Rosemary Gladstar calls forth deep gratitude for and mindfulness of the plant world as she walks with us through the world of herbalism in this precious episode. Reminding listeners of the value of connecting to the wellspring of earth, Rosemary contemplates the ways plants shape us and make us into companions when we work with them. Alongside this, Rosemary considers the ways paying deep attention to the world invites us to a place of radical grief and love. How do we acknowledge change, and choose to love in spite of harsh circumstances? 

Woven throughout the conversation is an understanding that the earth has a destiny of its own, one we cannot completely comprehend within our human lifespans. Though we may not see or understand the end results of our actions, Rosemary highlights the value of listening to your calling and taking bold action while simultaneously surrendering control back to the earth. 

Grounding into the practical elements of herbalism, the common weedy plants that provide powerful medicine, and the values of long kept knowledge, this conversation is an evergreen reminder of the importance of finding and sustaining a life in balance. 

Rosemary Gladstar has been practicing, living, learning, teaching and writing about herbs for over 50 years. Considered a star figure in the modern herbal movement and often referred to as the ‘godmother of American herbalism’.  Rosemary is the author of twelve books including Medicinal Herbs: a Beginners Guide, Herbal Healing for Women, Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Well Being and Herbal Healing for Men. She is the co-founder and former director of both The International Herb Symposium and The New England Women’s Herbal Conference, the Founding President of United Plant Savers, and the co-founder and original formulator of Traditional Medicinal Tea Company. She is also the author and inspiration behind the popular home study course, “The Science and Art of Herbalism” that has inspired and taught many thousands of students over the past four decades. 

In 2018  Rosemary was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for her life’s work from the National University of Naturopathic Medicine. She recently moved from her home at Sage Mountain ~ an herbal retreat center and botanical sanctuary where she lived for 30 years ~ to a smaller haven where she plans to write more, tend to her new gardens and spend more time with the plants.

♫ The music featured in this episode is "Ramble" (instrumental) and “When Silence Turns to Sound” by Eliza Edens, "Medicine" by Rising Appalachia, and "Hummingbird" by Lea Thomas.

This episode of For The Wild is brought to you Anima Mundi Herbals. Anima Mundi was founded by Costa Rican herbalist Adriana Ayales with the intention of bringing some of the finest plant medicines, medicinal mushrooms, vegan collagen boosters, and high-potency elixirs. Anima Mundi is made in the United States with certified organic, wild-crafted, and sustainably harvested plants and herbs that are sourced from small-scale farms around the world. Their products contain zero fillers, binders, or flow agents. We’re proud to receive the support of this woman and BIPOC-owned business that creates magic from plant allies. Our personal pick for this time of year is Anima Mundi’s Relax Tonic for Nervous System Support. To learn more visit AnimaMundiHerbals.com.

Episode References

7 Ways to Lighten Your Spirit by Rosemary Gladstar - The Science & Art of Herbalism 

The Business of Botanicals by Ann Armbrecht - Chelsea Green Publishing  

United Plant Savers 

Sage Mountain Botanical Sanctuary 

GUEST Recommendations

Planting the Future  by Rosemary Gladstar - Inner Traditions

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Rosemary recommends creating sanctuary, creating a medicine trail in your backyard, and becoming a plant whisperer.

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