Boosting Autumn Immunity with Traditional Wisdom: Embrace the Season

As autumn unfolds in the northeast, the vibrant colors, falling leaves, and crisp air all bring reminders that change is upon us - that winter is on its way. Autumn is a great time for reflection and preparation, and gives us a beautiful opportunity to slow down. This is the moment when we want to intentionally incorporate immune-building foods and herbs into our daily routines for optimal year-round health.

The Energy of Autumn 

In traditional herbal medicine, autumn is seen as a season of contraction, after the full expansive nature of spring’s flowering and summer’s fruiting. If we are to support ourselves at this time, it can be beneficial to engage with the energy of contraction by turning inward and assessing what is serving our well-being and what is not. Autumn asks us to engage with the physical and emotional processes of letting go - just as trees do so in such a graceful manner, by dropping their leaves. We will feel our best if we can let go of what we don’t need, consolidate our gains, and conserve energy for the winter to come.

The Power of Fire Cider

One traditional remedy that embodies the spirit of autumn and offers robust support to the immune system is fire cider. This potent spicy and sweet elixir combines a variety of easily accessible medicinal ingredients, each selected for it's immune-boosting and warming properties. Fire cider can be taken once daily for preventative care, or every few hours at the onset of cold and flu symptoms to lessen their intensity and duration. Nearly all of the ingredients are powerful allies for the lungs, the organ associated with autumn in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Fire Cider Ingredients:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Known for its antimicrobial properties and ability to support digestion.

• Garlic: A powerful antimicrobial and cholesterol-lowering herb that can help ward off infections.

• Ginger: A circulatory stimulant that lowers inflammation and increases nutrient absorption.

• Horseradish: Adds a spicy kick and helps clear nasal congestion.

• Onion: Contains immune supportive, antihistamine, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Hot Peppers: Stimulates circulation and supports overall immune function.

• Honey: Adds a soothing, moistening element for dry throats and lungs, and supports immune health with its antibacterial properties.

Join Our Fire Cider Making Class

To help you embrace the autumn season with a proactive approach to your health, Pellegrino Healing Center is offering a fire cider making class this November. Join me, Amber Merkens, Clinical Herbalist, as I demonstrate the process of creating this traditional remedy, ensuring you understand the benefits of each ingredient and how to tailor the recipe to your personal needs. We will also touch on supporting respiratory function and emotional well-being in other ways, helping you fully align with the season’s natural rhythms. You’ll leave with a greater understanding of traditional remedies and how they can support your health.

Thursday, November 7

6 PM - 7:30 PM

At Pellegrino Healing Center, upstairs in building A

Learn more about this event HERE.

Register for this event before October 10, and get $5 off: Use coupon code FIRE at checkout.

Written by Amber Merkens

Clinical Herbalist & Integrative Specialist

Book with Amber Here