Springtime holds such a special place in my heart and I always remember the saying: April showers bring May flowers!
Over the years of living in the PNW, I have become accustomed to greeting the plants while on my walks. The PNW is abundant in its medicinal plants. And, in practicing naturopathic medicine, I use botanical medicine in the Spring not only for a sense of renewal, but for cleansing and tonifying organ systems. Below, I will share with you some of my favorites and why I like them:
WILLOW: Salix alba
Salix alba, or white willow has been a longtime treatment for headaches due to the constituents: salicin and salicylic acid (similar to aspirin). Willow provides pain relief, anti-inflammation, and has a tonifying effect on the body.
Personally, I find that resting under a willow tree is medicinal. Meditation with a focus on breath is sometimes all I need in order to restore my sense of health and wellbeing. Willows remind me to stop and sit.
NETTLES: Urtica diocia
Nettles are some of the first signs of spring that I see when I am out walking in the woods. I want to harvest the leaves (before the plant goes to seed) and make tea, pesto, or a stir-fry. Nettles are full of minerals and also contain vitamin C. They are good for treating allergy symptoms. Nettles can also be used for hormone balancing, and prostate health.
CLEAVERS: Galium aparine
Cleavers! These plants stick to you like Velcro, or a delicate felted broach. They remind me to have fun. Medicinally, they move the lymph (specifically in the neck) and they are cleansing. They are incredibly safe which makes them so sweet to include in the treatment plans for babies and children.
DANDELION: Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion’s are my all time favorite medicinal plant. First, they are everywhere and can survive anywhere. I have seen dandelions growing straight out of a crack in a cement road divider in the middle of the city (in that moment, I observed how resilient they are). They remind me of fond childhood memories of making dandelion crowns with my friends, and painting my face. Medicinally, they are…for the bees! But, humans can also benefit from using dandelion roots, and leaves, or by sipping some dandelion mead (dandelion wine made with honey).
I could go on and on about medicinal plants, but I am going to leave it at that.
For now, the above is my gentle reminder to you that GOOD MEDICINE can be simple.
Warmly,
Dr. Willi