The transition from winter to spring can be challenging for our bodies. The shift in seasons and increase in allergens can affect our sleep patterns, energy levels, and mood. When we are mindful of these changes and take intentional steps, it can be easy to support our health during this time.
Bevin Clare, Program Director for the Master of Science in Clinical Herbal Medicine at Maryland University of Integrative Health offers seven tips to help our bodies transition from winter to spring.
- Eat more sour and bitter foods. These flavors are associated with springtime and can help to cleanse and detoxify the body. A few examples include drinking water with fresh lemon or eating fresh grapefruit, endive, arugula, spinach, artichokes, or chicory. Many excellent, warm, nourishing soups are perfect for spring and a wonderful way to cleanse or detoxify.
- Drink detox teas. Consuming teas that support detoxification is a fantastic way to support the liver and lymphatic system. Some of the best detox teas for springtime include dandelion tea and red clover tea.
- Limit your exposure to allergens. Springtime is the peak season for pollen allergies. If you are allergic to pollen, try to limit your time outdoors or wear a mask when outdoors.
- Try herbs for allergy prevention and relief. Some herbs, like nettles, are considered natural antihistamines that may inhibit the receptor sites where histamine typically activates. Licorice root can be helpful as an anti-inflammatory. Eyebright and Euphrates Mint herbs can help with colds and allergy relief and have anti-inflammatory actions.
- Try local honey for allergy prevention. Local honey is a fantastic way to introduce yourself to local pollen and prevent seasonal spring allergies.
- Get moving. Movement is a great way to support your lymphatic system. Even raising your arms above your head is simple and effective practice. Ashwagandha is an herb you can try to support overall stamina and energy levels during the day.
- Use a diffuser. Get an aroma therapy diffuser and diffuse supportive herbs, such as lavender or eucalyptus for lung health. Doing some deep breathing can also be extremely helpful.
For more tips, watch the replay of Bevin’s recent webinar, Ask The Herbalist: Springtime Health for the Whole Family. and sign up for another webinar to support your health and well–being. MUIH’s one of a kind herbal medicine programs recognize and respect the power of nature and herbs in promoting health and wellness, by integrating cultural traditions and contemporary science and research.
For 40 years, patients have received healing experiences from the Natural Care Center, the student clinic at Maryland University of Integrative Health. To craft a personalized nutrition plan, experience relaxation with yoga therapy and acupuncture techniques, and achieve balance with herbal medicine, visit NCC.MUIH.edu