The Science and Art of Botanical Medicine

Insights into my relationship with plant medicine and background of why I use personalized botanical formulas with the majority of my patients…

The complexities in the science of botanical medicine are vast. The presumably complicated science of plant medicine breaks down the ‘whole’ into the ‘parts’ in efforts to simplify. Science’s attempt at understanding botanical medicine has lent way for the exploration of the biochemistry and unique designs of plants. As a botanical formulator, the evolving tools science is continuing to provide are dear to me. Science has provided the structure that I gratefully use to ensure my herbal extractions are of the highest quality; purposefully extracting active constituents into their best paired medium and ensuring that these levels of extractions are safe. Having the awareness of therapeutic vs toxic thresholds of herbs is consciously considered in each blend I construct. Understanding the way plant medicine interacts with our physiology, as humans, is another gift of science. We have come to understand the ability of plants to repair and restore tissue and organ function. These actions essentially help us to drift closer to homeostatic balance.

  We have learned that plants are quite different from their synthetic counterparts. While pharmacological therapy can certainly save lives due to its direct and potent design,most drugs are typically suppressive to the body’s vital force and certainly do not restore organ function. In order to regain balance, support, and nourish ourselves, we must consult mother-earth’s botanical gifts. 

    While I cherish the contributions of science, the art of medicine is where the true magic resides. This art encourages me to listen to the communication plants provide, embrace the power of intention, and foster the creativity inherent to each botanical formula. The intuitive communication with plants guide me to which herbs truly desire to be used and in what way. 

Wildcraft medicine is all communication— one must first be drawn into the direction of a particular plant, secondly one must ask for permission from a plant before displacing a flower from its stem. In my experience, most plants very much desire to be used for medicine. Some even seem to call out for it with excitement to fulfill their purpose. I feel so fortunate to have this relationship with such a fertile land and strive to ensure this herbal excitement remains in each blend I create. 

   I align my intention with those of the plants. These intentions permeate into each formula that I construct. 

There is no true way to quantify the power of intention, but I am are certain this art elevates the effectiveness beyond our understanding of science. 

Lastly, the creativity of herbal art contributes greatly to the uniqueness of my botanical formulas. Just as a skilled painter transforms blues and yellows to a desired hue of green, our herbs synergize and harmonize together to create a whole uniquely different than just the sum of its parts.