Autumn is a time for harvest and storing winter food - so we can gather and store plenty of wild gifts in nature for the coming cold and shorter days. For maximum strength, it is recommended to harvest before noon - not early in the morning, when the plant is just waking up, and not later than midday.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are indispensable in many autumn dishes because of their nutritional value and their unique flavor. They are known for their low fat content and higher content of amino acids, which build our bodies, and fiber, which supports our digestion and feeds our beneficial gut bacteria. As a rich source of vitamin D, some B vitamins (including folic acid), and minerals (selenium, phosphorus, potassium, iron), they are a food that supports our immune system, improves our blood count, and overall well-being. The nutrient content also depends on the mineral richness or depletion of the soil where the mushrooms are growing. When picking mushrooms, respect nature and cut them in an appropriate place so that they can continue to grow. However, before cooking, it is advisable not to wash them with water, but to use a brush or dry cloth to remove soil, grass, etc. Mushrooms can be stored in jars, dried in a dehydrator or at a low temperature in the oven; or frozen to preserve them for a long time.
Chestnut - fruit
A popular sweet and nutty fruit is a common snack or an ingredient in desserts during the autumn months. According to Ayurveda, it stimulates warmth, supports the kidneys and the digestive fire in our bodies - recommended for Vata types. Although it is a carbohydrate, its high percentage of fiber means that it does not disturb blood sugar levels too much. As a rich source of minerals (calcium, potassium, phosphorus), it also supports our bones, teeth, and nails, and, thanks to vitamin B6, our nervous, endocrine and immune systems.
Rosehip
It is known for its high vitamin C content, which strengthens our immune system and calms the nervous system. At the same time, it is full of silicic acid, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus for better brain function and longer-lasting memory, for stronger bones and cell membranes. It has a beneficial effect on our digestion, as its pectin content relieves many digestive problems. It is also one of the foods that improve our energy flow and has a strong antioxidant power (it contains phenols). It is mostly used in tea. Rosehip tea has a beneficial effect on the human body because it can be drunk even by kidney patients who are sensitive to most other teas. To get the most out of it, it is recommended not to heat-treat it - some people use it to make rose hip purée, add it to smoothies, etc.
Marigold - blossom
It is often found in homemade creams for sensitive skin, since it is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, it also promotes faster healing and new cell formation. In tea, its active ingredients can purify the blood and improve circulation, helping with problems such as missed periods and hormonal imbalances during menopause. It helps with stomach cramps, chyme, inflammation of the large intestine, and the elimination of unhelpful bacteria.
Valerian root
Valerian is a plant known primarily for its calming and sleeping effects. Its tea can be used by those who suffer from insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, nervous tension, and exhaustion (in such cases, it is definitely necessary to find the cause of the problem). Studies* have shown that it is thought to affect GABA, which is associated with feelings of calm, relaxation and better focus. It also helps regulate heart pressure, menstrual and menopausal problems, and restless legs syndrome. Dig the roots up, wash them (you can use a soft brush), and dry them.
Although all of these plants are medicinal and beneficial, we advise you not to consume them every day, but to observe how your body reacts to them and to follow your instincts.
Drying, preparing, and storing teas is described in our blog: Spring flora in our dishes.
*Benke, et. al. GABA A receptors as in vivo substrate for the anxiolytic action of valerenic acid, a major constituent of valerian root extracts. (2009).
Treben. Health through God's pharmacy. (1980).
Vogel. The Nature Doctor: A Manual of Traditional and Complementary Medicine. (1989).
