Herbs101

I want to first start the conversation with a textbook definition of an herb: "a plant or plant part valued for its medicinal, savory, or aromatic qualities" ( Merriam Webster Dictionary).

So, in other words, leaves, seeds, flowers, stems and roots can all be labeled as an herb. Lots of possibilities. And to add herbal frosting to this vegan cake, there's LOTS of herbs out here. A bountiful of healing possibilities.

So, you've tried an herb. Followed the instructions to prepare it. Followed the recommendations. And nothing happened. It's common. Herbs are simple. Our bodies, though, are not. They can range from hot and dry to cold and damp. And understanding those factors plays a huge part in how herbs make a difference in supporting our bodies.

Now, I'm often asked "do you have an herb for XYZ? " Easy answer, yes BUT there's always follow up questions. Why? Because each body is different and it's systems have specific needs to bring about balance.

So, let's talk about it!

Herbal medicine isn’t just about what herbs do—it’s also about how they make you feel. The energetics of herbs refers to the ways herbs interact with the body’s own energy, bringing balance by addressing specific patterns of heat, cold, dryness, and moisture.

I want to share some key energetics that may help you find better remedies for your health experiences .

1. Warming Herbs

•Examples: Ginger, Cinnamon, Cayenne

•Action: Stimulate circulation, boost metabolism, and dispel cold.

•Uses: Great for cold hands and feet, sluggish digestion, or chills.

•Energetic Profile: Fiery, invigorating, and stimulating.

1. Cooling Herbs

•Examples: Peppermint, Chamomile, Dandelion

•Action: Reduce heat, inflammation, and tension in the body.

•Uses: Ideal for fevers, hot flashes😔, or irritated skin.

•Energetic Profile: Soothing, calming, and refreshing.

1. Moistening Herbs

•Examples: Marshmallow Root, Licorice, Oatstraw

•Action: Hydrate and nourish tissues, countering dryness.

•Uses: Helpful for dry coughs, dry skin, or dehydration.

•Energetic Profile: Gentle, nurturing, and restorative.

1. Drying Herbs

•Examples: Sage, Horsetail, Rosemary

•Action: Absorb excess moisture, tone tissues, and clear dampness.

•Uses: Effective for oily skin, phlegmy coughs, or sluggish digestion.

•Energetic Profile: Astringent, clearing, and stabilizing.

1. Relaxing Herbs

•Examples: Lavender, Valerian, Lemon Balm

•Action: Ease tension, calm the nervous system, and promote relaxation.

•Uses: Perfect for stress, anxiety, or insomnia.

•Energetic Profile: Gentle, relaxing, and grounding.

1. Stimulating Herbs

•Examples: Black Pepper, Ginseng, Eleuthero

•Action: Invigorate energy flow, enhance focus, and boost vitality.

•Uses: Beneficial for fatigue, low energy, or sluggish circulation.

•Energetic Profile: Energizing, activating, and uplifting.

There is a huge importance of finding balance when using herbs. They won't be as effective and you'll think they are useless. So far from the truth. The goal of using herbs energetically is to restore harmony within the body.

For instance:

🌱If someone feels cold and sluggish, a warming herb like ginger can reignite their inner fire.

🌱If someone is overheated and tense, a cooling herb like peppermint may bring relief.

🌱For dryness or dehydration, moistening herbs like marshmallow root replenish and soothe.

Fascinating right? So here's a few questions to ask yourSelf before grabbing an herb for support.

What's the state of my body? Am I hot or cold? Dry or damp? Stressed or depleted?

Also consider this.👇🏾 Seasons matter!

In winter, warming herbs are helpful; in summer, cooling herbs are ideal.

I know you're asking can I blend drying herbs with moistening herbs? Absolutely. But you have to keep in mind what balance you're trying to obtain. Too much of both with cancel each other out making the remedy ineffective. I'll talk about blending another time. But I hope this information helps you as you make healthing with herbs easier!