Beat the Winter Blues: Uplifting Herbs and Easy Recipes
Winter can be a tough season for many of us.
Shorter days, longer nights, and the cold weather can leave us feeling less than our best. As much as I enjoy the different seasons, I know I’m not a big fan of the darker months.
But there’s good news! Nature has some amazing uplifting herbs that can help lift your mood and brighten your day!
Let’s talk about a few of my favorites and how you can easily use them.
Uplifting Herbs to Brighten Your Mood
- Lemon Balm: This herb is like a hug in a cup. Its gentle, uplifting properties make it perfect for chasing away the winter blahs.
- St. John’s Wort: Known for its mood-supporting benefits, this herb has been used for centuries to help bring a little light to darker days.
- Citrus: Oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits and peel are full of vibrant, mood-lifting essential oils that can energize and refresh your spirit.
Simple Ways to Use These Herbs
1. Brew a Cheerful Tea
A warm cup of tea is one of the easiest and coziest ways to enjoy these herbs. Here’s a quick recipe to get you started:
- 1 tablespoon dried lemon balm
- A slice of fresh orange or lemon
- 1 teaspoon chamomile (optional, for extra relaxation)
- 1 cup just boiled water
Combine the dried herbs in a diffuser or tea bag, pour just boiled water over them, cover and steep for 5-10 minutes. Add the slice of citrus and enjoy! You can add a drizzle of honey for a little sweetness if you like.
2. Sweeten Your Day with Herbal Syrup
Herbal syrups are not only delicious but also a fun way to incorporate herbs into your daily routine. Try this easy recipe:
- 1 cup fresh St. John’s Wort (or ½ cup dried)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup honey
- Pour the just boiled water over the St. John’s Wort in a heat safe container. A canning jar is perfect for this. Cover and allow to infuse for at least 30 min up to an hour.
- Strain the herbs.
- Stir in the honey until well mixed. Store in a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Add a tablespoon or 2 of vodka or brandy to add months to the presevation of your syrup.
Add a tablespoon or two into your tea or to a cup of fizzy water. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to kick it up a notch, if you’d like.
This will likely have a slight bitter taste. Making it a great to sip just before a meal.
3. Create a Cozy Atmosphere
Sometimes, a little aromatherapy can do wonders for your mood. A stovetop potpourri is one of my go-to ways to brighten up the house. Here’s a recipe to get you started:
- 3 cups water
- 1 orange, lemon or a combination of the two, sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Several whole cloves
- 3 cardamum seeds
Add everything to a pot, bring to a simmer, and let the uplifting aroma fill your home. If you have a wood stove, let the pot set on the wood stove for a very low simmer.
Be sure to always watch the water level in the pot and add water as necessary.
Bonus: It’s completely natural and smells amazing!
Final Thoughts
Winter doesn’t have to feel so heavy.
With the help of mood-boosting herbs and a few simple recipes, you can add a little brightness to the cold winter season. Making even those gloomy days feel cozier and warmer.
Whether you’re sipping on a cozy tea, enjoying the sweet flavor of an herbal syrup, or filling your home with the cheery scent of citrus, these small moments of care can make a big difference.
What are your favorite ways to beat the winter blues? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
