Herbal formulas are mixtures of multiple herbs designed with a focused goal. Herbalists create them for convenience, synergy, and flexibility. Sometimes herbal formulas are also known as herbal blends or herbal compounds. What are herbal formulas? Herbal extracts can be used one at a time, which is known as simpling. There is nothing wrong with…
Bee balm (Monarda didyma and M. fistulosa) is a beautiful garden plant with an affinity for the nervous system. It’s a wonderful herbal ally for lifting the spirits and supporting balanced moods. Read on to discover how to use bee balm for emotional wellness. Bee Balm and the Nervous System In my experiences working with…
This is part of a series about my home herbalist library. Having a large selection of reliable, accurate books is vital for learning herbalism. Take a peek at my full library here, and read on to learn more about The Earthwise Herbal Repertory! I think every herbal household needs a copy of this book. You’ve…
It’s easy to find lists of herbs for allergy season. Unfortunately, these lists generally miss the mark by focusing on a few generalized suggestions. Nettles, garlic, and turmeric are some of the most common candidates. However, there’s a much more effective way to approach allergy season with herbs. Many different body processes have a role…
Learn some common names for self heal! Sometimes I post Sunday Snapshots here on the blog. You can also find them over on my Facebook page! This is where I showcase my photography of a specific herb and provide some quick facts. This month we are learning about self-heal (Prunella vulgaris) . Can we take…
Trying to understand your options when it comes to herbs for seasonal allergies? It’s definitely that time of year again! Thankfully, there are several strong herbal allies standing by to offer support. But they probably aren’t the ones you’re thinking about. Garlic, nettles, and turmeric are three of the most common herbs I see recommended…
Self-heal is a beautiful herb that grows well in many locations. It’s a great addition to herb gardens and herbal homesteads everywhere. Read this guide to using self heal to learn more about the benefits this herb has to offer. I consider self-heal to be one of the key herbs everyone should know. Historical herbalists…
Let’s talk about the magic of modern herbalism. Not Harry Potter magic, necessarily. Rather, a certain magic that exists where art and science overlap. The Magic of Botany and Phytochemistry, if you will. The magic of botany and phytochemistry, you ask? Yes, I can imagine the scientifically inclined among us are bridling at the idea…
It might surprise you to discover that understanding herbal history is fundamental to functioning at an advanced level within herbalism – but this is absolutely true. Understanding the schools of thought and philosophy underpinning modern herbalism allows you to think critically about what you read and study. Whether you are a self-taught herbalist or have…
Continuing education is so important for herbalists, especially for those of us who make a living with herbs. Every year, I set new educational goals for myself. These usually include things like: herbs to grow and study in-depth new techniques or projects to try in my home apothecary a course or class to take that…
