Seasonal thoughts from a veterinary herbalist
Spring is a transition from winter where we shed our coats three cats at our house!), dispense with the things we no longer need and do our spring cleaning. Physiologically there is an increase in metabolic activity and circulation, like sap flowing in the trees.
Maple Trees
I was born in Montreal, Canada, and cold weather is in my blood, as well as a love for the change of seasons. The Sugar Maple leaf is the symbol of Canada, an amazing plant that provides food, shelter, and sheer beauty especially in autumn. In early spring, a good maple syrup harvest depends on warming days and brisk cold nights. This is a transition time, part warm and part cold, and it a good illustration of a healthy body that is able to warm and cool at appropriate times, when the flow of Qi is naturally starting to trend outward yet stay physiologically balanced. It is time to come out of hibernation.
Sprouting Wood
Following the paradigm of Traditional Chinese Medicine, in the spring there is a gradual activation of Yang Qi, an outward movement of Qi and blood. This movement and this time of year are represented by the Wood element as well as the Liver organ, symbolizing new growth and development.
Sprout but slowly flower
Spring brings a warming element (in our part of the world!) yet we still need protection from the elements. Allergies, infectious disease as individuals get out and socialize more, and spring weather can all challenge our protective layers of immunity as our circulation surfaces from hibernation. Some individuals awaken from the downtime of winter with decreased Qi or defensive immunity. A good health caution in spring is to not go too hard and fast. For pets and their people, start with gentle exercise and walks, as well as a gradual return to social activities, particularly if you have been isolated during winter months. Let the screen door slam but pause before going off leash! Continue to get good sleep and build your resources as you increase your activities.
Look for the Helpers
Hughette is over 14 years old and is not allowed outside!
There are many herbs that can help with this season of emerging. In the Pacific Northwest where I live, nettles are sprouting, providing blood-building nutrients, good food for protecting against spring allergies and infectious disease. Sprouts and young leaves (hello, dandelions) help support the liver, which is working hard at this time of year according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. As we increase activity and warm up, tonics as well as detoxifiers can be helpful. In Western Herbal Medicine we look to nettles, dandelion and burdock, for example, for their cleansing properties.
In my practice I get a lot of questions about detoxifying. There are several mechanisms in the body for getting rid of toxins, including major pathways in the Liver. It takes energy and resources to heal, and it is very important to establish that an individual can withstand a “spring cleaning!” As always, seek the advice of a veterinarian if your pet is ill, and find someone who is well educated in herbal medicine before starting a course of this type of therapy.
All photos property of the author.
