NASTURTIUM - MORE THAN AN EDIBLE FLOWER

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a spicy, fire cracker of a medicinal herb. It has an affinity for conditions that can burn on the way out, such as urinary tract infections. This plant signature can be discovered when we taste the spicy and yet succulent leaves and stems, as well as the edible flowers.

As a child nasturtium was one of the medicinal plants I self discovered. From a young teenager upon moving to a forestry village surrounded by pine trees, I had hay fever. I would regularly have profuse mucous from sneezing, an itchy nose and post nasal drip. The dairy allergy from being put to early onto bottle feds as a baby also didn't help, an unfortunate mastitis infection led to this decision and croup quickly followed. My poor mother!

But what I found when I sucked on the stems of nasturtium was that I would suddenly spit up a lot of mucous (expectorant action at play) and then it would quickly dry up and resolve. I thought it was magic.

As a cold constitution, I also loved the spicy heat that it brought to my belly (warming digestive).

Nasturtium has many other benefits. It is antimicrobial and rich in vitamin C. So it is really helpful for colds or flus and respiratory infections especially where there is mucous. To boost immunity start adding nasturtium regularly to your salads!

Tea recipe

Here is a tea recipe I regularly share with clients. Chop up a handful of nasturtium leaves and flowers. Add 1 tsp of thyme (dried or fresh), another upper respiratory supportive herb. Squeeze in a lemon (can also add the whole lemon) and a good dollop of honey. Add with boiling water to a teapot or coffee carafe. Leave to steep for at least 10 minutes. Drink through the day.

I hope you acknowledge this herbal ally when you next see nasturtium growing prolifically, perhaps in waste areas, or tumbling down walls or hills, gaily waving its brightly coloured orange and yellow flowers. Its spicy medicinal delight is worth experiencing!

Shine bright!

Nic