Nourishing Pumpkin Soup

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the fall season is represented by the metal element. A deficiency of this element corresponds to weaknesses in the Lungs, which can lead to ailments such as allergies, asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia.

Pumpkin promotes discharge of mucus from the lungs, bronchi and throat, easing bronchial asthma. Nutritionally, pumpkins are high in beta carotene, and beta carotene protects the mucous membranes of the body.

So turn to October's most notable veggie to relieve your bronchial issues this fall. Pumpkin soup is an excellent way to nourish the body this time of year.

Ingredients

• 1 pumpkin, halved, seeded, and baked face down on baking sheet at 350 until soft (30-50 minutes depending on the thickness of the squash)

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, chopped

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

• 2 Tbsp maple syrup

• 6 cups water

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In soup pot, saute onions, garlic and carrots in olive oil until softened.

2. Add water, flesh of the pumpkin scraped from the skin, maple syrup, salt and pepper and mix well.

3. Bring to boil and simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Cool and blend until smooth.

5. Reheat and serve.

**Don't forget to save your pumpkin seeds for snacking! Rinse and roast on a baking sheet at 350 until dry.