Calendula is an herb of sun and fire. Her golden orange and yellow blooms warm the spirit with a cheerful vibe. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is commonly known as pot marigold–not to be confused with the more common and naturalized marigold (Tagetes erecta). Although calendula is not native to traditional Appalachian folk practices, she’s earned a…
Tea Journaling 101: How to Start and Keep a Tea Journal
Sipping tea can be an invitation to pause, breathe, and return to the present moment. Herbal teas, like chamomile and lemon balm, offer us more than just their flavor and medicinal qualities. They share stories, memories, and messages from the plants themselves. And one of the most powerful ways to deepen your relationship with Nature…
Chamomile Benefits, Uses, and Folk Wisdom
Let’s learn about chamomile and it’s many benefits. Chamomile is one of the most used herbs by herbal tea drinkers and herbalists alike. It is a quiet and gentle companion found generously in Nature yet steady and wise in that old-soul kind of way. This herb is a delicate powerhouse–mimicking a tiny daisy which lends…
Chamomile Tea and the Art of Slowing Down
In a world that can seem like it’s spinning too fast, there’s something sacred about pausing for a cup of chamomile tea. It’s a small act of quiet rebellion against the pace of modern life–a way to take a moment for yourself, to breathe, to be present in your own spirit. The modern world has…
5 Herbal Teas for Sleep
In our fast-paced world, finding restful sleep can feel like a distant dream. But Nature, in her wisdom, offers simple, gentle remedies to help us find good rest. Herbal teas, steeped in tradition and mindfulness, are one of the best ways to support a peaceful night’s sleep. Whether you struggle with sleepless nights or just…
How to Learn Herbalism for Beginners
So, you feel called to learn herbalism–but where do you begin? If you’re anything like I was when I first started learning herbalism, you’re probably feeling a mix of excitement and overwhelm. There’s so much to learn–so many plants to identify, teas to make, books to read, and philosophies to discover. But here’s a truth…
Catnip for Humans: A Soothing Herbal Ally for Mind and Body
When most folks hear the word “catnip,” they picture a house cat rolling in the herb, purring blissfully. But the herb we call catnip (Nepeta cataria) has long been a friend to humans too. It grows wild along roadsides and in the corners of our gardens, with gentle healing powers. For those of us who…
Herbalism as a Spiritual Journey
Willow’s Journal – Entry #1May 2025 I grew up in the Appalachian region of Pennsylvania–one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. These hills are ancient. I spent my youth hiking their trails, camping among their trees, and climbing their many faces. I learned some of their secrets and listened closely to their wisdom….
How to Use Lemon Balm for Anxiety, Sleep, and Digestion
Today, I want to introduce you to my best friend in the herbal world: lemon balm. It’s a wonderful ally to keep in your garden, and if you do, you know how quickly its lemony scent can lift your mood–and how prolific it is. This gentle, joyful herb has helped me through anxious days, restless…
The Best Herbalism Books for Beginners
Start with plants, pages, and a quiet heart. There’s nothing better than settling down in the evening with a warm mug of herbal tea and a good book. It’s a chance to unwind from the day, calm the mind, and enjoy the meditative rhythm of a quiet evening. I’ve always found comfort in books and…