We are in the depths of winter and there are some nasty colds and flus going around. It can be easy to just grab something off the shelf of your health food store to help combat symptoms, and on the most part, many herbs are fine to use acutely (though ALWAYS check that anything you take isn’t contraindicated with any medication you are on). One exception, that I write about below is Astragalus – it’s best as an immune tonic, to build our reserves either prior to an infection or during convalescence.
But for a remedy to REALLy work like a charm, we need to match the remedy to the person and the person’s symptoms.
Here are some herbs commonly used in winter preparations.
Licorice (Gycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice is a great herb for strengthening and nourishing weakened, deficient constitutions.
It is moistening to the tissues of the respiratory tract and has an expectorant action, making it excellent for a dry cough.
Licorice root is sweet and has antibacterial and antiviral actions and can be anti-inflammatory. It can also have some immune-modulating effects through strengthening and nourishing the body’s tissues.
The solar plexus and sacral chakras have an affinity with Licorice, and it is an excellent remedy for the Vata dosha.
There are some contraindications (eg hypertension) with this lovely herb though so always check with your practitioner to make sure that it’s right for you.
For a hot, dry cough, make a strong tea with liquorice and sip.
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
The Elderberry is a fantastic immune system tonic that is equally stimulating and strengthening. It has been shown to have anti-viral activity, is an antioxidant and modulates inflammation.
Elderberries are cooling, making them ideal for hot, irritable conditions such as fevers or heat in the respiratory system.
Elderberry is an excellent remedy for excessive heat in the Pitta dosha and it’s astringency can be helpful for the Kapha dosha, clearing excess mucous and opening the channels of elimination of the lungs and bowels.
Psychologically, Elderberry is indicated for those that are overwhelmed with fear and offers a calming sense of support and nurturing, giving light to your own strong and stable inner energy.
Magically, Elder offers protection and a gateway between the realms.
Elderberries can be made into syrups, tinctures or teas.
Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)
Echinacea is most commonly known as an immune herb, but traditionally it was primarily used as an alterative, or a blood and lymph cleanser and helped open the channels of elimination.
As an immune modulator or stimulant, it increases white blood cells, helping the body to fight off infections.
Echinacea is predominantly cooling, so will reduce Pitta and its stimulant action will help move stagnation in Kapha. It can aggravate Vata, so exercise caution if you are Vata dominant, perhaps only use it in short bursts, not long term.
Psychologically, Echinacea is great for those of us who have to work hard and then fall in a heap as soon as we get time off.
Echinacea can also be considered a plant of protection, helping us to differentiate our own thoughts and feelings to those we may be picking up on.
Magically, Echinacea is used for amplification – increasing the effectiveness of other plants you may be working with. She also increases abundance while protecting from poverty.
Echinacea is probably the most effective in tincture form and is thought to be most effective used short term.
Elecampane (Inula helenium)
Elecampane’s primary affinities are with the respiratory, digestive and urinary systems. It has positive effects on the mucous membranes that are prominent in all these systems. It has been one of my favourites over the years for a wet cough and to strengthen the lungs. Its antiseptic action also helps prevent bacterial infection.
The warming, drying and stimulating effects of the marvellous Elecampane make it a great tonic for the Kapha dosha and Kapaa-type conditions. It could aggravate Pitta however, warming and drying them out even more. While it may be warming for Vata, it may be too drying.
Elecampane’s psychological picture includes poor concentration, memory lapses and a feeling of homesickness. This herb helps facilitate the connection between the physical and emotional realms.
Elecampane can be taken as a tea (especially if you want the benefits of the mucilage) or a tincture.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Mullein has an affinity for the respiratory system and is a great expectorant for coughs with a lot of spasm and tension, where the mucous membranes are sensitive and irritated. The could can be hard and hacking and often painful. It is demulcent, so great for dry coughs.
Mullein has a lovely antispasmodic action that can help reduce the excess tension seen in the Vata dosha and it’s demulcent action will moisten dry tissue. It can be helpful for the Kapha dosha where phlegm has thickened and congested. Mullein will help to thin these excretions and expectorate them.
Psychologically, Mullein will soften what has turned hard. It can be useful for people who are overly judgemental, both with themselves and others. It can soften a hardened heart and can be used if overthinking has created a congested mind.
Mullein has the attitude of integration, and magically helps you work with and integrate both the light and the dark and all the shades in between, which is necessary to truly know yourself and stand in your power.
Mullein taken as a tea can be wonderful for a sore throat. It is also used in tincture form.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
Originating from the Chinese herbal tradition, Astragalus has become one of the most widely used immune tonics, balancing and regulating an imbalanced immune system. It helps to nourish the body’s vital reserves, tending to the immune system, building the adrenals and balancing the neuroendocrine system.
Astragalus has an overall warming effect (though not to the same extent as ginger, for example), and a sweet taste, making it ideal for the Vata dosha, helping to build up, strengthen and nourish their constitution.
Astragalus helps strengthen our energy and makes us less susceptible to external influences. It can be particularly useful for people who are psychically hypersensitive or who are nervous and worried about getting sick.
Astragalus is not be used in acute infections, but can be excellent at helping to rebuild strength in convalescence.
It can be taken as a tincture or a decoction.
As you can see, all these herbs have such individual characteristics! Hopefully this will help you get to know some go your herbal allies better and allow you to make more healing choices.
Wintery herbal blessings,
Lisa xx