Demystifying Herbalism: Your Guide to the Basics of Natural Wellness and Herbs
- Taylor
- Jan 13
- 6 min read
Welcome to our Demystifying Wellness series, where we're diving into making sense of trends, buzzwords, and techniques in the world of herbalism, natural medicine, and wellness. Each post will offer clarity, actionable insights, and a deeper understanding of how these concepts can enhance your life. As the founder of Herbal Flow Botanicals, I'm passionate about empowering you with knowledge, whether it’s through my products, consultations, or educational resources like this blog. Let’s start with the foundation: herbalism.
What is Herbalism?
At its core, herbalism is the practice of using plants to support health and wellness. It’s one of the oldest forms of medicine, with traditions dating back thousands of years across every culture. Whether it’s drinking chamomile tea to relax or applying calendula salve for skin irritation, herbalism offers gentle, natural solutions rooted in the wisdom of nature.
Herbalism vs. Modern Medicine
While modern medicine often zooms in on isolated compounds and quick results, herbalism embraces a holistic approach. Imagine plants as your friendly companions, sharing a variety of nutrients and compounds that work together to support your body in the best possible ways. Here are a few key differences:
Why It Matters: Herbalism empowers you to tune into your body’s needs with the natural support of plants, letting you take charge of your health.
Herbalism Myths Debunked
Myth 1: Herbalism is “Woo-Woo” or Pseudoscience
While herbalism does have spiritual and cultural roots, it’s also deeply grounded in science. The word is out: herbalism is growing in popularity, as reflected in the increasing number of studies being conducted on herbs and their benefits. Many pharmaceutical drugs are derived from plants (aspirin, for example, originated from willow bark). Modern research continues to validate traditional uses of herbs, such as:
Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, supported by studies on curcumin.
Ashwagandha: Backed by research for stress reduction and improved cortisol balance.
Elderberry: Proven to reduce the duration and severity of colds
.
Myth 2: Herbalism is One-Size-Fits-All
Herbalism thrives on personalization. The same herb can work differently for two people depending on their constitution, lifestyle, and health goals. For example:
Chamomile: Calming for most but might cause an allergic reaction in someone sensitive to ragweed.
Ginger: Great for digestion, but can worsen acid reflux in high doses
Consulting with a trained herbalist can help you achieve your health goals—they tailor herbal recommendations to your unique needs.
Interested in a personalized herbal consultation? Learn more here.
How Herbalism Fits into Modern Wellness
Everyday Herbalism
You might already be dabbling in herbalism without realizing it. For example:
Drinking peppermint or ginger tea for digestion.
Using lavender essential oil in a diffuser to promote relaxation.
Using a botanical infused body oil or lotion for hydration.
Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science
Herbalism’s resurgence in modern wellness isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about reclaiming a deeper connection to the natural world. With scientific advancements, we can now:
Identify active compounds in herbs.
Standardize dosages for safety and efficacy.
Validate traditional uses with clinical trials.
It also feels important to say that, given the current state of our environment, our reconnection to the Earth and ourselves is more pertinent than ever. In a world facing climate change, biodiversity loss, and the over-industrialization of our food and health systems, herbalism offers a way to realign with the natural rhythms of the Earth. By deepening our understanding of plants and their role in our well-being, we can foster a reciprocal relationship with nature—one that encourages sustainable practices, respect for ecosystems, and a deeper sense of gratitude for the gifts the Earth provides.
Practical Ways to Start Your Herbalism Journey
1. Build Your Herbal Pantry
Start with versatile, easy-to-use herbs:
Chamomile: For relaxation and digestive support.
Ginger: A go-to for colds, nausea, and inflammation.
Peppermint: Ideal for headaches and digestion.
Calendula: Great for skin and lymphatic health.
2. Experiment with Simple Preparations
Here are some beginner-friendly ways to incorporate herbs:
Teas: Brew single herbs or blends for specific effects.
Infused Oils: Create soothing salves, body butters, or massage oils.
Herbal Baths: Add dried herbs with epsom salts to your bath for relaxation.
3. Journal Your Experiences
Keep track of the herbs you use, their effects, and how they make you feel. This is a great practice to start cultivating body awareness and to learn what herbs work best for your various needs.
How to Avoid Overwhelm as a Beginner
Herbalism can feel intimidating when you’re just starting. Here are some tips to keep it simple:
Start Small: Focus on one herb that excites you. Take a deep dive and learn all you can. Then move onto the next herb, and then the next.
Follow Trusted Sources: Stick to reputable books, courses, and herbalists.
Practice Patience: Herbs often work gently and gradually, so give them time.
Our Favorite Herbalists and Herbal Resources
Mountain Rose Herbs: Plethora of recipes, how-tos, organic herbs, and everything else to get you started on your herbalism journey.
Monterey Bay Herb Co: One of our favorite companies to source bulk herbs from.
The Herbal Academy: Wide variety of herbal courses and educational information for all things on the herbal arts and sciences.
Rosemary Gladstar: Rosemary is known as the 'Godmother of Modern Herbalism' a title that reflects her influence and contributions to the field of herbal medicine.
Kat Maier: We love her teachings on Energetic Herbalism and she is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to herbal energetics and heart medicine (and by this we're talking about the emotional & spiritual connection we have with plants).
Southwest School of Botanical Medicine/Matthew Moore: His teachings made a great impact on many herbalists of our time, and the SWSBM website offers a lot of resources ranging from herb manuals to courses.
Photo by wildsoulriver.com
The Herbal Flow Botanicals Connection
At Herbal Flow Botanicals, our products are crafted to embody herbalism's core principles—simplicity, efficacy, and a deep respect for nature. Whether it’s our handcrafted tinctures or soothing teas, each product reflects years of study and a passion for helping you connect with the nurturing power of plants.
A Personal Path to Health
Since I discovered herbalism and began incorporating herbs into my daily practice, my relationship with my health has transformed in ways I never imagined. By using plants as allies, I’ve cultivated a deeper awareness of my body’s needs and rhythms. I feel healthier, more balanced, and in tune with myself. Herbs have been pivotal in helping me navigate challenges like acne, anxiety, and digestive discomfort. Over time, I’ve noticed significant improvements—my skin cleared up (still a WIP, but definitely a win), I get sick less often, and when I do, my recovery time is quick.
This journey with herbalism has also deepened my love for food and nutrition, weaving these passions into the heart of my work. Without herbs, I wouldn’t have explored the connection between what we consume and how we feel, or the impact of making intentional choices for our well-being. This perspective has shaped my approach to supporting others in shifting their lifestyles. Whether through crafting herbal products or sharing knowledge, my mission is to empower others to experience the same vitality and connection I’ve found with plants.
Final Thoughts
Herbalism isn’t just about using plants; it’s about fostering a deeper connection with yourself and the natural world. By demystifying herbalism, our hope is to inspire you to explore the endless possibilities it offers—not as a replacement for modern medicine but as a complementary tool for a balanced, vibrant life.
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Herbal Energetics & Other Terminology
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RESOURCES
Ashwagandha:
Chandrasekhar, K., et al. "A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of Ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults." Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, vol. 34, no. 3, 2012, pp. 255–262.
St. John's Wort:
"Review of Case Study Results: Assessing the Effectiveness of Ashwagandha, Curcumin, Milk Thistle, Valerian Root, and St. John's Wort in Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder." MDPI, 2023, https://www.mdpi.com/2813-2998/3/4/47.
Elderberry:
Zakay-Rones, Zichria, et al. "Inhibition of several strains of influenza virus in vitro and reduction of symptoms by an elderberry extract (Sambucus nigra L.)." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, vol. 1, no. 4, 1995, pp. 361–369.
"9 Popular Herbal Medicines: Benefits and Uses." Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/herbal-medicine.
Turmeric:
Hewlings, Susan J., and Douglas S. Kalman. "Curcumin: A review of its’ effects on human health." Foods, vol. 6, no. 10, 2017, p. 92. Link to article
Ginkgo Biloba:
"Dietary Supplements and Bleeding." PubMed Central, 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9586694/.
Weinmann, Stefanie, et al. "Effects of Ginkgo biloba in dementia: systematic review and meta-analysis." BMC Geriatrics, vol. 10, no. 1, 2010, p. 14.
Cannabis:
"Combining Cannabis with Other Herbs." Society of Cannabis Clinicians, 2020, https://www.cannabisclinicians.org/2020/02/25/combining-cannabis-with-other-herbs/.
Russo, Ethan B. "Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects." British Journal of Pharmacology, vol. 163, no. 7, 2011, pp. 1344–1364. Link to article
Other:
Sarris, Jerome, et al. "Plant-based medicines for anxiety disorders, part 1: a review of preclinical and clinical studies." CNS Drugs, vol. 27, no. 3, 2013, pp. 207–219.
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