The Buck Moon

The full moon of July, holds a seasonal and ecological significance, especially for those who live in rhythm with nature. Named for the time when the antlers of male deer (bucks) are in full growth mode, this moon marks the high point of summer's abundance. The Buck Moon offers an invitation to deepen our relationship with the land, our bodies, and the healing cycles of nature.

The Buck Moon reflects a time of yang energy, vibrant, outward, and expansive (Yang energy represents masculine, active, and assertive qualities). This is the season of growth, metabolism, and outward expression. The body's systems are typically more active, and there's a natural inclination toward movement, detoxification, and sun-driven vitality. In July, this might mean:

Supporting liver and digestive health, as these systems are processing the abundance of fresh foods.

Balancing fire energy, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where summer is associated with the heart and small intestine meridians.

Encouraging hydration and lymphatic flow, especially important as heat and humidity increase.

Herbal allies like burdock root*, dandelion, and red clover may be used to gently stimulate detoxification, while hawthorn and motherwort offer support for the heart, both physically and emotionally.

Foraging under the Buck Moon*

The Buck Moon also signals peak foraging season. The fields, forests, and hedgerows are full of vibrant, nutrient-dense plants and fruits, each offering its own unique medicinal gifts.

Here are some common wild edibles to forage around the Buck Moon:

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Often in bloom by July, yarrow is a powerful styptic and anti-inflammatory.

Useful for cuts, scrapes, and summer skin irritations.

Internally, it supports fever management and digestive balance.

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)

A quintessential midsummer herb found along damp meadows and stream banks.

Traditionally used for fevers, inflammation, and gentle pain relief.

Its salicylate content makes it a natural precursor to aspirin, but with a much gentler action, especially beneficial for digestive complaints and joint discomfort.

Can be dried for tea or tinctured fresh to support the musculoskeletal system and soothe overheated summer constitutions.

Wild Berries (Cherry Plums, Blackberries, Raspberries, Redcurrants)

These antioxidant-rich fruits are not just delicious; they’re also cooling and astringent. You may also still be able to forage for wild or alpine strawberries.

Leaves can be harvested for teas that support digestion and female reproductive health.

Lamb’s Quarters (Chenopodium album)

An often overlooked wild green, nutrient-dense and rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin C.

Can be used like spinach, steamed, sautéed, or added to broths.

Elderflower & Early Elderberries

Elderflower may still be present in higher altitudes (as I discovered on a recent trip to Cumbria); early berries may start appearing in warmer areas, or if there has been an unusually hot early summer.

Both are invaluable for immune support, especially in preparing for the seasonal transition ahead.

*Contraindications may apply; please check with your medical practitioner before taking any herbal remedies if you are on any medication or have an underlying health condition. Remember to try any new foods in small quantities and forage responsibly. You can only dig up the root of a plant with the landowner’s permission.

The Buck Moon is a potent time to honour the masculine aspect of nature, not just in gendered terms, but in the energy of growth, structure, and purposeful action. Just as the buck’s antlers grow strong during this season, we, too, can focus on strengthening our intentions, building vitality, and preparing for the quieter months to come.

Consider collecting herbs by moonlight for tinctures or flower essences. Holding a fire ceremony to release what no longer serves and set intentions for the rest of the year. Practising earthing or barefoot walking to absorb the earth’s grounding energy.

The Buck Moon is a reminder of the deep reciprocity between our bodies and the land. It’s a time to gather the abundance around us, not just for nourishment, but for spiritual and physical fortification. Working with the plants of the season under the full light of the Buck Moon helps us live in harmony with natural cycles, something at the heart of all ancient wisdom. It is time for us to return to nature and her natural ability to support us.

Let this moon be a time to live with gratitude, tend the inner fire, and root more deeply into the wisdom of the wild.

I will be honouring the Buck Moon by simply bathing in its energy, either on bare ground or in water. Simply standing on grass, intentionally grounding yourself and absorbing the energy of the moonlight is enough in itself. Be present, be mindful, and connect with yourself and the nature around you.