Herbal Allies for Springtime: 4 Plants To Keep An Eye Out For This Spring
- Danielle Caster
- Mar 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 2
As we move into spring, you’ll start noticing plants popping up in your yard, along trails, and in wild spaces. Some would consider these plants "weeds" but these spring herbs are powerful allies that can help our bodies transition from the slower, inward energy of winter into the movement and renewal of spring.
Many of these spring plants support our liver, kidneys, lymphatic system, and digestion—helping to move stagnant energy, promote gentle detoxification, and help you feel more balanced and vibrant. Incorporating them to your daily routine is an easy and effective way to support your body’s natural detoxification processes while adding nourishment.
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettle is a mineral-rich, nutritive herb that deeply supports the body. It is packed with iron, protein, magnesium, calcium, selenium, zinc, potassium, and vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K. Additionally, nettles contain bioflavonoids, antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and chlorophyll.
This powerhouse herb is beneficial for those looking to boost their nutrient intake and is especially supportive during pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause.
How to Use Nettle:
Brew dried nettles into a tea or overnight infusion.
Add to tea blends, soups, and sauces.
Use fresh nettles in pesto (When handling fresh nettle, be be sure to wear gloves. There is a reason they are called stinging nettle!).
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Dandelion is a well-known spring herb that supports both kidney and liver function. All parts of the plant are medicinal. However, be mindful when harvesting—since dandelions are often seen as pesky weeds, they’re frequently sprayed with pesticides.
Dandelion Leaf
Acts as a natural diuretic, helping to reduce swelling and water retention, especially in cases of premenstrual edema.
Supports kidney detoxification while replenishing potassium, unlike many pharmaceutical diuretics.
How to Use Dandelion Leaf:
Brew as a tea or add to tea blends.
Use fresh leaves in salads, smoothies, or cooked like other greens.
Dandelion Root
Supports liver and digestive health by promoting bile production and easing congestion in the liver and gallbladder.
Gently detoxifies, making it beneficial for pregnancy and postpartum.
May improve skin health by supporting liver function.
How to Use Dandelion Root:
Best used dried and prepared as a decoction.
Often roasted and used as a replacement to coffee for those who are trying to limit their caffeine intake, as it has a similar taste when roasted.
Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Cleavers is a powerful lymphatic herb, meaning it supports the body’s lymphatic system. It is considered a lymphatic tonic as it also helps to nourish the system. It also acts as a gentle diuretic, helping to flush the kidneys and urinary system.
Cleavers is a wonderful ally in women’s health. Both internally and externally cleavers can be helpful in aiding breast tenderness, fibrocystic breasts, and benign lumps.
How to Use Cleavers:
Brew fresh cleavers as a hot or cold infusion.
Juice fresh cleavers to make a succus.
Prepare as a tincture for longer shelf life.
Chickweed (Stellaria media)
Chickweed is cooling, soothing, and anti-inflammatory—making it a great herb for both internal and external irritation. It contains mucilage, which helps soothe inflamed mucous membranes, and can be used for ulcerations in the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
Externally, chickweed is a fantastic remedy for itchy, dry skin conditions.
How to Use Chickweed:
Fresh chickweed can be brewed as a tea, juiced, or prepared as a tincture.
Make a fresh poultice for irritated skin by grinding the fresh herb and applying to the affected.
Infuse fresh chickweed into oil for topical use.
Spring is the perfect time to incorporate these herbs into your daily routine. Whether you're sipping nettle tea, adding dandelion greens to your meals, or using chickweed to soothe your skin, these plants can gently support your body as you transition into the new season.
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