Boosted By Berries
As we start to pack away our lighter clothes in favour of something a little cosier, the change in weather will bring on the wave of snuffly noses and the need to stock up on multi-vitamins and tonics to build your system up for the seasons ahead.
Its not only humans who go through this seasonal shift. Animals and birds are doing the same thing in their own way, growing heavier plumage and fur and eating more to add extra layers of fat to protect from the colder days when food may be scarce or hidden under snow.
There is an old wives’ tale that tells us to look to the trees for a prediction on the type of winter we can expect – if trees are heavily laden with berries and fruit, a harsh winter is on the horizon. This is natures way of stocking up the larder to give birds, deer, and other wildlife a fighting chance through December and January.
This old wives’ tale has been on my mind as I have been foraging of late. It’s the season for berries and so far, I’ve seen an abundance of Blackberries, Elderberries and Rosehips – all immune boosting, protective berries that are enjoyed by wildlife and humans alike. It makes me happy to see the signs of animal feasting as I move through the hedgerows in Firhouse and Bohernabreena, knowing that these berries are helping protect them. Animals instinctively know that these jewels growing on our native trees are their best source of goodness, but for us humans, we have the luxury of science to back it up.
More than just tasty additions to jams, jellies and cakes, these berries are packed with a host of body loving benefits that will help you stay well as the weather gets cooler. And the great thing is, they are provided completely free by Mother Nature and are usually found very close to your front door. The two berries on my foraging list right now are Elderberry & Rosehips.
“Here’s why I consider these berries my go-to body boosters. ”
Elderberry
Elder is one of my favourites to look out for when I go walking. Also known as the Sambucus Nigra, Elder is believed to be a “Protective Tree”, regarded for its magical connections, particularly with the fairies. But after the magic, comes the medicinal benefits, and this is where it truly shines.
Firstly, let me issue a warning, Elderberry can be dangerous when raw. Dramatic as that might sound, unripe Elderberries, its leaves, and the red stems, contain a compound called cyanogenic glycosides. This compound, when eaten and metabolised, converts into cyanide. So, it’s important that when you forage this gorgeous plant to use it, you do so wisely – and don’t try popping a few berries into your mouth, the way you would a Blackberry as you forage.
But once you treat it with a little TLC, forage ripe berries, discard the red stems and cook well, you will remove any danger and feel the benefits of this fantastic plant in no time. Elderberries are an amazing source of antioxidant and vitamins that boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, support better heart function and care for your respiratory system, helping you fight colds and flu.
Rosehip
Take a look at your favourite skincare lotion, chances are you will find Rosehip Seed Oil listed as one of the ingredients. This is due to the fact that Rosehip Seed Oil is high in fatty acids and antioxidants that are fantastic for skin and cell regeneration. It’s also known to help smoothen wrinkles, lessen acne, help dull the pinkness of rosacea while rehydrating your skin.
And if that wasn’t enough, each rosehip is bursting with immune boosting goodness that will also help you feel good throughout Winter. A fantastic source of Vitamin A, C, D and E, Rosehips are a great anti-inflammatory and can help relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis by reducing joint pain and gastroenteritis related cramping and discomfort. An all-round healthy helper that everyone can benefit from.
Rosehips have tickly hairs on their skin and the seeds can cause irritation when in contact with the skin. In fact, the seeds are the main ingredient for joke-shop style itching powder. So when heading out to forage your Rosehip haul, keep a pair of gloves in your toolkit.