Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Known as an overall nourisher and strengthener, stinging nettle leaf (Urtica dioica) is full of vitamins and minerals, most notably magnesium, calcium, iron, and protein that can be easily assimilated. (Wood, 1997 & Weed, 1989)
Nettle is a deeply nourishing herb that revitalizes the entire body. Nettle’s rich wealth of nutrients is helpful when there is muscle cramping from low vitamin and mineral intake, as well as assisting in nourishing the body after illness or prolonged stress.
Nettles support healthful function of the kidneys, liver, digestive tract, and metabolism while strengthening the overall constitution.
Rose (Rosa sp)
The ultimate heart medicine, I’ve chosen to add rose to this tea for its heart healing properties and her invitation to love your Self no matter what is going on with your skin right now.
Rose medicine supports the emotional heart during times of stress, depression and overwhelm. It invites us to a deeper connection to self, move out of apathy, and into self-love. It’s also a tonic that supports heart health.
Rose asks us to enter the doorway of the intuitive heart, the place within that holds all the answers.
Calendula officionalis
Calendula, a really good friend of mine, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties thanks to its powerful flavonoids. These plant-based antioxidants protect cells from free radical damage and pro-inflammatory compounds like C-reactive protein and cytokines.
Calendula tea is commonly used to help remedy peptic ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It supports the healing of gastric and intestinal inflammation from infection or irritation through its vulnerary (wound healing), anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial actions
If you are currently struggling with a skin “issue”, you cannot ignore the gut / skin connection. Healing your gut is crucial to healing your skin and our friend Calendula is a dear ally on this journey.
Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Modern herbalists use Cleavers to support the lymphatic glands and the health of mucosal membranes of the urinary tract and skin.
Cleavers’ cooling and moving properties are especially called for when the lymphatic stagnation is accompanied by signs of heat – for example, the affected area feels warm to the touch, with redness and/or swelling.
I like to drink a cold infusion of cleavers in the summer to support healthy lymphatic flow and bring into balance my often overheating constitution (pitta in Ayurveda).
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm is a gentle nervine that helps calm and rejuvenate the nervous system, easing anxiety, nervous tension, insomnia, and headaches.
This beautiful herb ally is known to soothe digestive upsets, especially when associated with nervous stress. As a mild antispasmodic, it will also soothe cramps.
Lemon balm gently stimulates the liver and helps to enhance digestion bringing healthful vitamins and minerals. As a potent antiviral, it can be of great help during viral illnesses, such as colds or flu.
