So, What Is Herbalism, Really?

Let’s break it down like a cup of tea...

“Is herbalism just about tea and tinctures… or do I have to start wearing flowy dresses and whispering to dandelions?”

Fear not. I’m here to guide you through the wonderful (and sometimes weird) world of herbalism, without the pressure to grow your own apothecary overnight. Unless you want to, in that case, I know a few good seed catalogs and ebooks on that.

If you’re here, chances are you’ve already felt the nudge — the call to reconnect with the medicine growing at your feet. Maybe you’re curious about herbs and wondering if you need to move to a forest and wear linen to become an herbalist. (Spoiler: you don’t.)

Let’s start with the basics and work our way through the roots.

What Even Is Herbal Medicine?

Herbal medicine is the oldest form of medicine on Earth — older than your grandma’s chicken soup, older than that half-used jar of oregano in your spice rack, and yes, older than Big Pharma.

It’s the use of plants to support your body, your mind, and your inner ecosystem. People have been doing it for thousands of years, because (shocker!) it works.

According to the World Health Organization, billions of people still use herbs as their primary form of healthcare. In the U.S., over 50% of adults are popping herbs and supplements—even if they can’t pronounce “ashwagandha.”

Who Are These Herbalists?

Herbalists are folks who talk to plants and actually get answers.

Seriously, though, herbalists are trained (or ancestral) practitioners who use plants to help people feel better. We come in many flavors: wildcrafters, medicine-makers, nerdy researchers, intuitive feelers, and yes, sometimes your great aunt who swears by her lavender sachets and bone broth.

Some of us work clinically, blending traditional wisdom with modern science. Others grow, gather, or create plant magic from the land.

But we all agree: plants are smart, and humans do best when we listen.

Herbal Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine: A Cage Match?

Let’s not make this a brawl.

Modern medicine is amazing at surgery, diagnostics, and saving lives in a crisis. Herbal medicine is better at addressing root causes and chronic issues and reminding you that you have a liver, nervous system, and emotions — all connected.

In short, Modern medicine is excellent when your appendix explodes. Herbalism shines when your digestion’s a mess, your sleep is wrecked, and your soul’s begging for rest and nourishment.

Pharmaceuticals are often single, isolated compounds designed to override or block specific bodily functions. Herbs are whole-plant preparations containing many naturally occurring compounds — hundreds or even thousands of them — working together in harmony. It’s called synergy, and it’s kind of magical.

Many modern drugs are actually derived from plants (hello, aspirin and opium), but when you strip away everything except one molecule, you lose the buffering, balancing effects that nature designed.

Herbs may be slower and gentler, but they’re often smarter and more sustainable for the long game.

Let’s use both. No dogma. Just wisdom.

How Long Do Herbs Take to Work?

It depends. (Classic answer, I know.)

Some herbs work in seconds, like a few drops of bitters after a heavy meal. Others take weeks or months, especially when you use them as tonics to rebuild and restore deep imbalances.

Chronic issues? They might need chronic care. But the beauty is that herbs work with your body, not against it. Digestive herbs like bitters can work in 60 seconds. Nervines might soothe your stress in 20 minutes. Tonics and adaptogens take longer — think weeks or months of gentle nudging. Chronic issues?

They’ll need commitment, not a weekend fling.

Dried Herbs

How Do I Know If an Herb Will Work for Me?

Herbalism is part science, part intuition, and part trial-and-error. Everybody is different — what works for your neighbor might not work for you.

That’s why tradition, clinical experience, and research all matter. If you’re unsure where to start or need support with specific issues, working with a trained herbalist (hi, I know one!) can help tailor your approach.

Not everyone is going to be “the one,” but most will teach you something.

That’s why tradition + science + intuition = the herbalist’s secret sauce. If you are unsure, a trained herbalist (hi, I’m raising my hand here) can help you find your fit.

Are Herbs Safe?

Generally? Yes. But let’s be smart about it.

Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe for everyone in every situation. (Belladonna is natural, too, and… yeah. Don’t eat that.) Herbs can interact with medications, and we all have different levels of sensitivity.

If you’re pregnant, nursing, on meds, or dealing with complex conditions, it’s always wise to work with a knowledgeable practitioner. Also, quality matters. Buy from trusted sources and look for fresh herbs that are properly stored and responsibly harvested.

Are There Different “Types” of Herbalism?

Oh yes, and that’s part of the beauty. Herbalism isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s a global tradition with countless lineages and practices:

❀ Western Herbalism: Rooted in European and North American folk traditions; combines traditional wisdom with modern science

❀ Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Ancient and highly systematized, often includes acupuncture alongside herbs

❀ Ayurveda: The traditional system of India, focused on balancing energies (doshas) through herbs, diet, and lifestyle

❀ Indigenous & Native Practices: Deeply spiritual and earth-connected, passed down through oral tradition

❀ Naturopathic Medicine: Integrates natural therapies (including herbs) with modern diagnostic training

Find the one that speaks to your heart — or explore a few. They’re all rooted in the same idea: the body knows how to heal when given the right support.

Thanks for being here and getting curious. Keep asking questions, keep digging roots, and most of all — trust your body and the wisdom of the plants.

With green gratitude,

Jodi

The information offered on HealWise websites is for educational purposes only. HealWise makes neither medical claims nor is it intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. HealWise neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.