September: The May of Autumn
September: The May of AutumnWith the meteorological start of autumn today, September 1st, nature begins to showcase its vibrant colors.…
Autumn’s Helpers
Autumn’s Helpers
On September 14th, the Feast of the Holy Cross is celebrated. In Alpine regions, this marks the day of the Almabtrieb—the ceremonial return of cattle from mountain pastures—along with harvest celebrations and gratitude. It is also a time when the hard work and fruits of summer become visible. Now begins the process of letting go of spring and summer projects. What has been nurtured and cared for should now bear fruit.
Autumn brings many things—not only an abundant harvest, especially this year. The second half of the year also brings work and tension. Hesitation and fear of the unknown are typical for the darker season. Overwhelm, chaos, sadness, inner conflict, and the feeling of not being able to perform under mounting tasks are autumn’s energies. At the same time, the instinct to gather and organize awakens. Some plants that support us in these times include gentian, masterwort, silver thistle, and betony.
Gentian Root
When distilled into an essence, gentian root helps to digest what is difficult to process—both physically and emotionally. It strengthens the stomach, counteracts fermentation, stimulates digestion, dissolves mucus, and soothes the digestive organs. On a psychological level, gentian root helps in accepting failures, processing disappointments, and dealing with rejection.
Masterwort
Masterwort provides courage and strength, has pain-relieving and blood pressure-lowering effects, boosts immunity, acts as a natural antibiotic, and helps with back pain caused by overexertion and stress. Grated, it is also a reliable remedy for colds and nasal congestion.
Silver Thistle
Thistles have diuretic, laxative, and sweat-inducing properties while being generally strengthening and antibacterial. Emotionally, they help to navigate chaos and overwhelm, as well as to ease difficult life transitions, including menopause.
Betony
This valuable herb marks the transition from light to darkness. It strengthens, heals, and has diuretic, circulation-stimulating, and pain-relieving properties. When facing exhaustion, vague discomfort, or a lack of strength, betony is a wonderful support. Its profound healing effect on neuralgia and the central nervous system was so highly regarded that even Hildegard von Bingen claimed it could grant intelligence to the foolish.
Medicinal Mushrooms: Natural Mood Enhancers
Medicinal mushrooms are also used successfully to support mental well-being, particularly in cases of depression, mood swings, or inner restlessness. Cordyceps, Hericium, and Ganoderma lucidum (also known as Reishi) contain compounds that can positively influence the hormonal system, counteract mood imbalances, and strengthen the nervous system.
