Herbal Remedies for Difficult Times
As the smoke clears in the American west and blue skies greet solemn faces, a shallow breath of what feels like post-apocalyptic relief comes for many. These times, at worst, have meant a loss of life, loss of homes, loss of jobs, and loss of hope for many. At best, they have meant a loss of routine, loss of connection, and loss of surety for what comes next. For even those who have found sunshine and growth in these times, as I know many of us have, it is easy to feel impeded by the consciousness of our shallow breath. Not knowing if it is anxiety, asthma, illness, or fire that is stopping a full breath in its tracks.
Since I was two years old, I have found some surety in natural remedies. A comfort in healing that challenges the money-hungry nature of Western pharmaceuticals. Of course, the exploitation of Eastern medicine and culture is all too familiar. Overpriced remedies and blends seem to dominate a narrative in which homeopathy and naturopathy are hep alternatives to Western medicine that truly does the job. An essential oil diffuser in addition to an unnecessary and overpriced prescription. A sale of spirituality and exploitation in a Western medicinal package.
Today I draw on the findings of Levi Leigh, a queer herbalist based in San Fransisco, California, an area that felt the heat of West Coast fires full on. They kindly constructed an informative post, from which all the following information is drawn. Please follow them on Instagram at @msteabotanica. Herbalists and patients alike know that natural remedies are not a secondary measure, but rather a long-lasting and effective form of solution and prevention. Trust in this as we follow Levi’s wisdom in healing and helping our bodies through this difficult season.
Water Preparations
Water preparations are used to moisten the mucosal lining, coat the airways, and support deep immunity. For aerial parts, steep 1oz of the herb in 1 qt of water for 4-8 hours or overnight. Cold water helps in extracting mucilage. For roots, berries, and fungi, simmer on low heat for 1 hour or more on the stovetop.
Mullein
Licorice
Red Clover
Marshmallow
Plantain
Violet
Reishi
Hibiscus
Astragalus
Elderberry
Rosehips
Coltsfoot
Respiratory Steams
Respiratory steams act as a buffer for particulate matter and fortify the lungs and sinus. To prepare a respiratory steam, pour boiled water over the plant material of choice. Use a large bowl with a tented towel over your head and inhale for 5-20 minutes. A pot of water and herbs may also be kept on low heat throughout the day for ambient steam.
Rosemary
Sage Leaf
Oregano
Thyme
Chamomile
Yarrow
Pine
Bay Laurel
Cedar
Eucalyptus
Elderflower
Peppermint
Fresh Foods
Fresh foods nourish us and help maintain moisture in our body’s tissues. Some of these foods are more accessible than others, so share them with your community fridge if you are able! Seasonal shifts are the perfect time to incorporate broths, congee, and fortifying soups into our diets.
Greens
Cucumber
Coconut
Berries
Melons
Seaweed
Chia
Flax
Zucchini
Nopales
Okra
Lime
Bitters and Lymphatic Herbs
Bitters and lymphatic herbs help us to eliminate toxins found in smoke particles. Most bitter herbs are dying, which can worsen signs of dry heat. So use these herbs carefully and in low doses: 6-8 drops of tincture or 4-6oz of tea up to twice a day.
Dandelion
Burdock
Chamomile
Angelica
Yarrow
Mugwort
Calendula
Cleavers
Chickweed
Bee Balm
Echinacea
Solstice Wort (can be harmful with certain medicines, consult a practitioner before use)
Nervines
Nervines support emotional wellness through periods of grief, loss, and upheaval. They can hold us through stress, heartbreak, burnout, and insomnia. While they are not a cure for the injustices of the system, their softness and resilience can help transform grief into collective action.
Rose
Milky Oats
Lavender
Wood Betony
Motherwort
Catnip
Passionflower
Lemon Balm
Hawthorn
Skullcap
Borage
Vervain
Find a list of BIPOC herbalists here.
Written by Trisha Dey, Herbalist Source: Levi Leigh