We put together a little list of our favorite hydrating wintertime herbs for you this season.

Cold, windy, dry winters typically bring an onslaught of dehydrated skin conditions. But, as we know, there are herbs for that.

Supple skin starts within, so incorporate this list of soothing allies into your winter skincare routine all season long. Many of these herbs are demulcent, which is a fancy, herbalist way of saying they have slimy-gooey plant properties that coat and soothe soft tissues in the body. This nourishing plant goo delivers deep hydration. All of these herbs are moistening and soothing for the entire body, taking your hydration to the next level in a way that water alone just can’t. There’s nothing wrong with water - we love it - but medicinal herbs kick it up a notch.  

But these plants work double-time for you! The herbs we're chatting up today are also powerful immune-system enhancers, making them a premiere choice during winter.

7 HERBS FOR WINTERTIME HYDRATION

Marshmallow leaf - A fantastic moistening herb that’s soothing to the tissues to promote healing and protect against wintertime skin dehydration. The leaves have a specific affinity for the lungs and respiratory system as well, and can work wonders on irritating, dry coughs. The best way to enjoy this common weed is as a cold, overnight infusion. 

Goji berry - This flavorful berry is a powerful antioxidant loaded with amino acids which support collagen and elastin production which are crucial for skin health and keeping winter dehydration at bay. Incorporate these vibrant berries into your diet all winter long to deliciously support supple skin and a vibrant complexion. Find Goji berry in Light Ray.

Mullein - Mullein’s primary affinity is for the lungs and respiratory system. It’s demulcent qualities make it a soothing choice for an irritated throat or chest by both moistening and coating the mucus membranes while stimulating expectoration. Come wintertime, mullein makes a wonderful hydrating ally to combat dryness both internally and externally. When brewing mullein tea, be sure to strain it well because it contains tiny “hairs” which can be otherwise irritating to the throat.

Cinnamon - Don’t overlook this common kitchen herb! Cinnamon is a powerhouse of moistening and warming benefits and helps us light the fire within! It supports skin health by stimulating the circulatory system and is a great choice during the cold winter months when you may need a little extra push or motivation. Its sweet, familiar flavor makes it an easy addition to most wintertime meals, drinks, and treats. Find cinnamon in our Lemon Ginger Immune Toddy.

Elderberry - Most notably known for its immune-enhancing benefits, elderberry is also extremely hydrating! High in antioxidant Vitamin C, it can be especially supportive for dry, winter skin, while also supporting a balanced immune response. This powerhouse of a berry is nourishing, protective, and strengthens the immune system which is crucial during these winter months. Find elderberry in our Immunity Now.

Rosehips - Rosehips (the fruit of our dear friend rose) offer a potent dose of vitamin c (one of the highest plant sources available!), antioxidants, and bioflavonoids making them a great addition to your internal skincare routine. These constituents come together to support hydrated skin and connective tissue health, while additionally being incredibly supportive to the immune system. Find rosehips in Light Ray.

Licorice - Licorice is often utilized for its mucilaginous, lubricating, and soothing properties. The sweetness of this herb signifies its nourishing qualities which are supportive to both internal and external tissues, making it another wonderful herb to combat dry, winter skin. Additionally, licorice supports the adrenal cortex and cortisol production which help balance blood sugar, normalize hormone function, and decrease stress and inflammation.