On a Loch side near you. For the last few months we have all enjoyed exploring the vital and energetic harvests from the summer. Now It’s a time to relax, enjoy the autumn and watch gardens and hedgerows change colour in front of us.
However, sometimes the body reacts to the change of pace and adrenaline by succumbing to colds and minor irritations.
If we are observant on our local walks nature offers up the glorious Filipendula ulmaria or meadowsweet. The earthy, fragrant blooms rival elderflower (Sambucus nigra) for scent, and the frothy creamy flowers will brighten most damp, shady spots for the last few days of August and into September. It loves to embellish loch sides, river banks and damp meadows. If nothing else, take time to inhale the glorious fresh scent.
Meadowsweet originally came from the genus Spirea, which gave Aspirin its name. The plant contains salicylate salts alongside sooting mucilage components, The former provide anti-inflammatory relief whilst the latter protect the digestive tract. This provides an excellent example of holistic herbal action!
Culpeper (1653) claimed that Meadowsweet ‘makes a merry heart’, so we created the following infusion to keep fever at bay, calm systemic inflammation, and lift the spirits with its entrancing fragrance. It is particularly delicious served as a chilled brew on a warm summer afternoon.
Feverfree Infusion
1 handful meadowsweet flowers, 1 handful Elderflowers and 1 handful bee balm (Monarda fistula) to control the fever and fight infection and a lemon (Citrus x limon)
Put approximately one handful each of Meadowsweet, Bee Balm, and Elderflowers into a large teapot/cafetiere and top up with freshly boiled water. Allow to sit for 5-10 mins, then serve with a slice of Lemon.
