I have been privileged enough to have lived in the Scottish Hebrides, Somerset, Rome, London and now I have recently moved to Bath. One constant thread has woven through my life: a deep appreciation for nature and the natural medicine it generously provides. Now, living in Bath during springtime, the city is awash with dandelions, ground ivy, wild garlic, nettles, and cleavers, and so I’m foraging every day again.
Exploring a new city through this lens serves as a potent reminder of nature's profound wisdom. Nature, in its infinite generosity, provides us with the very remedies we need, precisely when our bodies crave them. It’s a seasonal dance of nourishment and healing.
Forgetting fleeting health trends and expensive supplements for a moment, we can reconnect with the ancient practice of observing the land and harvesting its gifts. Following the seasonal foraging calendar isn't just a charming pastime; it's a powerful way to tap into nature's innate pharmacy, supporting our well-being in perfect harmony with the cycles of the year.
Spring Awakening: The Detoxifying Greens
Our bodies often feel sluggish after the heavier foods and more sedentary pace of winter. Nature’s answer? A vibrant array of detoxifying herbs, readily available right outside our door.
Nettles: Often feared for their sting, nettles are a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins. They act as a gentle diuretic, helping to flush out toxins and invigorate the system. A delicious and cleansing spring tonic can be made from their young leaves (carefully harvested, of course).
Cleavers (Goosegrass): This seemingly unassuming plant with its sticky tendrils is a fantastic lymphatic cleanser. It helps to move stagnant fluids, supporting detoxification and reducing puffiness. A refreshing infused water with cleavers can be a wonderful spring cleanse.
Dandelions: From root to flower, dandelions are a nutritional goldmine. Their leaves are a gentle diuretic, supporting liver function, while the roots can aid digestion. Even the cheerful yellow flowers can be used in culinary creations. This "weed" is truly a vital spring ally.
Our ancestors would have eagerly gathered these springtime greens, understanding their vital role in cleansing and preparing the body for the year ahead. They might have enjoyed them fresh in salads or lightly cooked, allowing their natural detoxifying properties to work their magic.
The Late Spring/Early Summer Soothers:
As spring transitions into the warmer embrace of early summer, nature offers remedies for the seasonal challenges that arise.
Elderflower: Around late spring and early summer, the fragrant, creamy blossoms of the elder tree emerge. Beyond their delightful scent, elderflowers have long been recognised for their ability to ease hay fever symptoms, a common complaint as the pollen count rises. Infusions and cordials made from these blossoms can be a gentle and natural way to support respiratory health during this time.
The Abundance of Summer: Healing Close at Hand
Summer in Bath brings with it a profusion of greenery, and amongst it, valuable medicinal allies.
Plantain: Look closely at pathways and grassy areas during the summer months, and you'll likely spot the unassuming leaves of plantain. Often overlooked, this common "weed" possesses remarkable healing properties for skin irritations, insect bites, and minor wounds – all more frequent occurrences during the warmer months. Its soothing and anti-inflammatory actions make it a readily available natural first-aid.
Yarrow: The delicate, feathery flowerheads of yarrow appear in summer, a plant traditionally valued for its ability to help with wound healing and reduce inflammation. Its presence in the summer landscape underscores nature's provision of remedies for common ailments encountered during this active season. Furthermore, yarrow has been used traditionally to help with fever and cold symptoms, offering a broader spectrum of support during the warmer months as well.
The Late Summer Bounty: Immunity in Berries
As summer matures and we move into autumn, nature shifts its focus to building our defenses for the colder months. This is when vitamin C-rich berries ripen, offering a potent shield against the colds and flu that often accompany the change in season.
Rosehips: The vibrant red fruits left behind after the rose petals fall are packed with vitamin C, far surpassing that of oranges. They also contain other antioxidants and bioflavonoids that support immune function. Rosehip syrup or tea was a staple in the home apothecary, a delicious and effective way to ward off winter ailments. If you're looking for a delicious recipe, we recommend this one.
Elderberries: These dark, juicy berries are another incredible source of immune-boosting compounds. Studies have shown their potential to reduce the duration and severity of colds and flu. Elderberry syrup or cordial was a traditional remedy, a sweet and powerful medicine made from nature's bounty.
Hawthorn Berries: Often overlooked, hawthorn berries are rich in antioxidants and have traditionally been used to support cardiovascular health. Their high vitamin C content also contributes to immune support.
These weren't just for jams and jellies; they were vital components of the home apothecary, carefully dried and stored in the larder, ready to be brewed into teas and syrups to bolster their family's health throughout the coming winter.
Foraging traditionally involved preserving seasonal harvests to create a "larder apothecary" of natural remedies for year-round use. This fostered a deep understanding of nature's healing power and a harmonious relationship with the environment for maintaining well-being.
