autoimmune symptoms. However, sometimes it is indicated to take a gentle immune stimulant for prevention if you are going to be exposed to pathogens.
For example, if you are traveling, someone in your family is sick, or work in a school you may benefit from a stronger prevention regimen if you don’t already have an overstimulated immune system (see above in immunomodulators) or autoimmunity.
It is probably best to take these for a short term, and in combination with immunomodulators and other herbs that are going to work on deepening the strength of your immune system over the long term.
Deep Support- this is what we recommend for daily immune support in those who need a little extra boost for prevention, like teachers, parents or travelers. It contains Echinacea in a balanced recipe that also includes immunomodulators like Astragalus & Siberian Ginseng, antimicrobials like Licorice & St. John’s Wort, and Nettle for deeper nourishment.
Hopefully these herbs help you feel more empowered moving into cold & flu season!
Keep an eye out for Part 2 and 3 where we will discuss what to do if you do come down with a bug, as well as how to support your body after a viral illness to avoid lingering symptoms.
Stay healthy!
]]>Peaceful Heart is an herbal tincture blend of 3 herbs: Skullcap, Motherwort & Milky Oat tops. Blended together, these herbs create a multifaceted yet simple formula that addresses symptoms of stress, anxiety & overwhelm.
Peaceful Heart tincture is infamous in our community. We have received hundreds of testimonials with stories of folks who have found the stress and anxiety reducing effects to be distinct and powerful. People have even shared that Peaceful Heart saved their life when going through a really difficult time. Messages and feedback like this give us such a rewarding sense of purpose. It validates that our formulas are making an impact in peoples lives and in the world. It is why we do what we do!
Peaceful Heart is indicated for anyone who experiences stress, helping rewire a propensity toward a sense of calm. It is also beneficial if you experience anxiety or panic attacks. For both of these situations, it is helpful to take Peaceful Heart on a regular basis to promote a soothed nervous system state to lessen the likelihood of heightened stress & anxiety. You can also take Peaceful Heart during an acute situation of stress, anxiety or panic.
Because of its ability to not only support a calm state, but also to replenish the nervous system & adrenals, Peaceful Heart is an indispensable ally for adrenal fatigue/dysregulation. Especially indicated for situations where you feel tired and wired, or have a challenging time relaxing in the evening. For this situation, taking Peaceful Heart on a daily basis will be necessary to replenish & restore. Learn about other ways to manage burnout in this blog post!
The root of many digestive issues is stress. When our nervous system is revved up to run away from the bear (aka- stressful situations), our digestion slows down to conserve energy. The herbs in Peaceful Heart are also considered bitter, which help stimulate the secretion of gastric juices, enzymes & bile to better digest and emulsify our food. If you struggle with digestive issues like constipation, gas/bloating, or stomach aches, you may experiment with taking Peaceful Heart before meals. Ideally, you would like the Peaceful Heart 20 minutes before your meal, or make this mocktail recipe to drink while you cook dinner!
While our Sleep Deep tincture is a more heavy hitting formula for making you fall asleep, Peaceful Heart can be more specifically indicated for those who have a challenging time staying asleep. Because our Sleep Deep tincture contains more sedative herbs, if you wake up in the middle of the night or early morning, it may cause grogginess the next day if you take Sleep Deep to close to morning. For this situation, we have found Peaceful Heart to be an incredible formula for supporting those who wake up in the middle of the night or early morning hours- especially with racing thoughts. Peaceful Heart will help settle the mind, and ease you back to sleep in a way that shouldn’t lead to grogginess the next day.
Because stress contributes to many so ailments, there are many other things that Peaceful Heart can be helpful for- such as balancing hormones, supporting thyroid function, regulating blood sugar, increasing cognitive capacity, and on and on. All in all, if you struggle with stress and you think it may be contributing to another ailment you are experiencing, you may decide to try this herbal formula. These herbs are considered very safe with minimal contraindications, but as always, check with your health care provider to assess if this formula is right for you.
This Mocktail recipe not only contains the nervine properties of the Peaceful Heart, but it also contains important minerals that support the adrenals and nervous system. When we are stressed our body burns through magnesium, potassium & sodium quickly. These minerals are critical for feeling our best and continue to maintain a soothed nervous system state. Coconut water is a great source of potassium, the salt added supports sodium levels & the tart cherry juice contains a little magnesium along with vitamin C & small amounts of melatonin. It is hydrating, refreshing & calming!
If you want to expand your knowledge on herbs & lifestyle for addressing stress, anxiety or nervous system depletion, participate in our class, Nervines: Herbs for Stress & Anxiety.
In this class we will cover:
The live class will be on August 23rd from 6:15-7:30 PM at Dancing Willow Herbs. With the audio recording released the day after the live event, where you can listen back on your own time! Sign up here!
This is the last class in our Herbal Education Series, so be sure to join us!
]]>However, this powerful kitchen remedy is often misused. We chug our favorite cranberry juice at the first sign of urinary tract symptoms and throughout our infection, while it is most effective at preventing a UTI and less effective at tackling an infection once it has taken hold in the urinary tissue.
If someone already has an infection, bacteria that is adhered in the mucosal layer, these constituents aren’t of much support. It is still high in antioxidants, astringent to the tissues and antimicrobial- so it doesn’t hurt to drink cranberry while you have a UTI. However, it won’t do the job of getting rid of a UTI on its own.
Cranberry shines for folks who are prone to UTIs and other bladder infections as a daily tonic to reduce bacterial counts in the urinary tract. It is particularly helpful for elders who are more prone to UTIs, or those who are bedridden. In recent studies, Cranberry has been seen to reduce urinary tract infections by up to 50%.
Clinical dosage for preventing recurring infections is 8-12 oz of juice daily. It is important that you purchase cranberry juice without sugar, which can be diluted in water or sparkling water and consumed throughout the day. This is a great accessible remedy to lean on, on a daily basis, and is made more effective by combining with some gentle daily diuretics.
For daily use, leaning on gentle and soothing diuretics is a good strategy. These can be consumed in a tea, or as a tincture added to a glass of water. Drinking enough liquids is the first step in flushing bacteria through the urinary tract. By adding herbs to this process it helps increase the flow, provides additional minerals/nutrients, and often have other properties that benefit the urinary tract lining- such as antimicrobial or soothing/anti-inflammatory action.
Some of these diuretic herbs are featured in our Kidney Tonic, along with Corn Silk and Hydrangea which soothe inflammation in the urinary lining. This tincture is a great option for adding a few dropperfuls to your water daily to gently cleanse the urinary tract and support healing in the tissues.
If you are experiencing an active infection, chances are you are pretty uncomfortable. It is important to address the infection, while also soothing the symptoms associated with it.
This is when more powerful herbal antimicrobials come into play. Cue our shining star, Uva Ursi!
This is one of the most wonderful herbs we have for addressing an active infection. Especially when combined with other more soothing anti-inflammatories, demulcents & powerful diuretics.
This class of herbs are important for addressing UTIs because they help to soothe the urinary lining and reduce potential damage & irritation from the infection. They will often greatly reduce symptoms, especially those that feel “hot” in nature- like burning and pain when urinating.
Drinking plenty of water is paramount when you have an active infection. Adding diuretic herbs to your water or making herbal infusions with these plants will help flush the bacteria out even more.
They are not suitable for daily or long term use (see prevention herbs above for daily use), because the antimicrobials could be too harsh when used long term.
Uva Ursi Marshmallow Compound is the tincture that will help address bacterial/infection in the urinary tract, while also containing critical urinary tract demulcents to soothe irritation, inflammation and symptoms.
UTI Tea is a blend of antimicrobials, demulcents & diuretics to address all aspects of the UTI experience. Make a quart of this tea to drink throughout the day. Can be diluted in water with Uva Ursi Marshmallow tincture added in.
This blog post is not medical advice, it is created for educational purposes only. Keeping that in mind, it is important to use your intuition and see a licensed health care practitioner if your symptoms do not resolve on their own within a few days, or if you experience a worsening of symptoms.
UTIs can be very serious and potentially life threatening. If you start to experience any of the following, seek medical care immediately:
If you want to learn more about herbs and lifestyle factors for reducing occurrence & addressing UTIs, join us for our class online & in person, Diuretics: Herbs for Kidney Function.
We will be discussing all things kidney health, kidney stones, urinary tract health and more.
In person class will be on August 9th from 6:15-7:30 PM at Dancing Willow Herbs. Audio recording will be released the day after the event and can be purchased at any time!
This will be an incredible resource for anyone who deals with recurring UTIs or kidney issues! Let’s get to the root of these ailments together and nip em in the bud once & for all!
Look forward to having you join us! Sign up here!
]]>Working with pain is one of the most elusive applications for herbal remedies. It requires skillful formulation, with herbs that address the various aspects of the pain response. We want to take into consideration the type of pain that is occurring, then use herbs that target the varying aspects of the particular pain picture. In this blog post, you will learn the 3 main types of pain and the herbs that can be used to address each.
This type of pain is related to the physical injury of tissues. It is usually acute, although it can also be an injury of repeated use. In this case, pain will increase with use and tends to get worse throughout the day.
Muscular pain can be caused by tension or laxity. Meaning, it may be associated with stress and overuse or lack of movement and prolapse of muscle tone. This is something that can often occur after traumatic injury, because while certain muscle groups will reduce their tone, others tend to be hypertonic in order to “protect” the traumatized tissues.
Typically associated with chronic conditions & systemic inflammation. Metabolic pain is more likely to occur in the morning, in the middle of the night, or at unpredictable times not necessarily associated with use. It is common to see metabolic pain associated with water retention, edema, bloating, or swelling. Think, pain caused by autoimmunity (rheumatoid arthritis) or digestive conditions (ulcerative colitis). In this case, it is particularly important to get to the root cause of the individual’s symptoms- often with a focus of gut healing.
If you want to learn more about how to work with these herbs, especially as they relate to common ailments like headaches, menstrual cramps & chronic metabolic pain, join us for our class: Antispasmodics: Herbs for Pain.
Live class: Wednesday, July 26th, 6:15-7:30 PM at Dancing Willow Herbs (1018 Main Ave, Durango CO)
Audio recording: released July 27th- listen on your own time.
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We all seem to be aware of the importance of digestive health but with such a complicated and nuanced system it can be confusing knowing where to start. Most people are walking around wondering, do I have SIBO? Candida? Parasites? Leaky gut? Food allergies? So they start throwing various herbal protocols and restrictive diets at their self diagnosed “gut issues”. Unfortunately, I have seen this do more harm than good in the long term for some folks.
The best way to approach digestive imbalances is to work with a practitioner. Through looking at your specific symptoms, and evaluating labs like the GI map if necessary or financially accessible, we can get to the root cause of your digestive symptoms. Sometimes, however, we just need a place to start on our own before we are ready to take the step in working with someone.
Cue, carminatives! When someone walks into our apothecary with digestive issues, let’s just say bloating after eating, and alternating constipation & diarrhea, I am not immediately going to recommend Candida Care or Parasite Formula. I am going to recommend our Tummy Tea and Simple Bitters. Two formulas which center on carminative herbs paired with other nourishing and stimulating herbs to support digestive health in a more gentle but effective way.
Unlike powerful herbal antimicrobials, antifungals and antiparasitic herbs (which have their time and place, especially when recommended by a practitioner), carminative herbs don’t effect the good bacteria in your gut. Carminative herbs often do possess antimicrobial, antifungal and antiparasitic action but in a much more gentle, sustainable & balanced way.
Carminative herbs are a great addition to your daily life because they can not only help bring your digestive health into balance, they are also great herbs to work with if you want to maintain digestive health. These are some of the most well known herbs in our culture because we all know how effective they are. Most people know to use Peppermint tea for example, when they have a belly ache.
Carminatives: Herbs for Digestion, will be offered in person at Dancing Willow Herbs with an audio recording available for those who live elsewhere or aren't available during our class time!
Live class: Wednesday, July 12th, 6:15-7:30 PM at Dancing Willow Herbs (1018 Main Ave, Durango CO)
Audio recording: released July 13th- listen on your own time.
We will expand on these topics, discuss lifestyle & nutrition for digestive health as well as get to know our favorite carminatives (and other herbs) for digestion!
]]>In fact, our lymphatic system is the largest circulatory system in the body. The job of the lymphatic system is to clear out waste products from the extracellular fluid in every nook and cranny of our body. The catch 22 when it comes to our lymphatic system, is that it doesn’t have its own pumping mechanism.
This means that our lymphatic system is completely reliant on our lifestyle factors that allow it to manually clear and detoxify waste.
Things like exercise, hydration, massage, diet, deep breathing and lymphatic herbs support the function of our lymphatic system.
Movement is a fundamental need of the lymphatic system. Moving your body pumps your lymphatic system and allows it to do its job properly in moving extracellular fluid, detoxifying waste, fighting infection and so much more. Exercise often offers the benefit of deep breathing as well as mechanically moving lymph by engaging your skeletal muscles. This could be anything that feels best for you, but can be as simple as going for a walk, jumping in place every hour when working at your desk or dancing.
Our lymphatic system is comprised of 96% water, and the 4% cellular waste that it eliminates. When we are dehydrated, the lymphatic system can become sluggish, and congested. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to go out and chug a bunch of water.
In order for our cells to absorb the water that we are drinking, it is imperative that this water contains minerals and electrolytes, especially sodium and potassium. We need these substrate transport systems (minerals/electrolytes) to allow cells to let in the water we are drinking.
This means, drinking water and staying hydrated helps to support the lymphatic system, but we want to make sure it contains minerals and electrolytes. Shoot for consuming at least 1/2 of your weight in oz of mineral rich hydrating beverages daily!
Luckily, we have a treasure trove of amazing lymphatic herbs that help to promote the clearance of the extracellular fluid by doing one or many of the following:
Our Lymph Tonic is a tried and true formula for addressing stagnant lymph. It contains Echinacea, Red Root, Burdock & Poke Root. These herbs powerfully stimulate lymphatic clearance by supporting the immune system, draining toxic waste build up, stimulating circulation and much more. We have seen this formula be helpful for anything from edema & swollen lymph nodes to acne & pms symptoms.
Purchase Lymph Tonic here!
If you want to learn more about other powerful tools for supporting lymphatic health, such as lymphatic self massage techniques, dietary suggestions & more detail on lymphatic herbs, join us for our upcoming class, Lymphatics: Herbs for Immunity, Beauty & Flow!
Because of the interest in our Herbal Education Class Series from our extended community all across the country, we wanted to open up access to folks in person or online. We will be recording the audio of all of our classes, so that this information is more available to everyone!
If you live in Durango and can make the event, we highly recommend attending in person because you will get to try all of the herbs we discuss and have an deep learning experience with likeminded community.
The in person class will be held on Wednesday, June 28th from 6:15-7:30 PM at Dancing Willow Herbs. *Audio recording released the day after the live event!
Limited space available, save your spot here!
]]>Do you have a challenging time thinking clearly? Is your memory cloudy? Does your brain feel foggy? Or are you just wanting to optimize your cognitive health to mitigate neurodegenerative disorders that may arise down the line?
You may consider working with a class of herbs called nootropics. Nootropics are plants that support brain health & optimize cognitive function.
Nootropics help bring blood flow to the brain and detoxify/drain excess lymphatic fluid that can contribute to brain fog. They often interact with acetylcholine receptors which improve cognition, and mental capacity. This is why many of these nootropic herbs have been shown to improve memory, especially when used over long periods of time. Nootropics often contain antioxidants that are neuroprotective, and can help reduce the accumulation of damaging plaques.
These herbs often have other benefits that contribute to their cognitive enhancing abilities. For example, many nootropics contain adaptogenic or nervine qualities. By helping to calm the nervous system, they promote a more focused attention. These are some of our favorite herbs for helping with attention deficit disorder or overall studiousness.
In this blog post we will introduce you to our favorite nootropic herbs so that you can start using them to support your cognitive health!
Bacopa is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy for supporting memory, and neurological function- especially in the elderly. Constituents in Bacopa, known as bacosides, are what are considered to protect neural synapses- especially in the hippocampus region of the brain, which regulates learning and memory. Many clinical trials have demonstrated Bacopa’s ability to improve memory, learning and cognitive performance. Interestingly, after 12 weeks of supplementation, the cognitive effects are typically more pronounced. This suggests that the benefits of Bacopa may compound over time.
Another Ayurvedic herb, Tulsi is one of my favorite plants for enhancing cognitive abilities in a calm balanced way. The fragrant nature of Tulsi is stimulating to the senses, and brings us into greater alertness of the present moment. Tulsi reduces stress, which contributes to more mental clarity and higher mental function. It is a brain specific adaptogen, meaning it helps to support resilience in the way that stress affects our mental state, mood and ability to focus. It also has powerful antioxidant properties which help to protect neural tissue from oxidative damage.
Rosemary has been classically used and widely recognized as a mental tonic. Rosemary improves circulation to the brain and invigorates the senses. In clinical studies, elderly patients were given seasoning doses of 750 mg of Rosemary and it was shown to improve memory recall and speed significantly. In addition to bringing circulation to the brain, Rosemary has neuroprotective compounds. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituents balance levels of acetylcholine and are therefore thought to help prevent neurological degeneration. Because of its warming and carminative qualities, Rosemary aids in digestion, gas and bloating. Through supporting the gut brain axis, Rosemary offers a deeper sense of mental clarity.
Brain Tonic is our blend of nootropic herbs that support mental clarity, focus and memory. It contains these three brain boosting herbs (Bacopa, Tulsi & Rosemary), as well as many other well known and loved herbs such as Ginkgo & Gotu Kola. We have received many testimonials from our community reflecting that this blend has helped them preform better in school or work. It has helped them feel more mentally clear and present, and has supported their long term memory.
If you want to learn more about our other favorite nootropic herbs, as well as lifestyle and nutritional practices for supporting cognitive health, join us for our upcoming class Nootropics: Herbs for Memory and Cognition.
This class will be held at Dancing Willow Herbs (1018 Main Ave, Durango CO) from 6:15-7:30 on Wednesday, June 14th.
Limited space available, save your space here!
]]>Aligned in the arts of the sun, calling it forth from winter’s chill, dandelion sings of warming days and color long forgotten. Wildly rooted and persistent, dandelion will creep into every facet of your yard, sidewalk, hillside with a smile as if entirely unaware of the war against her presence. If we softened our prejudice against this steadfast ally, we could recognize the gifts eager to be bestowed upon us all.
Sometimes I release my imagination to draw up characters that represent various flowers and plants. Dandelion is an activist, persistently fighting for what she feels is right. I envision her with thick golden curls, dressed in a rugged printed tee (no bra), holding a picketed sign with a bold lettered witty remark of protest. While she is passionately enraged by the state of the world, a smile continuously lifts her cheeks and squints her eyes in a symbol of tireless hope.
She is not afraid of continuously returning to places where she has been shut out, unapologetically casting her rebellious gold in determination. Dandelion knows that she belongs, she is adaptable, and courageous in her efforts to be seen.
Bountiful gifts are laden in all parts of this plant. Dandelion wants to be seen right now for a reason, her message unique to each yet collective in nature. From the lore, medicine, and energetics, I invite you to deepen your relationship to this devoted plant teacher and ally.
Family: Asteraceae
Parts used: Roots, Leaves + Flowers
Native to: Europe + Asia
Naturalized: Every continent except Antartica
Energetics: Cool, dry
Herbal actions: Hepatic, digestive, aperient, alterative, nutritive, cholagogue, diuretic
The basal leaves emerge in a rosette around the plant. The leaves are irregularly toothed and distinctly jagged, contributing to the plant’s French name “dent de lion” meaning lion’s tooth. The leaves are smooth and hairless. They can grow upward given appropriate circumstances, or they will grow close to the ground on a lawn where it is advantageous to avoid the mower’s blade. The stem of the flower is hollow and can be used as a flute (with some practice), or a straw. The flowers reflect the sun, as their golden orb opens when the sun reaches them and closes with significant shade or nighttime. What may look like the petals of the dandelion is actually hundreds of individual flowers that will mature to create the many seeds eager to take flight. Dandelions have a deep and fleshy central taproot, with other roots reaching out to the sides.
Many are eager to eradicate dandelions from their lawns and gardens without understanding the vital role this plant has in healing the soil and the ecosystem. Dandelion’s deep taproot searches the depth of the soil to pull up minerals into the top of the soil and the plant. This taproot and the root network system aerate and mineralize the soil- loosening compact soil for earthworms to compost and other plants to grow. Dandelions are excellent allies for an orchard as they produce ethylene gas which assists in the ripening of fruit. Additionally, the flowers call forth the early bees that then continue to pollinate the orchard.
Dandelions offer their golden nectar to an extensive range of pollinators. When the first honey beehives were imported to North America, dandelion was intentionally planted to provide the bees with dependable early season pollen and nectar. Dandelions have become an important source of early season food for a variety of butterflies, bees, ladybugs and more.
Open almost any general medicinal herb book, and you will meet dandelion and her many pages of medicinal gifts. It is comical to believe that at one point, European settlers brought over dandelion seeds and planted them their gardens. While some believe they were planted to provide early spring nourishment and leafy greens, it is more widely accepted that they intentionally cultivated dandelion to be used in medicine. The old greek name for dandelion “Taraxos achos” means “disorder remedy” and eludes to the multifaceted capabilities of this dear plant.
While the various parts of the plant have different actions on the body, they are harmonious when used together. The roots have an affinity for the liver while the leaves work more directly on the kidneys, blood and urinary tract. All parts of the plant are beneficial for digestion and gentle cleansing.
The roots of dandelion reach deep into the Earth gathering medicine to be utilized by our bodies. The roots are high in iron, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, chromium, niacin, potassium, sodium, vitamin A and more. They taste bitter and slightly sweet, providing deep nourishment to the liver and colon.
An age old liver tonic, Dandelion root cools excess heat. By supporting and reducing stagnation in the liver, this medicine is often used to address skin conditions such as eczema and acne. It is often used to lower cholesterol, balance blood sugar levels, and aid symptoms of gout.
When harvested in the fall, the roots contain 25% inulin which takes time to build up throughout the season. Inulin is an indigestible starch that feeds the beneficial bacterial in our gut, which aids in motility and a healthy microbiome. Dandelion root can help resolve constipation, and improve fat digestion and absorption.
The leaves and the roots are both very bitter, either or both can be used to aid in digestion when taken before meals. The bitter flavor stimulates the secretion of bile from the liver, signaling the release of enzymes, leading your mouth to water- getting your body ready to digest your food.
Dandelion leaves are a quintessential spring tonic, used to revitalize the body from any sluggishness accumulated over winter. The leaves purify the blood and carry toxins out of the body through the kidneys. The leaves are diuretic, used to relieve bloating, breast tenderness and other symptoms of water retention. The specific diuretic action provided by dandelion is unique in the way that it acts on both sides of the kidneys. Because the leaves are remarkably high in potassium and sodium, they lead your body to excrete fluids while retaining ample minerals and electrolytes that other diuretics usually deplete.
In addition to the extremely high levels of potassium, these leaves are high in an array of vitamins and minerals to revitalize your body. They can be incorporated into cooking, and are less bitter before the plant flowers. The leaves can also be used for mild urinary tract infections, particularly in combination with other antimicrobial herbs such as Uva Ursi, or soothing demulcents such as Cornsilk or Chickweed.
The golden beam of a dandelion bloom offers medicine for us to utilize internally and externally. Internally, the flowers are high in vitamin A and carotenoids like lutein. They support the lymphatic system and reduce systemic inflammation.
When infused into oil and used topically, dandelion flowers can be used to aid in circulation and lymphatic flow. This can be particularly helpful for swollen lymph glands, tender breasts, and other stagnant areas of pain or soreness. It can be used to heal scars, sun damage, and promote healthy skin cells.
The flowers should be avoided if you are sensitive to the Asteraceae family. Avoid if you have gallbladder or kidney issues, or if you are taking blood thinners or diuretics.
Ensure you are harvesting from a location that is free from chemicals, or dog urine.
Harvest leaves in the spring by plucking them at the base of the plant (the plant will have the least amount of bitter compounds before it flowers).
Pluck off flowers from the stem and then trim the hollow stem down to the base of the plant, so it doesn’t need to keep putting energy into a stem without a flower. Discard or use the stem as a straw.
Harvest the roots with reverence and a trowel. If you leave a little piece of the root in the ground it will grow again next season.
At Dancing Willow Herbs, we make Dandelion tincture that you can purchase here!
Dandelion can be found in many of our herbal formulas- such as our tincture blends or teas. Find the comprehensive selection of products featuring this bountiful herb, here!
Of the many formulas featuring Dandelion, LVR Tonic may be my favorite for its nourishing focus that is well suited to almost anyone. LVR Tonic is perfect for spring-time daily cleansing, or for anyone who wants to support detoxification & regeneration of the liver in an effective and nourishing way. You can purchase LVR Tonic here!
If you would like to learn more about spring seasonal herbs, like Dandelion, get access to our comprehensive online course- Herbs for Springtime!
If you feel like your body needs a reset from the long winter, this class is for you. With all of the tangible tools that you need to feel your very best this spring season, you will learn how to support your liver health & cleanse in a way that is safe and highly effective.
You will learn:
This class includes
*If you are interested getting everything you need for an easeful spring transition, check out our Springtime Herbal Class & Product Bundle. This is the complete, everything you need package for an easeful spring transition. With access to our Herbs for Springtime class, and our 3 most recommended spring seasonal products you will have the tools to start cleansing & easing into spring right away.
]]>Written by Elliott Brinkley, Clinical Herbalist & Owner of Dancing Willow Herbs
10 years ago, I read a mystical book centered in the British Isles and felt a deep pull toward visiting the landscape. Sure, I knew that I had ancestors from this area, but I didn’t understand at that point that my deep unwavering gravitation toward this place was rooted from a woven and kindled memory. The memory of mossy earth under foot, of cool sea mist on flushed skin, of the smell of Hawthorn in the spring. The memory encoded in my DNA of the land my ancestors are from.
As time passed and my interest grew, I started learning more about my ancestors- the foods they ate, the practices they held and the plants that they were in relationship with. Because we have evolved around these particular plants, I find that these are often some of the herbs/foods which work best with our physiology.
Many of us living in the United States are disconnected from our personal history. Especially if our ancestors have lived here for several generations, the stories from the land that came before are often lost. I believe that by understanding where we came from, we can better understand ourselves, our tendencies and ways to connect with our purpose here on Earth.
In addition to engaging with ancestral herbs, foods and practices, I have long been pulled to visit these lands and see what I discover in greeting the ecosystem, historical and sacred places myself. This May, one of my dreams is coming true.
After a week of solo travel around Scotland, I will be teaching at a week long retreat in Cornwall, England- Into the Mists. The retreat will be an immersive experience of deep healing and land connection. I will be introducing the group to some of my favorite herbal allies on the land (such as Hawthorn, Oak, Nettle & many others), and facilitating space for learning how to make deep emotional connections with plants. We are going to be connecting to the land through plant walks in the old grove forest, ocean time, breathwork, creative expression, dance, stargazing, and ceremony in the sacred stone circle or tor on the land.
This retreat will be an excellent experience for you to connect to the land, the plants, and yourself.
In feeling into the energy of this retreat, I wanted to share with you some of my closest ancestral herbal allies of the British Isles: aka Scotland, England, Wales & Ireland. This way, you too can start developing relationships with the plants of this land and maybe decide to join us for this healing retreat experience.
Upon their initial learning that Nettle is used as food and medicine, many people gasp- “But nettle? That’s the thing that stings you!?”
I have grown to love this plant for much more than its abundance of medicinal applications, but for the many emotional/spiritual lessons it grants us as well- many of which center around the poetry of its sting.
One of the stories that has always stuck with me about my ancestral lands is the practice of intentional stinging, or Urtication, conducted by Irish fishermen. The fishermen experienced horrible arthritis, aches and pains after being long away at sea. As soon as they would reach land, the fishermen would strip off all of their clothes and roll around in a field of nettle. They did this to remedy the aches of their arthritis and overworked muscles. But I can’t help but giggle at the image of this scene!
The age-old practice of whacking or gently rubbing an area with fresh Nettle is called Urtication. The stinging hairs contain a mixture of histamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine- organic acids that are neurotransmitters and inflammatory modulators in the body. When applied, the acids cause local superficial inflammation which encourages deeper healing and extended anti-inflammatory effect (possibly through stimulating the release of and localizing endogenous cortisol). With dermal application of the sting from nettle hairs, joint flexibility and pain perception can be helped dramatically- helping with symptoms of sore muscles, aches, pains, arthritis or other musculoskeletal issues. It will be uncomfortable at first, but it lends to an alleviation of symptoms in the long term.
While most people would intentionally avoid getting stung by Nettle, those who seek it out find deeper healing. This teaches us that sometimes in order to find the most profound healing and growth, we have to get uncomfortable.
Internally, Nettle concentrates trace minerals to a greater extent than almost any other herb. This is why when you taste a strong overnight Nettle infusion, it has a salty taste due to the comprehensive density of nutrients. In order for the body to properly detoxify through the liver, we need to be replete in certain vitamin and mineral co-factors. Nettle provides these necessary nutrients, essentially feeding the enzymes that transform toxins in your liver so they can be excreted by the body. In addition to replenishing minerals needed for the detoxification process, Nettle builds the blood. It is helpful for replenishing necessary nutrients for anyone who is deficient or in need of nutritional support- during pregnancy, postpartum, vegetarians/vegans, or those eating a standard American diet.
Nettle has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine qualities that can assist in allergic reactions that present with profuse mucous discharges, and/or sensations of heat and itching; such as is often the case in seasonal allergies/hay fever.
A dependable diuretic, it can be helpful for cleansing and reducing inflammation in the urinary tract. I could go on and on, but this herb provides deep nourishment on many levels. Nettle is a very drying botanical. If someone has a dry constitution (tendencies toward dry skin, feeling parched, constipation, etc.) or lives in a dry environment, it is important that the moisture of Nettle is balanced by demulcent herbs, such as Marshmallow or an herbal formula.
Nettle is in our Nutri-Mix, Aller Relief & our Nourish-mint Tea.
Hawthorn is deeply sacred to many people in the British Isles for being a gateway to the “otherworld” and the fairies. So sacred, that they have rerouted entire highway projects in Ireland to avoid cutting down a Hawthorn tree. During holy days or around holy wells, people tie strips of cloth on Hawthorn trees for their prayers to be carried into and heard by the "otherworld".
This energy of being a “gateway” can be very supportive to us during times of transition. Hawthorn’s essence is extremely embodying, grounding and protective. Helping us remain grounded amongst tumultuous times. It is useful for those experiencing breakups, a loss, or general heart ache.
It is one of my favorite herbs for grounding me into my body and my heart. Before meditations, teaching experiences, or even social gatherings, I like to work with Hawthorn to settle me into myself in upmost authenticity.
On the internal/medicinal side, the berries of Hawthorn are incredibly high in antioxidants and flavonoids. These increase the passage of blood in the capillaries, removing congestion and increasing circulation. Hawthorn prevents and reverses blood vessel damage, and can help remedy varicose veins. Hawthorn also lowers unhealthy cholesterol and high blood pressure. It improves the deposition of lipids in the walls of capillaries, in order for blood to pass through them more quickly. By opening up circulation in the heart, Hawthorn strengthens the heart muscle- lessening cardiac arrhythmias and angina.
Hawthorn is in our Rooted Heart Elixir, and Heart Tonic.
Meadowsweet is a romantic, lovely plant. The fresh plant and infusion smell like a sweet meadow- earthy, grassy and floral. This plant was one of the sacred herbs of the druids, and is said to have been used to enhance intuition and an ability to converse with the fairies.
While people often talk about Willow Bark being the “first asprin”, Meadowsweet was actually the original plant that Felix Hoffmann used in 1897 to extract salicin to make Asprin. In fact, the brand name Asprin, derived from the latin name for Meadowsweet during that time, Spirea ulmaria.
The compound that Hoffmann extracted from Meadowsweet, salicin has profound anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to modulate systemic inflammation as well as localized inflammation from an injury or infection. Meadowsweet is one of my favorite herbs to use for digestive inflammation. Its mildly bitter, floral flavor pairs well in gut healing tea blends where inflammation in the GI tract is present.
The anti-inflammatory nature of Meadowsweet makes it excellent for reducing a fever, quelling inflammatory skin conditions and addressing pain.
Meadowsweet is found in our Inflammation Moderation tincture.
When you think of Scotland & Ireland, what is the second most common food you think of? I know the first is potatoes. The second may be a warm bowl of oat porridge.
While we typically use milky oat tops, or oat straw in herbal medicine, whole oats are also highly medicinal. They are demulcent and soothing to the digestive mucosa. Oats are also high in soluble and insoluble fiber which feeds the gut microbiome and promotes motility. Topically, a poultice of oatmeal is extremely soothing and anti-inflammatory to irritated skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
Milky oat tops are harvested during the stage when they are green and immature and exude a milky latex sap when squeezed. This sap is like food for replenishing the nervous system. Milky oats are considered nervous system trophorestorative- meaning they help restore a depleted nervous system. Because of this, they are perfect for people who have experienced long periods of stress and are burnt out.
Milky oats will only be effective in their profound nervous system action when used or processed fresh. This means you need to ensure that your tincture was made with the fresh plant during the milky stage (ours is). Tea made of dried milky oats will have the same medicinal qualities as Oatstraw, but not the same degree of nervous system trophorestorative action as fresh plant milky oat extractions. Milky Oats are in our best-selling formula, Peaceful Heart.
Oatstraw is high in nutrients, especially calcium and magnesium. It is neutral in flavor and can therefore be an excellent mineral addition to any tea blend. Oatstraw soothes the nervous system, and provides a sense of calm that can come from a replenishment of nutrients.
This retreat is going to take place from May 8th-14th 2023 (a beautiful, vibrant time where the ecosystem should be blooming) at the Cabilla Retreat space.
The retreat includes:
All with the purpose of connecting you to the land, local plants, your body, and your story. It will be a safe space for healing, transformation and personal growth. And an amazing adventure full of loving people!
For more information such as the full week itinerary, more info on accommodations, pricing and what is included in the retreat cost, and how to sign up, please visit Eliza's site here!
I am extremely excited to participate in the retreat, to teach, but also just to experience all of the activities held by the other facilitators and to connect to this magical land! I really hope that some of this community will be called to join us!
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As I write this, I am watching the light change as the sun peaks its head over the mesa. Bringing golden hues to the icy blue tones of wind drifted snow chambers and icicles whispering stories of midday warmth. Winter can be a challenging season for me. The holiday season revs me up to such a high caliber that once slowness of January and February come, I am like a wound up doll who fell over, legs moving, obedient to the mechanics with nowhere to go. Slowness can be challenging, especially for those of us who are deeply ingrained people pleasers and perfectionists. I was subconsciously taught that worth is productivity. The story has been, if I am productive, if I am constantly working hard, I have reason to believe that I am enough. This story is not mine alone and I know this, because this narrative is deeply reinforced by our culture… the, “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” type of narrative.
The most tragic aspect of this story is that it leaves us feeling shameful of rest, shameful of enjoying, playing and fully living life. And no matter how long you may try to entertain this narrative, at some point it will catch up with you.
So many of the health issues I help clients through, have this belief at the root. They are overworking themselves, which leads to burnout, chronic hormonal conditions, thyroid disorders, gut issues, sleep problems, and more. We could help to balance hormones with herbs and diet, for example, but until the client starts to fully rest, we are doing harm reduction-not true healing.
Over the past few months, I have been tested in this. The toxic mixture of getting sick, and refusing to rest caught me in a sea of ailments, dodging the surf until I realized all I needed to do was relax and let the wave bring me to shore. During this time, I have been working with a few plants, formulas & practices to help break my subconscious patterns and allow myself the permission to cultivate deep rest and an innate knowing that I am enough. I have provided my favorite categories of plants for learning to replenish our reserves, a few corresponding formulas and practices so that you, too, can learn how to embody the rest that you innately deserve.
In this technological age, it seems like we all forgot how to truly rest. I define rest as an activity or lack of activity, which allows us to feel replenished and more grounded. For me, this looks like taking a bath, reading a book, getting in bed early, stretching, going for a walk, spending quality time with loved ones, journaling, making a cup of tea, meditating and watering my plants. It took me a while to refine this list, and has been a process of creating boundaries around the activities that have disguised themselves as “restful” but are ultimately depleting. For me, these are things like social media and television, which when I am out of balance become a way that I attempt to soothe myself- to no deep resolve. I have decided that anything that ultimately makes me feel more tired and distant from my authenticity either has strict boundaries and parameters around it, or I let go of entirely.
Create your list of activities or non-activities that fill your cup in the notes app on your phone or write it down on a piece of paper that you place in an area you will see often. Refer to this list anytime you are feeling like you need to decompress, are on edge, exhausted or burnt out.
Spiritual Heart herbs are plants that have an affinity for bringing us into our authenticity, our purpose, and our ability act from alignment with our heart. Some of my best botanical relationships are in this category, and maybe because of their affinity with the heart, they allow me to love them even more!
These herbs not only help us ground into the magic and softness of the heart, but they are excellent allies for creating boundaries. For those of us prone to burn out, the tendency is usually to over-give and over-do. Spiritual Heart herbs can help us cultivate and instill healthy boundaries around the things that are draining us, or are not aligned with our authenticity.
Spiritual Heart herbs allow us to acknowledge ourselves with gentleness, and see our worthiness at the forefront.
Our blend of spiritual heart herbs, Rooted Heart Elixir, has been a pivotal aspect of my daily routine moving through this challenging time. Especially during the day, Rooted Heart allows me to sink into myself and walk in my authentic truth. As an empathic person, this formula helps me create emotional boundaries while maintaining an open heart. In the evening, it helps me wash away the day and settle into my inner sanctum. This is an especially supportive blend for those who are experiencing turmoil, grief or loss.
It is a blend of Rose, Hawthorn & Reishi with honey. It tastes delicious, and is like a hug for your heart.
Purchase Rooted Heart Elixir here!
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, burnout is a depletion of Kidney Qi. Ultimately, behaviors like burning the candle from both ends, running on stress hormones, drinking too much caffeine/alcohol, spending too much time on screens and not properly resting or nourishing yourself depletes Kidney Qi reserves. Kidney Qi is like our constitutional energy bank that governs aging, reproductive health and much more.
Herbs and practices that support and nourish Kidney Qi can be a helpful for replenishing energy reserves and setting us up for deep rest. These herbs all have a quality of being nourishing, somewhat sweet and earthy. Practices for supporting Kidney Qi involve spending time in nature, forest bathing, gentle walks, staying warm (especially lower back & feet), warm baths, and eating warm nourishing foods.
Our Reishi Vitality formula could be supportive for replenishing kidney Qi and innate vitality. It has two of my favorite herbs for this purpose, Codonopsis & Astragalus. These herbs feel deeply nourishing to the entire body- the immune system, the reproductive system, the nervous system. They are sweet, nourishing and soothing in the way that they provide the body with warmth and strength.
You can purchase Reishi Vitality here!
Adaptogens can often also be kidney Qi tonics and have a similar energetic quality of being sweet, grounding and nourishing.
Especially in the context of burnout, I recommend avoiding stimulating adaptogens. Herbs like ginseng, rhodiola, or eleuthero, are often used to combat fatigue but they are also stimulating. As my teacher, herbalist Paul Bergner would say, “Fatigue is not an adaptogen deficiency, it is a rest deficiency.” Using stimulating adaptogens to mask symptoms of burnout may lead to more depletion.
Instead, I prefer to lean on calming adaptogens which soothe & regulate the nervous system in a way that allows us to access deeper rest. These herbs help to regulate the HPA (hypothalamus pituitary adrenal) axis. The HPA axis is a hormonal system that signals the release of cortisol from the adrenals. While people throw around the term adrenal fatigue loosely, the term can be misleading. The adrenals don’t necessarily get “fatigued”, with the exception being in the case of the autoimmune condition Addison’s disease. For most people, the adrenals get dysregulated, which is the real issue behind adrenal fatigue symptoms.
Adrenal dysregulation occurs when chronically elevated cortisol is in circulation. This puts a huge burden on the body, which then prompts the hypothalamic pituitary to down regulate and stop giving the adrenals the proper signal to produce cortisol. However, cortisol regulates our wake response, energy and alertness. This is why, people with burnout may feel exhausted all day and especially first thing in the morning, but then get a burst of energy right before bed in a way that is “tired and wired”.
Calming adaptogens, especially when taken on a regular basis, help to nourish the nervous system. They are great when taken in the evening to help prevent inopportune cortisol spikes, in order for you to achieve deeper rest.
My favorite adaptogenic formula that we carry is our Adaptogenic Honey Paste. The traditional way to consume many of these adaptogenic herbs, such as Shatavari & Ashwagandha, has been as a powder. I love honey pastes because you get to consume the whole plant in a way that is delicious and versatile. I add the honey paste to warm milk or nut milk and blend it up to make an evening calming adaptogenic latte!
You can purchase Adaptogenic Honey Paste here!
Nervine herbs are different than any of the above categories in the way that they can immediately shift your nervous system from fight or flight to rest and digest. Nervines are great for acute anxiety, restlessness, stress, insomnia and more. I love to lean on nervines in the evening to help turn off my mind, and ease me into a restful state.
Nervines are our closest allies for immediately deepening the body’s ability to rest.
There are two categories of nervines: sedative nervines & hynotic nervines. Sedative nervines are calming, soothing, may be relaxing to your muscles, quiet anxiety and stress but aren’t going to make you overly sleepy. Hypnotic nervines are the herbs reserved for just before bed-time. These can make you drowsy, and should be avoided during the day.
Is it a coincidence that during this day and age our very best selling formula is a blend of these nervines? I think not...
Peaceful Heart is a blend of Skullcap, Motherwort and Milky Oats that help soothe the heart during acute panic/anxiety, calm racing thoughts and replenish a depleted nervous system. It is great to have on hand for moments of elevated stress, to unwind during the evening and even if you wake up in the middle of the night with racing thoughts.
You can purchase Peaceful Heart here!
Sleep Deep is our blend of hypnotic nervines that promote restful deep sleep. This is designed to be taken right before bed to help you drift into sleep quicker, so that you can wake up feeling more rested.
You can purchase Sleep Deep here!
While these herbs are all highly supportive, they are like our cheerleaders- encouraging us to advocate for ourselves, and set the boundaries necessary to combat burnout. Most of the time, herbs will not catalyze deep replenishment on their own. They have to be paired with lifestyle changes, and an effort to unravel underlying limiting beliefs that are keeping us in over-giving, overworking patterns. I invite you to examine where you may have picked up these beliefs, thank them for the purpose they have served, and then examine what your life would be like without them. Incorporate more of the things that lift you up, make you feel nourished and replenish not only your energy reserves, but the inner spark that only you are meant to share with this world.
I hope that you feel resourced in giving yourself permission to put your needs first and find some deep rest at the tail end of this winter season. If you need me, I will probably be cuddled up on the couch with a good book and a warm cup of tea!
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When I first became interested in herbalism, I walked into a local herb shop in Albuquerque with the intention of finding a good herbal book. The person working behind the counter had the impression that I knew more about herbalism than I actually did, and recommended a classic, yet advanced book to me.
I remember sitting with this book in a cafe, enamored but overwhelmed. I was entirely unfamiliar with the concepts of herbal energetics, the complex anatomical mechanisms and most plants in the book. I desperately wanted to understand the words on the page, but they floated over my head barely out of my grasp.
I needed more foundations, more fundamentals, a mentor, and more experience with the plants themselves.
It can be an overwhelming world for the beginner herbalist. There is so much information about plants and their uses, that sometimes the nuances are lost. People don’t know where to begin, what is safe or how to properly prepare herbal medicines.
This blog post will give you a road map of where to start as a beginner herbalist. You will learn tangible ways to get started in the most well-rounded way possible to develop deep connections with the plants.
While a book will never replace in person learning, mentorship and personal experience with plants, it is a really great way to get oriented in the world of herbalism. If you are local, stop by our shop to browse our selection of beginner herbal books. These are some of my favorites:
This is what I recommend to anyone who wants to develop a deeper relationship with plants. An herb of the week/month is when you spend an allotted amount of time, diving into a single chosen plant. The goal is to incorporate the plant around you in as many ways as possible. You may try different herbal medicine preparations (tea vs tincture, etc.), do research about the plant, and observe what you may be experiencing while working with it. This opens up the doorway to create a relationship with the plant in a way that is rooted in your personal physiology.
In herb school, every week we would work with a new plant as an herb of the week. This was not only a valuable resource for cultivating awareness of how plants work in our personal bodies, but also in understanding the limits of book learning. Especially in the group setting, we would find empirical effects from plants in the group, absent from any literature. For example, Passionflower is generally considered a relaxing herb that helps to calm the mind, soothe racing thoughts, and help someone fall deeper into sleep. Several people in our herb school experienced an adverse, opposite reaction to the plant which had them unable to fall asleep because their mind was racing! While passionflower is still considered a calming herb, it is important to realize the individual nature of plants and their effects on our unique constitution and body. The only way to understand how an herb works with you is to consume it and then observe how it feels in your body.
Below you will find several ways to start incorporating your herb of the week or month, as well as journal prompts to help you dive deeper into understanding the way that the plant feels in your body.
Day _________
We can only learn so much from books, or personal experience. Having a mentor and learning through their experiences- personal, clinical or otherwise- allows us to affirm our knowledge, gain different insights and connect with likeminded community.
When I took over Dancing Willow Herbs, one of my major visions was to create more herbal education through our shop. Over the past year, we have had great success in holding regular classes at the shop. We squeeze everyone into the back of the apothecary, but there is limited space. Since we have been selling out classes, we wanted to expand and experiment with virtual offerings. This way, we can spread this herbal knowledge with as many people as possible- even if they live across the world!
If you are starting out your herbal journey (or even if you are well along it and want more foundations), our Introduction to Herbalism class is for you. We will be filming the live class to provide you with the option of attending in person or watching the virtual recording on your own time. The class is structured to help you build your base of herbal knowledge by introducing you to several gentle tonic herbs, the concepts of herbal energetics, the history of vitalist herbalism and basic medicine making techniques. Sign up here!
Browse our classes page to join us for any other upcoming classes and events.
Wherever you are on your herbal journey, know that you are not alone! Be easy on yourself, start simply, and have fun with it! The plants are excited to have your engagement, your interest, and want to work with you.
A warm welcome to the world of herbalism,
Elliott & the team at Dancing Willow Herbs
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Nothing says holiday season like cookies! The rich smells and warmth of the oven draw us into a cozy nostalgia, a part of what it means to be descending into the darkest days of the year. These cookies are no different. They will have your home smelling of peanuts, cardamom and rose and your heart delighting in every bite!
I wanted to provide you with a new holiday cookie recipe to add to your repertoire that is easy and delicious, as well as medicinal! These Adaptogenic Peanut Butter cookies require minimal ingredients, and are as simple as combining, forming into cookies and baking! They are perfect for the busy holiday moments, not only because they are quick but also because their medicinal properties help to soothe the nervous system and promote a sense of calm.
Our Adaptogenic Honey Paste is a blend of calming adaptogens whipped into raw honey to create a delicious, nourishing way to soothe your nervous system!
Shatavari and Ashwagandha are adaptogens which help to regulate the HPA axis and stress response. Especially when taken daily over time, they help to nourish the adrenals, nervous system, and help promote a sense of calm. In this honey paste, they are combined with Rose and Cardamom to delight the senses and calm the heart!
You can purchase it here: Adaptogenic Honey Paste
When added to this recipe, the adaptogens help your body remain more centered when faced with a stressful situation. And let's be real, the holidays can be a very stressful time. Between all of the social engagements, gifts to go buy, then wrap, the dinners to make, it can be a time where our personal needs are left behind. By making these cookies, consider them a gift not only to yourself but to anyone who you decide to share them with on a deep level. You will be giving the gift of a handmade treat that helps everyone involved find a deeper sense of calm within themselves.
Also... the Adaptogenic Honey Paste has a flavor all of its own! The adaptogens are slightly earthy, while the floral notes of rose and the spice of cardamom help take the flavor of this cookie from a basic peanut butter cookie to one that is absolutely up-leveled, elegant and unlike anything you have ever had before.
Snow is falling, the holidays are upon us, and everyone seems to be getting sick. Nobody likes to be sick, especially during the busy holiday times. Luckily, there are a bounty of herbs that have a seasonal affinity for keeping us well during the winter months. These herbs are best when used to help prevent illness from ocurring in the first place, but some can also be supportive if you do catch a bug!
There is something about this time of year that encapsulates magic- like light within the snowflake’s structure. Our collective celebration of light, during the darkest part of the year, brings me comfort that the darkest days can also be some of the most beautiful.
This guide is designed to help support you in finding the most beauty during this winter season by staying healthy with herbs. In the colder months, we lean on herbs that nourish the immune system, improve circulation, and strengthen the respiratory system to ward off illness. Here are some of my favorites that not only support our physical bodies, but help connect us to the winter season overall.
I love to work with pine during the winter season because it is one of the only plants that you can still abundantly harvest. Pine needles are high in vitamin C (especially when they are young and fresh), are antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory. They have been used traditionally to prevent colds, support coughs and fevers. My favorite way to use pine is in a respiratory steam. To complete a respiratory steam, bring a pot of water to boil then remove from heat, add a handful or two of pine needles, then place your head over the pot under a towel or blanket- testing until the temperature is nice and warm but not hot enough to burn you. In this way, the volatile oils of pine will be carried on the steam and met directly with your respiratory tissues. When used in a respiratory steam, pine brings its antimicrobial properties to the respiratory tissues helping to prevent and remedy respiratory infection.
In a respiratory steam, tea or tincture, pine is a stimulating expectorant. It is a tremendous ally for breaking up boggy wet mucous and helping the body expel it from the lungs. It is warming and aromatic, which helps to relieve congestion in the lungs and the sinuses. Pine is a great ally for when you are sick, but it can also be worked with on a daily basis to help support seasonal wellness.
All species in the Pinus genus are medicinal and can be used interchangeably. Research what pine trees grow in your area and ensure you are using proper identification guidelines to harvest the needles safely.
Elderberries are always a part of my winter wellness regimen. They are very food-like, and can be taken on a daily basis to help prevent viral illness.
Elderberry is extremely rich in vitamin C and protective antioxidants called bioflavonoids. We all know that vitamin C supports the immune system, but it also plays a major role in overall health. Vitamin C is the primary antioxidant in the brain and works within the fluid between the nerve cells. It is also a precursor to collagen formation, which is responsible for maintaining skin elasticity, as well as lubricating and strengthening ligaments and tendons.
The other major antioxidant group that exists in Elderberries are called proanthocyanidins. These specifically protect vascular tissue and can be helpful for varicose veins, preventing atherosclerosis, or other damage that may occur within the blood vessels. Proanthocyanidins also take everything that vitamin C does to the next level by helping fight infection, supporting collagen, and upcharging the activity of vitamin C antioxidants.
Elderberry not only stimulates the immune system by replenishing it with these antioxidants and other co-factors, it has an affinity for strengthening the respiratory system. Madeline Mumcuoglu, Ph.D. of Hadassah-Hebrew University in Israel studied Elderberry’s effectiveness against the flu virus. Of those taking the Elderberry, 20% of the subjects reported significant improvement within 24 hours, 70% by 48 hours, 90% in three days. Contrastingly, the group who received the placebo took 6 days to recover (Medical Herbalism 8(4)). The effectiveness of Elderberry during viral infection works best when taken preventatively as a daily tonic.
A good daily dose of Elderberry would be 1 tablespoon of the syrup daily. If exposed to someone who is sick or you are feel something coming on, you can double or triple the dose. If I feel a tickle in my throat I will take as many as 6 tablespoons throughout the day. Luckily, our Elderberry syrup is delicious so this isn't a challenging thing to do! It always seems to nip it in the bud, and strengthen my immune system unlike anything else.
Here are our favorite products for you to work with Elderberry:
Medicinal Mushrooms are another food-like medicine that helps to strengthen and regulate the immune response. As opposed to taking something that is going to stimulate your immune system daily, like Echinacea, (which may result in long term fatigue or may not be appropriate for some folks- those with an overactive immune system) mushrooms slowly build your immune health over time. Medicinal mushrooms contain complex starches called polysaccharides that are absorbed through the mucous membranes. The body perceives these polysaccharides as a threat, which signals a response from the immune system. Fortunately, these polysaccharides are benign and therefore train our immune systems to function properly. This allows our immune cells and pathways to fight true pathogens such as common colds or flus.
Medicinal mushrooms help to train the intelligence of the immune system in helping it identify self from non-self and signaling a proper response. This is important in the case of autoimmunity, which is becoming more and more prevalent in modern culture. Medicinal mushrooms bring balance to an immune system if it is over or under reactive.
In our tinctures, we double extract our mushrooms. This means that we extract the mushrooms in both water and alcohol to optimize the constituent profiles which nourish the immune system and support overall well-being.
Here are some of our products which feature medicinal mushrooms:
In the winter, one of the most challenging aspects for many is the feeling of being chilled to the bone. Ginger helps to improve circulation, and the cultivation of inner warmth as well as warmth to the periphery. It helps to cultivate fire in our digestive systems, which is well indicated for holiday season where we may be eating heavier foods. Ginger is also antimicrobial and can be very supportive for keeping you well when taken on a daily basis, as well as when you are sick. Ginger is warming and diffusive, which makes it great to work with for a fever. It works best during the earlier stages of fever where the individual is chilled. It will help warm them up, open the pores and allow the fever to do its job of killing the pathogen. Discontinue use in a fever if the individual is dehydrated, their skin is tight and they feel hot.
My favorite way to work with ginger is to drink it as a decoction. Chop up your fresh ginger (30g by weight), add to a pot of water (2 quarts) and bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until the liquid is reduced by 1/2 (1 quart remaining), then strain the herb. I like to add a little honey and/or some lemon. It is spicy, warming and very delicious!
You can also work with ginger in the following Dancing Willow Herb products:
If you want to learn more about other herbs for winter wellness, join us for our upcoming class Winter Herbal Medicine on December 8th at 6:30 PM at Dancing Willow Herbs.
This class will be a celebration of the winter season! We will discuss the plants that have long been used during this time, such as evergreens like Pine, Juniper & Cedar, and their medicinal qualities. We will go into other practices to help you feel more aligned with the season, some folklore around this time, and ways to support yourself moving into the holidays. You will learn about herbs that will help support our immune systems, circulatory systems, and the descent into the darkest days of the year.
Everyone will get a chance to make their choice of winter seasonal herbal medicine, to take home with them and use for themselves (or gift to a loved one).
Wishing you all of the herbal wellness during this holiday season! May you glisten alongside the twinkling lights, gift your loved ones something from the heart, and revel in the sweetness of family or friends.
Warm holiday wishes,
Elliott and the team at Dancing Willow Herbs
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Just yesterday, I was feeling a slight grief for winter’s coming. Everything seemed tinged with grey- the sky, the cottonwoods in their long legged leafless branches, the frozen plants decomposing under deeper and deeper frost. It felt overwhelming, like the blooms of spring are so far away. And as I came to terms with accepting this season for the dullest parts of itself, I realize now that I forgot about one of the most uplifting & delightful aspects of the winter, snow!
Lately, I have been feeling a little bit of imposter syndrome. This is the part of me that is afraid to be shut out, abandoned, not good enough. The reason I am here sharing this with you now is because I know I am not the only one.
I recently heard that every successful person experiences imposter syndrome, the difference is they don’t let it stop them from showing up for what they are here to do.
This is your invitation, to stand along side me, and show up for that which feels scary.
It is only by recognizing and loving these parts of ourselves, but seeing them for what they are- a defense mechanism, not the truth, that we are able to see our inner snow, glistening and gleaming in its innate beauty.
This is what I know, I am an exceptional herbalist. I feel deeply passionate about sharing plants with you all through my classes, writing, and herbal products! And I am going to keep showing up in this way, time and time again.
I have been really trying to pour more of myself into Dancing Willow Herbs, in order for the business to be reflective of who I am. I have been doing this through this newsletter, my blog posts, my classes, and now 5 new herbal products.
Each of these 5 new products has a story, one that is reflective of my journey as an herbalist. Many of them are formulated to be delicious, and are perfect for gifting this holiday season. Read below to learn more about the story behind each formula.
Many of you may not know that I grew up in New Mexico. This landscape taught me the love language of nature, my passion for plants and the taste for Red Chile. The Southwest Mushroom Cacao Cordial is an ode to the flavors of the four corners. Earthy flavors of Cacao and double extracted mushrooms are paired with the spice of Cinnamon and Red Chile to create something that is as delicious as it is medicinal.
I have always loved the concept of making your herbal medicines delicious and easy to incorporate into recipes. This cordial is designed to be taken by the spoonful, added to hot chocolate or coffee, combine with sparkling water, or mix into mocktail/cocktail recipes!
Our medicinal mushrooms are double extracted to optimize the constituent profiles which nourish the immune system and support overall well-being. This is a wonderful gift, which will help support the immune systems of your loved ones... while tasting delicious!
Contains: Double Extracted Cacao, Reishi, Chaga & Turkey Tail, Cinnamon, Red Chile, Raw Honey, Gluten Free Alcohol, Water
This elixir is one of my oldest formulas. It was originally combined out of sheer intuition. I had double extracted Reishi, Hawthorn and Rose tinctures at hand in my home apothecary- 3 of my most beloved plant allies. It suddenly struck me that they wanted to be combined, to create a medicine that helps ground someone into their heart. I started selling the tincture to friends and acquaintances, with such success that my demand could not meet my at home seasonal production. Everyone reflected to me how nourishing, and sweet it felt to take this tincture blend. “Like a hug for your heart” has been used several times to describe the feeling of this tincture.
With more experience, I now know some of the reasons why this formula was so supportive to people. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, all three of these herbs are considered to be “shen tonics”. Shen is where our purpose and spirit resides, and it is held in the heart. Rooted Heart Elixir helps you open and ground into your heart in a gentle, soothing and profound way.
This elixir can be taken daily to connect to your heart and show up in the world with more authenticity. It is also indicated for folks dealing with grief, heartbreak, lack of purpose or connection with ones self.
It is absolutely delicious- sweet, earthy and floral. It is a delightfully supportive gift for yourself or a loved one!
Contains: Double Extracted Reishi, Rose Petals, Hawthorn Berries, Gluten Free Alcohol, Water, Honey
Since taking over Dancing Willow Herbs, my stress levels have been much higher than ever before. I mean, see above, putting myself out there, managing an apothecary, seeing clients, creating new products… we have a lot going on! This honey paste has been a lifesaver for me during the past year and a half!
It is a combination of calming adaptogens blended into raw honey to create a delicious, nourishing way to soothe your nervous system! My favorite way to use it is in my nightly drink. I will simply add hot water to a heaping teaspoon of honey paste, then stir in some frothed almond & coconut milk. It is deeply soothing to my nervous system, and helps me unwind into a restful evening.
Shatavari and Ashwagandha are adaptogens which help to regulate the HPA axis and stress response. Especially when taken daily over time, they help to nourish the adrenals, nervous system and help promote a sense of calm. In this honey paste, they are combined with Rose and Cardamom to delight the senses and calm the heart!
It can be taken by the spoonful, added to water for instant tea, spread on toast or incorporate into other recipes! It is a great gift for that person you know who is stressed, overwhelmed, or doing a million things at once- plus, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down!
Contains: Shatavari, Ashwagandha, Rose Petals, Cardamom, Raw Local Honey
This Spiced Bitters Spray was created from my experience seeing clients who were experiencing digestive insufficiency, paired with a very cold constitution. Most classic bitter herbs are quite cooling, so we wanted to create an option that not only stimulates the secretion of digestive juices, but also cultivates digestive fire and warmth. In addition to some warming bitters like Angelica and Calamus, there are warming herbs with carminative action. These help to ease gas, bloating and the assimilation of nutrients. The clove in this formula is a microbiome modulator, meaning it helps prevent and reduce overgrowths of detrimental bacteria while promoting the cultivation of beneficial bacteria in our gut.
All in all, this spiced bitters spray is great for anyone experiencing digestive issues that tends to run cold… especially in the winter months! It is indicated for belching, bloating/gas, the feeling of being overly full after meals, and undigested food in the stool.
We put it in a spray bottle so that it will be easy to carry around with you and spray into your mouth before meals, even if you are out to dinner! The spray delivery also coats more of the mucous membranes, making the bitter flavor more effective at stimulating the release of digestive enzymes and bile.
Contains: Angelica, Calamus, Dandelion Root, Ginger, Cinnamon, Clove, Gluten Free Alcohol & Water
Our long requested anti-inflammatory formula is here!
It contains a blend of my favorite herbs that help modulate the inflammatory response. There are herbs which contain salicylates, a compound that was originally used to create Asprin- Meadowsweet and Willow Bark. In addition to other classic anti-inflammatory herbs like Turmeric and Ginger which can help to modulate the Cox 2 inflammatory response.
This formula is great for folks who deal with chronic inflammatory conditions or more acute bouts of inflammation.
Contains: Meadowsweet, Turmeric, Willow Bark, Frankincense, Ginger, Black Pepper, Gluten Free Alcohol, Water
Thank you all for all of your support! For witnessing and contributing to our growth, in the business and beyond!
We are endlessly grateful to connect with each of you in the shop, by sending you packages, in classes, on the phone and more! This community is so incredibly special, thank you for being an integral part of it.
Shining bright like the first snow,
Elliott & the team at Dancing Willow Herbs
]]>Of the many interesting topics in the wellness sphere, few things make me feel as passionate as hormonal health and female empowerment. Growing up in a society that shames menstruation, and fails to teach the basics of female reproductive cycles, I remember feeling confused, helpless and afraid when it came to my hormones. The option presented to me by mainstream doctors when it came to menstrual cramps, acne, and hormonal fluctuations was the birth control pill.
They nonchalantly handed me a box of blue pills that I took without asking questions like, “Why are my hormones out of balance in the first place?” “Maybe there is something deeper at play with my menstrual cramps?” “What are the side effects of this medication?”.
After a few emotionally tumultuous years on birth control, I came across the fertility awareness method of charting ones cycle. It was then, at 20 years old, that I learned that there were 4 phases of the menstrual cycle. This felt like a spark of knowledge that lit my fires of passion. I am immensely grateful that I found this information, because many women never have the privilege to learn the literacy of their bodies. But at the same time, I was enraged that I wasn’t taught this when I first started menstruating.
This information gave me permission to lean into my cyclical nature- the nature that is suppressed in our production driven culture. A cycle characteristic of moments of expansion, balanced by periods of rest.
You deserve access to this knowledge, the knowledge of how your body works and the ways that you can lean into its innate gravitations.
In this blog post, I break down the anatomy/physiology of the 4 phases of the menstrual cycle and provide ways that you can support each phase with lifestyle, diet, and herbs to become more aligned with your inner lunar cycle.
The menstrual cycle refers to the entire monthly hormonal/reproductive cycle. The average normal cycle is 28 days but individuals can have a normal/regular/healthy cycle that spans anywhere from 21-40 days. Within the window of the menstrual cycle, there are 4 phases that occur under the rein of hormonal influence, and physiological changes. The 4 phases are distinguished as follicular, ovulatory, luteal and menses. Everyone experiences these cycles within their bodies differently and at various lengths. The “days” are a general average outline, by tuning into your own unique rhythm you may find that you ovulate earlier or later than the average and that may be completely normal and healthy for you.
The follicular phase begins once the hormones start to increase again after their drop during menstruation. This usually occurs from Day 2 to 4 of your menstrual cycle and continues until ovulation around day 14.
During the follicular phase, the ovaries are growing and egg within a follicle. In order to stimulate this growth, the anterior pituitary gland releases follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) which binds to the cells in the ovary and causes them to proliferate. While the follicle is being stimulated by FSH and growing, the ovary is also releasing large amounts of estrogen relative to progesterone.
Estrogen stimulates the growth of the endometrial lining, which begins to build again after menstruation. Estrogen also stimulates and maintains bone density and has an antidepressant effect. The dominance of estrogen, may explain why one may have higher energy levels during this phase. Estrogen will also make your basal body temperature cooler than the second half of the cycle, whom is ruled by progesterone.
In addition to all of these physiological happenings, at some point during this phase the cervix will begin to produce an alkaline mucous. The ph of the vagina is typically incredibly acidic, to kill bacteria or sperm at inopportune times of the month. During the follicular phase, the body is preparing to fertilize the egg that the ovaries are growing. Because of this, the cervical mucous alters the ph of the vagina with its watery, elastic discharge. Many will identify this fertile window by observing egg white like mucous. The cervical canal will also widen at this time, allowing entry for the sperm to travel up through the alkaline mucous.
The follicular phase is like our inner spring time. With rising levels of estrogen, we tend to be more open to new ideas, projects and social settings. Estrogen also provides us with more energy to use in higher intensity exercise. Think of the way that you feel in the spring- ready to get out, seize the day and invite the new growth to come out of the ground. You can try to cultivate this energy within you as you move through your follicular phase.
Ovulation occurs at the moment when the follicle releases the egg. Some will experience uni-lateral twinge like pains in the lower abdomen during ovulation- this is due to the egg being shot out of the ovary to be fertilized. The release is triggered by an immense spike in sex hormones- estrogen, progesterone, follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. The cervical mucous at this time will be more watery in quality, the peak of its alkalinity. While ovulation is a moment in time, there is a doorway about 3 days before the egg is released to where the energy of this physiological event can be leaned into. Pleasure will be heightened and the surge of hormones will need to be adequately detoxified.
After ovulation, the follicle that once held the egg degrades under the influence of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) into what is called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is a transient endocrine organ that produces progesterone (plus a little estrogen and testosterone). The function of the corpus luteum’s release of progesterone is to set the stage in the endometrium by vascularizing the tissue so it is ready for the implantation of a fertilized egg.
During this phase, cervical mucus production decreases, thickens and will be less elastic. The cervical canal will close and the positioning of the cervix will sit lower. While estrogen has another peak at some point during the luteal phase, the dominant hormone at this time is progesterone. Progesterone tends to influence a calmer and slower pace. This is why the luteal phase is when our bodies are asking us to start to wind down. Follow an inner autumn, and prepare for your menstruation phase.
Menses is a sacred window and opportunity to cultivate rest. In the absence of pregnancy, the corpus luteum stops secreting hormones. All of the sex hormones drop off significantly, which then signals the shedding of the endometrial lining. The endometrium releases prostaglandins, which are hormonal messengers signaling the inflammatory response, and causing contractions of the smooth muscle that lines the uterus. Menstrual pain is commonly caused by an overactive inflammatory response, pelvic stagnation, or nutrient deficiencies. Within two days after the beginning of bleeding, the follicles start growing and producing estrogen- so the cycle starts all over again.
This class will be a deeper dive into the menstrual cycle and what to do if your hormones are out of balance. We will go into even more depth to discuss the anatomy of the various phases of our monthly reproductive cycle, and ways to support them. We will discuss herbal therapeutics for balancing hormones and how to address common hormonally based conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, estrogen dominance and more. You will leave with a deeper understanding of your body and how to create harmony within your hormones.
Sign up here: Harmonious Hormones Class
I hope that this provides you with some empowerment to know that your body is complex and beautiful.
With love always,
Elliott
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One of the many reasons this season has always stood out to me, is the collective celebration of what it means to be living during the month of October. Pumpkin everything, cozy sweaters, an excitement over the natural show of golden and rusted leaves. As a culture, we are celebrating seasonality. And while it is sometimes clumsy or overly commodified, it comes from this innate yearning we all have to be closer to the Earth. Our ancestors celebrated the slightest seasonal shift, because it dramatically affected their lives. While the transition from fall into the winter won’t affect us in our modern lives to the same extent, even if on a subtle level we all feel the shift that is to come.
I have been noticing within myself and others, a sense of inner agitation and overwhelm. We found a pocket of slowness after the whirlwind of summer, and decided to fill our schedules to the brim. But here is the thing, the true energy of autumn is that of slowing down, dropping leaves into the soil bed of winter’s rest. To find the soothing medicine this season can grant us, we have to lean into slower Earth paced ways.
How can you find the boundaries around what is filling you up during this transitional season and make that your priority?
When I find myself rushing, it seems like such a waste. This season is sensational in every way. And yet, the colorful leaves are waning. The Earth is calling us to step outside and do nothing but appreciate this fleeting moment of in-between.
This recipe is presented to you, not as another thing “to do”, but as something to fill up your cup and support you in further leaning into the magic of this time.
If you have been attending our classes, you have witnessed my enthusiasm for herbal decoctions. Decoctions are the best way to extract tougher herbs like roots, berries, mushrooms, and barks in water. You place herbs in a pot with water, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook until it is reduced by 1/2. You will have a potent herbal extract that fills your home with aroma and feels deeply nourishing during this time.
A popular cold season "decoction" consists of mulling spices infused in water, wine, or apple juice! I thought I would add some of my favorite herbs for daily wellness into a blend that people are already familiar with to help introduce you all to the magic of decoctions, and infuse more medicine into your seasonal drinks!
Mulling spices are a traditional blend of aromatic herbs that help promote circulation, are antimicrobial, and carminative- helping support digestion and relieve gas/bloating. We took these healing properties up a notch by adding a few extra herbs that are supportive to overall health and seasonal wellbeing!
Our Extra Medicinal Mulling Spices are comprised of the traditional blend of aromatic spices along with Reishi, Hawthorn, & Burdock. These herbs help potentiate the formula to support immunity, heart health, detoxification and overall vitality!
These spices can be used anywhere you might use mulling spices, but I wanted to provide you with a fun, unique and delicious twist on the classic recipes- a Pumpkin Orange Mulled Mocktail! A perfect drink to help you soften and tune into the season.
Get your mulling spices here!
2-3 tablespoons Extra Medicinal Mulling Spices
1 quart water
2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
1 orange
2 tablespoons maple syrup
*If you would like to make this a cocktail, add 1 shot of vodka.
Add Extra Medicinal Mulling Spices to a pot with 1 quart of water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 20 minutes (or until the liquid is reduced by 1/2).
Strain and let cool.
Add the water decoction to a quart sized mason jar.
Add the pumpkin puree, squeeze the orange and add the juice, and the maple syrup.
Lid the jar and shake well.
Pour into a serving glass over ice and an optional orange peel slice!
Enjoy and soak in the flavors of fall!
]]>Research shows the value of positive community and personal connection for mental health, physical wellbeing & longevity. The isolation of the past several years has left us feeling disconnected, and even a little awkward- like little birds learning how to fly into the social versions of ourselves again. In this blog post, you will meet three of my favorite herbs for social connection to help you arrive in community with confidence, authenticity and a feeling of safety.
]]>While everyone exists somewhere on the spectrum from a social butterfly to content introvert, we all need some amount of social interaction. Research shows the tremendous value of positive community and personal connection for mental health, physical wellbeing & longevity. Post pandemic, many are feeling this more than ever. The long term isolation has left us feeling disconnected, and even a little awkward- like little birds learning how to fly into the social versions of ourselves again.
One of my core values is creating space for intentional relationships. The feeling of relating with someone, having meaningful conversations, and deeply connecting is something my spirit yearns for. And as an introvert at my core, I have had to learn which social situations will fill me up and which will leave me depleted. Big parties, surface level interactions, and acquaintances have never really been my thing. I like small groups, where my voice can be heard and conversations can be deep, expansive and heart-felt.
When I took over ownership of Dancing Willow Herbs, I felt very strongly that I wanted to cultivate herbal community. A space that feels safe, encouraging, inspiring and grounded for everyone involved. If you support us through working with our handcrafted herbal products, order online, come into the store, read our blog posts, follow us on social media or are reading this now- you are a part of this community.
Particularly, with our regular classes, we have felt enlivened to be able to get to know you all. This community is filled with people who are kind, grounded, passionate about plants, health/wellbeing and are eager to learn. It has also become evident that we were not the only people yearning for intentional relationships and community, we are pleased to see the ways everyone is responding and being filled up by the experiences.
In my experience witnessing loved ones even more introverted than me, it is the sensitive ones that tend to lock themselves away while still deep down yearning for the sense of connection that seems to come to more extroverted folks so easily. Introversion is not an illness. How can we all learn to love the parts of ourselves that relish in alone time, the parts of us that want to hide away in our own worlds to revive and regenerate? How can we love these parts while also honoring our basic human need for social interaction with humans and the natural world?
This is a botanical love letter to someone in the midst of self imposed isolation. It is for someone who wants community, but experiences social anxiety, has trouble branching out or feels uncomfortable in community. I have introduced you to three of my favorite herbs for navigating social dynamics with ease and confidence.
Words cannot fully encompass the magic of Rose. An essence so classic, so symbolic in our culture, Rose has different meaning to each person who chooses to examine their relationship with it. Personally, Rose draws me directly into my heart. When I work with this plant I feel deep love for myself, the natural world and others. As someone who gravitates toward moving in the world from this space of being in my heart with high levels of sensitivity, Rose has proven an incredible ally.
Rose allows me to feel the world, without becoming the world.
Rose is an invaluable relationship to develop for people who are empathic, highly sensitive, who are caretakers, healers, teachers or leaders. We need to establish appropriate energetic boundaries because if we don’t, we may feel drained and unable to do the work that we are truly here to do. Her thorns invoke protection- mental, emotional, and physical boundaries. Rose teaches us to speak up for ourselves, to say no, or to let go of relationships that are not feeding or celebrating our unfurling essence. Rose soothes a heart tinged with grief, or the loss of a love. Like a tender embrace, rose teaches us that even in the deepest wells of sadness, beauty rests somewhere on the other side
Rose shows us how to be open enough to use sensitivity as a tool, from the place of being whole within ourselves and only taking on what is truly ours.
Rose has the gift of bringing us into heart centered wholeness. Embracing the world with the slowness of a softened heart, Rose teaches us to fall in love with the beauty of our environment, our sensual experience, the people around us, and ourselves. Evident in the saying, “Stop and smell the roses”, we see rose’s offering to slow down and savor the pleasure that saturates our everyday experience.
From a social perspective, Rose helps us accept ourselves fully. More often than not, self imposed isolation is a mechanism we developed to keep ourselves safe. Maybe somewhere along the line you were hurt or shamed in a social setting and then decided that being in groups was not safe. This was the case for me, and is something that I am still working through. Because of these formative experiences, I sometimes find myself people pleasing in group dynamics. Not fully being myself or winding up in social situations to make everyone around me happy. The more that we can heal the wounded parts of ourselves, and accept ourselves fully for who we are- the sooner we can show up in social situations as our authentic selves. Rose helps us do this, while also helping us create boundaries around the social situations that fill our hearts and help us let go of the plans that aren’t worth our energy.
-Rose tea (cold infusion brings out more floral flavors)
-Rosewater sprayed in the air/on your face/incorporated into recipes
-Rose tincture in drop doses
-Wild rose flower essence
I often ponder the irony that in this “age of connection”, we end up feeling disconnected. Eyes continuously reaching for a screen, whilst the initial grasses of spring sprout and birds flutter by. What we are all ultimately searching for is to feel like we belong, with tender parts of ourselves embraced and seen for their awe-inspiring beauty. The question I seek to pose here is, what if the place where we belong already exists? What if the natural world can be our village, our community, our solace?
I feel that this, is largely the medicine of Violet. Violet teaches us of comfort in going within, and seeking community within the natural world. Violet promotes that feeling of belonging within us- especially finding our place on this Earth, within the environment and the elements of nature. Violet cultivates a sense of knowing that our community exists amongst forces greater than fellow humans. Violet draws us into the magic of nature, and the similar thread that runs through it all.
In order to show up in community, we must first know ourselves. Violet teaches us who we are at our core, and how showing up as this version of ourselves benefits the entire community. Violet gives us the confidence that our gifts are valuable to the collective- and need to be shared.
Violet helps us value introverted tendencies, while helping to cultivate a healthy sense of community in ways that are aligned with our inner tenderness.
-Violet flower essence
-Fresh Violets in spring in oil (used topically)
-Fresh Violets in spring eaten fresh
Damiana is medicine for embodiment. Whenever we are feeling disconnected from others- chances are, we are disconnected from ourselves. Damiana is popular for being an aphrodisiac. By bringing circulation to the pelvis, Damiana helps to drop us into our bodies and our connection with the Earthly plane. Damiana also brings blood flow to our periphery, promoting a state of outward disposition. This is why Damiana is my choice herb for introverts that feel overwhelmed or withdrawn before social gatherings. It helps us feel alive in the moment, in our bodies and therefore in the presence of others.
Damiana brings about an enchantment with the mundane. It helps us feel invigorated by a heartfelt conversation, and more willing to “go there” with others. Damiana helps us get out of our heads and into our bodies. This aromatic herb helps us get out of our own way when it comes to showing up as our full selves in social situations and beyond.
Especially when one is debating “to go or not to go”, Damiana helps unveil any resistance based on fear or lack of self worth. Damiana will help you make this decision based on what is aligned with your body, and your heart.
-Our delicious Damiana Cordials
-Damiana tea (on it’s own or with Rose)
-Our Lover’s Tea or Fire Tea
-Drop dose Damiana Tincture
May these plants offer you support for stepping into community as your authentic self. Unveil the parts of your identity that you have kept hidden, and branch out to find the people who are suited to the real you.
You deserve to have social engagements that light you up and leave you feeling uplifted, inspired and in your heart! Hopefully these plants will help guide you along the way.
A hug and love from your Willow community,
Elliott & the team at Dancing Willow Herbs
]]>Hawthorn has always had a special place in my heart... somewhat literally, because it helps improve circulation in the heart, but also because it has been a beacon in my experience working with herbs. It helps me mark the years as it always ushers in autumn, and welcomes in the warmth of spring. I sip on the decocted berries all throughout the colder months, and make iced spritzers with the leaves and flowers during the summer. Time and time again, it helps me reconnect with my heart, my purpose and the world around me.
Yes, there are so medicinal attributes that Hawthorn can offer our physical body. And I always feel there is so much more at work, with this magical tree.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hawthorn is considered to be a shen tonic. Our shen is where our essence resides. Hawthorn helps us connect with and settle into our spirit, our purpose, and what lights us up. It is for this reason that I think Hawthorn has been such a powerful herb for me. It has guided me on my path and helped me settle into who I really am. For this reason, I feel honored to introduce you to one of my dearest botanical allies through this monograph. I have laid out the medicinal properties, history and lore, and the energetic support that Hawthorn has to offer in this monograph.
Family: Rosaceae
Parts used: Flowers, Leaves, Berries
Native to: Europe, Asia, North America, North Africa
Naturalized: Europe, Asia, North America, North Africa
Energetics: Sweet, Sour, Astringent
Herbal Actions: Cardiotonic, Anti-inflammatory, Hypotensive, Nervine, Tonic
There are many different species that can be difficult to differentiate because hawthorn hybridizes very easily. Luckily almost all species can be used interchangeably for medicinal purposes.
Hawthorn can range from 3 to 49 feet tall and are commonly used in England and Ireland as hedgerows. They have thorned branches and white flowers that can be grouped in 5-30 flowers depending on the species. The tree flowers in the spring, and bears fruit in the fall. The berries are bright red and are known as “fairy apples” because they resemble tiny round apples. The leaves are toothed, can be elliptic or oval shaped, some are deeply lobed. The leaves can be eaten as a green in salad, or sautés. The flowers can be used to infuse wine, or made into medicine. The berries need to be slowly cooked down when eaten, or can be made freshly into medicine.
Hawthorn is a guardian tree that grounds us into our essence, the seat of our authenticity- the heart. Hawthorn teaches us not only to open our heart, but to really root into it so that we may fully embrace the magic of this world and ourselves. Working with hawthorn is a lesson in genuinely trusting the heart, and putting to rest resistance or previous hurt that continues to reside there. Through this we are able to embody our true nature and share our gifts with the world- staying anchored in the heart amongst tumultuous seas.
Hawthorn dissolves veils, teaches us of the in-between spaces and of kindling magic sparks from the heart. This tree is a gateway beyond the mists. With flowers, white like the milky way and berries red as moon blood, Hawthorn teaches us how to stay grounded in the ether and enchanted in the mundane. Ripe with the potential to fill our heart with immense love for the Earth, the unseen guardians that inhabit it, and the tender or hidden parts of ourselves. Hawthorn stands ready to defend that which is good, loving and in justice intent.
Hawthorn has long been known as a portal to the fairy realm. A dancer amongst polarity, hawthorn represents the gateway between worlds. She embodies the in between, as she blooms on Beltane (middle point between spring and summer) and fruits on Samhain (middle point between fall and winter). She brings forth her medicine during these times which are not one or the other, they are the in between. Hawthorn knows how to support us when we are in times of transition, teaching us how to remain centered in our hearts when we are walking among uncertainty.
Hawthorn is asking you to peel back any veils clouding the loving center of your heart. To bring forth the truth that you are here to share, the purpose and love that lies in your bones. May we be open to the magic Hawthorn is ready to share with us, as we learn more about it's medicine.
There is much symbolism and story that immerses the hawthorn.
One of my favorite tales is that a Welsh goddess scattered a trail of hawthorn petals that became the milky way. After hearing this story, I now look at the milky way and imagine the sweet white flowers being cast into the stars, so poetic!
Hawthorn is long associated with the “otherworld”. Hawthorn, ash and oak are considered the triad of fairy trees that represent the three realms- the underworld, middleworld, and upperworld, as well as the maiden, mother, crone- in Celtic tradition. Many stories illustrate individuals somehow finding themselves in the fairy realm while engaging with a hawthorn in some way.
Hawthorn also represents the two moments or experiences that bring us closest to the otherworld- sex(birth) and death. The flowers bloom around Beltane, or May Day- the cross-quarter holy day and middle point between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. Beltane is associated with the fertile energy of spring, the sensuality of new beginnings. Hawthorn has been used in Beltane rituals and is typically the preferred wood used to make the famous May Pole, which is danced around as people hold strips of cloth. Wine is made from hawthorn blossoms, and drunk during Beltane celebration. And as they are a symbol of fertility, happiness, and hope, brides and bridesmaids frequently wore hawthorn blossoms on their wedding day.
While the fruits are usually ready to be harvested around Samhain, or Halloween as we know it- another cross-quarter holy day between the fall equinox and the winter solstice. Samhain is regarded as a moment for releasing the old, and celebrating the death of our garden. Additionally, hawthorn flowers contain a pheromonal chemical called triethylamine. This contributes to the bloom’s smell, in creating an intoxicating fragrance that later smells like decaying matter as the flower fades- another indication of hawthorn’s relationship to sex and death. The polarity of hawthorn was even illustrated in Harry Potter, where hawthorn wood was made to make wands. They say in the movie, “…as full of paradoxes as the tree that gave it birth, whose leaves and blossoms heal, and yet whose cut branches smell of death.”
The association with death has not only made Hawthorn a traditional remedy for grief, but also for death rituals. Hawthorn was traditionally used in funeral pyres with the idea that it assists in guiding the spirit to the otherworld.
Hawthorn is also known as the wishing tree, because of its close proximity to the fairies and otherworld. To make their wishes, individuals tie strips of cloth on hawthorns- the color of the cloth is typically symbolic for the specific wish and this tradition is most alive during the times of Beltane or Samhain because the “veils are thin”.
A symbol for protection, the sprigs of hawthorn were used in Roman times as a charm to protect children while they slept. It is said that hawthorn also protects places and can be found at holy wells and crossroads. It protects the edges of a property and is planted to guard the land.
The belief in the power of hawthorn’s magic is still very strong in Irish and Scottish culture. The hawthorn is celebrated, respected and feared for it is believed that if you disrespect this tree, it is disrespect to the fairies and otherworld. Because of this, major highway projects have been re-routed to avoid hawthorn trees. When you drive around the fields of Ireland, hawthorns will stand alone in fields, as others trees were cut down- but never the hawthorn.
Hawthorn has been used by the ancient greeks, and has a long history of use in Arabic medicine. It wasn’t as popular in European medicine until 1895, when an Irish physician named Greene, successfully treated heart patients with hawthorn.
Hawthorn is comprehensive heart medicine, working from various angles to strengthen the muscle at our center. The antioxidant properties and the flavonoid rutin, increase the passage of blood in the capillaries, removing congestion associated with heat. In this way, hawthorn can be an excellent ally for cold months and those with poor circulation in the hands and feet. I have even made a salve with hawthorn berries paired with other warming herbs to place topically on my toes before going outside in the winter months- it has seemed to make a big difference. Hawthorn prevents and reverses blood vessel damage, and can be a good tonic for those who have had chilblains (burst blood vessels in the toes caused by dramatic changes in temperature and poor circulation).
With this action on the capillaries, hawthorn lowers unhealthy cholesterol and high blood pressure. It improves the deposition of lipids in the walls of capillaries, in order for blood to pass through them more quickly. Hawthorn has a modulating and normalizing effect on blood pressure and cholesterol (lowering levels of bad cholesterol, and increasing levels of good cholesterol). It works as a gentle and slow ACE inhibitor.
By opening up circulation in the heart, hawthorn actually strengthens the heart muscle. In addition to lowering high blood pressure, it can lessen atherosclerosis, cardiac arrhythmias, and angina (chest pain). It is most researched in its ability to prevent, treat and potentially reverse congestive heart failure. Hawthorn is specifically indicated for cases where the blood pools in the heart and it becomes weak, by helping with circulation and strengthening the myocardium. Hawthorn may prevent heart attack and assist in our body’s ability to heal after a heart attack. It is beneficial for degeneration in the structure of the heart, particularly when it is age related. Hawthorn has an overall tonifying effect on the large vessels and heart muscle as a whole. Herbalist Maria Groves says that
hawthorn is safe enough to incorporate into daily food or medicine for anyone with heart problems or a family history of heart disease (154). So long as you keep in mind pharmaceutical contraindications (listed below).
In addition to physical heart support, hawthorn is known for being medicine for the emotional heart. It calms the nervous system, and is often used alongside rose to heal, open and protect the heart. Particularly beneficial for grief or a broken heart, hawthorn can help when someone feels extremely vulnerable, or anxious in reaction to loss.
The leaves, flowers and fruits are phytochemically similar, but they differ in the ratio of specific flavinoids. For the most wholistic hawthorn medicine, look to an extract that combines the leaves, flowers and fruits- this is what we offer at Dancing Willow Herbs. Hawthorn is a tonic herb, meaning its medicinal qualities shine when taken regularly over long periods of time.
*We always advise people to consult their doctor before taking any new herbs or supplements.
Hawthorn works synergistically with Digoxin and blood pressure medications, increasing their activity. Some doctors intentionally prescribe them together so they can use a lower drug dose, and fewer side effects. This needs to be done with a qualified practitioner in order to reach a safe balancing point and not lower blood pressure too significantly. Do not take hawthorn if you are on these medications and have not consulted your doctor.
Otherwise, hawthorn is an incredibly safe tonic herb that can be taken by children and adults daily for long periods of time.
At Dancing Willow Herbs, we make a tincture with Hawthorn berries, leaves and flowers. You can purchase that here!
We also have our Heart Tonic, which features Hawthorn paired with other herbs that help support the circulatory system overall such as Garlic, Motherwort and Ginkgo among others. You can purchase Heart Tonic here!
Hawthorn is also in one of my favorite teas, Water Tea. This is a blend of calming herbs that taste delicious, fruity and help you soften into your intuition/heart. Purchase Water Tea here!
If you would like to learn more about Autumn seasonal herbs like Hawthorn, please join us for an upcoming class: Autumnal Herbal Medicine at the shop on October 5th at 6:30 PM. Sign up here!
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If you could ask me what herbs are best suited for everyone during these times, I would say, nervines and calming adaptogens. The reason for this is that our society is running on a high stress state. Even if you don’t have a stressful job or home-life (which many absolutely do), the technological stimuli we are constantly taking in is beyond the scope of what our nervous systems have previously been exposed to on a regular basis. The elevation of cortisol we receive from watching an action movie, scrolling through instagram, or getting the ping of a news alert on your phone is markedly more than you might expect.
Stress is also one of the major contributors to chronic disease. Autoimmune conditions, digestive disorders, insomnia, mood disorders, skin conditions, neurological health, hormonal health and so much more are either cause by or directly affected by stress.
While I am always firstly encouraging folks to remove unnecessary stressors in their life as much as possible, sometimes life circumstances require us to keep moving. I will say, however, that herbs will never be a replacement for rest, a walk in fresh air, or a 20 minute meditation practice- but they can help support us in shifting into a more relaxed state wherever we are.
Nervines are herbs that can shift our nervous system from a sympathetic (fight or flight) state to a parasympathetic (rest and digest) state. Calming adaptogens help to support the HPA axis, which regulates the release of adrenaline. Therefore, calming adaptogens also help promote the parasympathetic nervous system state and help the body in its overall adaptation to stressful times.
Below you will find a recipe for a simple Calming Adaptogenic Herbal Latte. This delicious drink is soothing to the nervous system, and is extremely quick and easy to make (which is necessary if you have a lot going on). I love to drink it as I am winding down for the evening as it helps reduce cortisol, and promote deep and restful sleep. Consuming these calming adaptogens and nervines on a regular basis will help to create deeper shifts and more lasting effects that will not only help to promote calm in the moment, but rewire patterns that promote more calm throughout your day.
1 cup hot water
1/2 cup milk (from grass-fed cows, almond, coconut, etc.)
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
1/4 tsp Ashwagandha powder
1/4 tsp Shatavari powder
1/4 tsp Skullcap powder
(Optional) Dash of cardamom, cinnamon, ginger or ground rose petals
(Optional) 1 tsp coconut oil/ghee and/or collagen peptides for blender method
1) Bring water to boil
2) Add powders to a mug
3) Pour water into the mug while stirring in the powders
4) Add honey & vanilla, stir well
5) Either froth milk using a milk frother and then add to the mug, stirring until incorporated. Or if using a blender, blend together with milk, coconut oil and collagen until frothy.
6) Garnish with spices and rose petals if desired.
7) Enjoy while taking deep breaths, and focusing on soothing your nervous system!
If you are interested in learning more about herbs and practices that help to calm and soothe your nervous system, join us for an upcoming class: Calm Your Nerves with Herbs on Wednesday, September 23rd at 6:30 in person at Dancing Willow Herbs. Sign up here: https://dancingwillowherbs.com/collections/classes/products/calm-your-nerves-with-herbs-september-21
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Written by Elliott Brinkley, Clinical Herbalist and Owner of Dancing Willow Herbs
Skin was what originally brought me into the world of natural healing. From age 14 to 24, I struggled with chronic deep cystic acne. In my teens, I took the conventional route where my dermatologist put me on antibiotics, birth control, and eventually Accutane, all of which did not resolve my skin issues. The lack of conventional progress heightened my interest in plants, nutrition and mental/emotional healing. This led me to try countless natural remedies, eagerly awaiting my magical cure. It wasn’t until I became dedicated toward impeccably changing my diet, working with the right plants, and repleting my body with the proper nutrients that I started seeing a tremendous difference in my skin. This journey, and the emotional resilience it took to find my inner self confidence have made me who I am today.
This guide is composed of the tools and practices that made the biggest difference in my personal experience in resolving my acne. I have also drawn from experiences working with clients in clearing up their skin.
It is important to mention, that skin is a multifaceted and complex organ. I witness people in the natural medicine field touting quick fixes, or belittling the magnitude of this phenomenon by neglecting to address the emotional aspect of what it is like to have acne. In addition to nutritional, herbal and lifestyle recommendations, I will also provide ways to support your emotional process while healing your skin from within.
One of the first stops on a vitalist herbalist’s healing train is almost always, removing food allergens.
For me, removing food allergens have been the biggest piece in shifting the picture of my skin. I spent years dabbling in mostly being gluten free, but ordering glutenous items at restaurants, or having “bites” here and there. It wasn’t until I spent 1 month completely gluten free that my skin started to turn a corner. While it was challenging at first to assert my needs at restaurants or dinners with friends, after seeing such dramatic results, it became easier and easier to choose my own health over the comfort of others. My skin was clearer than it had ever been before but I also felt more mental clarity, blood sugar stability and less digestive disruption.
After cutting out gluten impeccably for several years, I continued to have occasional cysts pop up on my face or back. At this point, I was working with a clinical herbalist who identified the low hanging fruit… I was eating astronomical amounts of butter. I had identified that when I had dairy in my coffee, or cheese regularly, I broke out more often. For this reason, I avoided it- mostly, besides the fact that I was cooking with butter… and making butter sandwiches with pecans. Yeah, read that again, butter was like the cheese in the middle of my pecans… it was delicious and a bit excessive. After completely removing dairy from my diet for 6 weeks, I noticed a marked difference in the inflammation shown in my skin.
This is the same experience I have seen reflected in my clients with acne. Most of the folks who do an elimination diet, don’t seem to want to even re-challenge because they feel so much better.
The foods that may be irritating to us are unique to each individual. For folks struggling with skin issues gluten, dairy, corn and sometimes eggs seem to be the biggest triggers. By removing an irritant from the diet, the body has a chance to play catch up: to quell the fires of inflammation, to heal irritated gut tissue, to mop up lymphatics and retrain the immune system.
Elimination diet:
The golden standard for identifying a food allergen is by doing a 6 week elimination diet. Take notes on your current symptoms for your personal records before removing any foods. Then stock up with alternatives. I tend to prefer people leaning on whole food meals and vegetables instead of finding alternatives that are highly refined and filled with poor quality oils (see oil change below)- such as gluten free breads, alternative butters or cheeses, etc. Mark your start date on a calendar, and get excited about some recipes within your parameters. Because inflammation from a given intolerance happens on a molecular level, even the tiniest amount can trigger an inflammatory cascade. If you eat the food that you are cutting out, even a small amount, you will need to start from the beginning and do another 6 weeks.
Reintroduction:
At the end of the 6 weeks, do another symptoms chart and see how your skin and any other symptoms may have changed. Reintroduce the food by eating it at every meal for 1 day, see how you feel after 2 days. If you don’t notice any symptoms by day 3, eat the food at every meal for another 2 days in a row. If you don’t notice any symptoms, this food may not be an issue for you! If you do notice symptoms, you may decide to refrain from eating this food.
Are you due for an oil change? An oil change is when you remove all highly refined seed oils from your diet and replace them with high quality Omega 3 oils. This change dramatically shifts our inflammatory cascade, cellular communications, immunological function, and skin health overall. Our cells are made up of a phospholipid-bilayer, which is essentially a porous layer of fat that still allows for the exchange of water and other essential materials. Every time we consume oils, they get incorporated into the phospholipid-bilayer of our cells. If these cells are made up of highly processed oils with an incompatible molecular structure, they cannot properly communicate with other cells. This can lead to cellular damage, disfunction and inflammation.
Moral of the story, less highly refined seed oils and more Omega 3s and other good quality oils will promote healthy skin that heals quickly and is less inflamed.
Highly refined seed oils are found in almost all processed or packaged foods, snacks, nut/oat milks, or restaurant foods. You should never cook with these or have them in your kitchen, and avoid purchasing any foods that contain them on the ingredient list. The good news is that by eating a whole foods diet, you can mitigate the consumption of these inflammatory oils significantly!
Avoid: Canola oil, cottonseed oil, rapeseed oil, margarine, safflower oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil, corn oil, grapeseed oil
Omega 3s are found in fish, grass-fed beef, grass-fed butter, organ meats, free-range eggs, algae, flaxseed, chia seed, black currant seed.
Unfortunately, the plant sources of Omega 3s do not convert very efficiently to EPA & DHA in the body. EPA & DHA are what get incorporated into the cellular makeup or used to communicate anti-inflammatory messages. The best way for vegans/vegetarians to make sure they are getting enough EPA & DHA is to supplement with an algae omega. In addition to the algae, it is wise to take one ounce of flaxseed oil daily and supplement with black currant seed oil daily.
The most bioavailable option for getting optimal levels of Omega 3 is to supplement with a high quality fish oil from reputable brands (I like Nordic Naturals). Better yet, supplement in addition to eating a diet with many whole food sources of Omega 3s and Omega 9 (Olive and avocado oil).
For acne, and other skin conditions, I start my clients on 4g Omega 3 daily for 1-2 months. In addition to an elimination diet and herbs, this higher dose can be supportive at more quickly turning the needle of inflammation to start seeing results in your skin.
*Bonus points- Vitamin D is also critical for skin health and when paired with Omega 3 acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory. Consider supplementing 5,000 IUs daily.
If you have researched herbs for clearing up acne at all, you have probably learned about “liver herbs”. In western herbalism, the liver tends to be the main focus of anything to do with the skin. I agree that supporting liver detoxification is an important piece in clearing up skin conditions, and it is not the whole picture. I think instead of tunneling in on “liver herbs”, we need to think about supporting all organs of detoxification. If we stimulate liver detox, and are not having regular bowel movements, we are doing more harm than good. For this reason, detoxification needs to start in the GI tract.
GI Support:
GI health becomes complex and individualized quickly, and deserves its own in depth blog post. What I see most often with folks struggling with skin issues is a matter of gastrointestinal lining permeability (aka “leaky gut”). Luckily, herbal formulas designed toward healing the gut also tend to address other common digestive issues- such as bloating, abdominal pain, constipation/diarrhea, and bacterial overgrowths. In addition to an elimination diet, and an oil change, drinking a gut healing tea helps to repair optimal digestive function.
Tummy Tea is our gut healing tea made at Dancing Willow Herbs. This tea is powerful because it has been formulated to address the multifaceted nature of digestion. It includes vulnerary herbs, aka herbs that heal wounds, Plantain and Chamomile. Carminative herbs, that ease gas/bloating, such as Fennel, Licorice, Peppermint and Fenugreek. Demulcent herbs that help to coat and soothe the gut lining, such as Marshmallow. And even a nervine, Chamomile, which helps to reduce stress that may be relating to digestive issues. For optimal results, we recommend drinking 2-4 cups daily.
Other digestion therapeutics:
-Probiotics in the form of fermented foods like sauerkraut, Kim chi, pickles and/or a probiotic supplement.
-Prebiotics in the form of root vegetables, onions/leeks, burdock, dandelion, artichoke, asparagus.
-Eat the rainbow, mostly cooked for easier digestion.
-Bone broth to help heal the gut lining and provide the body/skin with amino acids for healing.
Liver Support:
There are a few herbs which help support liver detoxification as well as digestion, these are some of the premier skin herbs in western herbalism, namely, Burdock root and Yellow Dock root.
Burdock is an alterative herb, meaning it helps to purify the blood by supporting organs of elimination. Compared to yellow dock, which has a very liver stimulating effect, Burdock focuses more on the GI-skin axis. It is rich in inulin, which is a prebiotic fiber that feeds the good microbes in the gut. It supports liver detoxification in a sustainable way, helps to clear swollen lymph nodes associated with breakouts, and supports optimal motility and the evacuation of toxic metabolites that have been broken down by the liver.
Yellow dock is also alterative, but it is a bit more stimulating. It contains a small amount of anthroquinoine glycosides, which have a mild laxative effect. Unlike other herbs containing these compounds, yellow dock doesn’t cause dependency. Making it a great ally for those who tend toward constipation as well as skin issues. It helps stimulate secretion of bile from the liver to emulsify fats, and support the liver detoxification process.
Yellow dock and Burdock are in our Skin Clear formula along with some herbs that help support lymphatic drainage, liver clearance and overall detoxification. We recommend 2-3 dropperfuls, 2-3x daily for this formula.
Skin conditions are outward expressions of inner disruption. This inner disruption is usually a physical phenomenon that is accompanied by layers of emotional lessons. Everyone has unique lessons based on their purpose and path in this world. As it relates to skin, the lessons I see most often are feelings of unworthiness, fear of being seen, and an inability to set boundaries.
When we break out, there is a tendency to want to hide. Having spent many a time crying over the state of my skin, I completely understand the ways in which our sense of worth can be tied to this outward expression of how others see us. But here is the thing, skin conditions give us an opportunity to get painstakingly clear about who we are based on our inner authenticity- not on how we look.
If we can see ourselves for who we are at our core, based on our own personal gifts, attributes, and passions, we are set free to show up and be seen for who we really are in this world.
A flower essence that I like to work with for this purpose is Crab Apple. Crab Apple helps us develop self acceptance for things that would otherwise be seen as flaws or shameful. This essence promotes love and care for our internal and external self expression.
To engage with this essence, simply take 4 drops of Crab Apple flower essence on your tongue 4x daily. You may also consider making a mantra associated with your purpose in healing moving forward, state the mantra every time you take the essence. You can also add the flower essence to drinks, bath water, room sprays or face mists. The more you incorporate the essence around you, the more powerfully it will work with you.
A dear friend of mine once said, “Skin conditions make strong people.” Let this be the case for you, with trust that you can come out on the other side- confident in your inner glow radiating like honey in the sun.
A summary of therapeutics:
-Eliminate gluten or dairy (or both) to start for 6 weeks
-Avoid highly processed seed oils like the plague
-Supplement 4g daily with meals, Omega 3 supplement or Algae Omega supplement
-5,000 IUs Vitamin D daily
-Skin Clear Tincture, 2-3 mL, 2-3x daily
-Tummy Tea, 2-4 cups daily
-Crab Apple flower essence, 4 drops, 4x daily
Being raised in the southwest leaves one with a certain kinship and understanding of the winds that spring can bring. However, this year holds a different quality and magnitude. The word I keep hearing used to describe these winds, that blow in so much dust that a mere silhouette of the closest mountains can barely be distinguished, is apocalyptic. This phenomenon is laced with eco-grief, with the type of uncertainty that can only come from unprecedented circumstance. In addition to the larger collective concern, these winds have a direct effect on our bodies, our minds and emotions.
From the lens of Ayurveda or elemental herbalism, when the wind element is out of balance we can feel ungrounded, agitated, and flustered. The wind makes us feel parched, blown around, like we cannot fully gather ourselves. Knocking up pollen from near and far, many people are also experiencing respiratory problems, headaches, and fatigue.
Below you will find 5 ways to support yourself during excessive wind. These tools are also for folks who are living in areas affected by wildfire smoke, who are feeling ungrounded in their daily lives, or who live in dry climates.
After spending time in the wind, one can feel like all of their moisture has blown away- leaving them feeling parched and dehydrated. Utilize all known practices to cultivate the element of water within yourself to help neutralize and ground the element of air/wind.
-Demulcent herbs help the body retain moisture and are tremendous allies for anyone living in a dry climate. My all-time dearest moistening herb is Marshmallow. Marshmallow root is best taken as an overnight cold infusion to extract the demulcent sludge- aka polysaccharide starches that coat the lining of the GI tract, soothe inflammations and quench an inner thirst.
Simply add 1 handful of marshmallow root to a mason jar, fill the jar with room temperature water, let steep overnight or for at least 4-6 hours, strain and enjoy.
Some people are adverse to the flavor of marshmallow as a simple. Try combining with other more palatable herbs. My favorite triplet is 1 part Marshmallow, 1/4 part Licorice, and 1/2 part Rose petals. *Consume marshmallow or other demulcent herbs at least 3 hours away from medications as it slows down the absorption time of prescription medications.
-Eat enough good quality fat such as olive oil, coconut oil, avocados, grass-fed butter, fish oils, etc. Quite like the demulcent herbs, this will moisten your body from the inside out.
-Moisturize topically: lathering your body with good quality oils helps to soothe the nervous system and retain moisture through the skin. After getting out of the shower, moisturize your skin from face to toes. Use herbal infused oils, body butters, salves, or lotions. Be sure you are using high quality simple organic products like the ones that we make at Dancing Willow Herbs.
This load of dust and pollen can be problematic for many people with a propensity toward allergies, or respiratory conditions like asthma. Work with herbs to help break up congestion, and tone the lungs and mucous membranes at this time.
-Respiratory Steams can be wonderful tools for helping to combat congestion while providing moisture and volatile oils directly to the mucous membranes. This is the respiratory steam that we make at Dancing Willow Herbs that is specific for breaking up congestion and bringing antimicrobial essential oils to disinfect and tonify tissues, Steam Inhalation. You can also use kitchen herbs that you have on hand like rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, mint, lemon balm, lavender or just the steam itself. Simply bring a pot of water to boil, throw in a handful of the herbs of your choosing, let steep for 5 minutes with the lid on, once the steam is to a temperature where it won’t burn your delicate tissues, place your head over the pot with the lid removed and a towel over your head- breathe deeply for as long as the steam remains.
*Caution- use only whole plants and herbs for this process, never steam with essential oils because this could damage your delicate mucous membrane tissues.
-Lung tonics: using herbs which help to bring more strength to the lungs and respiratory system will help those struggling with asthma or allergy like symptoms at this time. Mullein, Coltsfoot and Licorice are great herbs to work with when taken as a tea. Our Breathe Freely is a great daily lung tonic formula which tastes quite pleasant. Easy Air tincture also works great in addition, for those who are experiencing more symptoms in their lungs. Aller-Relief tincture works great in addition, for those who are experiencing more symptoms in their sinuses or burning/itching eyes.
The element of wind tends to make us a little scattered, with a tendency that might make you forget to eat all together. Making sure that you are taking the time to sit down to eat a meal at regular times will help you feel more structured and grounded throughout the day. Choose foods that are going to optimally nourish you. Try to focus on things like high quality proteins, dark leafy greens, cooked root vegetables, mushrooms, and flavonoid rich berries.
Especially as this windy season is corresponding with the transition of spring into summer, schedules are filling up with social obligations and things to do. Be sure to pencil in time for yourself- time to slow down and do the things that makes you feel grounded, more fully embodied as yourself. This will vary from person to person, but it may look like meditation, yoga, cleaning your house, going grocery shopping, going for a hike, doing laundry or reading a book. Whatever it is that helps you slow down and feel grounded, focus on creating the time to do just that!
The main element that we need to call upon during this time is water. Rain will help to mitigate the risk for wildfire, and will keep the soil on the Earth. Our snow is melting much faster than it should be, and feeding a quick and early run off into the rivers, threatening our summer’s water supply. This can feel out of our control, but what is in our control is the way that we interact the water which we do have access to at this time. Be mindful of your water consumption and give gratitude to the water when you are interacting with it- when you are in your shower or doing dishes. If you have the privilege to live in a place with a stream, river or lake, as we do here in Durango, give offerings to the waters of flowers, herbs, songs, poems or prayers. Play in the waters near you, and cherish the feeling and experience of its movement on your skin. If you keep an altar, consider placing a bowl of river, lake, or rainwater there to keep it sacred.
I hope that these practices will help you feel supported, grounded and at ease during these windy times. More like a well rooted tree, dancing with the wind yet secure where it stands.
]]>We are walking into the Valentine’s day portal, a celebration of romance, sensuality and love. This time can be challenging for some folks who may not have a romantic partner or do not identify with the holiday at large. Personally, I like to engage with Valentine’s as a larger energetic theme for the month of February as opposed to a single day with higher expectations than the rest. As a time to practice deeper self love, and celebration of myself and my partner. There is tremendous value in invoking the sensuous, creating time to celebrate love of ourselves and our romantic partners.
Many of us can have a challenging time deepening sensuality due to walls that prevent us from trusting intimacy, being in our head/stressed out, or shame around how we feel about our bodies. Certain herbs can bridge more vibrant sensual experiences. They can help us to feel more embodied, calm, and turned on to the life that we want to live. When we feel this way, we are more likely to be accepting and gentle with ourselves, and ease into the unique beauty that we hold.
Sensuality is beyond sex. Sensuality is a force of passion that can imbibe more than our romantic relationships, but brings an enchantment with the everyday. Herbal aphrodisiacs work by helping to bring us into our bodies, so that we may feel the wind on our skin, become enraptured by the scent of a blossom, and be more present to engage with our environment, ourselves or another individual.
One of my favorite herbal aphrodisiacs is Damiana, Turnera diffusa. Damiana works by bringing circulation and warmth to the pelvis. It also has a quality of bringing blood flow to our periphery- making skin a little more tingly or sensitive to touch, bringing us into a state of outward disposition. This is why Damiana is my choice herb for introverts who feel overwhelmed before social gatherings. Damiana can help bring us back into our bodies in a way that is energetically uplifting and welcomes safe/supportive social interaction. Damiana helps to not only invigorate passion in the bedroom, but also to promote enchantment with the mundane- with the lives we live, the people in it, and the work we are here to do. Damiana is a bridge to the sensuous, a portal from whom you can call upon to go deeper in celebrating love of yourself or your beloved. We have several products listed below that feature the magic of Damiana, as well as other herbs that help to promote passion!
This Valentine’s day (week, month), I invite you to gift yourself or your loved ones some of our herbal products designed for robust romance, embodiment and pleasure!
Damiana Love Cordials
Our Cordials are made with Damiana, an aphrodisiac uplifting aromatic herb along with house-made fruit liquors and spices. The various flavors are delicious when added to sparkling water, or incorporated into cocktails. Our four flavors are Raspberry Rose, Rose Cacao, Blackberry Cardamom & Apricot Vanilla. Lover's Tea This delicious tea invigorates the senses, improves circulation and passion. Damiana, Horny Goat Weed and Cacao are some of the most potent herbal aphrodisiacs, and are paired with warming herbs to assist in blood flow to the pelvis. Organic ingredients: Damiana, Horny Goat Weed, Cacao, Oatstraw, Cinnamon, & Cloves. Pleasuring Balm Our beloved pleasuring balm is the perfect herbal lubricant. Kava helps to relax the tissues, while Echinacea creates a tingly feeling while also being antimicrobial. The texture is slick not sticky, and is the perfect amplifier for a sensual experience. Rose Essential Honey Essential Honey is an intoxicating blend of pure organic food-grade essential oils infused into raw local honey. This honey adds subtle floral sweetness to tea, recipes or by the spoonful.
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Surprisingly, bitter herbs work so well at improving our health, because our bodies originally evolved to treat bitter flavors as toxic. Back when we were tasting the array of plant life, in order to asses which foods met our foraging needs, several toxic plants had bitter compounds. In order for the body to render the toxin more neutral, it had to secrete all of the digestive juices that would better break down the substance. Today, it remains that whenever we eat bitter foods that are not toxic, the body signals secretion of all agents that help us digest our food.
It begins in the mouth, with increased salivation and all of the carbohydrate focused digestive enzymes that exist there. Then the parietal cells in the stomach will secrete additional hydrochloric acid that specifically aids in the digestion of protein. Our lacteals pick up any fat in the meal that travels to the liver to be emulsified. The gallbladder secretes additional bile into the liver which better breaks down any fat into a substance that is easier for the body to excrete.
Essentially, bitters render the digestive system more capable of breaking down our food so it can be properly assimilated and excreted. Many herbalists speak about how bitter is a “lost flavor”. At least in the standard American diet, we are taught to gravitate toward sweet and salty flavors over all else. Bitter greens have been hybridized into sweet iceberg lettuce, and then covered in a sugary dressing. Whatever happened to salads before a meal, endive or raddichio, lightly dressed in simple oil & vinegar?
Most people in our culture would tremendously benefit from tasting the bitter flavor more, in order to support their digestive function. Bitter herbs can be a convenient way to engage with this flavor before meals.
Our simple bitters formula contains Gentian root, Fennel seed & Oregon grape root. Gentian and Oregon grape are potent bitter herbs. Fennel has a bitter quality, but is also carminative- meaning it aids with gas and bloating. This formula powerfully turns on the digestive signals to help you better digest the food you are about to consume.
You don’t have to take much of a bitters formula, usually just a couple of drops in order to taste the flavor, 20 minutes before meals works best. I will warn you, our formula tastes reeaally strongly bitter- but this is the good medicine, how it really works.
Bitters are specifically indicated for folks who struggle with the digestion of fat (signs of this being cystic acne on the back & buttocks, stool is oily- floats or streaks the bottom of the toilet). By helping support the liver, bitter herbs can help clear up skin issues (especially if they are connected to digestive upset as well).
Other specific indications for bitter herbs are when people feel heavy or bloated after meals, overly full or generally sluggish.
Order Simple Bitters on our website, or stop into our brick and mortar store in Durango to pick up this tincture along with some unique and heartfelt gifts for your loved ones!
We are wishing you an easeful, special and herbal infused Thanksgiving and holiday season!
From all of our loving hearts to yours,
Elliott & the team at Dancing Willow Herbs
]]>There is a juxtaposition that occurs during this season. A delicious savoring of the last treasures of warmer months, and a deep acceptance and craving for the slowing down that fall offers.
Before they go, the leaves put on such a show, as if they are saying, “Don’t forget me while I am gone.” Quite like a brilliant going away party. But then we have no choice but to let the leaves go.
Fall is an excellent time to shed your own leaves, harvest the bountiful fruits from the last season of your life, and prepare for going within. Below, I have provided 5 tips for supporting yourself during fall so that you can best utilize this opportunity for a more restorative season.
1) Reassess values, let go of what is no longer serving you:
Summer is an extremely expansive season, and with so much expansion (social gatherings, vacations, things to do), we can become depleted and burned out. Fall is the time to scale everything back, to assess where you have been giving your energy and see if it is contributing to your upmost well-being. While we may not have the opportunity to scale back certain aspects of our lives, there are probably other areas where we may be able to. Maybe you don’t need to do it all, or can create better boundaries around your time to allow for more restoration. Where can you let go of things that are not serving you?
2) Harvest what you have grown:
During this time, the trees are heavy with fruit. Apples are ripening and squashes are filling the vines to provide such abundance. The same can be reflected in your own life. Where were you in spring? What has changed in your life since then? What were some of the most rewarding or beautiful moments that you experienced in the last several months? Relish in bounty of your growth, celebrate it! Give gratitude for the various harvests in your life and savor them like colorful leaves.
3) Prepare for winter:
Depending on your living situation, there may be actual tasks that you need to complete before winter comes, such as gathering fire wood, or stocking your pantry. Even if you don’t have physical tasks that need to be done before winter sets in, we can prepare for winter on other levels. Allow yourself to get excited to slow down and get cozy. What practices might you incorporate as we descend into longer nights? There may be more opportunity for self care, going within and retreating. What winter practices excite you? Are there tools that you may need in order to establish these practices within your routine?
4) Eat Seasonally:
Did someone say pumpkin spice? When we think of fall foods, earthy squashes and aromatic spices probably come to mind. This is for good reason. Sweet squashes provide the body with adequate nourishment during the seasonal shift, they are nutrient dense and especially when paired with warming spices, allow the body to cultivate more warmth. Soups, stews, cooked vegetables and other foods which are warm and easy to digest are the most supportive during this time. Pair with small amounts of fermented vegetables or raw radishes, to brighten up the flavors and prevent the meals from being too heavy. Seasonal eating follows nature's rhythm and allows for a more easeful transition into winter.
5) Incorporate Fall Herbs:
For many, the transition into cooler weather can be difficult. It can be challenging to break the chill that can set into an unacclimated body’s bones. Herbs that support circulation and promote warmth can help one better adjust to the colder weather ahead. The simple act of enjoying a warm cup of tea can not be overstated, for it nourishes us on so many levels!
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A little more about Elderberry...
Elderberry is extremely rich in vitamin C and protective antioxidants called bioflavonoids. We all know that vitamin C supports the immune system, but it also plays a major role in overall health. Vitamin C is the primary antioxidant in the brain and works within the fluid between the nerve cells. It is also a precursor to collagen formation, which is responsible for maintaining skin elasticity, as well as lubricating and strengthening ligaments and tendons. The other major antioxidant group that exists in Elderberries are called proanthocyanidins.
These specifically protect vascular tissue and can be helpful for varicose veins, preventing atherosclerosis, or other damage that may occur within the blood vessels. Proanthocyanidins also take everything that vitamin C does to the next level by helping fight infection, supporting collagen, and upcharging the activity of vitamin C antioxidants.
A strong syrup made from Elderberry not only stimulates the immune system by replenishing it with these antioxidants and other co-factors, it also directly inhibits the influenza virus. Influenza virions are coated with tiny molecular spikes that latch on to our healthy cells, penetrating them before injecting the healthy cells with the genetic material of the virus, much like zombies, to continue spreading amongst healthy cells in this way. In order for the virus to penetrate our cells, however, it wears down their protective coating with an enzyme called neuraminidase. According to several in vitrotrials, Elderberry was seen to deactivate this neuraminidase enzyme, therefore inhibiting the spread of the virus.
In the human body, this has helped several people in clinical trials as well as empirically, recover from the flu more quickly. Madeline Mumcuoglu, Ph.D. of Hadassah-Hebrew University in Israel studied Elderberry’s effectiveness against the flu virus. Of those taking the Elderberry, 20% of the subjects reported significant improvement within 24 hours, 70% by 48 hours, 90% in three days. Contrastingly, the group who received the placebo took 6 days to recover (Medical Herbalism 8(4)).
Elderberry works best when taken preventatively as a daily tonic.
At Dancing Willow Herbs, we have a potent Elderberry syrup that is made with love to support the immune system, and overall health of you and your family. The good news is, it is also highly palatable and beloved by adults and children alike! Because it contains honey, it is only safe for children above 1.5 years old. We do also carry Elderberry Glycerite that is safe for children under 1.5 years old, so even the tiniest bodies can get Elderberry's support!
Our Elderberry Syrup can be enjoyed by the spoonful, poured on pancakes, oatmeal, used to sweeten tea or incorporated into other recipes whom call for a touch of sweetness!
https://dancingwillowherbs.com/products/elderberry-syrup-for-adults-kids-4-oz?_pos=1&_sid=bc44c0a48&_ss=r&variant=11101277571
Elderberry Popsicles
Here is a simple little recipe to help you stay cool and support your immune system! It is kid approved...
1 can Full Fat Coconut Milk
4 oz Dancing Willow Herbs Elderberry Syrup
2 oz Blueberry Juice (optional)
1 tsp Vanilla extract
Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and there are no clumps. Pour into popsicle molds. Freeze until set and enjoy!
May you stay well, and enjoy the many gifts of this immune ally!
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Are we a little better these days? I think so! We are eagerly moving into January with hope and good intentions! I'm not much for resolutions, as they tend to fizzle out on me, and I'm not alone. Studies show that more than 80% of us have ditched our 'resolutions' by Feb 1. But I find this to be very interesting...studies also show that almost everyone has goals that are related to dieting and weight loss. And then we abandon those goals pretty quickly. Hmmmm. Something is wrong with this picture.
Good health looks so many different ways and is certainly not a reflection of a body type. We are harder on ourselves than we need to be, and as someone who has made it my life's work to pursue the connection between our healthy bodies and the plant world, I have some really good news for you. It could even be a new years resolution if you're still in the market for one. Instead of dieting and depriving yourself, make a decision to do this one simple and yummy thing.
Add more plants to your diet.
Don't focus on depriving yourself, focus on abundance! Add more greens, more hearty soups, more fragrant herbs and more roasted rooty goodness. Add more tangy pestos, bright teas, and more vibrant salads. Think of it as a gift and not a 'sentence!' Pretty soon it will become a habit and will likely replace something in your diet that wasn't so healthy. This is how we win the 'resolution' game! With 'plenty' rather than scarcity. I can promise that eating more plants will make you FEEL better and that your body will respond in kind.
Here is the other thing that is really on our minds at the shop right now. Covid has made a strong come back in our little mountain town and all around the country. We've been open through it all and serving lots of people everyday. At the very beginning we recommended a daily protocol to help create a super strong immune system. We are really happy to say that it has worked and we are feeling better than ever with no colds, flu or illness. It's such a simple thing to add to your day that I'd like to share it again! And it fits with the theme of adding abundance (and plants) to your health routine, rather than taking away!
So, not to beat a dead horse, but let's make our bodies a fortress with an immune system that stands guard against unwanted colds, flus and viruses. This daily protocol will not just stimulate your immune system but will build and strengthen it while also benefitting your adrenals, your respiratory system, and circulation.
The Dancing Willow Daily Protocol for the Immune System
Vitamins C & D
Elderberry (see below)
Zinc
Fire Cider
Reishi Vitality*
That's the all star line up that you'll find on my kitchen counter!
*Here is a bit more about Reishi and our newest formula. Reishi mushrooms are known to protect and promote healing against a bounty of pathogens. They are strengthening to the immune system, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, stress reducing and support the nervous system, lungs, kidneys and liver. They are the ultimate adaptogen in their ability to strengthen and restore function. Reishi mushrooms offer restorative hormonal balance, and regulate activity of the immune system. Most people report improvements in their energy levels, mental focus and mood while also experiencing a reduction in aches, pains, allergies, digestive issues and infections. Our new formula, Reishi Vitality, includes reishi, codonopsis, licorice and astralagus for a complete and powerful herbal supplement. We can't keep it in stock and are getting amazing feedback! We received feedback from a women in her late 70's who contracted Covid and experienced very few symptoms and a rapid recovery while taking this formula every day.
So here's a challenge! I would like for all of you to add more plants to your diet and to try the daily protocol for at least a month. And I want to hear from you. Reply to this email and let us know if you are in! (Because another reason that resolutions fail is because there is lack of accountability.) Invite a friend to join you and perhaps consider sharing recipes or making double batches of soup...whatever it takes, but please let us know if you've been a bit inspired to embrace our plant allies in the new year. We'll be cheering for you!
And honestly, we just want this Covid business to go on its merry way...and when we are whole and healthy with activated immune systems, we aren't a good host, so join us in the protocol, too. We believe that we are always better together!
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Hello All!
There are no two ways about it! I am at my best when I am in my garden. I have been growing things and obsessed with the plant world for as long as I can remember. As a little girl, I was the official strawberry picker in my mother's small garden and my enthusiasm has never waned. My passion as an herbalist quite literally sprang from the roots...of anything that I could grow!
The world of gardening is a deep deep hole and I could write about it all day, but I just want to share some of my favorite plants to grow ....in hopes of inspiring you to get outside and get planting! The act of planting is therapeutic, not to mention the rewards of the harvest. There is peace, power and great reward to be found mixed amongst the dirt, sweat, and sweet smell of my wild and wooly garden bed.
My favorite flowers to grow: It's hard to narrow it down but here's my best shot! My flower friends that emerge perenially, pushing their feisty heads heads through the rich soil, year after year, are my Peonies, Bleeding Heart, and the gangly Holly Hock. To sow the seeds of the sun flower and watch the giants shoot up, golden heads proud, well, it never ceases to amaze and delight. Yes, miracles can fold themselves into a 99 cent seed packet from the hardware store.
Favorite Herbs to grow: Here's the short list! Mother wort, Calendula, Lemon Balm, and Comfrey. These hardy plants offer a big return on not too much investment, smell glorious, and add big color!
The easiest plants to grow: If you're new to gardening, then here you go! Start with these easy to grow plants and reap rewards fast! Mother Nature offers a few plants that are the gateway drug to gardening, and there's no shame in starting easy! Here's a high five to lettuce, peas, radish, and potatoes...all yummy and nourishing, both heart and soul, when you grow them yourself!
And what's the ABSOLUTE most rewarding plant in my garden? No contest, it's my big, fat, juicy Brandy Wine heirloom tomatoes. I don't think I have to explain that at all! :)
This week in the garden has found me sniffling and scratchy with allergies and I'm not alone. We've been hearing about it at the shop constantly. I'm taking a few doses a day of Aller-Relief and feeling my system respond. Gear Up keeps me motivated and moving and honestly, I think I might be addicted to Fire Cider these days! We do what it takes, right? Our Bug Be Gone is back in season and shipping out all over the country...it's the most effective natural bug spray available. And I'm still supporting myself with DWH Immune boosting herbs and formulas. (see below!)
STORE NEWS:
We are open for business at our shop in downtown Durango, CO. and have posted our guidelines on the website. We are also taking phone orders for local pick up as well as web orders to mail out.
It also goes without saying that we stand together with all people of color during this unprecedented time and are in support of the radical change that will find us walking with equal footing in this land that we call home. We have a roe to hoe to get there, and we are going to be eager students in this new direction.
Big Love from Deb & the Dancing Willow Team!
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