From a Chinese medical perspective, the lung, the sense of smell, the element metal, dryness, the color white, as well as the emotion sadness or grief belong to this season. Accordingly, we can prepare baked and sauteed meals that stimulate our appetite by fragrant smells. As days become colder, root vegetables thicken the blood, preparing our bodies for the change in weather. Small amounts of sour flavored foods like pickles, sour dough breads, vinegar, lemons, apples, plums, etc. help to contract our energy that might have been scattered during the warm summer season. While we all hope to stay healthy, the fall season coupled with Colorado's already arid climate adds even more dryness to our area, affecting our bodies in different ways.
Many people suffer from allergies, sinus problems, cough and the common cold.
These maladies are often encountered with dry skin, nose and lips, throat itchiness and excessive thirst. Chinese herbal formulas to moisten the lungs and kidneys, if well prescribed and balanced, can be very helpful in combating these problems. If mucous has settled into the lungs, pungent foods are useful in protecting the lungs from damage. Some common examples of pungent foods that can easily be incorporated into your diet are chilies, garlic, onions and turnips. Finally, during this time of 'flu season' once of the most helpful things we can do for our bodies to boost our immune systems is exercising regularly.