It takes time to cultivate and design an herbal apothecary. Around the time that my journey studying herbalism began in 2019, I visited an apothecary in NYC. I went with a written list of herbs that I knew I wanted to work with, and a few more I was curious about. The apothecary was gorgeous, inspiring, and filled with large glass jars of herbs wall to wall, ceiling to floor. I was in heaven.
After browsing the shop completely in awe, I eventually checked off most of my list of herbs. I may have blacked out a bit.. but what I do remember is asking the lady for 8 ounces of mullein (embarrassed till this day). EIGHT OUNCES. Mullein is fluffy and light as a feather btw.. can you imagine how big these two 4oz bags were? It only felt crazy because it was my first experience bulk herb shopping. I still buy obnoxious quantities of mullein, only difference is now I order online, I don’t carry it around the city anymore lol.
What I’m getting at is, it has taken me a few years to develop my personal apothecary. When passions arrive, life will require you to slowly make space for them. Starting with a small, yet intentional selection is key, herbs that address a need-state that you or a loved one is experiencing.
The studying, buying, formulating, tincturing, researching again process is endless, and you may just end up with an impressive ever-expanding apothecary of your own. But for anyone just getting started, here is a list of amazing start-up herbs for your kitchen. Whether your interest is to make teas, tinctures, infused culinary oils, or body butters.. this list is super flexible and potent!
- Calendula
- Chamomile
- Dandelion
- Gingko
- Hibiscus
- Horsetail
- Lavender
- Lemon balm
- Nettle
- Peppermint
- Red clover
- Rose
- Spearmint
Feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions you may have: Contact
With love, Angelina