In Traditional Islamic Medicine, this period is associated with the Sanguine temperament, which is linked to blood, warmth and moisture. Classical physicians such as Ibn Sina described this season as one in which the blood becomes more abundant and mobile, influencing both physical and emotional states.
This increase in movement supports growth and vitality. However, if in a state of imbalance it can also present as congestion, heightened sensitivity, or eruptions through the skin when the system becomes overburdened.
Herbal practice during this time pays close attention to how the blood is nourished, how it moves, and how the body clears what it no longer needs. Plants are taken regularly, in simple forms, allowing their effects to take action through consistency.
Here are some of our go-to plant allies to support us through spring.
For seasonal sensitivity
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettle is closely aligned with spring. It nourishes the blood while supporting the body during periods of increased sensitivity. It is often used when seasonal symptoms begin to appear, particularly those affecting the respiratory system.
A long infusion allows for a deeper extraction and dried leaf is covered with hot water and left to sit, then strained. Taken daily, it becomes part of the seasonal rhythm.
Nettle can also be prepared as a vinegar extraction. Fresh or dried leaf is covered with apple cider vinegar and left to macerate. This preparation concentrates its mineral content and is taken in small amounts, often before meals.
Black Seed (Nigella sativa)
Black seed holds a central place in Islamic tradition and continues to be widely used in daily practice. It is associated with strengthening the body’s response to external exposure, particularly in relation to the lungs and skin.
It is often used during periods when seasonal changes bring increased reactivity, congestion, or irritation.
Black seed oil is the most common preparation. Taken daily in small amounts, it can be used on its own or added to food. The seeds can also be incorporated into meals, or taken by the spoonful with raw honey.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Turmeric works through digestion and the liver, both of which influence how the body manages the increased activity of the blood in this season. It is easily incorporated into cooking or taken as a warm preparation with ginger. Regular use supports the body’s ability to process what it takes in.
For clearing and elimination
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Dandelion engages digestion through its bitter constituents and supports bile movement. This becomes particularly relevant as circulation increases and the system requires more efficient processing.
The root can be prepared as a decoction and the leaves can be incorporated into meals, either in its raw form or slightly steamed with garlic and lemon juice.
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
Red clover is traditionally used in relation to the blood and lymph. It is often included when there is a need to support elimination through the skin and lymphatic pathways.
For lymphatic movement
Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Cleavers is closely associated with the lymphatic system and is often used during spring when there is a sense of accumulation or reduced fluid movement. Fresh cleavers can be blended, infused, or added to food. Daily use supports circulation of fluids.
Violet (Viola spp.)
Violet leaf supports lymphatic movement while maintaining moisture in the tissues. It is relevant where dryness and stagnation appear together. It can be taken as an infusion or incorporated into food.
For the respiratory system
Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum)
Yerba Santa is traditionally used in support of the respiratory system, particularly where congestion is present. Taken as a tea, it supports the movement of mucus and is often used during seasonal shifts.
Green Garlic (Allium sativum, immature)
Green garlic supports circulation and the body’s defensive responses. It retains the active compounds of mature garlic in a fresher form. It can be used regularly in cooking.
On working with plants
In herbalism, plants work best through regular use, and through attention to how the body responds over time. This often means returning to the same plants each day and being consistent.
Spring is also a time of clearing that extends beyond the physical. As the body begins to move what has accumulated, there is often a parallel process that takes place on an emotional level. Restlessness, shifts in mood, a desire for change or release can all surface during this period.
Working with plants can support this process in a steady and grounded way. The act of preparing an infusion or incorporating herbs into meals creates a point of contact with the body. Over time, this builds awareness of how you are feeling and how you are responding to the season.
In this way, herbal practice becomes a way of accompanying the transition that spring brings; physically, and within oneself.
