SPRING is here!

The first fresh herbs (Cleavers and Dandelion) we noticed in our garden also happen to have a particular influence on our body's natural cleansing and detoxifying systems. They also contain nourishing minerals and phytochemicals, usually lacking in our winter diets. Here are two common traditional spring-cleansing herbs that anyone can easily recognise and which are increasingly in common use today by medical herbalists.

Our focus for this Spring is on our new teas, beginning with the Lymphatic Cleanse - Herbal Tea. and the powerhouse medicinal herbs, Cleavers and Dandelion.

Cleavers (sticky willie, sticky weed) -  it gives us a good 'spring clean' and a fresh, healthy glow. It is a powerhouse medicinal herb - sesquiterpenoids, aromatic compounds, fatty acids, chlorophylls and carotenoids, among others, have been identified in cleavers. Cleavers are believed to stimulate the lymphatic system, aiding in detoxification and reducing swelling. This can help with conditions like lymphedema and urinary tract infections. They may aid in digestion by stimulating bile production and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract. 

Dandelion - an unpretentious wonder of nature. The old English (name not often used now) 'wet the beds' suggests how it helps the body rid itself of wastes: It is a diuretic and encourages removal through the increase of urine,  through its effect on the kidneys, an eliminatory organ. Unlike many diuretics which can leach potassium out of your system, it is high in potassium, and able to replace what is lost.

Dandelion leaves can be eaten cooked or raw. and are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also contain vitamin E, folate, and small amounts of other B vitamins. They provide several minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

As we can see, mother nature once again supplies us with what we need at exactly the right time! We hope you'll join us as we 'spring clean' our bodies and show off a fresh, healthy glow!

Speak soon,

Ray