As we learned in parts one and two of this Elemental Herbalism series, the Elements are archetypal mirrors that reflect the cycles of the seasons, the cycles of our lives, and the sacred ecology of our individual and collective bodies and Spirits. In this article, we transition into the Yin half of the cycle of the seasons, and look to the Southwest, below our feet, and in our EarthBodies. Welcome late summer Earth with sweetgrass and kitchen medicine.

Despite the long tradition of distillation, the word hydrosol has become increasingly ambiguous. In the US, much like essential oils, hydrosols (or hydrolats) are unregulated, and products marketed under that name can be very different from one bottle to another. Distillation of hydrosols is an ancient art in which the distiller undertakes the no-small-task of mimicking the inspiring water cycle we witness here on earth; just on a micro-level, inside of their still. Have you ever made soup, put a lid on the pot, and when you took the lid off, there was clear water on top of the lid? That is a distillate of your soup, and it is the simplest way to understand where hydrosols come from.

One of the most important ingredients in healing of any kind is one too easily discounted or overlooked. Drawing us to herbalism, filling us with purpose, and activating our lives’ formulas is a distillation of hope from the stretch and reach of plants as they sprout and spread. Their active elements not only survive seemingly insurmountable heat, but are vitally transformed by it—purified and propelled. It’s at the very heart of any kind of healing work, as we’re impelled by empathy and concern to hope for the best results, for reductions in suffering, for the fastest and longest lasting recoveries.

As we learned in part one of this Elemental Herbalism series, the Elements are archetypal mirrors of the natural world within and all around. They reflect the cycles of the seasons, the cycles of our lives, and the sacred ecology of our individual and collective bodies and Spirits. In this article, we look to the South, welcome summer Fire, and explore roses, people’s medicine. 

Through the ups and downs of planetary, interpersonal, and intercultural changes, plants have always accompanied, inspired, and nourished us. We are surrounded by plants. We eat, wear, live in, and live by plants. Plants remind us of what’s most important: sun, soil, water, time in nature, friends. The power of slow growth and mycelial interconnection, of building communities and sustaining mutual flourishing.

Have you ever noticed how your body reacts the moment something hits your tongue? Most people can tell you their favorite flavor without thinking twice, sweet, salty, maybe something spicy. But very few have ever stopped to ask, what does my body actually need more of? Even fewer realize that what we crave can sometimes reflect what the body is seeking.

Oxymels, a type of sipping vinegar,  make for a delightful and healthy way to incorporate the benefits of herbs into your daily routine. These tangy concoctions, made from a blend of vinegar, honey, and herbs, can support digestion and promote healthy skin. Whether you’re adding them to mocktails, cocktails, or enjoying them on their own, oxymels offer a unique and versatile addition to your diet. With spring in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to use fresh, seasonal plants like dandelion, nettles, burdock, sage, and oregano to create your own homemade sipping vinegar.

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room for a second. 

Every year, a lot of us say we want to eat better. We want to use more herbs. We’ve read the articles,  seen the posts, and we already know herbs are good for us. And at the same time, there’s a quiet voice in the back of your mind saying, this probably isn’t going to stick.

If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, you are likely familiar with the descent into the colder months of the year. Meeting colder temperatures is a humbling experience for any living being. Cold is a teacher—it shows us how to keep warm through connection, through acts of love that warm the heart. It also teaches urgency. Think of woodland animals scurrying as temperatures drop, gathering what they need to prepare for winter or hibernation.

Holy Basil is one of my absolute favorite herbs, and I know that so many others surely feel the same. Not only is this special plant fragrant and beautiful, but it’s also a valuable ally in the apothecary. The herb is most well-known for its adaptogenic properties. Simply put, holy basil helps the body regulate the effects of stress, bringing balance to our body and spirit. In addition to this, tulsi supports immune function and digestive health, making it a wonderful addition to our winter wellness regimen.

Herbalism is rich in that it encompasses many traditions, modalities, and vibrant cultures globally. Oftentimes, modalities develop that are deeply connected to a place, time, or even a people and become codified into traditions that are passed down from generation to generation. This is the story of African-American herbalism.