Autumn is touted as a reminder of how beautiful it can be to let things go, but this year I find myself resisting. What if I am not ready? Too old and cautious to adorn a crown and shake my bunnies on a crowded dance floor. Too close to the political and socio-economic upheaval we are living through.
I love the spirit of play that Halloween brings and embrace its worship of increasing darkness. Devoid of toxic positivity, the traditions of October 31st are rooted in reminders to pause and connect with unseen parts of ourselves.
One such aspect of my life is my “witchiness”.
In the latest episode of Thyme to Chat, I share how I was nicknamed a Kitchen Witch long before I knew about the trending hashtag or began having my DMs explode with questions about my magical hobbies.
My herbal apothecary wasn’t purchased on Etsy. Nor is it as tidy as social media would lead you to believe. My overflowing tea drawer turned cupboard, bundles of dried herbs, and jars upon jars of things have taken years to accumulate. With each herb I encounter, I stumble into new questions and old recipes.
For me, it is a way of living. A way of deepening my relationship to food, the changing seasons, and my health. Magical? Depends on who’s asking…
The modern pumpkin spice blend was released in 1934 by McCormick as a way to quickly spice up our beloved squash pie. Pumpkin Spice as a term was popularized by the Washington Post’s 1936 recipe for Pumpkin Spice Cake. The original recipe would result in a dense loaf appropriate for long-term cold storage. A modern take on the recipe is available here.
Pumpkin spice as a blend for the home kitchen is remarkably similar to the pillar spices of masala chai. The exact recipe for masala chai varies by region and medicinal need. Used in ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years, this warm spiced beverage has been used to aid in soothing digestion, reducing blood sugar levels, and more. Many of these claims have been scientifically proven as effective, but that is due in large part to the potency of the spices in the blend.
Cinnamon
A warming comfort herb. Legend has it that at the end of her lifecycle, the Pheonix would build a nest of cinnamon sticks and resin before resting in flames.
Cinnamon is known for its ability to relax blood vessels and aid in circulation as well as reduce blood pressure. Some research suggests that this spice can have a moderate effect in improving glycaemic control and therefore could be an ally for folks managing diabetes. Antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal—is it any wonder that cinnamon is frequently used in protection spells?
Ginger
Also a warming herb and common folk medicine. My mother has been using ginger to soothe gastrointestinal stress for as long as I can remember. Helpful in easing nausea, including persistent morning sickness or motion sickness. Ginger contains powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties and is thought to hold the firey strength of the sun. This herb is also considered an aphrodisiac because of its ability to aid blood flow.
Nutmeg
An adaptogen herb used in folk medicine to regulate the nervous system, manage depression, and boost female libido. The oils in Nutmeg have been noted as having anti-inflammatory properties that aid in treating joint and muscle pain.
If you have pulled up the Pumpkin Spice loaf recipe, you may have noticed that it calls for Mace. Mace is the membrane that surrounds the seed we know as nutmeg. Flavor-wise, Mace is closer to black pepper than Nutmeg.
Clove
Another protective herb. Clove oil has strong anti-bacterial properties and has been used for treating bad breath and toothaches. This herb has also been said to support testosterone and enhance sexual performance. Cloves again are allies in reducing inflammation, and easing digestion.
Returning to the definition of a potion I am struck by the duality of a liquid that can be used for healing or harm. Ingredients of the iconic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte are not the worst thing I consumed. A delicious sugar-loaded elixir offering my body a tad of refined poison—its own kind of comfortable medicine.
Taken in isolation, or combined in homemade holiday brews, the ingredients in Pumpkin Spice may indeed carry medicinal or even magical properties. When we inquire about the magical properties or folklore, surrounding herbs and spices, we are seeking a connection to the unseen.
Even with modest research, you can find stories that speak of instincts and verbal knowledge acquisition. Concoctions based in place, steeped in wisdom, and mixed with old wives tales. These are the recipes that protected us before science proved warming spices are indeed helpful to our bodies as the weather turns cold.
Will you be brewing any seasonal potions this fall? Let me know in the comments.
I read this as I sipped my chai tea! No wonder I love chai--all the same spices of fall. Thank you favorite kitchen witch.