Nourishment For Metal Season
The type of nourishment called for during the autumn season are those that warm and foster immune strengthening and sustained support for the winter ahead. Soups have a long history of being the go to choice for comfort and healing in almost every culture. I encourage you to get a head start on the season by brewing up a simple soup for sustenance and yumminess to assist you and your family through this magical season.
Warm nourishing soups loaded with a hearty Chinese herbal base can be slow-cooked over the stovetop or in a crockpot with your favorite proteins and veggies. In Chinese medicine we have numerous herbs that are famous for their Qi building, immune support and blood building powers. There are four that are fairly well known in the west and easily accessible at your local health food store, or co-op.
Astragalus Root
Famous in Chinese medicine for its ability to strengthen vitality, Qi, and build blood. This helps boost energy and strengthen the immune system to be able to withstand the changing weather.
Just add about 6-10 astragalus roots to your soup and allow them to simmer for about 30 minutes. Afterwards, remove the root sticks before serving. You can add ginger, shiitake mushrooms as well as your favorite veggies and protein for a light yet super nourishing soup.
Note: If you’re already ill or are taking immunosuppressant medications, then check with your healthcare practitioner first before working with astragalus.
Ginger Rhizome
One of the most famous herbs in the world. Ginger has a wide range of benefits which include its amazing ability to soothe the stomach, (remember ginger ale to stop the tummy ache?), balance the digestion, and stimulate circulation.
Fresh ginger is considered warmer and more balancing of body fluids than dried ginger. I highly recommend you use the fresh ginger in your soup if you can. Just cut about one inch of fresh ginger and peel the skin.Then slice and throw it into the broth.
Shitake Mushrooms
Yum! One of my favorites and a staple in my kitchen. I have at least half of my meals with these mushrooms. Shiitakes are a useful source of vitamin D, which is hard to come by in most foods. It can support the immune system because of its has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It’s especially useful for digestive conditions, where the immunity starts, and cardiovascular support.
Goji Berries
Over the past ten years goji berries have sky-rocketed to fame and went from 4 dollars a pound to about twenty-five. Luckily, a little goes a long way. Goji berries are a bright red, chewy berry that is mostly known in its dry form. It has a light sweet taste and a powerhouse for the spleen and stomach. It enriches the Yin, which is our natural body fluids, as well as nourishing for the blood. Among many things, it protects the eyes, provides immune support, helps the skin, stabilizes blood sugar and even helps sleep. This is all possible because of its ability to help the stomach and spleen. And the digestive system is where our health begins.
You can add a small handful of goji’s to sweeten up your dish. You can even use them in smoothies, (I like to soak them first). Or you could just add them to your soup for a full flavored balance and nutrient boost to the soup base.
Note: If you’re sensitive to nightshade family (Solanaceae) plants or are already sick, then do not consume goji berries unless you consult with your healthcare practitioner prior to use.