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 I wish someone had told me: you don’t need to know everything to start. All you need is a willingness to learn, a humble spirit, and patience. Herbalism is a journey–not a destination–and there will be ups and downs just like any other path you choose to traverse.
In this post, I’ll walk you through five ways to begin your herbalism journey with confidence. I hope I can make this path just a little easier for you to begin.
1. Learn Herbalism with Curiosity and Connection
Before you dive into books and teas, start with Nature herself.
You don’t need to know any plant names yet (although being familiar with poison ivy is helpful!) Just spend some time outside. Find a Nature trail and take a meditative walk in the woods. Visit a local park and see what trees or plants have been planted there. If you can’t do either of those–for whatever reason–visit your back porch or balcony and see if you can see Nature from the comfort of your home.
“Nature doesn’t judge us–she meets us where we are.” -Willow
Nature shows up in the gentle swaying trees and the dandelion seeds catching a ride on the summer breeze. Even in the middle of a crowded city block, Nature shows up as a “weed” in a sidewalk crack or a potted plant in a busy office building.
Sit near a plant that intrigues you. Notice its color, shape, and texture. What kind of soil does it grow in? Who or what else shares its space–other plants, trees, insects? I have an affinity for caterpillars and finding one on my herbs is always a joyful experience. I enjoy conversing with the tiny creatures as they live on or take from my plants. (Remember, the herbs aren’t just for humans–they’re for all creatures on planet Earth.)
Quietly observing and meditating on Nature builds your intuition and lays the foundation for deeper herbal knowledge.
Try keeping an herbalism journal. It doesn’t have to be fancy–any old notebook or sketchbook will work. Write down your initial thoughts, draw the plant–a leaf or flower–and jot down a few lines about how being with that plant makes you feel. If you’re feeling really creative, you could even write a poem.
“Herbalism starts with relationship. That relationship–slow, curious, & respectful–is at the heart of learning herbalism.” – Willow
2. Learn Herbalism with the Right Resources
Once you’ve begun forming connections with plants, it’s time to start learning from trusted sources.
In my post on The Best Herbalism Books for Beginners, I share a simple framework to start with:
- One book of plant profiles to help you learn & identify herbs
- One herbal recipe book with easy remedies using accessible herbs
- One general herbalism guide to give you a solid foundation on how we connect with the plants on a physical and psychological level.
Alongside books, seek out one or two herbal teachers who resonate with your values. They might be local or online. Look for voices rooted in tradition, humility, and respect for Nature. Having mentors from different cultures, traditions, and schools of philosophy is also helpful to gain a broader perspective.
Lastly, podcasts, YouTube channels, and blogs (like this one!) can also support your learning. I’ll be sharing more through my own upcoming podcast so feel free to subscribe if you’d like to learn together.
3. Learn Herbalism by Doing Herbalism
Reading is wonderful–but herbalism really comes alive when you use your hands.
Start small. Brew a simple cup of tea with chamomile. Try infusing lemon balm in honey. Pick a handful of dandelions and make a salve. (Just make sure they’re from an area you know has not been sprayed with harmful chemicals!) These little acts build skill, confidence, and relationship with the plants.
Focus on one herb at a time. Let it teach you what it has to offer. Smell it, taste it, draw it. Grow it, harvest it, dry it. Make something with it. I know folks who have spent months building a relationship with just one herb. Sit beside it in nature and have a conversation with it. If you listen closely, you can feel the spirit of the plant as it speaks to you.
You don’t need a fully stocked apothecary to begin. You only need curiosity, a few simple tools, a willingness to experiment, and an open heart. A little compassion for mistakes goes a long way too.
4. Learn Herbalism with a Friend or Community
Herbalism doesn’t have to be a solitary path, even if you start alone in your backyard or foraging in the woods.
Finding a community–online or in person–can give you support, inspiration, and encouragement. I regularly visit online communities and have a few close friends who are also herbalists–although they wouldn’t call themselves herbalists. Regardless of where you look, find those who are humble and have a kind spirit and you will find lifelong herbal companions to walk with on your journey.
Look for:
- Local plant walks or plant groups
- Forums where folks share experiences and ask questions
- Instagram or YouTube creators whose style resonates with you
Even a handful of plant-loving friends can make all the difference. We learn best when we learn together. And I hope to build a community of compassionate and thoughtful Nature lovers right here.
5. Learn Herbalism at Your Own Pace
One of the most important lessons plants have taught me: have patience.
Let your learning move with the seasons. For me, winter is for reading and planning the garden. Spring is for foraging and planting. Summer is for harvesting fresh leaves for tea and tincture making. And lastly, fall for drying herbs and reflecting on what went well and the lessons learned along the way.
If you started a plant journal, you can write all of your seasonal observations in it.
“The seasons have a lot to teach us about balance, compassion, and how we are connected with–or rather a part of–Nature.” -Willow
You don’t have to master anything overnight. In fact, the slower you go, the deeper you’ll learn. The more time you spend with a plant, the more it will teach you, and in return you will have a greater understanding and a deeper respect for that aspect of Nature. As I’ve mentioned before, some people spend months or longer with just one plant. They learn everything possible about it and watch it grow through its entire lifecycle–from seed to dormancy. The lessons learned, connection, respect, and communication with each plant are invaluable.
Your herbal path is yours alone to walk at your own pace.
Closing Thoughts
If you feel called to this path, you belong here.
There is room for everyone from all walks of life in the world of herbalism—whether you’re growing tulsi on a windowsill in a city apartment or foraging for violets in the hills. You don’t need a degree or certificate or the perfect aesthetically pleasing apothecary.
“You just need presence, patience, and a humble spirit—the plants will teach you the rest.”
Let’s learn herbalism together—one plant, one cup of tea, one season at a time.
With gratitude,
🌿 Tea Time Recipe: Gentle Herbal Starter Tea
A calming, beginner-friendly blend to help you connect with your new herbal path.
Ingredients:
- 1 part dried lemon balm
- 1 part dried chamomile
- 1/2 part dried rose petals (optional)
Instructions:
Steep 1-2 tsp in hot water for 5–7 minutes. Sip slowly. Breathe deeply.
Note: Use parts to make a tea blend. For example: 1 tbsp=1 part. Then use 1-2 tsp of the tea blend per 8 oz water.
FDA Disclaimer: The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The herbal information shared here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This blog is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal products, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.