Herbs Archives

An herbalist’s guide to mullein flowers + an infused oil recipe

Agatha NoveilleJanuary 6, 2022December 31, 2021

Mullein flowers have many traditional uses and modern benefits. Here's an herbalist's guide for using them safely and effectively. This article also includes directions for making a simple infused oil...

Herbs Learn Herbalism Mullein Natural Wellness

Mullein uses according to traditional herbalism

Agatha NoveilleDecember 2, 2021October 29, 2021

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a stately presence along roadsides and in the herb garden in the summer and fall. Its thick, soft leaves and yellow flowers draw attention and invite...

Gardening Propagation Valerian

How to grow a valerian plant in your garden

Agatha NoveilleNovember 18, 2021November 17, 2021

Valerian is a useful herb with beautiful flowers. I love having it in my garden for its beauty and versatility, and because pollinators love the fragrant flowers. In this article,...

Herbal DIY Home Herbalists Mullein

How to make mullein tea

Agatha NoveilleOctober 28, 2021October 28, 2021

Mullein leaf and flowers both make excellent herbal tea ingredients. In this article, I will show you how to make mullein tea, explain other herbs that pair well with mullein,...

Herbs Learn Herbalism

Encountering the mysterious ghost pipe plant

Agatha NoveilleOctober 26, 2021October 26, 2021

Ghost pipe plant, Monotropa uniflora, is a beautiful and unusual wildflower. This spotlight explains its habits, conservation needs, and traditional uses. Recently, I found a stand of ghost pipe while...

Gardening Herbal DIY Mullein

When to harvest mullein flowers, leaves, and roots

Agatha NoveilleJune 24, 2021June 25, 2021

Mullein leaves, flowers, and roots are used in traditional Western herbalism. We will talk about how mullein is used in another article, but this one explains the basics for harvesting....

Gardening Motherwort

How to grow motherwort in an herb garden

Agatha NoveilleOctober 1, 2020January 4, 2022

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is a favorite herb in my garden. It comes back year after year and has many different uses. Learning how to grow motherwort in your own garden...

Elecampane Home Herbalists Learn Herbalism

An introduction to elecampane herb

Agatha NoveilleAugust 2, 2020January 4, 2022

I hope you enjoy this excerpt from my new elecampane herb ebook. I give you a little taste in this post, but the full lesson is available for free on the...

Herbs Holly Home Herbalists Learn Herbalism

Exploring the herbal uses of holly in global traditions

Agatha NoveilleJuly 14, 2020January 4, 2022

The holly and the ivy. Winter decorations wouldn't be complete without them, but most people don't give them a second thought the rest of the year. This is a shame,...

Bee Balm Home Herbalists Learn Herbalism

Herbal Uses for Bee Balm

Agatha NoveilleJune 24, 2020June 24, 2020

Bee balm is a native plant with a gorgeous flower. Depending on the species, the flowers may be pink, purple, or red. It's a beautiful addition to pollinator-friendly gardens and...