Are you prepared?
One of the largest issues I find with people who say they like to use herbs, or prefer natural methods, is that they are never
prepared to use herbs. Their child has an earache, it's 9pm at night, and they have no garlic oil. So, they head to the ER for antibiotics. Perhaps they have a headache but didn’t bring any herbal remedies on the trip. They stop at a gas station to buy some overpriced pain relievers. Do you regularly have motion sickness? Did you bring your ginger? A few years ago, our nation experienced a health care scare from Ebola. While my co-workers navigated life with fear, I did the research
and made a plan. When Covid emerged, I did the same thing; research, make the plan. How will you be an herbal family if you don’t use herbs?
Do you have a plan?
Being an herbal family is more than just having that bottle of Echinacea in the medicine cabinet. An herbal family is a family that has taken responsibility and control of their family’s health. They don’t rely on western medicine for colds, flus, and knee scrapes. Herbal families plan ahead and prepare for the health-related obstacles that occur in life. I have seven kids. When we go places, we take a
backpack of herbal capsules and tinctures. Some of my kids are older and go on trips with the church youth group. They get a kit to take with them. What is your healthcare plan?
Do you have the Stuff?
The biggest part of the plan is getting all the stuff. Do you buy it? Do you make it? Some of us with more ambition even question if we should grow it first. There is a lot of time and cost associated with this so I would start slow. What are the most common issues you run into? Colds? Flus? Allergies? Fungal infections? Start there. Find a solid go to
that works, and stock up with those items. You will find that your small inventory will grow quickly as new concerns develop. Don’t forget to contact your local master herbalist if you need ideas for new supplies.
Did you Practice?
Don’t forget to use your new stash. They may look pretty on the shelf, but they need to be used. Whenever health concerns strike, go first to the herb shelf. It may seem daunting at first, but with every success you will be taking more control of your family’s health. Don’t stop there. Teach your kids and friends. Show them how to be responsible for
their own health. I find the best way to learn and remember is to teach others. Caring for my family and friends is what started me on an herbalist path. I know many others feel the same. Be bold and take those first steps and you will enjoy the freedom that herbalism brings.
