Late summer “earth season” is the time to nourish the spleen and stomach. In the five element cycle the spleen is located in the center. She is the daughter of fire, and mother of metal. The spleen is responsible for making blood and nourishing the heart. If the spleen is out of balance one can experience heart palpitations, poor memory or brain fog, and menstrual irregularity. The spleen controls water. If the spleen is not able to transform and transport nutrients, then dampness can accumulate in the abdomen and extremities. The tissues of the earth element are the muscles. When the spleen is strong our muscles have good tone. The emotion of earth is worry or over thinking. When the spleen sends blood to the heart then thinking becomes clear and sharp. The color of the earth element is yellow, and flavor of the spleen is sweetness.
Here is a delicious late summer recipe that will nourish the spleen, calm worry, build blood, and drain dampness.
Butternut Squash Soup
3 cups water
2-3 cloves garlic
1 apple quartered
1 medium butternut squash (3-4lbs.) peeled seeded and cubed.
1 red or yellow onion diced
2” knob of ginger
1 bay leaf
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
One Veggie bouillon cube
1 (15oz) can of organic coconut milk
Add all ingredients except coconut milk to instant pot. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes allow instant pot to naturally release. Add coconut milk and purée. Delicious! 😋