March: Green Allies
March Awakens
March stirs the earth with whispered grace,
A quiet hum, a tender embrace.
The chill of winter slowly fades,
As green sprouts rise from shaded glades.
As the first signs of spring begin to stir, the earth awakens in a flurry of new life. The days grow longer, the air warmer, and the landscape shifts from the quiet grayness of winter to vibrant hues of green. March is a month of renewal, a time to embrace nature’s offerings, and what better way to step into this season of rebirth than by connecting with the nourishing greens that lie beneath our feet?
This month, we’ve ventured into the world of green allies—nettle, dandelion, and mint. These humble plants, often overlooked in the hustle of daily life, have become our gateway to increased vitality, grounding, and a deeper connection to the rhythms of nature. By tapping into their power, we not only strengthen our body but also find a renewed sense of purpose in this transformative time of year.
Nettle’s leaves, sharp yet bright,
Fuel my spirit, with their light.
Dandelions, bold and true,
Break through the soil, painting skies anew.
Mint’s cool breath on morning air,
Cleanses the soul, banishing care.
The sun’s soft kiss on the budding vine,
Calls me to bloom, to stretch, to shine.
The world begins its tender spin,
As spring’s sweet pulse beats from within.
In March, the earth renews its song,
And I, too, find where I belong.
Nettle: A Powerhouse of Nutrients
Nettle (Urtica dioica) might look unassuming at first, with its jagged leaves and sharp sting, but this green herb is an absolute powerhouse. Packed with vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, nettle is a perfect spring tonic for rejuvenating the body.
When we first encountered nettle, we were cautious, respecting its reputation for causing skin irritation. However, once dried or cooked, its sting disappears, leaving behind a rich, earthy flavor and a trove of health benefits. We’ve been adding nettle to morning teas, where its gentle detoxifying properties help to cleanse the system and restore balance. Not only does it promote healthy circulation and boost energy, but its anti-inflammatory properties have helped alleviate those early spring allergies that often linger after the cold months.
Dandelion: A Symbol of Resilience
Often dismissed as a stubborn weed, the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is one of nature’s most underrated green allies. As we spent time in the garden this March, we’ve come to appreciate the resilience and tenacity of this bright yellow flower that bursts through the cracks of concrete, symbolizing the strength of nature to persevere against all odds.
The entire dandelion plant—roots, leaves, and flowers—is edible and has long been celebrated in herbal medicine. Its leaves are excellent for supporting liver health and digestion, while the root helps with detoxification, acting as a gentle cleanser for the body. We’ve been incorporating dandelion greens into salads, pairing their slightly bitter taste with a tangy vinaigrette. The root, when dried and roasted, makes a delicious, caffeine-free coffee alternative.
Mint: A Fresh Breath of Spring
The unmistakable scent of mint (Mentha spp.) carries with it the essence of spring—fresh, invigorating, and full of life. Whether it’s the familiar peppermint or the softer spearmint variety, mint is a versatile herb that has been used for centuries to soothe the digestive system, refresh the breath, and cool the body.
We’ve been cultivating mint in the garden this month, delighting in its rapid growth and fragrant leaves that signal the arrival of warmer days. A handful of mint leaves in our morning water has become a new ritual—hydrating and calming my body as we greet the new season. Its cooling properties are also perfect for balancing the energetic shifts that spring can bring, helping to soothe the mind as we move through the hustle of early spring activities.
Connecting with Nature’s Rhythms
As we sip on herbal infusions and nibble on wild greens, we’re reminded of the powerful connection we have with nature. These green allies are not only nourishing our body, but they also ground us in the cyclical rhythms of the earth. By embracing these plants, we’ve been able to tap into the deep wisdom of the land—an age-old reminder that the same forces that awaken the flowers and trees also awaken our own vitality.
In the rush of modern life, it’s easy to forget that nature has always provided us with the tools we need for health and healing. By turning to nettle, dandelion, and mint this March, we’ve rediscovered the simplicity and profound wisdom of living in harmony with the natural world.
So, as the earth bursts into life this spring, we encourage you to step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and reconnect with these green allies. They are here to support and nourish us, just as they have for centuries, and by welcoming them into our lives, we invite the magic of the season to unfold within us.