What Can You Forage in October?

A Guide to October's Bounty in the UK

October in the UK is a month of transformation. The leaves blaze in fiery reds and golds, the nights draw in, and the hedgerows brim with nature’s last generous offerings before winter. Foraging at this time of year is not just about filling your basket—it’s about connecting with the rhythms of the earth, rediscovering ancestral knowledge, and inviting both nourishment and spiritual reflection into your life.

So, what edibles can you forage in October? Let’s explore some of the season’s treasures—herbs, fruits, nuts, and mushrooms—along with their medicinal, magical, and spiritual benefits.

October Herbs To Forage

Fat Hen (Chenopodium album): Once a staple in ancient diets, Fat Hen is a humble “weed” packed with vitamins A, C, and calcium. Spiritually, it was valued as a food of resilience and resourcefulness. Foragers today see it as a reminder of abundance in unexpected places. Use it like spinach in soups or pies. When working with Fat Hen, consider meditating on gratitude for life’s simple gifts—pairing it with a Green Aventurine crystal can amplify feelings of prosperity and growth.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): Medicinally, yarrow is renowned for easing colds, supporting circulation, and soothing wounds (its name derives from Achilles himself). Spiritually, it’s a plant of protection and clarity, often used in divination rituals. Dry the flowers for teas or add them to incense blends for cleansing. Lighting a ritual candle while brewing yarrow tea is a wonderful way to invite insight and spiritual shielding.

October Fruits To Forage

Crab Apple (Malus sylvestris): These tart little fruits are ideal for jellies, chutneys, and cider. Scientifically, they’re rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Spiritually, crab apples symbolise renewal, love, and fertility, often used in Samhain rituals. Making a crab apple preserve while burning incense can transform your kitchen into a sacred space of creativity and nourishment.

Juniper Berries (Juniperus communis): Juniper has long been used as a cleansing herb, both in medicine (for digestion and urinary health) and in spiritual practice (for purification and protection). Crush the berries in dishes or steep in gin. Spiritually, juniper smoke was burned to banish negativity. Pair with a black tourmaline crystal to create a protective ritual against draining energies.

October Nuts To Forage

Walnuts (Juglans regia): Walnuts are brain food in every sense—rich in omega-3s, they support memory and focus. Symbolically, they represent wisdom, fertility, and divine mystery. In folklore, cracking a walnut was akin to unlocking hidden knowledge. As you enjoy their earthy crunch, consider journaling on insights you wish to “unlock.” A clear quartz point nearby can amplify these reflections.

Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa): Roasted chestnuts are a seasonal treat, packed with fibre, minerals, and gentle sweetness. Spiritually, chestnuts symbolise grounding, stability, and generosity—perfect for rituals of gratitude. As you roast them over a fire, meditate on what roots you wish to strengthen this season.

October Mushrooms To Forage

Velvet Bolete (Suillus variegatus): This edible mushroom has a velvety texture and mild flavour, often added to stews. Scientifically, mushrooms are powerful immune-boosters. Spiritually, the Velvet Bolete reminds us of hidden wisdom in the soil—guiding us to dig deeper into our inner selves. Always forage mushrooms with care and certainty of identification.

Field Blewit (Lepista saeva): With its lilac hues, the Field Blewit feels almost otherworldly. It’s delicious when sautéed, but its magic lies in its symbolism of transformation and mystery. In folklore, its unusual colour marked it as a guide through transitions—perfect for meditating on personal growth.

Foraging Reflections

Foraging in October is not only about food—it’s a ritual of reconnection. Each herb, fruit, nut, and mushroom carries both healing properties and spiritual stories, inviting you to see nature as teacher and companion. If you ever feel uncertain in your spiritual journey, remember: foraging is a gentle practice of trust—trust in nature, and trust in your ability to see abundance where others see scarcity.

As you gather, consider creating a sacred space with crystals, candles, and incense from Moonstone Crystals. You can also join our community on Instagram and Facebook @moonstoneromsey to share your seasonal finds.

Embracing the Season

October’s bounty inspires us to ground, grow, and glow this autumn. It’s a time to reflect on our intentions and embrace the beauty around us. Each foraged item is a reminder of the interconnectedness of life and the gifts nature offers.

As you embark on your foraging journey, remember to approach it with an open heart. Allow the experience to fill you with joy and gratitude. The act of foraging can be a meditative practice, inviting you to slow down and appreciate the world around you.

Creating a Foraging Ritual

To enhance your foraging experience, consider establishing a personal ritual. Begin by setting your intentions for the day. What do you hope to discover? What do you wish to learn? Bring along a journal to document your thoughts and findings. This can be a wonderful way to reflect on your journey and track your growth.

As you forage, take a moment to connect with the environment. Feel the earth beneath your feet and breathe in the crisp autumn air. Let the vibrant colours and sounds of nature inspire you. You might even find that certain crystals resonate with your experience, enhancing your connection to the earth.

Sharing Your Bounty

Once you’ve gathered your treasures, think about how you can share them with others. Perhaps you can host a small gathering to showcase your foraged finds. Share recipes, stories, and the magic behind each item. This not only fosters community but also deepens your connection to the natural world.

October is a time of abundance and reflection. By engaging in foraging, we not only nourish our bodies but also our spirits. Let this season inspire you to explore, connect, and celebrate the gifts of nature. Embrace the journey and enjoy the wonders that await you.