Herbalism Roots

Have you ever wondered what those Latin plant names are actually telling you? 🌿

Here Martín explains the meaning behind common botanical terms like officinalis (indicating a plant recognized in official pharmacopeias for medicinal use), using -ii after a name, which means the plant was named in honor of a botanist or other individual, angustifolia (“narrow-leaved”), and so much more.

These names aren’t random. They often describe a plant’s appearance, origin, traditional use, or the person it’s named after.

Learning botanical names is more than memorization. It’s a great way to better understand medicinal plants and build confidence when identifying them. Watch Martín make these fascinating terms much easier to remember!

🌿🌸 Our students just returned from their incredible Herbal Mountain Retreat! 🌼🍃

For the 12th year, we’ve taken students into the beautiful Colorado mountains for three unforgettable days of learning, connection, and hands-on herbal education.

Together, they learned how to identify plants in the wild, ethically wildcraft, and explore how these incredible plants have been traditionally used to support a variety of health concerns. 🌱✨

Beyond the plants, this retreat is about so much more. It’s about building community, deepening our connection with nature, supporting healing, and creating lifelong memories together. 💚🌿

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing January cohort for showing up with open minds, open hearts, and a willingness to learn. You made this retreat truly special.

And remember… Tardigrade every day. 😊🌸

Looking for your next herbal reference book? 📚🌿

In this reel, Martín and Kim share their thoughts on the National Geographic Guide to Medicinal Plants and why they were pleasantly surprised by how detailed and informative it is. From plant identification to traditional uses, it’s a resource they think belongs on every herbal enthusiast’s bookshelf.
Whether you’re just beginning your herbalism journey or looking to expand your library, finding reliable, well written references is an important part of continuing your education.

Do you have a favorite herbal reference book? Let us know in the comments. We’re always looking for great recommendations!

Herbs are often even more effective when thoughtfully combined.

One of Martin and Kim’s favorite herbal formulations features Damiana, Skullcap, and Kava, three herbs traditionally used to support relaxation and promote a sense of calm during times of occasional stress.

While every herbalist develops their own favorite blends, learning how to thoughtfully formulate herbs is one of the many hands on skills students develop throughout our Herbalism program.

Have you worked with any of these herbs before? Let us know in the comments!

The best way to learn plants is to spend time with them.

At Herbalism Roots, we believe herbal education goes beyond the classroom. That’s why our students take field trips to places like the Denver Botanic Gardens, where they can identify medicinal plants in person, observe how they grow, and better understand the ecosystems they thrive in.

Reading about plants is important, but seeing, smelling, and experiencing them firsthand builds a connection that lasts long after class is over.

Because herbalism isn’t just something you study. It’s something you experience.

Sometimes the best herbal blends begin with understanding a single plant.

Today, Kim is featuring burdock root (Arctium lappa), a traditional cooling hepatic often enjoyed as a companion in teas. Burdock has long been used in herbal traditions to support healthy liver function and makes a wonderful addition to both single-herb infusions and thoughtfully crafted tea blends.

Listen in as Kim shares why burdock root deserves a place in your herbal tea collection.

Herbalism is part plant wisdom, part simple math. 🌿🧪

Martin is breaking down tincture math using Boston rounds, converting milliliters to ounces, and showing how a beaker can help you measure ingredients accurately and consistently.

Listen to Martin for more tips on making tincture calculations simple and approachable. 🌿✨

✨ Every herbalist has a favorite plant to grow In their garden and a story behind it.

For Martin, it’s Calendula 🌼. He loves that these sunny flowers grow so abundantly, reminding us that nature often gives generously and beauty can be found everywhere.

For Kim, it’s Stinging Nettle 🌱. What started as curiosity turned into appreciation when nettle became a supportive herb for her seasonal allergies, showing her just how powerful plants can be.

Join Martin and Kim as they share why these two beloved herbs hold a special place in their hearts. 💚

What plant has made an impact on your life?

Let’s listen to Kim as she shares why slippery elm has been a beloved herbal ally for generations.

Known for its soothing, mucilage-rich properties, slippery elm is often used to help calm irritated throats, support digestive comfort, and provide a gentle coating effect for the stomach and digestive tract. Whether you’re looking for support during seasonal discomfort or seeking a comforting herb for digestive wellness, slippery elm has earned its place in many herbal traditions.

We love helping people discover the many ways herbs can support overall wellness and everyday comfort.