Natural Remedies

A Healing Journey in the Forest: Family, Adventure, and Nature’s Medicine

This past weekend, my family and I embarked on a waterfall hike, venturing deep into the lush, rich forest near our home. The air was crisp with the scents of earth and evergreen, and the sound of the rushing falls echoed through the trees. These family outings are not only a chance to connect with each other but also with the natural world that surrounds us—a world that continues to inspire and sustain us.

Our hike began as most do, with wide-eyed wonder at the towering trees and moss-covered rocks. Along the way, we paused to collect spruce tips, their vibrant green needles bursting with the tangy aroma of citrus and pine. We found turkey tail mushrooms, their patterned caps fanning out like tiny pieces of art on a recently fallen alder. These treasures of the forest, both culinary and medicinal, always feel like gifts to us—offered freely by nature when approached with care and gratitude.

Midway through the hike, we stopped to build a fairy fort, snug against a hillside covered with ferns and thick moss. There, beside a marshy pond, we all became children, playing with curiosity and wonder in the great forest. With so much fallen hemlock around, we carefully arranged sticks over the hollow of an ancient root ball, until it transformed into a tiny, magical dwelling. William left trinkets—a shiny pebble, a tiny mushroom—at the door of a mossy tree hole, believing the forest’s inhabitants would find joy in their offerings. Moments like these remind me of the importance of imagination and wonder, especially in a world that can sometimes feel overly fast-paced and disconnected.

As we continued our hike, we noticed William, my youngest, beginning to slow down. His breathing was heavier than usual, and I could tell he was developing a respiratory illness. Concerned but undeterred, we made our way back home, carrying our foraged spruce tips and turkey tails with us. Later that evening, I steeped a healing tea, blending the fresh spruce tips with native plants we had previously harvested and dehydrated, including rose hips and borage. Mixed with the last of out Glacier Peak honey, the sweet elixir invoked memories and smells from my own childhood.

The warmth and aroma of the tea filled the room as William sipped it, and I reflected on the value of having these medicinal plants on hand. Harvested in their prime and stored with care, these plants became a precious treasure of health, ready to support us through the cooler seasons. They represent more than just remedies; they are a connection to the land and its rhythms, a reminder of the gifts we receive when we live in harmony with nature.

Having a pantry stocked with nature’s medicines brings a sense of security and gratitude. Each jar of dried herbs, each carefully labeled pouch of mushrooms, tells a story of a moment spent in the forest, hands busy and heart full. These treasures remind us to honor the seasons and to harvest responsibly, leaving enough behind for the forest to regenerate and thrive.

This hike wasn’t just a day in the woods; it was an experience that wove together family, adventure, and the healing power of nature. As we face the colder months ahead, I feel more prepared and connected, knowing that our family’s health is supported by the gifts of the land—gifts we’ve carefully gathered and preserved together. In these small acts, I find immense gratitude for the richness of the forest and the simple, profound ways it nurtures us.

Immunity Boosting Native Plants

1. Spruce Tip

Antioxidant Properties: High in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress.
Anti-inflammatory: May reduce inflammation and support respiratory health.
Rich in Nutrients: Contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential oils.
Immune Support: Traditionally used to boost the immune system.

Use the tender, new growth of spruce trees, knows for their rich vitamin C content and various medicinal properties.

2. Turkey Tail Mushroom

Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) is a well-known medicinal mushroom with numerous health benefits. Be sure to have positive mushroom identification before using wild foraged turkey tails.

Immune Modulation: Contains polysaccharopeptides that enhance immune function.
Antioxidant Effects: Rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
Gut Health: Acts as a prebiotic, supporting gut microbiome health.
Potential Cancer Support: Studies suggest it may aid in cancer treatment and recovery.

3. Rosehips

Vitamin C Source: Extremely high in vitamin C, supporting immune health.
Anti-inflammatory: May help reduce inflammation and joint pain.
Antioxidant Properties: Contains flavonoids and carotenoids that combat oxidative stress.
Skin Health: Used in skincare for its potential to improve skin elasticity and hydration.

Rosehips are packed with nutrients and add sweet, delicate flavor to teas.

4. Borage

Anti-inflammatory: Contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which may reduce inflammation.
Skin Health: Often used in skincare for its soothing properties.
Hormonal Balance: Traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of PMS and menopause.
Respiratory Support: May help soothe coughs and respiratory issues.

Borage is a pollinator favorite and has almost year-round flowers in the garden.

5. Usnea Lichen

Antimicrobial: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Immune Support: Traditionally used to boost the immune system.
Respiratory Health: Used in herbal remedies for coughs and respiratory infections.
Wound Healing: Applied topically to help with wound healing and skin irritations.

Grandfather's Beard hangs from tree branches. We harvest sustainably from windblown bunches.

Immunity Boosting Plants