WILD FOODS TO HARVEST IN SPRING

I’m re-emerging from a short break where I disconnected and slowed down to spend time with my family. I hope you too have been able to pause for a moment while we surge into Spring.

We went on several adventures and long walks in the outdoors, where we taught ilan how to identify and forage some wild foods. We picked nettle, dandelion, yarrow & wild garlic and made some delicious food and teas.

The energy of Springtime

A few weeks ago I wrote a journal entry on cyclical living, and a fantastic way to do so is by noticing what is growing around us. Weeds & herbs in your garden, local park or forest, or even along the pavement, might be precisely what your body needs at this time. The Earth invites us to tap into it’s wisdom by providing us with medicinal plants that support our transition into Spring. As flowers begin to bloom and pollen begins to fly with the wind, we might be experiencing certain symptoms of hay fever, or maybe some respiratory dis-ease, and it might be a good idea to take time to forage wild herbs that support our bodies through these discomforts and adjustments.

Spring is also a time to re-awaken our body systems after the dormancy of Winter. Just as we might engage in a Spring Clean for our homes, we can do so too for our bodies. It can feel good to gently detox and clear away any stagnation. If you’re breastfeeding, it’s not recommended to detox as toxins could travel through your breastmilk, but eating and drinking seasonal wild plants can have a lovely revitalising effect in the body. I will do another journal entry on detoxing, but for now lets dive into the medicinal herbs of Spring, which are growing in abundance all around us.

Nettle

Nettle provides essential nutrients, and is a great source of iron and zinc. It’s an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and diuretic that can purify and strengthen the blood. It can enhance elimination processes in the body while offering vital nutrients and re-mineralising the body. Very importantly for Spring, Nettle can reduce symptoms of hay fever.

How to use:

The upper leaves and tender stems can be used in soups, stews and stir-fries. As an infusion, add boiling water to fresh leaves and leave for 10 minutes.

Dandelion

Dandelion is a blood cleansing, purifying, diuretic and stimulant herb. It can clear the blood by removing waste and delivering essential nutrients to it. It can also support the digestive system by improving absorption and elimination, while fostering a conducive environment for the microbiome.

How to use:

Use the leaves in salad, or infuse in boiled water for 10 minutes. Use the root by bringing it to boil in a pan and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain and drink throughout the day.

Yarrow

Yarrow is a stimulant for the circulatory system, it can act as a tonic and it has anti-inflammatory properties. It can support viral infections by promoting sweating to eliminate them from the body. It can enhance vitality, strength and overall resilience.

How to use:

Use the leaves to infuse in boiled water for 10 minutes. You may also dry the leaves to have them for later in the year as Yarrow flowers in the Summer.

Wild Garlic

Wild Garlic has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It can support gut health and is particularly beneficial for cardiovascular health.

HOW TO USE:

Wild garlic leaves can make a delicious side salad, either raw or wilted with oil and salt. They are also great in soup or as pesto instead of basil leaves.

take care

It’s a good idea to be careful and aware of your environment, especially if it’s an area commonly walked by dogs. Try to pick herbs from larger areas, and only if there is plenty to gather, without choosing one particular spot. I recommend using some protection when picking nettles, as they can sting. Make sure to rinse all leaves well with clean water before using.

my recipes

We created a delicious nettle risotto and a wild garlic pasta over the Easter weekend. It was the first time I saw ilan enjoying anything green on his plate! The adventure of picking the herbs, and helping me to prepare them in the kitchen set him up to truly savour the dishes. My newsletter subscribers will get the recipes this week, so sign-up below if you’re interested in receiving these too!