Everywhere we look all the plants and trees are budding and fruiting with the abundance of summer. It is still amazing to me that the Pacific Northwest has so much to offer as far as food and medicine goes. This makes many new and old herbalist and product makers overjoyed with the fruitfulness at our fingertips. Although it may seem plentiful to us, we must remember to always only harvest what we need. Such a small amount of plant material goes a very long way. There are many plants that, because of their popularity, have become endangered to our communities, such as American Ginseng, White Sage and Palo Santo. We must understand that they plants will only survive if we utilize them sparingly. Some plants can take several years to come their full lushness.Here are 9 tips on Ethically Harvesting:
Know and respect your plants.
Know your state laws.
Use the best harvesting method for each plants.
Don’t over harvest.
Know your plants and how to process them.
Know your location.
Harvest with intention.
Leave no trace.
Be one with nature and leave an offering.
Check out this video for more in depth details on Ethical Harvesting: https://youtu.be/lVhAQXsaiyoThe one rule that I always follow is, if you are unsure, ask the experts. Working with local farms who are cultivating plants is always a great option for finding the perfect amount of plant materials, while supporting your local farming community. Another great option is to grow your own! We have a wonderful supply of plant babies from local growers here at THS for you to begin your own medicine garden, and witness the plant from seed to fruit.Here are a few local farms here in the PNW to check out:Rise Up Remedies: https://riseupremedies.com/The Medicine Garden: http://www.medicine-garden.net/Mostly Medicinals: https://www.facebook.com/MostlyMedicinals/If you want to support a local farm that grows plants for community based organizations, check out the Plantain Project at https://www.plantainproject.org/ and stop by the Mississippi Street festival on July 13th for Herbal Shaved Ice fundraiser created by The Plantain Project!Stop by and see us to view our complete line of THS products. To set up an herbal consultation with me, either in person or via facetime or skype:To set up an herbal consultation with me email: info@theherbshoppepharmacy.com
