Surviving, Healing, and Finding My Way ' With everything going on in the world, most of us are just trying to stay afloat. As someone who’s been stepping into their role as a healer while building a business and practice from scratch… it hasn’t been easy. With job layoffs and economic uncertainty, many people are understandably cutting back on anything that feels “extra.” That includes wellness services—massages, herbal consults, and other specialty care. As much as these services support well-being, they’re often viewed as luxuries when money’s tight.
But this shift doesn’t just affect the clients. It impacts practitioners too. Those who are already established and those of us just trying to get our foot in the door. The result? Fewer clients, less income, and an uphill climb just to get a solid foundation. I’m one of those trying to break into the wellness space. I had a job at a local herbal apothecary here in the city, which helped ground me in the field I love. But like many small businesses, the shop struggled after the pandemic and never quite recovered. A little over a year ago, it shut its doors for good. Suddenly, I was out of work, with no established client base, and only just beginning to grow my online apothecary. I tried connecting with similar businesses in the area that were hiring, but despite some strong leads and good relationships, I was ghosted. Nothing panned out. So, I leaned on my other skillset… tech… and started looking for work there again. Of course, my timing was impeccable: mass layoffs across the industry, a flood of other job seekers, and me, five years out of the field with rusty skills and a growing sense of urgency. My savings had already been depleted, and I just needed to survive. Eventually, I found a job… but it barely covers what I need to get by. Worse, it reminded me why I left tech in the first place. The toxicity, the gaslighting, the blame games... sometimes you find a great team, but often, it’s exhausting just trying to exist in that space. I didn’t leave tech on a whim. I left because I found something that felt like me. Something I’m passionate about and genuinely good at. I can create beautiful, effective herbal remedies that people love and swear by. But I struggle with self-promotion. I don’t want to come off like a snake oil salesman peddling fake cures. I want to be authentic. Helpful. Real. But without clients, I’m back in an industry I no longer dream of working in. Still, I don’t regret the work I’ve done. I carry my apothecary in my bag everywhere I go. I am a healer now—it’s not something I can turn off. Whether it’s giving advice, explaining plant medicine, or offering a few products I know can support someone, it’s a daily part of my life. I overhear a health concern and my ears perk up, my mind already formulating herbal support that might help… carefully thinking through options based on their needs or any medications they might be on. Maybe this isn’t where I want to be. But maybe it’s where I need to be… for now. This space, as draining as it is, is helping me regain stability. It’s helping me pay the bills, rebuild a little security, and gather the strength and resources I need to take my next big step. Because the dream hasn’t changed. I still envision a dedicated apothecary shop—a space filled with the scent of dried herbs and handmade tinctures, where people can walk in, ask questions, and leave with something that truly supports their healing journey. A space that feels safe, magical, and intentional. That’s what I’m working toward. This detour is just part of the path. One day, I’ll open the doors to that shop and welcome people into a space I’ve poured my whole heart into. Until then, I’ll keep walking this road—quietly gathering what I need, trusting in the timing, and continuing to honor the healer I’ve become.
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 Dandelion - Taraxacum officinales
When we think of weeds, the first one that typically comes to mind is the dandelion. Its bright yellow flowers and fluffy seed heads are a common sight in lawns and gardens everywhere. While many see this ubiquitous plant as a nuisance to be eradicated, the dandelion (Taraxacum officinales) is actually a powerhouse of health benefits, a symbol of resilience, and a surprisingly versatile resource. It's time we reconsidered our view of this "weed" as something negative and think of it as something positive. The dandelion's tenacious nature is undeniable. It can thrive in the harshest environments, popping up through cracks in sidewalks and persisting despite our best efforts to remove it. This incredible resilience and perseverance are part of what makes the dandelion such a powerful symbol. It reminds us that even in difficult circumstances, we too can find the strength to endure and flourish. These days with the shift in political climate and a marginalized group wanting to strip away everyone’s rights, we could really use a reminder to be more resilient. Be the little golden light of hope by being the truest you. We have always been here and are not going anywhere. Beyond its symbolic value, the dandelion provides an array of medicinal properties. Traditional herbalism has long recognized the benefits of this plant. Dandelion is considered a classic spring tonic. The herb has a some laxative properties, a diuretic, and can help improves the function of the liver by promoting secretion of bile. As such, dandelion is an excellent blood-cleanser, especially when combined with burdock, helping rid the system of accumulated toxins and improving bad skin. Dandelion can also be beneficial to those suffering from indigestion or arteriosclerosis. For benefits that target more on the liver like we mentioned we would want to use the root portion of this plant. If we are wanting more of the diuretic effects to help support a healthy urinary tract we would want to utilize the leaves. It's important to note, however, that while dandelions are generally considered safe, the only known contraindications are potential allergies to the plant and if you are dealing with gallbladder inflammation or gallstones. Any time you want to introduce any kind of herbal supplement into your health routine it is always wise to consult with a healthcare professional or trained clinical herbalist before hand. Especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. Dandelion can even be utilized as a food source and not just for medicinal purposes. The fresh flowers are traditionally used to make dandelion wine or dandelion beer, beverages that retain the blood-cleansing activity of the herb. You can even just eat fresh buds and flowers as a cleansing, yet fortifying, trailside snack. The fresh greens are an excellent salad ingredient. It was also very commonly eaten during the Great Depression when food resources were scarce. During 1929 was the start of the Great Depression, which caused widespread unemployment and financial collapse, leaving many unable to afford food. This plus the Dust Bowl drought devastating farmland, and economic instability hindered food distribution, leading to severe food scarcity. People had to find ways to survive and extend what little food they had. Though they have been eaten well before this event, it became a cheap resource to help get some vital nutrients during this time. Some of the nutrients that Dandelion provides are vitamins A, B complex, C, Calcium, Fiber, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, and Zinc. The main dish that was maid was a Dandelion Salad. Using the leaves and even the blossoms top it off with either Lemon Juice and salt or a balsamic dressing you got yourself a very simple salad. A dish I have personally made with Dandelion leaves is a simple pesto sauce. In this Pesto Recipe I replace a portion of the basil with dandelion greens and also swapped out the pine nuts for pistachios. Not a huge fan of pine nuts, plus they are generally hard to find and really pricy and learned you could easily swap in a different nut. PESTO RECIPE 1 Cup Fresh Basil 1 Cup Fresh Dandelion Leaves 2 cloves of Garlic 1/4 Cup of pistachios 1/2 Cup Olive Oil 1/2 Cup grated Parmesan Juice of half a lemon salt & pepper to taste Ensure the Dandelion leaves are thoroughly clean before adding everything into a food processor. ** Play around with the ratios and find what works for you. Add more garlic if you want. ** For buying a good Olive Oil check the bottle for a Press by Date. This will let you know what the oil was made and is best to find one that has been pressed within the year for a better taste. Olive Oil should have a light kind of grassy taste. So you see this common weed has a plethora of uses and it more handy than you thought. Please note though you would want to be cautious when harvesting flowers in urban areas, due to the high incidence of chemical applications, along with animal leavings. Be safe. Be resilient. And ask for support and guidance from others. ********** Additional Info ********** Parts Used - Roots and leaves Herbal Actions: Alterative Cholagogue Carminative Mild Laxative Diuretic Tonic Constituents: Bitter glycosides, triterpenoids, tannins, volatile oils, inulin, vitamins A, B complex, C, Calcium, Fiber, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Potassium, Protein, Selenium, Silicon, Sodium, Zinc. Energetics: Cooling, Drying  My journey of self-discovery has led me to embrace my role as the 'unofficial healer' within my friend group. I always find myself prepared for anything, carrying a small backpack stocked with essentials like water, sunscreen, aloe vera, and a well-equipped first aid kit. This 'kit' evolved naturally over time, starting with items I personally needed and gradually expanding to address the minor mishaps we all encounter. It provides a sense of peace, knowing I can handle most unexpected situations, from minor injuries to unexpected discomforts. Whether it's a cut, sprain, headache, upset stomach, or even an anxiety attack, I'm always prepared with something to help. As an herbalist, my kit blends traditional first aid supplies with carefully selected herbal remedies. This approach reflects my belief that both conventional and natural medicine have their place. Headaches are a good example. While aspirin or Tylenol are often effective, I also carry a tincture specifically formulated for sensory headaches. This allows me to address the root cause more effectively. Ultimately, my goal is to have a comprehensive and adaptable kit that can address a wide range of health concerns. Do you often find yourself wishing you had a bandage or aspirin on hand? Perhaps you've encountered poorly stocked first aid kits in your workplace. If so, consider carrying a small personal first aid kit. Carrying a small, portable first aid kit with you offers numerous advantages:
If you're ready to start, here are some essential items to include:
If building your own kit seems daunting, there are many pre-made options available. However, you might find yourself adding a few personal favorites. Here's a list of the herbal products I always include in my kit:
While my additions to my first aid kit might seem a bit unconventional to some, I've found that simple and straightforward herbal remedies can be incredibly helpful in a pinch Tips for Maintaining Your First Aid Kits:
A basic understanding of first aid is crucial, especially if you plan to incorporate herbal remedies. It's essential to know how to use these tools safely and effectively to assist others. While it's tempting to be all-inclusive, it's best to stick with what you're comfortable and knowledgeable about. If you're eager to expand your skills, consider taking first aid and CPR courses. So whether you build your own kit or purchase a pre-made one, regular maintenance is key. Ensure your kit is always well-stocked and check expiration dates on all medications and supplies. From minor scrapes to unexpected emergencies, a small first aid kit can be a lifesaver. It's a small investment that can provide peace of mind and the ability to respond quickly and effectively to unexpected situations. Consider embracing the healer role in your group – you never know when your preparedness might come in handy! #wellness #firstaid #herbalism #healer   Ashwagandha
Latin Name: Withania somnifera Parts Used: Roots Energetics: Warm. Bitter, Astringent Herbal Actions: Adaptogen, Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, Antitumor, aphrodisiac, immune modulator, nervine, reproductive tonic, sedative, trophorestorative, diuretic(mild) Ashwagandha, renowned for its adaptogenic properties, is a popular choice for those seeking relief from burnout-related stress. This versatile herb can help address the emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion often associated with chronic stress. Burnout can manifest in various ways, including fatigue, muscle tension, digestive problems, insomnia, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms often stem from elevated cortisol levels, the body's stress hormone. Cortisol is typically highest in the morning to energize us and gradually decreases throughout the day, facilitating restful sleep. However, when cortisol levels are imbalanced, it can lead to low energy, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. As an adaptogen, ashwagandha helps regulate the body's stress response by supporting the nervous system and reducing cortisol production. By restoring balance to the stress hormone, ashwagandha can promote more restful sleep and steady energy levels throughout the day. Ashwagandha is also considered a sedative. It is best to take this herb at night as some people can be more sensitive to sedative type herbs. Ashwagandha, renowned for its adaptogenic properties, is a versatile herb that offers a range of potential benefits. In addition to its stress-reducing effects, ashwagandha is also known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a potential aid for chronic muscle and joint pain associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Athletes may also find relief from post-workout soreness and inflammation using ashwagandha. Moreover, ashwagandha has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Daily consumption is believed to enhance libido by increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs. How to Use: You can take this herb as either a Tea, Tincture, Capsule, or Gummy. As this herb is a bit bitter, so if you are wanting to make a tea I would suggest making it a blend rather than a single herb tea. You could add things like chamomile and a mint such as spearmint or peppermint to the blend. And as always you can add in a little bit of honey to sweeten. For Tinctures, Capsules & Gummies always follow the direction as given on the bottles/packaging. Important Note & Contraindications: While ashwagandha has shown promise in addressing these conditions, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional or clinical herbalist before incorporating it into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. If you have any autoimmune disorders it is best to avoid. It is recommended to avoid this herb's consumption if you are pregnant.  Sometime things in life gets a bit overwhelming and we just a moment to unplug and reset. For me art used to be a very big part of my life and was even my focus in college. Though it has been ages since I have even drawn anything I figured I needed a moment for my self and just draw. Get lost in color and line work with zero intentions on what I would create. Letting the music i was listening to and a bag full of different colored markers to inspire me to just get lost in my art. During this moment one of the rough sketches I did ended up being that of Chamomile. A lovely well known herb.
Did you know Chamomile isn't just a Nervine? When people think of Chamomile they usually associate it with it's calming effect. As a mellow nervine it can definitely help reduce stress and bring ourselves back to our center. But this special herb is also a Carminative. It can help aid in digestion by alleviating gas and bloating in your digestive system. Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. These can also support soothe spasms and discomfort in the muscles working your digestive system. Chamomile can even stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, promoting better digestion. If you deal with some discomfort from gas and bloating after you eat maybe you can try taking some chamomile before or even after meals? You can even use Chamomile as part of a topical treatment. Topical won't aid in digestion, but chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties could help support mild skin irritations. Ways to Enjoy Chamomile:
Incorporating chamomile into your daily routine can be a natural and effective way to alleviate digestive discomfort and promote overall well-being. #wellness #herbalism #clinicalherbalism #naturalremedies #smallbusiness #artmeditation #sketch #chamomile #meditation I’m Phil Deem, a clinical herbalist dedicated to helping you harness the power of plants for optimal health. Through personalized consultations, I create tailored herbal plans suited for your individual needs.
What is Herbalism? Herbalism, the practice of the medicinal and therapeutic use of plants, has a history that spans thousands of years. It predates recorded history and forms the origin of much of modern medicine. Herbalism has also influenced many cultures, as countries such as South Africa, India and China have established their own unique herbal traditions. Interest in this form of medicine has transcended its origins, as about 80% of people in the world use herbalism, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). As the popularity of herbal remedies surges, fueled by word-of-mouth endorsements, it's easy to assume a one-size-fits-all approach to plant-based healing. While the benefits of herbs are undeniable, it's important to recognize that not all remedies are suitable for everyone. This is where the expertise of a trained herbalist becomes invaluable.** Did you know that not all herbal remedies are created equal? 🌿 While online advice and general recommendations can be helpful, consulting a trained herbalist offers a wealth of benefits. A qualified herbalist can:
How can I help? I offer personalized herbal consultations designed to address your unique health goals. Together, we'll create a tailored wellness plan that may include: * Herbal remedies: Teas, tinctures, capsules, and more, carefully formulated for your unique needs. * Dietary and lifestyle recommendations: To support your overall health journey.
Your initial consultation is a comprehensive assessment of your health and wellness goals. We'll discuss your health history, current concerns, and desired outcomes. To optimize our time together, I ask that you please complete the provided intake form before our appointment. This thorough evaluation allows me to create a personalized herbal plan tailored to your specific needs. Following our initial session, you'll receive actionable steps to implement immediately, while I craft a comprehensive herbal protocol. In a week from our initial consultation, we'll schedule a follow-up session to review your comprehensive herbal protocol. This plan will outline specific herbal recommendations, dosages, and usage guidelines. We'll also discuss any additional dietary and lifestyle modifications that can complement your herbal regimen. Subsequent follow-up sessions provide an opportunity to review progress, address any concerns, and make necessary adjustments to your plan. Rest assured, you have ongoing support throughout your herbal journey. Feel free to reach out between sessions if urgent matters arise. Rest assured, you have ongoing support throughout your herbal journey. Feel free to reach out between sessions if urgent matters arise. Where am I located at? I am a San Francisco-based clinical herbalist offering online consultations via Zoom, accessible to clients throughout the United States. If you're curious about herbalism or simply want to learn more about my approach, I invite you to schedule a complimentary "Let's Have a Kiki" session. This casual chat allows us to get acquainted, discuss your health goals, and determine if my services align with your needs. Please note that no specific herbal advice is provided during these introductory sessions. #Herbalism #Herbalist #ClinicalHerbalist #HerbalPractice #Entrepreneur #LGBTQIA+ #HerbalContraindications #HerbalKnowledge |
AuthorI'm Phil, former Tech worker turned Clinical Herbalist. Writing to share my herbal knowledge and Promote my business. Archives
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