Natural medicine has long been part of Estonian culture. Over the centuries Estonians have tried and tested many different healing methods to overcome illness and improve health. Estonian folk medicine is often passed down from generation to generation and is still practised to this day. My grandmother had an old book of health remedies that her mother had given her but sadly it was lost before it could reach me. Now I have compiled my own. Here are five traditional Estonian remedies that promote health and well-being.
1. The Sauna
Estonians have known the invigorating health benefits of the sauna for centuries. The first written records of the sauna date back to the 13th century in Northern Estonia. Saturday is traditonally sauna day in Estonia which is usually a family affair designed to relax the body and mind. Saunas offer many health benefits including detoxification, increased blood circulation, pain reduction, improved cardiovascular and immune function. Breathing in sauna steam deeply and slowly is also good for your lungs and respiratory health. Typical sauna temperatures range between 70 - 100 degrees Celsius.
2. Sea Buckthorn
Estonians are old forest people and within the forest many varieties of berries can be found containing healing properties. Perhaps one of the best is sea buckthorn. It is rich in many nutrients including vitamin C and is good for the immune system, skin, heart and liver. Sea buckthorn has many health-promoting effects including neutralising free redicals in the body and improving mental clarity.
3. Birch Juice (sap)
For centuries Estonians have collected birch juice to strengthen their bodies after long winters. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc and iron. Birch sap is a good antioxidant that helps against rheumatism, gout, kidney disease and muscle spasms. Birch juice has a very brief harvesting time. It can only be collected once a year, only during a the few weeks of spring. This precious liquid is known among Estonians as the 'elixir of youth'.
4. Hike in the Forest
Estonians love to get out in nature and when they have a troubled mind, a hike in the forest often provides clarity. One of the best things about the Estonian forest is that you can immerse yourself in beautiful nature and not encounter another person for hours or miles.
5. Spruce Tips
Another plant rich in vitamin C and iron and found everywhere in Estonia is the spruce tree. Spruce tips are the light green buds of spruce branches you see every spring. Estonians eat these spruce tips/needles raw or add them to their tea. They can also be made into a syrup or oil and be frozen or dried to preserve them for later use.
