Practical Magic: 7 Herbal Remedies to Brew Up This Fall
Bubble bubble toil and trouble. As the chill of Fall begins to set in, a host of seasonal illnesses seem to come with it. Especially if you’ve got kids bringing everything home. Before you reach for the cough syrup or the ibuprofen why not embrace the age old traditions of healing herbs?
These brews not only offer medicinal qualities, but they also are quite yummy, soothing, and it can be fun to play with your inner witch during the Halloween season. Kids will love helping craft these ‘potions’!
1. Thyme Tea: For That Tickly Throat
Thyme’s antibacterial and antiviral properties make it a perfect tea for scratchy throats and lingering colds. Brew your tea with lemon and honey to soothe your throat and enhance the flavor.
2. Rosehip & Hibiscus Elixir: Immunity in Bloom
Both rosehip and hibiscus are packed with vitamin C, which will help bolster your immune defenses. The tartness of hibiscus and the fruity tang of rosehip make for a refreshing drink that doubles as a cold fighter. Sweeten with a touch of honey or agave syrup as desired.
3. Elderberry Ginger Syrup: A Sweet Immune Shield
Elderberries are a magical ally for preventing and reducing the severity of colds and flu. With antiviral properties, this syrup can be taken daily as a preventive measure or at the first sign of illness.
Simmer 1 cup of dried elderberries with 3 cups of water, a cinnamon stick, and a few slices of fresh ginger for 30-45 minutes. Strain, then add 1 cup of honey after it cools. Store in the fridge and take a spoonful daily.
4. Lavender & Chamomile Sleep Tonic: The Dreamweaver
Autumn invites us to slow down and rest. A calming blend of lavender and chamomile is the perfect nighttime brew to help you drift off into peaceful sleep, especially as the nights grow longer. A dash of milk and honey can enhance the experience.
5. Ginger & Lemon Warming Tonic: The Digestive Dynamo
With all the rich, hearty foods that the next few months bring, ginger is your belly’s best friend. Its warming properties aid digestion and help fight off nausea, while lemon provides a zesty hit of vitamin C.
6. Aroma Therapy: Woodland Magic Simmer Pot
This woodland-inspired blend of pine, herbs, and apples will bring the essence of the forest indoors.
What You’ll Need:
A few sprigs of pine or cedar (can also use fir or spruce)
1 sliced apple
A handful of fresh sage leaves
1-2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon of whole allspice berries
Place the ingredients in a pot, cover with water, and let it simmer gently. The grounding earthy aroma will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a magical forest, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
7. Eucalyptus & Pine: Breathe Easy Simmer Pot
Let this cauldron ease your congestion. The steam from a simmer pot can help to moisturize dry indoor air, which is common during the fall and winter months when heaters are running. When you add herbs with antimicrobial qualities, this can also help ease congestion, soothe irritated airways, and ease breathing.
You can also breathe in over the pot for a more potent effect.
Ingredients to use for respiratory support:
Eucalyptus leaves
Pine or cedar sprigs
Rosemary
Happy Brewing!