09/06/2025
Although not truly Autumn yet, North Dakota always seems to come into the season a bit early. The air is turning crisp, the light is drastically shifting, and our bodies and gardens both signal that it’s time to slow down, gather, and prepare. Fall is a season of transition—between the bright energy of summer and the deep rest of winter—and herbs can help us move through it with ease.
🌱 Harvesting the Last of the Garden
If you’ve been growing herbs all summer, now is the time to gather them before frost. Hardy herbs like sage, thyme, oregano, and rosemary can often handle cooler weather, but tender plants like basil need to be picked before the first freeze. Drying or freezing these herbs ensures you’ll have garden flavor and medicine all winter long. Hang small bundles upside down in a cool, dry place.
🍵 Herbs for Warming and Circulation
As temperatures drop, our bodies crave warmth. Herbs like cinnamon, ginger, rosemary, and cayenne support circulation and keep the chill out. They’re wonderful in teas, infused honey, and soups, offering both comfort and energy when the days grow shorter.
🌿 Building Immunity for Cold Season
Fall is also the time to fortify your immune system. Astragalus root, elderberry, and echinacea are traditional allies that help prepare the body for winter challenges. A simple astragalus broth, elderberry syrup, or echinacea tea can become part of your fall wellness rituals. Consider adding adaptogens such as astragalus or reishi mushroom to soups, stews, and crock pot dinners for the long term health benefits they can offer through the winter.
🌙 Calming Herbs for Longer Nights
As nature begins to rest, we, too, can lean into slowing down. Calming herbs like chamomile, skullcap, and lemon balm support relaxation and better sleep—helping us adjust to longer nights and cooler evenings.
🍂 Fall is a reminder that health isn’t just about doing more, but about gathering, storing, and finding balance. By working with seasonal herbs, we align with nature’s rhythm and prepare our bodies for the winter ahead.
