Autumn’s Shift in Classical Five Element Herbalism

As the air cools and the days shorten, nature begins its gentle retreat inward.

In Classical Five Element Herbalism, autumn is the season of the Metal Element, which corresponds to the Lungs and Large Intestine -the organs of letting go and refinement. Just as the trees release their leaves, our bodies are called to shed what no longer serves us and strengthen our inner reserves.

This herbal beauty, Blue Cardinal Flower (Lobelia siphilitica), is a powerful respiratory herb -use it with care! I spotted this beauty in Cherokee National Forest, TN this September.

Each person’s unique constitution aligns with one of the Five Elements -Earth, Metal, Water, Wood, or Fire. By understanding an individual’s root element, or Causative Factor (CF), we can more effectively support their system with herbs and lifestyle practices to cultivate lasting, deep-rooted wellness.

As we move through autumn, the season of Metal, those who are Metal in nature often feel this shift most strongly. They tend to seek clarity, meaning, and a sense of refined order in their lives. Yet, the Metal type may sometimes struggle with letting go -releasing too easily or holding on too tightly to what no longer serves them.

For these individuals, it’s especially important to nourish the lungs and create space for reflection and emotional alignment, allowing thoughts to remain clear and purposeful. This is an ideal time to practice breathwork, spend time outdoors in fresh air, or engage in mindful movement such as yoga, tai chi, or qigong, all of which help restore balance and inner peace during the autumn season.

This time of year, you’ll find many native herbs that nourish and support the respiratory and digestive systems. Many of these powerhouse herbs are from the daisy -or Asteraceae- botanical family!  Powerful southeastern native plants like the Rockcastle & Aromatic Asters (Eurybia saxicastelli & Symphyotrichum oblongifolius), Goldenrods (Solidago canadensis & odora), Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), Blue Cardinal Flower (Lobelia siphilitica -pictured above!), and Rabbit Tobacco (Gnaphalium obtusifolium) are among the generous plants offering their medicine now. These herbs help our Metal organ systems (lungs and large intestine) in a variety of unique ways to support the body’s natural rhythms of elimination and renewal.

Autumn is also the season for root medicine. As the energy of the plant descends back into its source, roots become denser and more potent. Harvesting roots like dandelion, burdock, yellow dock, or echinacea during this time captures the plant’s concentrated vitality -its life force stored deep underground.

When harvesting, remember to practice sustainability and respect for the living landscape. Taking the root means taking the entire life of the plant. Harvest no more than one-third of a healthy, abundant stand, and only when the plant is truly plentiful. This mindful approach ensures that these vital species continue to thrive for generations to come.

Root medicines, by nature, are grounding and substantial -mirroring the stillness and depth of the season itself. In upcoming posts, we’ll explore ways to prepare and extract the most from these powerful roots, preserving their healing essence through the colder months ahead.

As we move into autumn, take time to breathe deeply, simplify, and honor the natural rhythm of letting go. The Earth is drawing inward -and so are we!

Kindly,

Dr. Fig