Autumn Weeds with Hidden Gifts
Among the showier berries and roots of autumn, humble weeds reappear — quiet but powerful allies for everyday health. Often overlooked, they are among the most accessible medicines we have.
Chickweed (Stellaria media)
Tender and cooling, chickweed soothes inflammation and nourishes digestion. It can be eaten fresh in salads or made into a simple tea to calm skin and mucous membranes.
Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Sticky to the touch, cleavers support the lymphatic system. A tea of the fresh herb encourages gentle cleansing, helping the body adapt to seasonal change.
Dandelion Leaf (Taraxacum officinale)
Bitter and mineral-rich, dandelion leaves support the kidneys and clear water retention. They are a tonic for liver and digestion, especially when added fresh to autumn meals.
Goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea)
Bright spikes of yellow appear at field edges and meadows, signalling late summer into autumn. Goldenrod is a classic kidney and urinary tract herb, gently clearing damp congestion and easing seasonal allergies. Its uplifting colour and energy also bring brightness to grey days.
A Seasonal Reflection
These weeds remind us that healing often comes from what is easily overlooked. Just as autumn invites us to slow down and notice small details, these plants encourage us to find medicine in simplicity.
An Invitation
In a Sussex Herbal consultation, I’ll show you how to weave everyday plants into your daily rhythm — safely, effectively, and in tune with your constitution. Sometimes the most powerful medicine is already growing at your feet.
