Water flowing at NJ's Hacklebarney State Park.

Look anywhere in nature to see continual flow. Nourishment flows ground-up to reach the tippy top leaves on a tree. Water flows down from heavy clouds to nourish the ground below. Rivers and brooks flow through pathways of rocks and roots to nourish wider waters beyond.

Nature’s flow is easy. Knows where it’s going.

Digestive flow is meant to be easy. Flow just happens, easily, when pathways are strong and clear. And, just as in outdoors, when pathways are blocked or weakened, flow is stopped, disrupted. Sometimes it runs out of control.

The message, really, is quite simple. To strengthen digestive flow, go back to nature.

An organic plant-based diet will give you the vitamins, minerals, and fiber crucial for optimal digestive flow.

Naturally fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and kimchi, will empower your digestion with enzymes and probiotics.

Clean, clear water will carry the flow of nourishment, and clear the path to ease the flow.

Yoga, deep breathing, and walks in Nature will soothe and strengthen the flow.

In a nutshell. Pure foods and easy movement for easy natural flow.

Contact me for guidance in harnessing your own easy flow.

Where do you see flow in Nature? Post your questions and comments below.

Be Well,

Marian

Nourish Your Body-Mind, Transform Your Life

Dried Astragalus Root

When I’m coming down with something, sick, or just plain exhausted, Astragalus is one of my all-time favorite herbs. I always have some in my cupboard, with my stash of Chinese Herbs.

I didn’t always like Astragalus, though. In fact I couldn’t stand the taste. But, that was back when I used it as a tincture in a dropper bottle. Now I use the dried Astragalus root slices. They taste much better.

I first learned about dried Astragalus root several years ago, at the Academy of Healing Nutrition. Astragalus slices look a little like tongue depressors. They are easy to use and easy to store.

I use them two ways – as an addition to my vegetable stock, and as the base for Astragalus tea. Generally I use about  4-5  slices – or a small handful – for whatever recipe I’m making.

Astragalus root, also referred to as Milk Vetch, Huang qi, and Wong kei — is perfect for building energy and immunity. It increases the number of white blood cells, and also helps to regulate blood pressure. You can find it at a Chinese Pharmacy. Or, try Mountain Rose Herbs.

Astragalus is especially helpful for stress-induced fatigue and exhaustion.

But beware. Astragalus is not for everyone. In fact, years ago when I had an autoimmune disease, I couldn’t take it without it triggering symptoms. Because of its immune-boosting qualities, Astragalus is often contraindicated for people with autoimmune disease,(such as MS, Crohns, Lupus, Diabetes 1) or who are taking immune-suppressant drugs.

Luckily, I can now safely enjoy a cup of Astragalus tea when I’m feeling sick and tired, or tired and sick.

To make the tea – fill 2 quart (or so) pot with water. Add 5-6 slices of Astagalus. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-30 minutes. Strain tea. Add honey to taste, if desired.

Questions or comments? Post them below.

Be Well,

Marian

Nourish Your Body-Mind, Transform Your Life