Herbalism for Beginners: Start Growing Your Own Herbs
Have you ever been interested in herbalism but didn't know where to start? Or maybe you've been using herbs for cooking and want to learn more about their medicinal properties?
What is herbalism for beginners? Herbalism is the study and use of medicinal plants. Herbalists use plants to treat various conditions, from colds and flu to chronic pain and mental health issues. This practice has gained new popularity in recent years. People are rediscovering the joys of growing and using their own herbs, and there are many good reasons to get started with herbalism if you're new to the practice.
Intro To Herbalism for Beginners
Herbalism is one of the oldest forms of medicine, with documentation of medicinal herbs dating back to 10,000 BC.
The use of plants for medicinal purposes is thought to have originated in prehistoric times. In fact, many of today's pharmaceuticals are derived from plant-based compounds.
This form of medicine, to treat illnesses or promote health, can be practiced at the beginner level by growing your own herbs.
This can be done by planting herb seeds in a garden or container or by purchasing starter plants from a local nursery. Once you have grown your own herbs, you can use them to make teas, tinctures, salves, and other remedies.
Who Discovered Herbalism?
The first known herbalist was the Greek physician Hippocrates, who is considered the "father of medicine." Hippocrates wrote Theophrastus' De Historia Plantarum, which documented 365 plants and their medicinal properties.
Modern herbalism is based on the work of many people, including Hippocrates, Theophrastus, and Paracelsus. However, the scientific study of herbs and their medicinal effects really began in the 1700s with the work of Dr. John Hill. Hill was one of the first people to test the effects of herbs scientifically, and he also wrote one of the first herbal books, The Family Herbal.
What Types of Herbalism Are There for Beginners?
There are three main types of herbalism:
Western Herbalism
Chinese Herbalism
Ayurvedic Herbalism
Each system has its own approach to using herbs for health and wellness.
Western herbalism is the most popular form of herbalism in the United States, and it focuses on the use of herbs for treating specific symptoms or conditions.
Chinese herbalism is based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, and it emphasizes the use of herbs to restore balance in the body.
Ayurvedic herbalism is based on the principles of Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine. Ayurveda emphasizes using herbs to maintain balance in the body and prevent disease.
Tips for Beginners Getting Started with Herbalism
If you're ready to start your journey into herbalism, here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Do some research. Before you start growing your own herbs, it's important to do some research and choose the right plants for your needs. If you're unsure where to start, try talking to a local herbalist or gardening expert. They'll be able to give you some great recommendations based on your specific goals.
2. Start small. Don't try to grow everything at once! It's better to start with a few key herbs that you know you'll use regularly. As you get more experience, you can always add more plants to your garden.
3. Be patient. Growing herbs takes time and patience. Don't get discouraged if things don't happen overnight—it takes most plants several weeks or even months to really take off. Just enjoy the process and trust that your hard work will pay off in the end.
Herbalism Definition & Meaning
Herbalism is many things to many different people and we strongly urge you to follow what feels appropriate for YOU on your path of discovery with the topic. Our basic advice is as follows:
Find a book about herbalism that resonates and read it twice.
Start to gather just 5 herbs you are really interested in and study them in the garden or wildlands, in the apothecary, in the body, and from book sources.
Find a school of herbalism that teaches what you are looking to learn.
Take a weekend workshop and ask other students how they are continuing their learning.
Slowly incorporate what you are learning into your lifestyle by expanding the plants you are studying, taking more classes, and starting to share some of your knowledge with the people around you.
Herbalism is not pseudoscience!
We live in a day and age where we need preventative medicine more than ever before. We need to be able to care for ourselves and our communities with our gardens, kitchens, and home remedies.
This is not against Western orthodox medicine, it’s alongside it. Where herbalism leaves us unable to perform surgery and other heroic interventions, orthodox medicine leaves us without a roadmap to care for ourselves before and after those interventions. The two work together, not separately.
What is The Best Way for Beginners To Learn Herbalism?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as everyone learns best in different ways.
But, I suggest learning herbalism by doing—try growing your own herbs at home and experimenting with different ways of using them. There's no better way to learn than by getting your hands dirty and seeing (and tasting!) the results for yourself.
Other ways to learn herbalism include reading books and articles on the subject or taking an herbalism course from an experienced herbalist.
What Are The Best Herbalism Books for beginners?
There are many great herbalism books out there, but here are a few of our favorites for beginners:
These books will teach you everything you need to know about growing and using herbs, from the basics of plant care to more advanced topics like making your own herbal preparations.
Can Herbalism for Beginners Be Cost-Effective?
If you're thinking about starting to grow your own herbs, one of the things that may be holding you back is the cost.
After all, herb gardens can require a significant investment upfront. However, if you compare the long-term costs of herbalism with other forms of medication or health care, you'll find that it's actually quite cost-effective.
For example, a single visit to an acupuncturist can easily cost $100 or more.
A month's supply of some prescription medications can also set you back hundreds of dollars.
In contrast, a small investment in herb plants and supplies will last you for many months, if not years. Once you have a well-established herb garden, the only ongoing costs will be for things like water and fertilizer.
Is Herbalism for Beginners Good for Health Reasons?
There's no doubt that herbal remedies can be effective—just look at how many people rely on chamomile tea to help them sleep at night or ginger ale to settle their stomachs after a big meal.
But did you know that regularly using herbal remedies can actually have lasting benefits for your health?
Studies have shown that people who use herbal remedies regularly are less likely to develop chronic health conditions like heart disease and high blood pressure.
There are a few things to consider before practicing herbalism.
First, you should make sure that you are familiar with the herbs that you are using and their potential side effects.
It is also important to ensure that you are using the herbs correctly and that you are aware of any interactions they may have with other medications.
Finally, it is important to be aware of the safety precautions associated with herbalism.
Herbalism Is Relaxing and Enjoyable
In our fast-paced world, it's more important than ever to take some time out for ourselves to relax and recharge our batteries. And what could be more relaxing than spending time in your very own herb garden?
Growing and using your own herbs is a great way to reduce stress and connect with nature. Once you get started with herbalism, you may find that it quickly becomes one of your favorite hobbies.
Conclusion
There are many good reasons to start practicing herbalism, from the fact that it's cost-effective and can actually improve your health in the long run. But perhaps one of the best reasons to get into herbalism is simply the fact that it promotes healing of the mind and body. If you're looking for a hobby that will help you unwind after a long day, look no further than herbalism!
Herbalism for Beginners Related Questions
What do I need to get started with herbalism?
Learn as much as possible about the herbs that are right for you, and if possible, contact a local herbalist who can guide you through your journey. In addition to some basic gardening supplies, you'll also need just a few key herbs to get started.
What are some good herbs to start with if I'm new to herbalism?
Some good herbs to start with include chamomile, ginger, lavender, and mint.
Do I need a lot of space to grow herbs?
You can grow herbs in almost any space. Some spaces where you can grow herbs include an outdoor garden, containers on a patio or balcony, an apartment, or on a window sill. Just make sure they have enough light and water.
How long does it take for herbs to grow?
It varies depending on the herb, but most herbs take several weeks or even months to really take off.