Longer days, patches of greenery emerging from beneath the snow and a return of wildlife to their natural habitat: spring has sprung! Spring is one of our favorite seasons here at WishGarden, and for good reason. With the season comes the connotation of growth, rebirth and rejuvenation. It offers the opportunity to arrive at our fullest and healthiest selves. So what better way to celebrate this beautiful season than with the invigorating power of herbs? Here are some of our favorite herbs to help you on your journey this spring!
Dandelion
Photo credit: Greg Hume
When dandelions turn to seed in summer after a prolific bloom in the early months of spring, legend says that blowing the plant’s fluffy seeds in the wind will grant the blower a wish. However, the dandelion has more value than just a women’s story! The use of dandelion has been celebrated by traditional medicine practitioners around the world since 659 BCE, when Chinese practitioners used the plant for the spleen, stomach, liver, kidney, and bladder meridians. Today, both the leaves and roots of the dandelion are used by herbalists to support the healthy function of the liver, gallbladder, digestive system, spleen and kidneys.
Nettle leaf
Photo credits: © nada54/Shutterstock.com
Even though we love spring flowers, we don’t like the allergies that come with them. That’s why we reach for an allergy-supporting mix with nettle leaf every time the snow starts to melt. One of the most impressive and functional properties of nettle leaf (one of its many benefits) is its ability to inhibit inflammation and block histamines that typically contribute to seasonal allergies.
Wall
Photo credit: Kaldari
If you live in a place where chickweed grows, you’re probably already familiar with it. It is one of the first plants to grow in the spring and many people often write it off as an unruly weed that needs to be removed. But Chickweed is packed with nutrients (like calcium, magnesium, vitamins A and C) and is a great addition to your spring health routine. Traditionally, chickweed is used to remove waste in your digestive system, liver and kidneys. It’s a great option to support natural cleansing and cellular health.
Yellow Dock
Photo credit: Olivier Pichard
Yellow Dock works like spring cleaning, but for your body! Because it is so cleansing, it is often used for acne and other skin problems, constipation and sluggish digestion. Yellow Dock is a powerful herb and a great choice to shake off winter sluggishness and give your organs a spring boost.
Watercress
Photo credit: MedicalNewsToday.com
Watercress is a peppery-tasting leafy vegetable that reaches maximum flavor and growth in the spring. Although not technically an herb, watercress has many health benefits that are perfect for rejuvenating the body during the spring season. Packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C and K, as well as antioxidants, watercress is an excellent choice for keeping your body in top shape naturally. Watercress is also great at supporting the liver’s ability to detoxify the less healthy stuff that may have made its way into your body. We love watercress and find it an incredibly healthy addition to any spring regimen!
So there you have it: our favorite herbs and plants for spring. We wish you much growth and rejuvenation this season. Happy spring!
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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