10 Amazing Herbs to Forage in Spring

Springtime Foraging: A Treasure Hunt in My Garden and Beyond.

Spring is the perfect time to explore the bounty of nature, and I'm thrilled to share my top 10 favourite herbs to forage both in my garden and in the wild.

1. Calendula: The Skin Soother

Calendula is a true multi-tasker! Its bright orange blossoms are a delight to the eye and offer a wealth of benefits for the skin. I use calendula to make soothing teas, calming oils, and restorative balms. It's also a star ingredient in my homemade skincare range, helping to calm inflammation, reduce redness, and promote a healthy glow.

2. Kawakawa: New Zealand's Healing Treasure

Kawakawa is a native New Zealand plant with a unique, spicy flavor and powerful medicinal properties. I love using it in teas, balms, oils, and even in my skincare. It's a real powerhouse for soothing skin, promoting healing, and supporting overall wellbeing. Māori have traditionally used kawakawa for centuries to treat a wide range of ailments, from skin irritations and wounds to digestive issues and respiratory problems. Also used for toothache, I love working with kawakawa.

3. Pine Needles: A Vitamin C Powerhouse

Who knew pine needles were so versatile? They're packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a great addition to my herbal toolkit. I use them to make a refreshing tea, particularly from Douglas Fir and Old Man's Pine. These pines are known for their respiratory benefits, making them a great choice for seasonal support.

4. Fennel: A Versatile Flavour Bomb

Fennel is a culinary chameleon! Its licorice-like flavor adds a unique touch to dishes, from salads and soups to stews and sauces. I also enjoy fennel tea for its digestive benefits.

5. Lavender: The Calming Scent

Lavender is a classic for a reason! Its calming scent and soothing properties make it a favourite for teas, bath salts, and essential oils. I also use lavender in my Calm and Sleep extracts, two blends designed to promote relaxation, irritabilit, mood, and restful sleep. It's also a key ingredient in my Kawakawa & Lavender Night Cream, a luxurious blend that nourishes and soothes the skin while promoting a peaceful night's rest.

6. Plantain: The Skin Healer

Plantain is a humble herb with a surprising ability to soothe skin irritations, burns, and insect bites. I keep a stash of plantain leaves on hand for those unexpected outdoor mishaps. It is a go-to herb for sting emergencies and abundant everywhere.

7. Nasturtium: A Peppery Delight

Nasturtium adds a vibrant splash of color and a peppery kick to salads and other dishes. It's also a beautiful edible flower, adding a touch of elegance to any meal.

8. Dandelion: A Liver-Loving Powerhouse

Don't underestimate the humble dandelion! From roots to leaves, this plant is packed with nutrients and is particularly beneficial for liver function, especially the root. I enjoy dandelion tea and add dandelion greens to salads for their liver-supporting properties.

9. Cleavers: A Lymphatic Cleanser

Cleavers are a gentle diuretic and lymphatic cleanser, helping to support overall health and wellbeing. I often add cleavers to my teas for their detoxifying properties and in my broths.

10. Thyme: A Respiratory Remedy

Thyme is a classic herb with a warm, earthy flavour, perfect for cooking and teas. It's also a great remedy for dry respiratory conditions such as asthma. I often add a sprig of thyme to my teas for its soothing effects on the respiratory system. One of my top herbs to use.

Join the Foraging Fun!

What are your favourite herbs to forage? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below!