herbs, herbs, wonderful herbs
Yesterday was a good day.
Yesterday I spent the day completing my annual January inventory of my herbs and my herbal products. Herbs do lose potency over time and will over a quicker time if not cared for and stored properly. My apothecary is intricate and delightful and I care for them all with joy.
Though most of these are dried herbs and roots, as well as tinctured products, as I take stock of each jar, I am reminded of how each herb has come to be a part of my Materia Medica. What ailments and symptoms can horsetail (Equisetum arvense) address and lend healing to? If I were to treat an irritable baby would I draw a bath with chamomille flowers (Matricaria chamomilla) floating gently or would a bit of cat nip (Nepeta cataria), green and flaky soothe better? Why am I continuing to work with Capsicum annuum (cayenne pepper, 90,000 HU [heat units])?
So many possibilities. I smile as I hold each one and log them, highlighting if I will need more or if I need to replace what is here.
Tracey’s first herb garden
When I began to work with whole herbs, my entire being was alight by the endless possibilities that mother earth provides for our health and our wellness. When I planted my first, and then subsequent, herb gardens, my herbs became my friends. I watched them through the Wheel of the Year, from first almost missed shoots that poked under the mantle of Imbolc, to the satisfied, dried and lifeless stalks of plants’ energy that has returned to the earth at Samhuinn. I could never understand why people weren’t on the party train with me.
All of these years later, I know why and that’s precisely why I have brought herbal remedies back into the light – my light, at least - determined not to allow herbal medicine to fade into the background and become myth, or become a term that one speaks of with an eye roll or a sneer. It’s why I have offered wholistic herbology as a service to people. So that we connect to the earth and all that she can provide. We do this not to dismiss allopathic medicine but to work in unity with it.
After all, true health care must be holistic care.
You will never hear me say that herbal medicine is the “do all and end all” to aid everyone. In fact, I am very emphatic that herbal medicine and allopathic medicine are different and each has its place but they are complementary to, not in competition with, each other. Just as meditation can relax and help to support our bodies and minds. Just as massage can release muscle tension in a way that no pills or teas can. Just as respiratory nourishment can help our immune systems in the fight against illness.
Yesterday was a good day as I finished up and readied my winter order of herbs. I’m doing this in anticipation of you. I can’t wait to meet you!
Disclaimer:
Because herbs are natural does not mean they are safe. Always work with a trained and experienced herbalist when including herbs into your days. Please ensure that your primary medical practitioner is aware of what herbs you are taking, the dosage and frequency. Some herbal products are contraindicated with some pharmacological products. Please check with your medical practitioner. Some herbs are contraindicated for pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding. Please ensure that you work with a trained and experienced herbal practitioner.
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Whether you have questions or are ready to work together, let’s begin with a complimentary phone call. I look forward to learning more about where you need support.