Slow / Folk Herbalism
~ Slow / Folk Herbalism ~
For me, slow herbalism is about more than just taking herbs when I'm unwell. It’s about building a relationship with the plants growing around me. I find immense meaning & joy in growing or foraging what I can & making my own simple medicinal remedies by hand.
This is the heart of folk herbalism: practical, local, & rooted in tradition.
Things I love about folk herbalism:
~ It’s accessible. I don’t need expensive remedies or rare & exotic herbs.
~ It’s empowering. I get to take care of myself & family & learn as I go.
~ It’s sustainable. I work with what grows around me, in season.
~ It’s connective. I feel more in tune with the land & a connection to my ancestors.
Here's some simple tips for gathering & storing medicinal herbs for your homegrown apothecary:
~ Harvest on a dry & sunny morning once the dew has lifted.
~ Only gather vibrant, healthy leaves and flowers.
~ Hang them in small bundles or lay them flat in a dry, airy, shaded space. Sunlight will damage & deteriorate the plants.
~ When they’re crisp and fully dry, I store them in glass jars out of the light.
~ Label clearly.
~ I try to use all dried herbs within a year for maximum potency.
You don’t need a big apothecary or any special training to begin. Just a few wild plants, a spare moment, & a willingness to learn.
~ This is slow medicine ~
~ This is the people’s medicine ~
~ It's an integral part of my life and I love it ~