The skin is our largest organ in/on the human body. Our skin breathes and connects our inner body with the outer world through triggers from our environment. When the weather is cold our skin tells our body to shiver, warming us up. Our skin can tell the difference between the touch of a lover, or a tickle from a friend. Our skin also moisturizes itself (mostly), cools us off, and "detoxes" by sweating. 

In the study of western herbal medicine, acne and skin irritation are looked at as a liver/lymph/digestive issue. We talk to the liver through the use of herbs that can stimulate the digestion of fats via the gallbladder (bitters or cholagogues), and help rejuvenate liver cells (tonics). Supporting the lymph helps move the immune system and reduces "bogginess". This is vital in the springtime when our diets are changing and the weather is gifting us with fresher food.  

Herbs play a massive role in clearing the skin and helping with the spring transition. Here is my favorite skin-clearing tea:

Spring Skin Tea

• 2 Tbls. Burdock (Arctium lappa)
• 2 Tbls. Dandelion Root, raw (Taraxacum officinale)
• 1 Tbls. Sarsaparilla root (Smilax spp.)
• 1 Tbls. Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus)
• 2 tsp. Lemon Peel (Citrus limon)

Directions:

*Put all herbs in a pot of 20 ounces of water. Bring to boil, and turn down to simmer, covered for 20 minutes. Strain in a french press or tea strainer and drink 8 ounces per day. Refrigerate leftover tea in a jar.

(for those of you who don't want to make your own tea blend, our Radical Roast is a great option for liver/skin support).

I hope you enjoy a happy spring! 

With love and health, 

xo Laura