Building Your Herbal Apothecary: with Clinical Herbalist Mary Colvin

I am incredibly excited to share a recent conversation with a phenomenal guest – Mary Colvin, RH (AHG). Mary is not only a clinical herbalist but also an author, a proud mom and grandma. Let's dive into her inspiring journey and the wisdom she has to offer. Read on, or tune into the podcast below.

Meet Mary Colvin

Mary Colvin is the owner of Ancestral Herbology and a registered herbalist with the American Herbalist Guild. She is also a member of notable organizations such as the American Botanical Council and United Plant Savers. Mary’s extensive knowledge is complemented by her certification in nutritional therapy, blending the benefits of herbs with the importance of healthy eating and mental wellness.

From Gardener to Herbalist

Mary’s journey into the world of herbal medicine began at an early age, influenced by her grandparents. Despite initial aspirations to become a horticulturist or botanist, financial constraints led her to the School of Natural Healing with Dr. Christopher. There, she discovered a deep passion for plants and began her formal education in herbalism.

Her studies were driven by personal health struggles, specifically debilitating back pain that conventional medicine couldn't resolve. Turning to herbs, she found relief and a new calling. Mary’s path to becoming a clinical herbalist included learning about nutrition, anatomy, and physiology, building an eclectic foundation of knowledge and experience.

So What The Heck Is Clinical Herbalism?

For those unfamiliar with the term, a clinical herbalist works closely with clients to address health issues through herbal remedies, often complementing conventional medical treatment. Unlike general herbalists, clinical herbalists require comprehensive education and training, including understanding lab reports and developing personalized treatment plans.

Mary has been practicing clinical herbalism since 2012 and became a registered herbalist in 2018. Her areas of specialty include the nervous system, digestive health, and women’s health – all approached with a blend of scientific knowledge and traditional herbal wisdom.

Legacy and Learning

Mary’s role as a grandmother allows her to share her herbal knowledge with the next generation. She is deeply committed to passing on the wisdom of plants to her grandchildren, nurturing their connection to nature. Her new book, “The Herbalist’s Guide: How to Build and Use Your Own Apothecary,” is a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in learning about herbalism.

The book is structured like a home study course, designed to build not only an apothecary but also a thorough understanding of how to use herbs safely and effectively. It includes step-by-step exercises, practical advice on research, and foundational skills that every budding herbalist needs.

Sustainability In Herbalism

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Mary’s practice. She emphasizes the importance of ethical harvesting and conservation of medicinal plants, reflecting her commitment to ensuring that future generations can benefit from these natural resources.

A Treasure Trove: Violets

When asked about her favorite herb, Mary passionately spoke about violets. Violets are abundant, versatile, and offer a range of benefits – from soothing nervous tension to treating respiratory conditions and skin inflammation. She uses violets in various forms, including tinctures, oils, and infusions, showcasing the plant’s multifaceted applications.

Empowering Advice for Beginning Herbalists

For those new to herbalism, Mary’s advice is to take it one step at a time. Herbalism is a lifelong journey of learning. Start with a few herbs, understand their uses, and build your knowledge gradually. I couldn't agree more with this advice! Her book is an excellent starting point, offering a structured and accessible way to dive into the world of herbs.

Follow Mary:

You can follow Mary on social media for ongoing learning and inspiration:

Instagram- @AncestralHerbology

Facebook- Mary Colvin Clinical Herbalist

TikTok- Connect with Mary at Simple Training Herbalist

Herbology Talk Podcast, check out the episode with me on her show here.

Get Mary's book, The Herbalist’s Guide: How to Build and Use Your Own Apothecary, here. You can also find it through her websites, AncestralHerbology.com and HerbalistMentor.com. These sites also offer mentorship packages and additional resources for those interested in deeper learning and guidance.

Final Thoughts

Mary Colvin’s journey is a testament to the power and potential of herbal medicine. Whether you're a curious newcomer or an experienced herbalist, there is always more to learn and discover. I encourage you to explore Mary’s book and resources to enrich your herbal journey.

Thank you for joining us today. Here’s to a path filled with wisdom, wellness, and the timeless magic of herbs! Stay healthy and empowered, my friends! 🌿

Meet The Author

_{We Love the Mission and Sustainable Herbs available through Oshala Herb Farm, WishGarden Herbs & Mountain Rose Herbs and receive a small commission when you purchase through our affiliate links. Thank you for supporting our small business, and others on a mission to make this planet a better place to live!}

_{*Always remember to contact your healthcare provider when considering the use of botanical medicine as a possible treatment option and the medical considerations. While the information in this article is absolutely relevant, herbs work differently for each person and each condition.}

_{**I am a trained herbalist and not a licensed or registered healthcare practitioner. I cannot diagnose health conditions, nor prescribe medicines legally; I am not a medical doctor. However, I will recommend or suggest medicinal herbs for various health complaints, as I do believe in the safety and efficacy of botanical medicine.}

_{***The information I’ve provided is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Please consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine, particularly if you have a known medical condition or if you are pregnant or nursing.}

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