New Year Beginnings

The first month of the new year is finally here. We can finally take a deep breath. We worked very hard this past year and absolutely deserve a big inhale in and a long exhale out. Exhale out the last stragglers of 2019 that don’t need to come along for the new ride, for the new journey. The past year brought a lot of hard lessons with it, as well as some big time growth. 2020 is ready for the collective to come together, to stand together in our power as artists, rebels, teachers, shakers, changers, mystics, and magical beings.

What are you excited for in this coming year? Where are you ready to share your gifts and let your light shine?

This month, Astragalus is our herb ally giving us deep nourishment and rejuvenation to the body, mind, and spirit into the new year.

ASTRAGALUS

Astragalus membranaceous is one of the 50 fundamental herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is an excellent immune tonic and can help to build the immune system. Other herbal actions include antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, vasodilator, diuretic, immune-modulating, and adaptogenic properties. Astragalus is a deeply beneficial to individuals in weakened states, helpful with poor digestion, and frequent infectious illnesses.

Astragalus is an herb of creators. In the Herbal Tarot, the card associated with astragalus is the The Magician - think unlimited possibilities, manifestation, increased energy, protection, and balance. One may keep some astragalus in a pouch with them or in the house to manifest peace. Use the root for creative & spiritual workings.

It is best to avoid Astragalus when actively sick, as it has a tendency to drive the illness deeper into the tissue. Taking as a daily tonic can help build the immune system and hopefully prevent getting the sniffles!

Restorative Tea Blend

  • Tulsi - 1 part

  • Hawthorn Berries - 1/2 part

  • Marshmallow - 1/2 part

  • Astragalus - 1/4 part

  • Rosehips - 1/8 part

  • Burdock - 1/8 part

  • Licorice - sprinkle

  • Optional: Add a sprinkle of Orange Peel for some extra Vitamin C and delicious taste!

Directions for tea brewing/Option C: Add 1 tablespoon per cup of boiling water. Let tea steep for 20-30 minutes, strain, and enjoy! Herbalist tip: A french press is a great and easy way to make loose leaf herbal tea.

Vitamin C Kick (Immune Supportive) Syrup

  • Elderberry - 1/4 cup

  • Orange Peel - 1/4 cup

  • Astragalus - 1/4 cup

  • Rosehips - 1/4 cup

  • Ginger - 2 tablespoons

  • Orange Peel - 1 teaspoon

  • Brandy - 4 ounces (120 mL)

  • Honey - 1 cup

  • Water - 4 cups

  • Optional: Add 1/4 part of Astragalus to your herb mixture for more of a ‘preventative medicine’ syrup.

    Directions:

    1) Bring the 4 cups of water to a boil.

    2) Place ingredients (except the honey and brandy) into the pot and simmer the herbs for about 20-30 minutes.

    3) Let cool slightly and then strain the herbs.

    4) Add honey while the liquid is still warm.

    5) Add the brandy to preserve.

    6) Bottle, refrigerate, and enjoy!

Happy New Year and Blessed Beginnings!

 
 
Kristin Schuch